Yogyakarta Food Hopping

Yogyakarta

 

After work or school, many of Yogyakarta’s local people go for a glass of kopi joss on the street. A piece of blazing charcoal is dropped into the coffee producing a sizzling sound which leads to the name “joss.” More than just a great drink, joss is an experience. Enjoy this unique beverage as locals do while bumping shoulders with them.

 

A short stroll away is bustling Malioboro Street. Visit a street vendor from South Sumatra who has been selling delicious Pempek fish cakes there since 1984. Served with spicy and sour tamarind sauce, it makes a great appetizer and is best enjoyed with Indonesia’s unofficial national drink, Teh Botol.

 

The next stop, the popular Bakmi “Kadin”, named after the Indonesian Chamber or Industry of Commerce simply because it is located by the office building, is reached quickly by local Andong horse cart. Javanese-style fried noodles are on the menu, which are usually accompanied to the sound of traditional Javanese songs played by street musicians on a karaoke machine.

 

Move on by becak through the South-Square of the Sultan’s Palace to Alun-alun Kidul Field with its sacred twin Banyan. Locals gather here to ride on carts decorated with colorful lamps. Try to walk in a straight line between the two Banyan trees with blindfolded eyes: local legend says a wish will come true!

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The journey continues as mingling with locals, taking in the sights and tastes of the street food around the area. Snacks and drinks, both sweet and savory, are plentiful; invites sitting down with a decent cup of tea or coffee when day gives way to night and the evening vibes take hold are encouraged by the rather eccentric atmosphere.