Prawirotaman has been enchanting foreign tourists since the 70s. It has even been named “kampung bule” (foreigner village) among the locals. Is it because of the culinary, affordable lodgings, proximity to the city’s cultural hub, exquisite handicrafts, or simply the authentic Javanese hospitality?
Whatever the reason is, domestic tourists have recently taken note of Prawirotaman as well. Strolling around Prawirotaman is an adventure like no other. It ought to be a full-day agenda as the area boasts interesting trinkets for lovers of life. But if you’re short on time, stop by around 3 PM and stay until the wee hours to fully comprehend why tourists have a soft spot for Prawirotaman.
Here’s a guide on how to spend time in the area effectively and filled with endless fun.
Strolling Around Prawirotaman, Jogja
CULINARY
Whatever food you’re craving is found easily in Prawirotaman. Be it Indonesian cuisine or a spread of Western delectables, endless cafes and restaurants are open for foodies.
Prawirotaman Market
Are you the type of traveller who likes the atmosphere of the market? If so, then visiting the market in Prawirotaman is the right choice. You’ll find various market snacks, dim sum, as well as European-style dishes at Prawirotaman Market. You can also find a collaboration space similar to a co-working space on the fourth floor and a rooftop café and food court at the top of the market. Spark up a conversation with the locals - they will gush over about anything and everything while you try out their creations!
My Little Warung Jogja
“My Little Warung” literally translates to my little shop, and it flawlessly illustrates this French artisan bakery being a little, impressive building standing two storeys tall. The homey ambience is topped off by the friendly staff who thoroughly explain the shop’s artisan concept. Every pastry and cake is baked freshly on the day it’s on display. You can try cinnamon rolls, brownie choco fudge, madeleines, french toast, and many more alongside a cup of coffee or non-coffee drinks.
Instagram: @mylittlewarungjogja
ViaVia Cafe
You can find Indonesian and Western specialities at ViaVia Cafe - staying true to its theme, "east meets west, west meets east". This cafe is flocked by international and domestic tourists due to its aesthetic decor, live music entertainment, and simply tantalising food. Just beside is ViaVia Artisan Bakery. Stop by to buy bread or pastry before or after!
Instagram: @viaivajogja
Tempo Gelato
One of the most famous gelato shops in Jogja is Tempo Gelato. Three branches exist in Yogyakarta, namely Jalan Prawirotaman, Jalan Kaliurang, and Tamansiswa. Each Tempo Gelato branch is extensive, adorned in an industrial and vintage style dominated by yellow and black colours. Tempo Gelato provides around 30 gelato and sorbet flavours with unique variants *basil-flavoured gelato, spicy chocolate, and ginger). Be ready to carry cash because this gelato shop only accepts cash.
Instagram: @tempogelato
Tjemara Noodle Bar
Tjemara Noodle Bar is a utopia for noodle lovers. A variety of processed noodles with exceptional flavours such as Bali authentic, Szechuan oriental, Hong Kong style, and Korean spic have gained the hearts of many. Choose either the thin noodles or udon to go along with an array of toppings, including smoked chicken, chicken char siu, smoked beef, and meatballs. Moreover, their side dishes are not to be missed. Order the wonton soup and gyoza.
Instagram: @tjemara.noodlebar
Sekar Pizza
Head over to Sekar Pizza for jumbo-sized pizza slices. This restaurant located in Tirtodipuran, merely a 10-minute walk away, carries a 70s-American concept with framed photos of singers and athletes in every corner neatly hung.
Instagram: @sekarpizza
SHOPPING
Yogyakarta’s souvenirs are normally bakpia, canned gudeg, and geplak. But at Prawirotaman, you can score some adorable souvenirs more aligned with modern times with materials locally sourced and handmade!
Palka Art Craft
The shop sells a lot of appealing items ranging from stickers, journals, table decorations, accessories, and many more. Their flagship brand is known to sell recycled handmade products derived from dried flowers (and more natural materials) in bracelets, necklaces, and journals. Speaking of journals, a bunch of scrapbooks, waxes, and other decorative items are sold here.
Instagram: @palkaartcraft
Oasis Group Prawirotaman
Since its establishment in 1994, Oasis Group Prawirotaman has been flocked by accessories and home decor lovers. This is relatively spacious and hangs a variety of wall ornaments, woodwork, bamboo crafts, sculptures, bags, bracelets, necklaces, rings, kitchen sets, and more.
