Once upon a time, Yogyakarta was the capital of Indonesia, the hub of Javanese culture, and the birthplace of many influential people.
Nowadays this is a city of many names, Jogja, Yogja and Jogjakarta to name but a few. The city still retains a traditional feel, yet a thriving metropolitan vibe is emerging.
Where else in the world do the old and new blend so perfectly? Nowhere! Jogja’s restaurants also pull influences from various cultures and the results are pretty unique.
See what you think!
1. Dine in a castle – Mang Engking
Don’t miss the opportunity to be the King of the castle at the amazing Mang Engking restaurant. The unique fairytale castle isn’t something you see everyday and the surprises just keep coming.
Photo via aryadnp
The specialty is fish and shrimp that live in the serene ponds surrounding the castle. Relax in your own traditional bamboo gubuk, a type of hut, at the waters edge.
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If you would rather dine inside then the castle dining hall is both exciting and very cool on a hot afternoon.
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Everyone talks about the honey-grilled shrimp, slightly charred and sweet, fresh juicy prawns – delicious.
Photo via okviantivivi, buyungroyal
If you prefer fish then the Ikan Gurame Pesmol is exceptional and is served whole so you certainly won’t be hungry.
Photo via makankeliling, onedeefood
If you aren’t bored after so much fish, then dip your toes into the waters edge and let the little fish nibble them. Your own personal pedicure.
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Mang Engking restaurants are popping up across Indonesia but we are certain that this is the only one with a castle!
2. The Travellers’ hub – Via Via Resto Jogja
When it comes to chilled traveller hangouts it doesn’t get better than Via Via. The cool murals, bright cushions and relaxed atmosphere will make you feel right at home.
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After living the backpacker life you should treat yourself with a hearty breakfast. Enjoy a full cooked breakfast complete with chocolate dipped strawberries – naughty but nice!
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For travellers missing their fix of bread, Via Via has a delicious bakery stocking an extensive range of artisan breads. If you think the bread is good then you have to try the specialty sandwiches, yum!
Photo via janine, dr dickyts, affikhresna, abraham genta buwana
Do you have an artistic streak? Then you will love the displays of artwork, in fact why not display your own? ViaVia encourages artists from all works of life to unite and showcase their talents.
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If you’re travelling with your kids, there’s even a kids corner to keep them entertained.
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At ViaVia you can meet fellow travellers, kindred artistic spirits and enjoy great food at reasonable prices. What more do you want?
3. A sight (or two) to behold! – Abhayagiri
You get two for the price of one at Abhaygiri, two spectacular sights that is! The panoramic views from the restaurant include both the Prambanan temple and Mount Merapi.
Photo by anhayagiri
Perched up on the side of a hill, the restaurant affords breathtaking views across Prambanan. Grab a table outside to watch the sunset and enjoy dinner as the rest of the city goes to sleep.
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Photo via bendottetapsemangat, pangeran kuliner, calvinzliu, esthemilyst
Everyone knows that food tastes better with a great view, trust us the food is already amazing. The banqueting experience means you can sample as many delicious dishes as you want.
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Inside Abhayigiri is just as spectacular with luxurious décor and an impressive sparkling chandelier.
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To make your meal extra special why not request a pendopo, a private pavilion to dine in. You can even request the signature dance of Abhayigiri, the Jonggrang cultural dance be performed.
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You have to visit this restaurant for a taste of luxury and unforgettable views.
4. Witness the weird and wonderful – The House of Raminten
The House of Raminten really is a house of wonders. This traditional Javenese restaurant certainly has a wild side.
Photo by Adecheers
The restaurant is named after Hamzah Salaiman, the owner, who played the popular character of Raminten in an Indonesian soap opera.
The House of Raminten embraces diversity, encourages different religions to unite and promotes the transgender community. Love the food, the atmosphere and each other.
Waiters wear traditional kraton jarit and you can expect a relaxed dining pace. Food is served, and enjoyed slowly as per Javanese custom. Even the manager says ‘ If you’re in a hurry, we cannot serve you’.
Photo via owenwp, echaa canceriina, azizpw
The koteka is highly recommended, a delicious mix of shredded chicken and egg all baked in a bamboo splinter.
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When it comes to the décor, you are in for a shock. Dotted between the many photos of Raminten are some unusual decorations including full sized horse carriages and breast shaped mugs.
Photo by amindxx1, shokipedia
You need to have a look around yourself, because when it comes to the House of Raminten you have to see it to believe it!
5. At one with nature – Rosella easy dining
Great food and beautiful décor all surrounded by lush green paddy fields – does that sound like paradise? At Rosella easy dining you can have it all.
Located away from the hustle and bustle of town, this restaurant is tranquil – and the open sided terrace makes you feel at one with the stunning natural surroundings.
You have to try the Rijstaffel, this traditional dish is served with a modern twist and all the little dishes make it feel like a banquet.
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The best thing about Rosella Easy Dining is Richie, the head chef. Richie makes an effort to greet all of his guests and find out if there is anything special they would like to eat.
Photo by danichr 2
Enjoyed the food? Then come back and learn how to make these delicious local dishes under Richie’s watchful eye. Sample your creations as the sunsets across the paddy fields for the perfect romantic evening.
