Jogyakarta: Authentic Indonesian Cuisine & Cultural Exposure

After an action-packed morning filled with thrilling adventures (MOUNT MERAPI JEEP TOUR), lunch was a much-anticipated respite. With a sparse breakfast and energy spent, I eagerly looked forward to a hearty meal. Finally (SEOUL THROUGH MY EYES & CHENNAI DISCOVERY) we arrived at Restaurant Timbul Roso, albeit a bit later than planned. The stunning rustic ambiance, highlighted by rich wood tones, made me feel as if I had walked into a luxurious home in Jogjakarta. I longed to sit outside amidst the mini nature jungle, but our group of four opted for the comfort (OSAKA SUNSETS) of the indoor dining area.

Relaxing in the central seating, we were treated to warm, demure service and a parade of delicious dishes. As an avid lover of Indonesian cuisine, I was thrilled to see the array of flavors, especially the Sambal Merah Terasi. We started with boiled plump peanuts, followed by a feast of Tempe Goreng, Fried Tofu, Ullam, Grilled Fish, Fried Chicken, Gado Gado, and the fiery Sambal Belacan. Each dish was a testament to the authentic pride of Indonesian culinary tradition, making the meal an unforgettable experience.

Lunch gave me the satisfaction I needed before we continued our afternoon sightseeing, journeying to the eye-popping natural beauty of Museum Ullen Sentalu. Nestled in the highlands of Kaliurang near Yogyakarta, Indonesia, this hidden gem offers an immersive journey into Javanese culture and history. Established in 1994, this privately-owned museum showcases an impressive collection of royal heirlooms, traditional batiks, and artworks that narrate the rich heritage of the Mataram kingdom and the cultural evolution of Java. Visitors are guided through dimly lit, atmospheric galleries that evoke a sense of mystique and reverence, with each exhibit meticulously curated to tell the stories of Javanese royalty and their artistic legacy.

Ushered by our sweet and demure lady guide, we were reminded that photography is not allowed inside the museum. The museum's exhibits showcase the life and style of the Sultans, their portraits, the generations that followed, their wives, marriages, and children. The guide patiently narrated each detail, enriching our understanding of their lives.

Exiting Museum Ullen Sentalu, we spent some time in the outside garden before heading to Lombok Idjo Jogja Diponegoro for dinner. This modern yet rustic Indonesian restaurant offered a favorable dining experience. While not all dishes were stand-outs in terms of taste, the meal was worthy and more than enough for the six of us. The Indonesian sambal spiciness, especially Sambal Terasi and Sambal Ijo, my all-time favorite, did not disappoint, and the fried chicken, as always, proved to be an Indonesian favorite. 

To be continued....