The story of Nusantara, Indonesia’s vast archipelago, has always been told through its food – and today, that story is evolving like never before.
Modern Indonesian cuisine is breathing new life into the country’s culinary traditions. Once confined to humble warungs or family kitchens, regional recipes are now being reimagined with premium ingredients, refined techniques and plenty of creativity. Across Indonesia, chefs are proving that contemporary dining can honour the past whilst also embracing the future.
From Jakarta’s innovative dining scene to Bandung’s elevated street food, Surabaya’s heritage buildings, Yogyakarta’s royal flavours, and Bali’s ever-evolving restaurant culture, each city brings its own fresh perspective to contemporary Indonesian cuisine.
The only thing standing between you and the archipelago’s exciting new dining scene is a restaurant door. So, pull up a chair and discover the best contemporary Indonesian restaurants making waves today!
Table of Contents
JAKARTA
Suara Restaurant
A minimalist modern Indonesian restaurant in South Jakarta, Suara puts lesser-known ingredients like candlenut, moringa leaves, and cempedak in the spotlight through beautifully presented contemporary dishes. With its open kitchen and stylish space that effortlessly shifts from relaxed lunches to romantic dinners, the restaurant showcases the incredible depth and diversity of Indonesian cuisine.
Standout dishes include Tuna Ganja Maluku, a flavour-packed sashimi dish served with its signature sambal (the “ganja” refers to its famously addictive taste, not the ingredient itself), and Domba Rabeg, inspired by Blitar’s speciality braised lamb shank glazed with spices and sweet soy sauce. There are plenty of vegetarian options, making it a great choice for plant-based diners also.
Address: Jl. Taman Gunawarman Bar. No.28, RT.2/RW.3, Selong, Kec. Kby. Baru, Jakarta, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12110
Instagram: @suara.restaurant
Kaum Jakarta
Kaum, which means tribe in Indonesian, puts community into the heart of everything it does. This restaurant celebrates Indonesia’s many ethnic groups and the indigenous cooking traditions that have shaped the country’s diverse cuisine. Traditional flavours are given a contemporary twist through eye-catching dishes, whilst the warm, modern dining space is filled with colourful elements inspired by the archipelago’s rich cultural heritage.
Designed for sharing, the menu takes you on a culinary journey, with dishes inspired by regions from Sumatra to Sulawesi. Be sure to keep an eye out for the cleverly named favourites such as Shrimp Under the Rock (Udang Balik Batu) and Messy Free-Range Chicken (Ayam Kampung Berantakan).
Address: Jl. Dr. Kusuma Atmaja No.77-79, RT.10/RW.4, Menteng, Kec. Menteng, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10310
Instagram: @kaumrestaurant
Semaja
Semaja’s modern take on Nusantara cuisine is inspired by treasured family recipes. Soulful yet sophisticated, the restaurant blends traditional batik motifs with an elegant, modern setting. The wood-fired menu showcases regional favourites, including Iga Konro Bakar, a signature grilled beef rib dish from Makassar, and Perut Tuna Bakar, featuring grilled tuna belly from Morotai. Another standout is the Empal Gentong from Cirebon, served in a coconut for a unique twist.
The creativity continues with dessert, where classic Indonesian sweets are reimagined in dishes such as Es Teler Deconstructed and Ketan Hitam Reimagined. Don’t rush off after dinner – head upstairs to the artisanal bar where inventive cocktails feature unexpected local flavours, including Sambel Matah and an Es Podeng-inspired sip, both items you don’t usually find on a regular drinks menu.
Address: Jalan Gereja Theresia No.41 Menteng, Jakarta
Instagram: @semaja_id
Noesaka
Perfect for everything from family celebrations to business lunches and dinners, Noesaka has three locations across Jakarta: One Satrio, Land’s End PIK 2, and Plaza Indonesia. The extensive menu at this top contemporary Indonesian restaurant showcases the breadth of local cuisine, with everything from appetisers and satay to seafood, meat and veggie dishes.
