Balikpapan

Street Food Guide: Balikpapan, Indonesia

Popular Street Food Items

1. Sate (Satay)

   • Ingredients: Skewered and grilled meat (commonly chicken, beef, or lamb) marinated in spices and served with peanut sauce.
   • Preparation: Meat is marinated, skewered, and grilled over charcoal. Served with rice cakes (lontong) or plain rice.
   • Typical Cost: IDR 15,000 - 30,000 per serving.
   • Where to Find: Street vendors, night markets, and food stalls near parks.

2. Nasi Goreng (Fried Rice)

   • Ingredients: Cooked rice stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and a choice of protein (chicken, shrimp, or tofu), seasoned with soy sauce and spices.
   • Preparation: Rice is stir-fried in a wok with oil, vegetables, and protein, often topped with a fried egg.
   • Typical Cost: IDR 10,000 - 25,000 per plate.
   • Where to Find: Street food stalls and local eateries.

3. Bakso (Meatballs)

   • Ingredients: Ground meat (usually beef) mixed with tapioca flour, served in a savory broth with noodles and vegetables.
   • Preparation: Meatballs are boiled and served in a broth with noodles, tofu, and sometimes egg.
   • Typical Cost: IDR 15,000 - 30,000 per bowl.
   • Where to Find: Dedicated bakso stalls and street vendors.

4. Martabak (Stuffed Pancake)

   • Ingredients: A thick pancake filled with sweet or savory fillings (chocolate, cheese, or minced meat).
   • Preparation: Batter is poured onto a hot griddle, filled, folded, and cooked until golden brown.
   • Typical Cost: IDR 20,000 - 50,000 depending on size and filling.
   • Where to Find: Street vendors, especially in the evening.

5. Kerak Telor (Egg Cake)

   • Ingredients: A traditional Betawi dish made from glutinous rice, eggs, and shredded coconut, often topped with fried shallots.
   • Preparation: Rice is cooked in a pan, topped with eggs, and cooked until crispy.
   • Typical Cost: IDR 10,000 - 20,000 per serving.
   • Where to Find: Street vendors, particularly during festivals.

Cultural and Practical Tips

• Hygiene: Choose vendors with a clean setup and a steady stream of customers to ensure food safety.
• Timing: Street food is most vibrant in the evening. Visit night markets for a wider variety.
• Payment: Cash is preferred; keep small denominations handy.
• Spice Level: Indonesian food can be spicy. Ask for "tidak pedas" (not spicy) if you prefer milder flavors.
• Local Etiquette: It’s common to eat standing or at small tables. Be respectful and patient, especially during busy hours.
• Beverages: Try local drinks like es kelapa muda (young coconut water) or es teh manis (sweet iced tea) to complement your meal.

Recommended Locations

• Pasar Segar: A bustling market with various street food options.
• Taman Bekapai: Popular for evening food stalls and a lively atmosphere.
• Jalan Jenderal Sudirman: Known for numerous food vendors, especially at night.

Explore these options to enjoy the rich street food culture of Balikpapan.