Explore the unique culinary destinations in East Kalimantan that offer delicious and richly spiced dishes for an unforgettable taste experience.
East Kalimantan (Kaltim) is not only known for its impressive natural and cultural wealth but also for its diverse culinary offerings that cater to every palate.
From fresh seafood to traditional regional dishes with rich flavors, Kaltim provides various dining options perfect for savoring delicious meals. Whether you are a fan of local or international cuisine, here are 10 must-visit dining spots in East Kalimantan.
1. De Cafe Resto, Pastry & Bakery – Delightful Dining in a Luxurious Ambience
Located on Jalan Jendral Sudirman, Klandasan, Balikpapan, De Cafe Resto, Pastry & Bakery provides a dining experience with modern interior design and a cozy atmosphere.
Here, you can enjoy a range of menus from oxtail soup, Japanese dishes, steak, East Kalimantan Specialties, to refreshing gelato desserts. This restaurant is the perfect choice for dining with family or friends while enjoying a calm and relaxed atmosphere.
2. Pondok Borneo Samarinda – Legendary and Tempting Seafood
Pondok Borneo in Samarinda is a legendary eatery serving fresh seafood with the distinct taste of East Kalimantan. Located on Jalan Mayor Jenderal Sutoyo, Pondok Borneo offers dishes such as grilled fish, shrimp, and squid with mouthwatering seasoning.
With a comfortable ambiance and affordable prices, this restaurant also provides various fried rice, soups, and refreshing drinks. You can also order food through online delivery services.
3. RM Ayam Gepuk Asli Ponorogo – Mouthwatering Smashed Chicken
RM Ayam Gepuk Asli Ponorogo in Samarinda has been renowned since 1993 and is a favorite spot for fans of smashed chicken. The must-try signature dish is the spicy and savory smashed chicken with basil sambal.
Known for its consistent flavor, this restaurant offers various versions of smashed chicken that will satisfy your taste buds. The restaurant is always bustling with visitors eager to enjoy its simple yet delicious dishes.
4. Restaurant Dandito – Seafood with Dandito Crab Sauce
For seafood lovers, Restaurant Dandito in Balikpapan is a must-visit destination. Famous for its unique and delicious dandito crab sauce, this place serves fresh seafood with rich, flavorful seasoning.
Dandito is also a favorite spot for celebrities, as seen by the numerous photos of famous guests displayed on the restaurant’s walls. In addition to crab, various other seafood dishes are available, all with extraordinary flavors.
5. Rumah Makan Tepian Pandan – Fresh Kutai Specialty Cuisine
If you want to try Kutai specialty cuisine, Rumah Makan Tepian Pandan in Tenggarong is the right choice.
Serving various dishes made with fresh ingredients taken directly from the restaurant’s freezer, this place offers a range of fresh seafood, skewers, and equally delicious vegetables.
With a serene ambiance, it is perfect for family dining while enjoying East Kalimantan’s local culinary delights.
6. D’puncak Cafe & Resto – Hang Out with Views of Samarinda City
D’puncak Cafe & Resto in Samarinda offers beautiful views of the city from above. With two levels that allow you to enjoy the city panorama, this place is perfect for hanging out with friends or family.
They serve a variety of delicious dishes from snacks to main courses, along with refreshing drinks. The relaxed atmosphere with stunning views makes D’puncak Cafe a highly recommended spot.
7. Restoran Kenari – Tasty Kenari Crab
Restoran Kenari in Balikpapan is famous for its delicious kenari crab dishes. Located on Jalan Marsma R. Iswahyudi, the restaurant offers a variety of crab dishes, such as black pepper crab, oyster sauce crab, and tanco crab.
Known for its fresh crabs and distinctive seasonings, this restaurant is perfect for seafood lovers looking to enjoy seafood with outstanding flavors.
8. Pondok Borneo – Tempting Smoked Crab
Pondok Borneo in Samarinda also offers delicious smoked crab. With a savory and sweet signature seasoning, the crab served here is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
The savory smoked crab meat and perfectly roasted crab eggs provide a taste you won’t find anywhere else. If you are a seafood enthusiast, Pondok Borneo is a culinary destination you shouldn’t miss.
9. Kedai Sabindo – Delicious Malaysian Cuisine
Kedai Sabindo, also known as Sabah Indonesia, serves a variety of Malaysian dishes such as pattaya fried rice, roti canai, and roti tissue. Located on Jalan Letnan Jenderal Suprapto No. 5D, Samarinda, this eatery is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
The delicious and authentic taste of Malaysian cuisine makes Kedai Sabindo the perfect spot for those wanting to try dishes with the distinctive flavors of a neighboring country.
10. Gado-Gado Kemuning – Gado-Gado with Special Peanut Sauce
Gado-Gado Kemuning in Samarinda is known for its special peanut sauce made from a mix of cashews and high-quality peanuts.
The gado-gado here is rich and flavorful, with a thick peanut sauce. Located on Jalan Jamrud, Pasar Pagi, Gado-Gado Kemuning is the perfect choice for a healthy and tasty lunch or dinner.
East Kalimantan offers a variety of culinary options that are truly appetizing. With fresh seafood, richly flavored local dishes, and many other choices, dining spots in Kaltim provide a unique and satisfying culinary experience.
Don’t miss the opportunity to try Typical Balikpapan Food, a highlight of East Kalimantan’s specialty foods, that will leave an unforgettable impression on your holiday!