Seafood fans won’t want to miss the Bamboo Lobster, cooked in a fragrant pineapple and turmeric broth. If you’re visiting the PIK 2 location, be sure to look out for its exclusive dishes, including fresh oysters from Ujung Kulon and crispy soft-shell crab served with a spicy, tangy mango belacan sauce. Another standout is the Lampung-style steamed grouper, prepared using the authentic pepes method, making it well worth trying.
Address: One Satrio, Land’s End PIK 2, Plaza Indonesia
Instagram: @noesaka_id
TAMU
As the name suggests, TAMU (meaning guest in Indonesian) is all about making every diner feel as though they’re being welcomed into a warm Javanese home. Guided by a philosophy of blending nostalgia with a fresh, modern vibe, the restaurant combines cosy interiors with classic Indonesian architectural touches, resulting in an inviting space full of character.
Begin your meal with the Balinese-inspired Lawar Udang, before moving on to one of the restaurant’s signature dishes, the Sambal Goreng Otot from Cirebon. The menu also features a vast selection of soups, grilled specialities, rice and noodle dishes, and indulgent desserts, including Bugis Mandi served with delicate coconut ice cream for the perfect sweet finale.
Address: Jl. Aditiawarman I No.8, RT.6/RW.2, Melawai, Kecamatan Kebayoran Baru, Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12160
Instagram: @tamu.jkrt
BANDUNG
Plataran Bandung
Nestled within Bandung’s historical government district, Plataran Bandung brings the elegance of royal-inspired dining into a warm and homey setting. With its refined interiors and strong connection to West Java’s rich cultural heritage, the restaurant celebrates traditional Indonesian cuisine with a contemporary touch.
One of the standout dishes is Nasi Goreng Tiga Dewi, a trio of fried rice featuring three distinct flavours: Nasi Goreng Kecombrang, Nasi Goreng Keling Mete, and Nasi Goreng Lautan Api. The all-day dining menu also offers plenty of favourites, including the Plataran Signature Telor Asin Platter, the Ayam Dharmawangsa served with a sweet, sour and spicy sauce, and the Sumatran speciality Dendeng Batokok. Complete your meal with one of the restaurant’s traditional drinks, whilst the little ones are well catered for with a dedicated kids’ menu.
Address: Jl. Diponegoro No.27, Citarum, Kec. Bandung Wetan, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat 40115
Instagram: @plataran.bandung
Dailah – Sajian Nusantara
This cosy semi-fine-dining restaurant serves up nostalgic dishes inspired by the chef’s grandmother and the family recipes that shaped their love of cooking. Dailah’s menu celebrates regional Indonesian specialities, showcasing traditional spices with a thoughtful, contemporary touch.
Highlights include Mom’s Recipe, featuring a selection of snacks, plus creative pairings that put a spin on the street food concept Bandung is famous for. For something more unique, try the Rusuk Kelinci Masak Kelapa, tender roasted rabbit ribs served with coconut, tomato sambal, and fragrant basil oil.
You’ll also find mocktails that combine local botanicals such as wild ginger fruit, jackfruit, and grated coconut. With outdoor seating surrounded by greenery, the space has an earthy touch, making it one of the best contemporary Indonesian restaurants for slow-paced group gatherings.
Address: Jl. Cisangkuy No.60, Citarum, Bandung Wetan, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat 40115
Instagram: @dailahsajiankontemporer
Serangkai Rempah
As a new addition to Bandung’s contemporary Indonesian restaurant scene, Serangkai Rempah puts Indonesia’s rich spice heritage centre stage. Don’t miss star dishes like Nasi Padang Serangkai and Sate Mustika Geni (which literally translates to “Fire Gem”). Drawing inspiration from Indonesia’s trade history, spices feature not only in the food, but in the drinks too, including signature herbal elixirs mixed with cinnamon and star anise.
