Bukit Lawang is not only a great place for nature lovers and adventure seekers but also for those who want to relax and indulge in delicious Indonesian cuisine. After a long day of trekking or exploring the rainforest, visitors can unwind in one of the many cozy best restaurant Bukit Lawang or Cafe that dot the village in Bukit Lawang. These restaurants offer a mix of Indonesian and Western cuisines, using local ingredients that are fresh and flavorful.
Indonesian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and diverse ingredients. Bukit Lawang’s restaurants offer a range of traditional Indonesian dishes that are a must-try for anyone visiting the village. One such dish is nasi goreng, a popular Indonesian fried rice dish that is made with a mix of spices, vegetables, and protein. Another must-try dish is the gado-gado, a traditional Indonesian salad made with steamed vegetables and peanut sauce.
Apart from the traditional Indonesian dishes, Bukit Lawang’s restaurants also serve a variety of Western cuisines that cater to the taste buds of international visitors. Many of these restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options as well, making them an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions.
7 Best Restaurants & Cafe in Bukit Lawang
Bukit Lawang, a small town located in the North Sumatra province of Indonesia, is known for its stunning natural beauty and the opportunity to see wild orangutans in their natural habitat. However, Bukit Lawang also has some fantastic restaurants that are well worth a visit. Here are seven of the best restaurants in Bukit Lawang:
1. Jungle Inn Restaurant
Jungle Inn Restaurant in Bukit Lawang is a popular dining spot among tourists who want to experience Indonesian cuisine in a cozy and laid-back environment. Situated in the heart of the village, this restaurant offers a mix of traditional Indonesian dishes and Western cuisines, using fresh ingredients that are sourced locally. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of Indonesian dishes such as nasi goreng, mie goreng, and gado-gado, as well as grilled fish and chicken satay.
The restaurant also offers vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. The restaurant’s outdoor seating area offers a picturesque view of the surrounding jungle and river, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing and enjoyable dining experience. With its warm and friendly staff, delicious food, and stunning location, Jungle Inn Restaurant is definitely a must-visit when in Bukit Lawang.
2. Kapal Bambu Restaurant
Kapal Bambu Restaurant in Bukit Lawang is a unique dining destination that offers a one-of-a-kind experience for its visitors. The restaurant is constructed entirely out of bamboo and offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for guests to enjoy their meals. The restaurant’s menu features a mix of Indonesian and Western cuisines, using fresh ingredients that are sourced locally.
Some of the popular dishes include grilled fish, chicken satay, and mie goreng. What sets Kapal Bambu Restaurant apart from other dining spots in Bukit Lawang is its breathtaking location. The restaurant is situated along the Bohorok River, providing a stunning view of the jungle and the river.
3. Eriono Restaurant & Art shop
Eriono Restaurant & Art shop is a unique dining destination in Bukit Lawang that offers visitors an opportunity to indulge in delicious Indonesian cuisine while admiring the beautiful artwork on display. The restaurant is owned by a local artist named Eriono, who has decorated the space with his stunning paintings and sculptures.
The restaurant’s menu features a range of Indonesian dishes, including the famous nasi goreng, mie goreng, and grilled fish. The restaurant also offers vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. Visitors can enjoy their meals while admiring the artwork on display or browsing through the art shop, which sells a range of souvenirs, including paintings, sculptures, and t-shirts.
4. Cave Rock Cafe
Cave Rock Cafe in Bukit Lawang is a cozy dining spot that offers visitors a break from the hustle and bustle of the main street. The cafe is located in a natural cave, giving it a unique ambiance and providing a cool and refreshing environment for guests to enjoy their meals.
The cafe’s menu features a range of Indonesian and Western dishes, including pasta, salads, and grilled meats. The cafe also offers a variety of drinks, including fresh juices and cocktails. Visitors can enjoy their meals while admiring the beautiful rock formations in the cave or watching the local wildlife that sometimes wanders in.
5. Ricky’s Bar (RNB)
Ricky’s Bar, also known as RNB, is a popular nightlife spot in Bukit Lawang that offers a great atmosphere for visitors to unwind and enjoy a drink or two after a long day of exploring the rainforest. The bar is run by Ricky, a friendly and welcoming local who is always ready to share his stories and knowledge about the area.
The bar offers a range of drinks, including local beers and cocktails, at reasonable prices. Visitors can enjoy their drinks while listening to live music or watching sports on the bar’s large screen TV. The bar also serves food, including pizzas, burgers, and Indonesian snacks. With its laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff, Ricky’s Bar is a great place to hang out and meet fellow travelers while in Bukit Lawang.
6. Jungle Hill Cafe
Jungle Hill Cafe in Bukit Lawang is a popular dining spot that offers visitors a chance to enjoy their meals while taking in stunning views of the surrounding rainforest. The cafe is situated on a hilltop and offers an impressive panorama of the village and the Bohorok River.
The cafe’s menu features a mix of Indonesian and Western cuisines, including burgers, pasta, and traditional Indonesian dishes like nasi goreng and mie goreng. The cafe also offers a range of drinks, including fresh juices, smoothies, and cocktails. Visitors can enjoy their meals while relaxing on the cafe’s terrace and taking in the beautiful scenery.
7. Indra Valley Inn Restaurant
Indra Valley Inn Restaurant is a charming dining spot that offers visitors a unique experience. The cafe is situated right next to the Bohorok River, providing a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere for guests to enjoy their meals. The cafe’s menu features a range of Indonesian and Western dishes, including salads, pasta, and grilled fish.
The cafe also offers vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. Visitors can enjoy their meals while listening to the soothing sound of the river and watching the wildlife that sometimes visits the area.
The Reasons why Jungle Inn Restaurant is the best restaurant and cafe in Bukit Lawang
Jungle Inn Restaurant is often regarded as the best restaurant and cafe in Bukit Lawang, and for good reason. The restaurant boasts a stunning location, situated right on the banks of the Bohorok River, with views of the lush rainforest. The restaurant’s menu features a wide range of dishes, including Indonesian favorites like nasi goreng and mie goreng, as well as Western dishes such as pizzas and burgers. The cafe also offers a variety of drinks, including fresh juices, smoothies, and coffee.
One of the standout features of Jungle Inn Restaurant is their cooking class, which is a unique and fun experience for visitors to learn how to cook Indonesian cuisine. The cooking class is run by the restaurant’s experienced chefs, who guide participants through the process of preparing and cooking a traditional Indonesian meal. Participants get to learn about the ingredients used in Indonesian cooking, as well as the techniques and cooking methods involved. At the end of the class, participants get to enjoy their creations and take home a recipe booklet to recreate the dishes at home.
In addition to the delicious food and cooking class, Jungle Inn Restaurant also offers a fantastic atmosphere. The restaurant is beautifully decorated with traditional Indonesian textiles and artwork, giving it a warm and inviting ambiance. The staff at Jungle Inn Restaurant are also friendly and attentive, providing excellent service and making guests feel at home.
All in all, Jungle Inn Restaurant is the best restaurant and cafe in Bukit Lawang because of its delicious cuisine, fun and educational cooking class, great atmosphere, and commitment to sustainability. Whether you’re looking for a great meal, an exciting activity, or a relaxing spot to unwind, Jungle Inn Restaurant has it all.
Alfath Dewantara (Alde) is a passionate advocate for Bukit Lawang and Indonesian travel. As a manager of Jungle Inn & Restaurant, Alde is dedicated to providing guests with an unforgettable experience.
