When you arrive at Yogyakarta, you can try so many different foods for different occasions. If this is your first time visiting Yogyakarta, here are some underrated but excellent places to eat in Yogyakarta that you have to try.
8 Best Local Foods to Try if You First Time Visit Yogyakarta
1. Gudeg
A true taste of Yogyakarta’s culinary heritage, Gudeg is a dish that every visitor must experience. Often referred to as the "king of Yogyakarta's dishes," Gudeg is a slow-cooked stew made from young jackfruit, simmered with coconut milk, aromatic spices, and a touch of palm sugar, giving it a rich, sweet, and savory flavor. The dish is typically served with rice, boiled eggs, and a side of crispy fried chicken or sambal, creating a hearty, comforting meal that reflects the warmth and tradition of the city.
If you are interested in trying Gudeg, here are some recommendations for delicious Gudeg you can find in Yogyakarta: Gudeg Yu Djum, Gudeg Pawon, Gudeg Manggar, and Gudeg Mercon (well-known for its very spicy taste).
2. Soto
When in Yogyakarta, Soto is a must-try dish that offers a comforting and flavorful experience. This traditional Indonesian soup is made with a rich, aromatic broth, typically featuring chicken or beef, and is served with rice or vermicelli noodles, along with a variety of fresh herbs, crispy fried shallots, and sometimes boiled eggs. Each region in Indonesia has its take on Soto, but Yogyakarta’s version stands out with its unique blend of spices and herbs, creating a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors that warm you from the inside out. There are so many delicious soto you can find in Yogyakarta; Soto Kadipiro, Soto Taman Sari, and Soto Pak Sholeh.
3. Bakmi Jawa
When it comes to traditional comfort food in Yogyakarta, Bakmi Jawa is a must-try. This beloved noodle dish is a perfect blend of savory, rich flavors, showcasing the culinary influences of Yogyakarta's Javanese heritage. Bakmi Jawa is made with either yellow egg noodles or rice noodles, stir-fried with a mix of tender chicken, beef, or seafood, and seasoned with a special combination of spices. It's often served with a side of sambal, fried shallots, and sometimes an egg on top, making every bite an irresistible treat. Whether fried or in a savory broth, Bakmi Jawa captures the essence of Yogyakarta’s rich culinary culture.
Here are some recommendations for delicious Bakmi Jawa you can find in Yogyakarta: Bakmi Jawa Kadin, Bakmi Jawa Mbah Gito or Bakmi Jawa Pak Pele.
4. Sate Klatak
If you find yourself in Yogyakarta, a visit to this culturally rich city is incomplete without indulging in its most iconic street food–Sate Klatak. Unlike the more familiar skewers of traditional Indonesian satay, Sate Klatak stands out with its unique preparation: tender chunks of goat meat threaded onto thick metal skewers and grilled over an open flame. What truly sets this dish apart is the mouthwatering combination of savory flavors, often enhanced with a rich, spiced broth. Served with a spicy sambal and rice, every bite of Sate Klatak promises a delightful explosion of taste that captures the heart of Yogyakarta's culinary identity.
If you’re on a quest for the best Sate Klatak in town, here are some top recommendations: Sate Klatak Pak Pong or Sate Klatak Pak Bari Pasar Wonokromo.
5. Kopi Klotok
In the heart of Yogyakarta's rural charm, a simple yet unforgettable coffee experience awaits at Kopi Klotok. A visit to a Kopi Klotok stall isn’t just about the coffee—it's an invitation to relax, soak in the serene atmosphere, and experience the warmth of local hospitality. For an immersive experience, you can pair your coffee with traditional snacks like fried tempeh or crunchy cassava chips, which complement the coffee’s boldness.
6. Kopi Joss
Kopi Joss, a one-of-a-kind coffee that blends tradition with a touch of adventure. Known for its distinctive smoky aroma and bold taste, Kopi Joss is brewed in a way that sets it apart from any other coffee in Indonesia. The secret lies in the surprising addition of a hot, glowing piece of charcoal dropped into the cup, which not only infuses the coffee with a smoky flavor but also gives it a striking, bubbling effect. The charcoal is said to mellow the bitterness of the coffee, creating a smoother, richer taste.
Kopi Joss can be found in several popular spots around Yogyakarta, but the most famous is Angkringan Kopi Joss near the Tugu Railway Station. Here, you’ll find locals and visitors alike enjoying their coffee alongside traditional snacks like nasi kucing (small rice portions wrapped in banana leaves) and fried tempeh. For an authentic experience, order a glass of Kopi Joss, sit back, and watch the magic of the bubbling charcoal transform your drink into something truly special.
7. Ayam Goreng (Fried Chicken)
No visit to Yogyakarta is complete without savoring Ayam Goreng, a crispy, golden fried chicken that has become a beloved comfort food throughout Indonesia. What makes Yogyakarta's version stand out is the way the chicken is prepared—marinated in a blend of fragrant spices like turmeric, garlic, and coriander, then deep-fried to perfection. The result is a crunchy exterior that gives way to tender, flavorful meat. Often served with sambal (spicy chili sauce) and steamed rice, Ayam Goreng in Yogyakarta is a dish that truly represents the city’s rich culinary heritage.
If you’re on the hunt for the best Ayam Goreng in Yogyakarta, here are a few must-visit spots: Ayam Goreng Mbok Berek, Ayam Goreng Ny. Suharti, Ayam Goreng Mbok Sabar, Ayam Goreng Tojoyo.
8. Bakpia
No trip to Yogyakarta is complete without indulging in Bakpia, a sweet and savory pastry that has become a beloved snack throughout the city. Bakpia is a soft, round pastry filled with a variety of fillings, but the most famous is the sweet mung bean paste. The outer layer is slightly crisp, while the inside offers a rich, smooth texture that melts in your mouth. Often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, Bakpia is a perfect souvenir or treat to enjoy on the go while exploring Yogyakarta's bustling streets.
For the best Bakpia in Yogyakarta, these spots are highly recommended: Bakpia Pathok 75, Bakpia Pathok 25, and Bakpia Kurnia Sari.