Relaxed yet upscale, elegant yet affordable, this restaurant offers the best of both worlds, making it the perfect place to linger over a mouthwatering meal. With its traditional setting, Art Deco architecture, and warm terracotta accents, Serangkai Rempah beautifully blends its airy indoor space with a lush garden terrace.
Address: Jl. Veteran No.45, Kb. Pisang, Kec. Sumur Bandung, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat 40112
Instagram: @serangkairempah
Joongla
Nothing pairs better with discovering Indonesia’s regional specialities than sharing stories over a meal… and Joongla does it brilliantly with its “fun dining” concept instead of fine dining. This omakase-style storytelling experience started as a pop-up in a market stall before finding its home inside a hotel.
Guests are taken on a journey through the seven regions of the Indonesian archipelago with seven thoughtfully curated courses, each designed to spark conversation beyond what’s on the plate. As the hosts share the history behind each dish, they create an interactive and immersive experience that brings each region to life. Just be sure to book ahead – with only eight seats available per session, securing a spot can be quite the challenge!
Address: De Java Hotel, Jl. Sukajadi No.148-150, Pasteur, Kec. Sukajadi, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat 40162
Instagram: @joongla
Mari Merangkai Bunga Seroja (MMBS)
Mari Merangkai Bunga Seroja gives you that thrill of stumbling upon a cute little restaurant tucked away in an alley. Fine dining with a hyper-local focus is the big theme here, with reimagined Sundanese cuisine as the star of MMBS’ distinctive tasting menu. MMBS takes diners on a cultural journey through the regions of Cianjur, Subang and Garut.
Everyday local staples are transformed into artistic dishes using locally sourced ingredients, which also influences the restaurant’s seasonally changing menu. Mari Merangkai Bunga Seroja also hosts collaborations with one-off themes, keeping its offerings fresh. The ambience feels like home, with a strong sense of community, creativity and accessibility, which operates on a unique ‘pay-as-you-wish’ concept. This is a unique culinary adventure in Bandung you definitely need to try!
Address: Jl. Pelesiran No.28, Tamansari, Kecamatan Coblong, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat 40132
Instagram: @mmbs.restaurant
SURABAYA
10 Regentstraat
Delivering the archipelago’s rich culinary heritage inside a beautifully restored 18th-Century building, 10 Regentstraat is a new Indonesian restaurant in Surabaya with incredible stories to tell. Dining here feels like travelling back in time. This historic space was once a Dutch-era post office and is also believed to be where Indonesia’s first president went to school.
Today, the vibe blends moody lighting with comfy seating, setting the stage for the traditional recipes prepared with clever modern techniques. Enjoy local favourites like Dendeng Batokok and Batagor, or try the signature Rijstaffel menu to sample a hearty spread of chicken, meat, prawn and savoury soups. Be sure to save room for fun non-alcoholic drinks like the traditional sweet treat-inspired Dadar Gulung Frappe.
Address: Jl. Kebon Rojo No.10, Krembangan Sel., Kec. Krembangan, Surabaya, Jawa Timur 60175
Instagram: @10regentstraat
Tunjungan 39
Tunjungan 39 is another restaurant celebrating the artful preservation of Indonesian dishes and colonial architecture. Housed inside a heritage building, the restaurant opens right onto Surabaya’s bustling Tunjungan Street. White walls and classic window frames give the space plenty of character.
Highlighting an Indonesian-inspired menu, aromatic spices and wood-fired techniques, this restaurant lets you dive into Surabayan specialities like Rujak Cingur, Krengsengan Smoked Brisket, and Rawon served in bamboo. The restaurant also draws inspiration from Indonesian literature with its Kenallah Tanah Airmu cocktail selection, inviting diners to discover more about Indonesia’s history through these signature sips.
