Best Budget Eats in Balikpapan, Indonesia
1. Sate Balikpapan
Grilled skewered meat served with peanut sauce, a popular street food that offers a delicious and affordable taste of local culture.
- Authentic Experience: Tries to replicate the original recipe from the city's founding days
- Street Food Option: Found in various street food stalls around Balikpapan
- Affordable Price: One of the cheapest meals you can find in Balikpapan's streets
2. Nasi Goreng Kampung
A classic Indonesian fried rice dish made with a variety of ingredients and served with a side of fried eggs, popular for its rich flavors and filling portions.
- Versatile Ingredients: Uses locally sourced ingredients that change based on seasonal availability
- Portion Sizes: Generous servings that can satisfy even the heartiest of appetites
- Wide Availability: Found in warungs (local eateries) across Balikpapan
3. Pempek Cap Go Meh
A local specialty made from fish paste formed into various shapes and deep-fried, served with a spicy shrimp paste sauce. It is a must-try dish unique to Balikpapan.
- Local Specialty: An iconic dish that represents the culinary identity of Balikpapan
- Unique Preparation: The fish paste is made using a specific technique passed down through generations
- Flavor Intensity: Offers a bold, spicy flavor that is both addictive and memorable
4. Mie Kocok
A noodle dish served with various toppings like meatballs, chicken, vegetables, and a spicy sauce, offering a tasty and filling meal at an affordable price.
- Variety of Toppings: Customize your dish based on personal preference
- Affordable Price: One of the most affordable noodle dishes in Balikpapan
- Wide Availability: Found in warungs (local eateries) and street food stalls across Balikpapan
5. Bakso Pahit
Meatball soup made with a unique ingredient: dried pangasius fish, offering a distinct flavor and texture. This dish is a favorite among locals.
- Unique Ingredients: Features the locally sourced dried pangasius fish
- Flavorful Broth: The broth is rich and flavorful, making it a popular choice among locals
- Street Food Option: Found in various street food stalls around Balikpapan
6. Nasi Uduk
Coconut milk-infused rice dish served with various side dishes like fried chicken, tempeh, and vegetables. This dish offers a sweet and savory taste.
- Taste Profile: Features the rich, aromatic flavors of coconut milk
- Authentic Experience: Traditionally prepared using methods passed down through generations
- Portion Sizes: Generous servings that cater to both light and hearty eaters
7. Gado-Gado
A popular salad dish made with boiled vegetables, tofu, and peanut sauce dressing. It is a refreshing choice for those looking for something lighter.
- Healthy Option: Offers a variety of fresh vegetables that are boiled before serving
- Refreshing Taste: The peanut sauce dressing provides a sweet and savory flavor profile
- Wide Availability: Found in warungs (local eateries) across Balikpapan
8. Soto Balikpapan
A hearty soup made with chicken, rice cake noodles, and various spices. It offers a comforting and flavorful meal experience.
- Comfort Food: Provides a warm and filling meal on colder days
- Flavor Intensity: Features a rich, aromatic broth made with various spices
- Wide Availability: Found in warungs (local eateries) and street food stalls across Balikpapan
9. Ayam Penyet
Fried chicken dish served with rice and various side dishes like sambal (spicy sauce) and cucumber. It offers a crispy texture and spicy flavors.
- Crispy Texture: The chicken is coated in batter before frying, providing a delightful crunch
- Spicy Flavors: Served with a side of sambal (spicy sauce), which can be adjusted to desired heat level
- Wide Availability: Found in warungs (local eateries) across Balikpapan
10. Nasi Jinggo
A fried rice dish made with eggs and various seasonings, served with a side of fried chicken. It is a popular choice for those seeking a filling meal.
- Fillingly Portioned: Offers generous portions that cater to hearty eaters
- Versatile Ingredients: Uses locally sourced ingredients for a flavorful dish
- Wide Availability: Found in warungs (local eateries) across Balikpapan
11. Es Campur
A refreshing dessert made with shaved ice, condensed milk, and various toppings like sweet beans, jellies, and fruits. It is a perfect way to cool off in the Balikpapan heat.
- Refreshing Taste: The shaved ice provides a cooling sensation for those looking to beat the heat
- Customizable Toppings: Choose your favorite toppings based on personal preference
- Wide Availability: Found in street food stalls and dessert shops across Balikpapan
12. Roti Bakar
Toasted bread served with various toppings like butter, cheese, or sweet spreads. It is a popular choice for breakfast or as a snack.
- Versatile Toppings: Offers a variety of topping options based on personal preference
- Affordable Price: One of the most affordable breakfast or snack options in Balikpapan
- Wide Availability: Found in bakeries and street food stalls across Balikpapan
13. Bakpao Telur
Steamed bun filled with boiled eggs and seasonings, offering a unique and tasty snack option.
- Unique Preparation: Features a creative filling of boiled eggs
- Affordable Price: One of the most affordable snack options in Balikpapan
- Wide Availability: Found in bakeries and street food stalls across Balikpapan
14. Kue Lapis Legit
A traditional Indonesian layer cake made with coconut milk and pandan leaves. It offers a unique flavor profile and beautiful presentation.
- Taste Profile: Features the rich, aromatic flavors of coconut milk and pandan leaves
- Unique Preparation: Each layer is carefully baked to create a beautiful multi-colored cake
- Traditional Experience: Authentically prepared using traditional methods and recipes
15. Pisang Goreng
Fried bananas served with sweet condensed milk or peanut sauce. It is a popular dessert option that offers a delicious and filling treat.
- Versatile Dessert Option: Can be enjoyed with either sweet condensed milk or peanut sauce
- Fillingly Portioned: Offers generous portions that cater to both light and hearty eaters
- Wide Availability: Found in street food stalls, dessert shops, and restaurants across Balikpapan