Medan

Seafood in Medan, Indonesia

Popular Seafood Dishes

1. Ikan Bakar: Grilled fish, often marinated with spices and served with sambal (chili sauce).
2. Sop Ikan: Fish soup made with various spices, vegetables, and sometimes coconut milk.
3. Kerang Rebus: Boiled shellfish, typically served with a spicy dipping sauce.
4. Cumi-Cumi Goreng: Fried squid, often seasoned and served with a tangy sauce.
5. Udang Saus Padang: Prawns cooked in a spicy Padang sauce, known for its rich flavor.

Recommended Restaurants and Food Markets

1. Seafood 99: Popular for its variety of fresh seafood dishes. Prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is casual.
2. Restoran Sederhana: Known for its Padang-style seafood, offering a range of dishes served family-style.
3. Taman Palm Seafood: A well-known seafood market and restaurant where you can select fresh seafood and have it cooked on-site.
4. Kedai Kopi Dan Makanan Laut: A local favorite for affordable seafood dishes, especially during lunch hours.
5. Pasar Ikan Lama: A traditional fish market where you can find fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Average Costs

• Ikan Bakar: IDR 30,000 - 70,000 (approximately $2 - $5)
• Sop Ikan: IDR 25,000 - 50,000 (approximately $1.75 - $3.50)
• Kerang Rebus: IDR 20,000 - 40,000 (approximately $1.50 - $3)
• Cumi-Cumi Goreng: IDR 30,000 - 60,000 (approximately $2 - $4.25)
• Udang Saus Padang: IDR 50,000 - 100,000 (approximately $3.50 - $7)

Dining Customs

• Sharing: Dishes are often served family-style, encouraging sharing among diners.
• Sambal: Expect to find sambal on the table; it’s a staple condiment for enhancing flavors.
• Hands or Utensils: While utensils are available, many locals prefer to eat with their hands, especially with grilled fish.

Local Considerations and Tips

• Freshness: Opt for restaurants that display their seafood prominently; freshness is key.
• Spice Level: Indonesian cuisine can be spicy; ask for milder options if you’re not accustomed to heat.
• Bargaining: In markets, bargaining is common; don’t hesitate to negotiate prices.
• Timing: Seafood is best enjoyed during lunch or early dinner when it’s freshest.
• Hygiene: Choose busy places, as high turnover often indicates better food safety practices.

Enjoy the vibrant seafood scene in Medan, where flavors and freshness come together in a unique culinary experience.