Address: Jl. Tunjungan No.39, Genteng, Kec. Genteng, Surabaya, Jawa Timur 60275
Instagram: @tunjungan39
Botanika
This isn’t your typical botanical glasshouse! Botanika elevates authentic archipelago cuisine in an ambience designed with pure Instagram appeal. The space is filled with potted indoor plants, trailing greenery, and natural sunlight by day – perfect for casual gatherings with an elegant touch.
With the tagline “Sharing the flavours of Indonesia” stamped on its facade, the menu features comfort food and regional snacks from across the archipelago, crafted for family-style sharing. There are light bite platters, soups, and rare regional specialities like Jepara’s Pindang Serani Ikan and spicy, aromatic Gulai Aceh, and Lidah Asin Cabe Hijau, a Surabaya-Padang mashup. To round it all out, sip on traditional herbal drinks or relax over a charming vintage Botanika tea set.
Address: Jl. Raya Kertajaya Indah Blok F-303 No.33, Manyar Sabrangan, Kec. Mulyorejo, Surabaya, Jawa Timur 60116
Instagram: @botanikaresto
Postman Dining
The name Postman Dining draws inspiration from the humble postman who delivers letters and news to people’s doors. That same spirit comes through in its modern heritage design paired with contemporary bistro details. The restaurant is cosy and ideal for family meals, with acoustic nights adding to its vintage charm.
Postman’s menu reinvents classic Indonesian favourites with premium ingredients, offering the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. Don’t miss signature dishes such as the Salmon Mangut, Chilli Kotok Pasta, the comforting Sop Merah, and the sizzling Sundanese steak served with Maranggi sauce. Signature drinks like Kacang Ijo Latte and Es Dawet Cocktail complement the modern Indonesian feast, whilst desserts get an unconventional twist with an elevated take on Pisang Ijo.
Address: Jl. Dharmahusada Indah Tim. III No.V-141, Mulyorejo, Kec. Mulyorejo, Surabaya, Jawa Timur 60115
Instagram: @postman_sby
Kamarasa Eatery & Coffee
Kamarasa Eatery & Coffee welcomes diners to a clean, minimalist space with a warm, home-like feel. It offers a cosy dining haven that’s perfect for a casual lunch, with glass windows inviting natural light throughout the day. The menu features Indonesian comfort favourites, including sweet and savoury snack platters, fried rice dishes, noodles, hearty soups like Rawon Iga and Soto Tangkar, and spicy cobek options with your choice of meat, chicken or duck, alongside a range of sambal.
On the drinks side, you’ll find unique coffee creations like Kopi Kelapa Bakar (roasted coconut coffee), plus Nusantara favourites like Beer Pletok and Bandrek. There’s also a range of avocado drinks, premium teas, and organic beverages to quench your thirst.
Address: Jl. Sukomanunggal Jaya No.28, Sukomanunggal, Kec. Sukomanunggal, Surabaya, Jawa Timur 60188
Instagram: @kamarasa_idn
YOGYAKARTA
Gianti
Situated in a quiet neighbourhood near the Yogyakarta Monument, Gianti has a nostalgic feel, thanks to its Dutch heritage interior and classic patterned floor tiles, complete with indoor and outdoor seating. This fine dining Indonesian restaurant brings heritage recipes to life with modern fusion techniques, serving up hearty rice selections like Nasi Ningrat, a yellow rice tumpeng served with beef serundeng, vegetables, grilled chicken fillet, and rempeyek.
There’s also Salmon prepared Javanese-style with lodeh vegetables, alongside great value sharing dishes such as Boentoet Gongso Mbah Warni, featuring stir-fried oxtail with chillies and spices, and the much-loved Balibul lamb satay from Tegal. Cool off with traditional mocktails, such as Es Can Dort Java, a refreshing blend of green jelly grass, lychee and evaporated milk.
