Culinary tourism in East Kalimantan offers a range of delectable dishes that should not be missed, providing a rich and unique flavor experience.
East Kalimantan (Kaltim) is not only known for its stunning natural beauty but also for its diverse and delicious culinary scene that will tantalize your taste buds.
As one of the culinary tourism destinations in Indonesia, Kaltim offers various dining spots that are not only delightful but also comfortable, allowing you to enjoy your meals while taking a break.
For those in East Kalimantan, here are 10 recommended places to try, where you can savor delicious dishes while enjoying a pleasant atmosphere.
1. De Cafe Resto, Pastry & Bakery – Luxurious Ambience with a Variety of Menus
Located on Jalan Jendral Sudirman, Klandasan, Balikpapan, De Cafe Resto, Pastry & Bakery offers a luxurious dining experience with comfortable modern interior design.
Here, you can enjoy a variety of dishes from oxtail soup, chicken porridge, to Japanese cuisine and steak, along with East Kalimantan Specialties that add a unique touch to the menu. De Cafe also serves fresh and tasty gelato.
This spot is perfect for dining with family or friends on the weekend while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere.
2. Pondok Borneo Samarinda – Legendary Seafood in Kaltim
If you visit Samarinda, don’t miss Pondok Borneo, a legendary dining spot serving iconic East Kalimantan seafood dishes. Located on Jalan Mayor Jenderal Sutoyo No. 15 A, Sungai Pinang Dalam, this place offers fresh seafood menus such as grilled fish, shrimp, and squid.
Besides seafood, Pondok Borneo also offers various fried rice, soups, and refreshing drinks. You can also order food through online delivery services.
3. RM Ayam Gepuk Asli Ponorogo – Taste the Flavorful Ayam Gepuk
Established in 1993, RM Ayam Gepuk Asli Ponorogo has become a legendary dining spot serving spicy and savory ayam gepuk (smashed chicken) with basil sambal.
Located at Jalan KS Tubun No. 26, Samarinda Ulu, this spot is bustling with visitors every day. You can enjoy ayam gepuk with white rice accompanied by the enticing basil sambal. Don’t forget to try other equally delicious dishes.
4. Restaurant Dandito – Seafood with Dandito Crab Sauce
For seafood lovers, Restaurant Dandito in Balikpapan is the right choice. Situated on Jalan Marsma R Iswahyudi No. 70, Gung Bahagia, this place is famous for its delicious dandito crab sauce.
Dandito is frequently visited by celebrities, and you’ll find many celebrity photos displayed on the restaurant walls. In addition to crab, they also serve other seafood dishes that are equally delightful. If you’re looking for good food and a cozy atmosphere, Dandito is a must-visit.
5. Rumah Makan Tepian Pandan – Fresh Kutai Cuisine
Located in Tenggarong, Rumah Makan Tepian Pandan serves authentic Kutai dishes made with fresh ingredients that you can see directly in the restaurant’s freezer.
Apart from seafood, this spot offers a variety of skewers and fresh vegetables. With a serene ambiance, this restaurant is ideal for family dining while enjoying the local culinary delights of East Kalimantan.
6. D’puncak Cafe & Resto – Hang Out While Enjoying City Views
D’puncak Cafe & Resto in Samarinda offers a beautiful city view with its two-story structure that allows guests to enjoy the city panorama from above.
Serving a variety of delicious food and drinks, this place is perfect for hanging out with friends or family. If you want to relax while enjoying stunning city views, D’puncak Cafe is the place to be.
7. Restoran Kenari – Enticing Kenari Crab
Restoran Kenari in Balikpapan offers a variety of kenari crab dishes, such as black pepper crab, oyster sauce crab, and tanco sauce crab.
Located on Jalan Marsma R. Iswahyudi No.5, this restaurant provides a beautiful sea view and a cozy atmosphere. The crabs served here are very fresh, making it a great choice for seafood lovers who want to enjoy crab dishes with unique and delicious flavors.
8. Pondok Borneo – Delicious Smoked Crab
Pondok Borneo in Samarinda is also known for its signature smoked crab. Here, you can enjoy two nearly-cooked egg crabs served on aluminum foil with savory and sweet seasoning.
The smoked crab and its eggs are extremely tasty, offering a delightful experience for your taste buds. Pondok Borneo is a must-try if you enjoy seafood with authentic, mouthwatering flavors.
9. Kedai Sabindo – Delicious Malaysian-Style Dishes
Kedai Sabindo, also known as Sabah Indonesia, serves various Malaysian-style menus, such as pattaya fried rice, roti canai, and roti tissue.
Located on Jalan Letnan Jenderal Suprapto No. 5D, Samarinda, this eatery is very popular among locals and tourists alike. If you want to enjoy delicious Malaysian cuisine with distinctive flavors, Kedai Sabindo is the place to go.
10. Gado-Gado Kemuning – Delicious Gado-Gado with Special Peanut Sauce
Gado-Gado Kemuning in Samarinda is known for its peanut sauce made from a blend of cashews and high-quality peanuts, making its gado-gado taste rich and mouthwatering.
Located on Jalan Jamrud, Pasar Pagi, this gado-gado is perfect for those looking for a healthy meal with a rich flavor. Its delicious taste makes Gado-Gado Kemuning a perfect choice for lunch or dinner.
East Kalimantan offers a variety of delicious and appetizing culinary options. From fresh seafood to Typical Balikpapan Food, every dining spot here provides a unique and satisfying culinary experience.
So, if you are in East Kalimantan, don’t miss the chance to savor the region’s culinary delights that will surely make your trip more memorable!
