Balikpapan
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Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Sections
Vegetarian and Vegan Options in Balikpapan, Indonesia
Restaurants and Cafes
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Warung Sate Shinta
- Cuisine: Indonesian
- Vegetarian/Vegan Options: Offers a variety of vegetable satays and tofu dishes.
- Price Range: IDR 30,000 - 70,000 per dish.
- Highlights: Try the Tahu Tempe (tofu and fermented soybeans) and grilled vegetable skewers.
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Cafe D'Cost
- Cuisine: Seafood and Indonesian
- Vegetarian/Vegan Options: Salads, vegetable dishes, and rice options.
- Price Range: IDR 50,000 - 100,000 per meal.
- Highlights: The mixed vegetable salad and fried rice with vegetables are popular.
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Kedai Kopi Kita
- Cuisine: Coffee Shop
- Vegetarian/Vegan Options: Smoothies, fruit bowls, and vegan pastries.
- Price Range: IDR 20,000 - 60,000.
- Highlights: Smoothie bowls and vegan cakes are recommended.
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Warung Makan Sederhana
- Cuisine: Indonesian
- Vegetarian/Vegan Options: Various vegetable dishes and rice.
- Price Range: IDR 20,000 - 50,000.
- Highlights: Look for the vegetable curry and fried tempeh.
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Bubur Ayam & Tahu
- Cuisine: Indonesian
- Vegetarian/Vegan Options: Offers vegetarian porridge and tofu dishes.
- Price Range: IDR 15,000 - 40,000.
- Highlights: The vegetarian porridge is a local favorite.
Local Dishes for Vegetarians and Vegans
- Nasi Goreng Sayur: Vegetable fried rice, often customizable.
- Gado-Gado: A salad of boiled vegetables, tofu, and peanut sauce (ensure no shrimp paste is used).
- Tempeh: Fermented soybean cake, widely available and often served fried or in curries.
- Sayur Lodeh: A coconut milk-based vegetable stew.
Tips for Finding Vegetarian and Vegan Options
- Language: Learn basic Indonesian phrases related to dietary preferences (e.g., "saya vegetarian" for "I am vegetarian").
- Local Markets: Visit traditional markets for fresh fruits, vegetables, and local snacks that may be vegetarian or vegan.
- Ask Locals: Engage with locals for recommendations; they can guide you to hidden gems.
- Check Menus: Many restaurants have menus with vegetarian symbols; look for these or ask the staff.
Cultural and Practical Considerations
- Fish Sauce: Be aware that many Indonesian dishes may contain fish sauce or shrimp paste. Always confirm with the staff.
- Spice Levels: Indonesian cuisine can be spicy; request milder options if needed.
- Dining Etiquette: Itโs polite to greet the staff and say thank you (terima kasih) after your meal.
- Availability: While vegetarian options are becoming more common, vegan options may be limited. Always inquire about ingredients.
Balikpapan offers a growing selection of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dining options, making it easier for those with dietary restrictions to enjoy local cuisine.