Address: Jl. Dewi Sartika, Terban, Kec. Gondokusuman, Kota Yogyakarta, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55223
Instagram: @giantifinedining
GalaRasa
GalaRasa takes shape in a Javanese joglo structure, softened by modern touches and warm brown tones. Cultural accents decorate the dining space throughout without making it feel too old-fashioned, and the airy indoor setting opens out into an outdoor court, creating the perfect ambience for laid-back gatherings.
The menu features savoury snacks, soup dishes, and ramesan – rice served with a variety of side dishes like telur dadar, vegetables, and tempe orek. Popular signature dishes include Ayam Saus Merah (smoked chicken with sweet sauce) and Nasi Daging Mentega (smoked meat, omelette and boiled vegetables). When it comes to satay, it’s hard to pick just one flavour. Luckily, GalaRasa’s Two-Flavour Satay lets you get two combinations at a special price. For drinks, diners can choose from local soda, kombucha, or house-blend iced tea. But one of the best parts about this restaurant – it’s easy on the wallet too!
Address: Jl. DI Panjaitan No.39, Mantrijeron, Kec. Mantrijeron, Kota Yogyakarta, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55143
Instagram: @galarasadijogja
Bale Raos Restaurant
Fancy a taste of royal life? Head to Bale Raos Restaurant, located inside the Kraton Yogyakarta complex. With classic wood carvings lining its walls, you’ll get a true sense of Javanese culinary heritage, as this is where the Royal Family and the Sultan himself still dine!
Try the Sultan’s favourite Bebek Suwar-Suwir, tender shredded duck meat served with fried pineapple and sweet-and-sour sauce. Pair it with a beer-like royal tonic drink made from aromatic local ingredients. Plus, with Yogyakarta’s must-visit Kraton and Taman Sari just steps away, this restaurant is the perfect stop to complete your royal day out.
Address: Jl. Magangan Kulon No.1, Panembahan, Kecamatan Kraton, Kota Yogyakarta, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55131
Instagram: @baleraosresto
Baki Restaurant
Baki Restaurant serves up beloved Indonesian dishes with a modern twist. The restaurant’s name draws inspiration from the cultural symbolism of baki, or offering tray, representing a gesture of respect. With its European-inspired design and timeless elegance, it’s also a popular event venue for all kinds of occasions.
Be sure to try the creative seafood dishes, including Rujak Udang Jeruk Bali (prawns with Balinese grapefruit and spicy and sour dressing), and Gulai Cumi (slow-cooked squid in a yellow curry sauce). Those with a sweet tooth will also love how Baki gets creative with desserts. The Es Teler Cheesecake is a creamy, no-bake creation loaded with fresh avocado, young coconut and jackfruit.
Address: Jl. Raya Randugowang, Jatirejo, Sendangadi, Kec. Mlati, Kabupaten Sleman, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55285
Instagram: @bakirestaurantyk
Candhari Heaven
Gastronomy finds its own kind of magic at this dining spot perched atop Boko Hill, with stunning views of Prambanan Temple and Mount Merapi. The architecture of Candhari Heaven is heavily inspired by classical Javanese and Hindu temple (candi) architecture, featuring striking black stone and grand gates that set a dramatic tone.
An infinity pool and lush garden area invite you to linger a little longer. The menu offers traditional Javanese mains like Soto Iga Betawi, Bebek Cak Bagus and Gulai Barramundi. Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner for two or a celebration with friends and family, this restaurant delivers when both Javanese gastronomy and classic ambience are on your list.
Address: Sumberwatu, Sambirejo, Prambanan, Sleman Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta 55572
Instagram: @candhariheaven
BALI
Merah Putih
As chic as the Seminyak area itself, Merah Putih showcases glasshouse architecture and sustainable design, with whimsical touches throughout… a grand ceiling, soaring indoor trees, water features flowing beside your table, and rich green accents. Here, Indonesian classics are given a creative twist, served family-style.
