Must-Try Foods In Musi River (Palembang) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Musi River, Palembang, Indonesia

The culinary history of Palembang by the banks of the Musi River is intertwined with the diverse cultures that have come into contact with the region, including indigenous Malay influences, as well as Chinese, Indian, and Arabic due to historic trade routes. The availability of fresh fish and shrimps from the river has shaped the local cuisine. The infusion of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors characterizes Palembang dishes, with a notable avoidance of beef due to the predominantly Muslim population that abstains from cow meat.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Musi River, Palembang

1. Pempek (Non-Veg): A savory fish cake delicacy made from ground fish and tapioca served with a dark, rich sauce called cuko.
2. Tekwan (Non-Veg): A soup dish consisting of fishcake balls, vermicelli, mushrooms, and jicama in a shrimp-based broth.
3. Mie Celor (Non-Veg): Noodle soup with a coconut milk base, served with shrimp and sprinkled with fried shallots.
4. Martabak (Veg/Non-Veg options): A type of stuffed pancake or folded omelet with various fillings, often including eggs, vegetables, and sometimes minced meat.
5. Laksa Palembang (Non-Veg): A spicy noodle soup with a fish-based broth, complemented by rice noodles, and seafood.
6. Sate (Non-Veg): Grilled skewers of marinated fish, chicken, or other meats served with a variety of sauces.
7. Brengkes (Non-Veg): Fish or prawns wrapped in banana leaves and cooked with coconut milk and traditional spices.
8. Pindang (Non-Veg): A sour and spicy fish stew cooked with a distinctive blend of seasonings.
9. Es Kacang Merah (Veg): A sweet dessert made from red beans, served with ice and a generous amount of syrup.
10. Seruit (Non-Veg): A traditional dish made from a combination of grilled fish, smothered in tangy sambal and mixed with fresh vegetables.

Top Famous Restaurants in Musi River, Palembang

Rumah Makan Pagi Sore

Address: Jl. Demang Lebar Daun No.111, Palembang

Famous Food: Pempek (Non-Veg)

Rumah Makan Sederhana

Address: Jl. Letkol Iskandar No.115, Palembang

Famous Food: Sate (Non-Veg), Mie Celor (Non-Veg)

Pempek Candy

Address: Jl. Kol. Atmo No.273, Palembang

Famous Food: Pempek in various shapes and sizes (Non-Veg)

Martabak HAR Palembang

Address: Jl. Radial No.1371, Palembang

Famous Food: Martabak (Veg/Non-Veg options)

Rumah Makan Sri Melayu

Address: Jl. Rajawali No.17, Palembang

Famous Food: Brengkes (Non-Veg)

Each restaurant provides an authentic taste of Palembang's culinary heritage, with dishes highlighting ingredients locally sourced from the Musi River and surrounding areas. Whether opting for a fragrant fish cake or a delectable dessert, visitors will find that Palembang's cuisine is as rich and varied as its history.