Periplus Bookshop
Bookworms may rejoice in the renowned Periplus Bookshop. This aesthetic bookstore is a must-visit due to its collection of international books ranging from fiction to non-fiction. Periplus Bookshop is located on Jalan Tirtodipuran, or a 10-minute walk from Jalan Prawirotaman.
Instagram: @periplusid
NIGHTLIFE
The area, which since the 70s began to become one of the tourist hotspots for both domestic and foreign, is full of surprises.
Till Drop Bar & Resto
The existence of this bar will attract quite a lot of attention because of its eccentric design and concept. The mural paintings on the exterior walls and the unique furniture match the predominantly white building. Most of these furniture are handmade as a result of the owner's creativity. When night falls, this bar is always crowded with visitors relaxing and drinking while listening to live music which starts from 7 PM to midnight. The music performance is filled by local musicians serenading different genres such as reggae, 90s classic, emo punk, and more.
Instagram: @tilldrop_yk
Spark Resto and Sports Bar
Visitors at Spark Resto and Sports Bar usually want to watch a sports match. However, some just want to enjoy the ambience or hang out with friends with plates of burgers, chicken steaks, french fries, and a bunch of booze. Spark Resto and Sports Bar also provide live music and DJs as entertainment.
Instagram: @sparkrestoandsports
Playon Bar & Kitchen
With shady trees around it plus a swimming pool, the atmosphere at Playon Bar & Kitchen is deemed breezy, which makes visitors feel at home to dissolve in their activities. In addition to the word “play on”, which in Javanese means running, many consumers also interpret it as “play on” possibly due to its vastness interpreted as a playground. Moreover, Playon presents quality music of all genres.
Instagram: @justplayon
ACCOMMODATION
Not all areas have a variety of lodgings. Prawirotaman’s accommodations range from hotels, homestays, hostels, to guesthouses. We’ve broken down a few interesting hotels for you to stay in the area.
Recommended hotels:
Por Aqui Stay and Dine
Por Aqui carries a very Mexican theme burst in bright, tropical colours of blue, yellow, and green. This vivacious hotel is Yogyakarta’s first-ever accommodation with an authentic Mexican Bohemian feel boasting several room types in an eclectic deco-style interior equipped with modern facilities such as the luscious garden and chic swimming pool. But you might notice the restaurant firsthand. Por Aqui, you guessed it, serves Mexican cuisine such as burritos, tacos, soups, and more.
Greenhost Boutique Hotel Prawirotaman
Greenhost Boutique Hotel is an eco-conscious boutique hotel offering modern amenities with a touch of local culture, value, and hospitality. The hotel is committed to operating in a sustainable and responsible way—both for the environment and the local community. Agricrafture is the heart of the hotel’s grand design, combining both agriculture and craftsmanship under one roof—two things the locals in Yogyakarta are well known for.
Gallery Prawirotaman Hotel
Classic home comfort and panoramic views are accentuated fairly in every room and suite at Gallery Prawirotaman Hotel. Local works of art and thoughtful touches ooze the hotel’s decor to enhance a memorable overall quality of stay; think king-size beds, generous tubs, walk-in showers, herbal body products, and spacious work areas supported by high-speed internet access. Check out Gallery Spa & Massage to complete your cultural, five senses experience.
Duta Garden Hotel and Boutique Villa
In the corner of Prawirotaman - about 200 metres from the main road - is the Duta Garden Hotel & Boutique Villa. Its strategic location is near the heart of Javanese culture in the city centre. Immerse in the natural atmosphere typical of mountain villages here as you explore natural elements formed in the architectural and landscape design that harmoniously blends the use of vintage Javanese interior elements that best express the romanticism of Yogyakarta in the past.
Indies Heritage Hotel
Feel the timeless comfort of Indies Heritage Hotel Prawirotaman Yogyakarta. This home away from home offers a boutique heritage concept, set within one of the city’s most recognisable historic areas accompanied by a range of accommodation options to suit every need and budget. With a total of 74 rooms, a heritage-concept restaurant, a swimming pool, and function rooms suitable for 50 pax, this hotel guarantees to encompass you with a refreshing ambience of heritage and tranquillity.
Tirtodipuran Hotel By Natt’s Hospitality Indonesia
Although not exactly in the heart of Prawirotaman, Tirtodipuran Hotel Yogyakarta is a historical resort with classic interiors that rely on Javanese characteristics. The hotel has a total of 19 rooms as well as a swimming pool. Certain rooms have a balcony and a seating area for your convenience.