The menu spans lunch, dinner, and a 9-course tasting menu packed with seafood, chicken, meat, and elevated local sweet treats. One of the restaurant’s signature dishes is its Nasi Campur, a mixed rice bowl served with Ayam Betutu, Sumatran Sapi Kalio, or, for a plant-based option, Sayur Pecel served with peanut sauce. To top it all off, this restaurant’s wine cellar features more than 200 international labels, meaning you’re sure to find your perfect pairing.
Address: Jalan Petitenget. 100X Kerobokan Kelod, Jl. Petitenget, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Instagram: @merahputihbali
Double Ikat
Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa’s signature dining destination, Double Ikat, weaves indigenous textile-inspired design into its space. Even the restaurant’s name comes from a traditional weaving technique. Set in an open-air, poolside setting, this elegant restaurant serves up regional dishes from across Indonesia.
Indulge in the signatures like Babi Guling Gianyar and Ikan Bakar Jimbaran. Also, look out for the weekly experiences: an omakase-style chef’s table featuring mystery ingredients, or a Nusantara-themed all-you-can-eat dinner with a special performance. Save room for tropical desserts rooted in Bali vibes, such as Kintamani Orange Tart and Bali Chocolate Souffle served with Singaraja vanilla gelato.
Address: Jl. Pantai Balangan I No.1, Ungasan, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Instagram: @doubleikatrestaurant
Roso Restaurant
Walking into Roso Restaurant at Bali Beach Hotel feels grand from the moment you step through the lobby’s atmospheric tunnel and climb the iconic spiral staircase. Inside the restaurant, mid-century elegance meets an expansive yet intimate space that’s perfect for a romantic date night in Sanur.
Roso celebrates Indonesian cuisine from Sabang to Merauke with its 22-dish Rasa Nusa tasting menu, beautifully plated in a fine-dining style. Standout bites include the zesty Gurita Asam Pedas, Woku Ikan Nila (Kintamani freshwater fish cooked in a fragrant broth of coconut, pandan and turmeric), and tender Minangkabau-style slow-braised beef cheek, alongside warm rice. To finish, indulge in a delightful spread of five traditional-inspired desserts served together for a tempting finale.
Address: Bali Beach Hotel The Heritage Collection, Jl. Hang Tuah Mezzanine Floor, Sanur Kaja, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80227
Instagram: @rososanur
Nusantara by Locavore Group
Nusantara is on a mission to rediscover forgotten regional recipes, making it a passionate showcase of Indonesian ethno-culinary heritage. Its space is wrapped in natural wooden textures and earthy decor, giving it an organic and warm feel. At its heart is a communal dining table that invites diners to share a variety of regional specialities amongst friends.
The menu also offers lesser-known dishes, such as Basa Manis from Cemagi, Bali – a combination of mud crab, moringa leaves, green mango, young coconut and cucumber served with a distinctive coconut milk-based sauce. Meanwhile, the drinks menu offers a non-traditional twist. Srombotan (usually enjoyed as a meal) has been reimagined as a cocktail with medicinal wild herbs, arak, and sambal!
Address: Jl. Dewisita No.09C, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Instagram: @restaurantnusantara
Sangsaka
Wood-fired cooking takes centre stage at Sangsaka, a modern Indonesian restaurant radiating dark, speakeasy-style fine-dining charm. The open kitchen allows diners to watch the flames at work, as aromatic woods infuse each ingredient with smoky depth. From the very first bite, you’ll be taken on a theatrical dining experience.
The menu changes often, spotlighting regional ingredients like andaliman pepper for a bold, tingling kick. Dishes are plated family-style for sharing, with tempting signatures like Kepiting Singkawang (Kalimantan mud crab, kaffir lime and coconut) and Kucit Siobak Singaraja (suckling pig glazed with garlic, star anise, long beans and green chilli). Before saying goodnight, head upstairs to the Diatas cocktail bar to discover plenty of bold and refreshing sips.
Address: Jl. Pangkung Sari No.100, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Instagram: @sangsakabali
