Medan’s best culinary destinations serve delicious dishes with authentic flavors, perfect for indulging your taste buds.
Medan, the capital of North Sumatra, is a culinary paradise that is a must-explore. This city is not only rich in history and culture but also offers a variety of delicious dishes that reflect its ethnic diversity.
From legendary foods to trendy culinary delights, here’s a list of 10 must-visit culinary spots in Medan that should be on your itinerary.
1. Sate Memeng: Legendary Satay with a Unique Flavor
Located at Jalan Irian Barat No. 1, Gang Buntu, Medan Timur, Sate Memeng is a must-visit. The tender meat and its distinctive spices make this satay a favorite among many.
You can choose from various meats, including beef, goat, and chicken. Its irresistible taste is sure to keep you coming back for more.
2. Soto Sinar Pagi: The Most Popular Medan Soto
Soto Medan at Sinar Pagi Restaurant, located at Jalan Sei Deli No. 2D, Medan Barat, is a legendary culinary destination.
The rich coconut milk broth, blended perfectly with either chicken or beef, makes it a crowd favorite. As one of the well-known Medan Specialties, this dish attracts many visitors, so make sure to arrive early to enjoy a warm, delicious bowl of soto.
3. Ucok Durian: A Heaven for Durian Lovers
Ucok Durian is a culinary icon in Medan that has been around since the 1980s. This place offers a variety of durian-based dishes, such as durian pancakes, durian ice cream, and durian dodol.
The rich flavor and affordable prices make Ucok Durian a must-visit for durian enthusiasts. It is also conveniently located close to the city center.
4. Bihun Bebek Asie Kumango: A Tempting Duck Dish
Located at Jalan Kumango, Bihun Bebek Asie Kumango offers a dish of soft bihun noodles served with savory duck broth. Topped with crispy fried shallots and fresh herbs, this dish provides a rich aroma and flavor. It’s a great spot for a light yet delicious breakfast.
5. Rumah Makan Sipirok: A Paradise for Bone Marrow Soup Lovers
If you’re a fan of beef bone marrow, Rumah Makan Sipirok is the place to go. Besides the savory bone marrow soup, you can also enjoy a variety of beef-based dishes, such as rendang and grilled meat. This place is always busy, so be prepared to wait a bit to savor its mouth-watering offerings.
6. Martabak Piring: A Sweet Snack That’s Addictive
Martabak Piring is a unique culinary creation from Medan that you must try. Made on a plate, this martabak has a crispy texture with fillings like chocolate, cheese, milk, or fruit.
It comes in two variants: thin like a crepe or thick in a mini size. The sweet and crunchy taste will surely delight your taste buds.
7. Kari Bihun Tabona: A Delicious Fusion of Curry and Bihun Noodles
Located at Jalan Mangkubumi No. 17, Kari Bihun Tabona serves bihun noodles with thick, flavorful curry broth. You can choose from chicken or beef fillings according to your preference. This dish is even better when enjoyed with Medan’s spicy sambal.
8. Mie Bangladesh: A Noodle Dish with Unique Flavors
Mie Bangladesh, also known as “mie becek,” is one of Medan’s unique dishes. It’s served with a thick broth made from scrambled eggs. Not only is this noodle dish delicious, but it also carries a distinct aromatic spice, making it a favorite among tourists.
9. Soto Kesawan: Soto with Giant Prawns
Located at Jalan Ahmad Yani No. 116, Warung Soto Kesawan offers a soto with an unusual filling—giant prawns. You can also choose from beef lungs, meat, or chicken. The rich, spicy broth and its unique aroma make Soto Kesawan one of the best sotos in Medan.
10. Mie Aceh Titi Bobrok: Authentic Mie Aceh
Mie Aceh Titi Bobrok is a popular dining spot in Medan. The chewy yellow noodles are served with a thick, spicy gulai broth, slices of beef, and bold spices.
If you love spicy food, this dish will quickly become your favorite. In addition to noodles, this place also offers fried rice, bihun, and other snacks.
Tips for Culinary Tourism in Medan
- Arrive Early: Some legendary dining spots are often crowded, so be sure to arrive early to avoid long lines.
- Explore Nighttime Cuisine: Many culinary spots in Medan stay open late, making it perfect for a night-time food adventure.
- Bring Cash: Most places only accept cash, so make sure to bring enough.
- Try Durian: Don’t miss out on tasting the local durian, especially at Ucok Durian or similar places.
- Savor Slowly: Take your time to enjoy each dish, so you can fully experience the culinary delights of Medan.
Conclusion: Medan, a Paradise for Food Lovers
Medan is not only a city rich in culture and history but also a culinary paradise that offers a variety of mouth-watering flavors. From legendary satay to iconic durian dishes, and even Padang Specialties, every meal reflects the city’s ethnic diversity and rich taste. So, make sure to include a culinary tour as a main agenda when you visit Medan.
