I’ve been on a personal mission to find the best Indonesian restaurants in this vibrant metropolis, and let me tell you, it’s been a journey full of delightful surprises.
Indonesian food, with its rich spices and diverse flavours, is a real treat for anyone who loves a good culinary exploration. From the classic Nasi Goreng to the moreish satays, there’s a dish for every palate. My adventure took me through various corners of London, each restaurant offering a unique glimpse into Indonesia’s culinary heritage.
I’ve discovered that these eateries are not just about the food; they’re about the experience. The warm hospitality, the aromatic spices that hit you as you enter, and the colourful décor that transports you to a distant land – it’s a complete sensory feast!
Join me as I delve into this delightful world of Indonesian dining in London. I’ll share some insider tips and personal favourites, but beware, this article might just leave you craving some delicious Indonesian treats! Now, let’s embark on this flavour-packed journey together, shall we?
🔑 Key Takeaways:
Here’s what you’ll learn from reading this article:
- Indonesian cuisine offers a unique blend of flavours and spices that tantalize the taste buds, making it an increasingly popular choice among London’s foodies.
- The top-rated Indonesian restaurants in London offer a diverse selection of traditional Indonesian dishes, ranging from the staple Nasi Goreng to more complex meat and seafood-based options.
- For those wanting to experience truly authentic Indonesian meals, dining at one of these top-rated Indonesian restaurants is highly recommended.
- Vegetarians need not miss out on the deliciousness that is Indonesian food as many Indonesian restaurants offer several vegetarian options without compromising on flavour or authenticity.
- When looking for an exceptional culinary experience in London, exploring some of the best Indonesian restaurants should be high on any discerning diner’s list!
☝️ How we rated the services below:
As avid foodies, we are always on the hunt for the best Indonesian restaurants in London. To ensure that our fellow food lovers have access to only the finest establishments, we took into consideration several criteria listed below:
- Authenticity: To truly enjoy Indonesian cuisine, it must be authentic! We looked for restaurants where chefs were skilled and experienced in preparing traditional dishes using genuine ingredients.
- Ambience: The atmosphere is just as important as the taste of the food. Dining should involve more than merely satisfying one’s hunger; it should provide an unforgettable experience with a pleasing ambience.
- Service: Good service can often make or break any dining experience. It was crucial to us that staff members were friendly and courteous while delivering orders promptly without rushing guests out.
- Price point: While luxurious dining experiences can indeed be enjoyable, they aren’t always practical for everyone’s budget. Therefore, we aimed to locate affordable yet high-quality options suitable for every occasion – whether casual meals with friends or celebratory dinners with loved ones.
- Variety of dishes: When exploring international cuisines such as Indonesia’s vast culinary heritage, there ought to be an extensive selection of fascinating and delicious dishes offered at each restaurant visited.
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Discover London’s Best Kept Secret: The Most Authentic Indonesian Restaurants in Town!
☝️ As much as we love scouring London for the best Indonesian restaurants, we couldn’t have done it all on our own – that’s why we rounded up our friends and family to help with the taste testing. Between dodging food envy-induced arguments and squeezing past each other in tightly packed eateries, we managed to uncover some real gems. So go ahead, try them out for yourself – but don’t blame us if you fall into a food coma!
Bali Bali
⭐ A Personal Take on Bali Bali:
Bali Bali, oh how I am in love with this small Indonesian restaurant tucked away on Shaftesbury Avenue! From my very first visit, I was hooked. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff drew me in immediately. And the food? Out of this world! As a vegetarian, I often struggle to find good restaurants that have enough options for me, but Bali Bali not only had several delicious veggie dishes but also catered for those who preferred vegan or gluten-free options.
The peanut sauce is an absolute must-try; it’s rich and creamy with just the right balance of sweet and savoury flavours that explode in your mouth. Although portions may appear slightly smaller than what you’re used to at other places, adding a starter or dessert will definitely make it worth your while. Oh and did I mention how affordable the prices are? You get more than what you pay for at this place!
I had taken my boyfriend here for his birthday once as he had never tried Indonesian cuisine before – safe to say he was thoroughly impressed! We’ve been regulars ever since and always leave feeling satisfied with every dish we’ve tried. If you haven’t already made plans to visit Bali Bali, go ahead now and do so without hesitation – your tastebuds will thank you later!
👍 Our Reasons for Recommending:
- Delicious Indonesian dishes
- Vegetarian and vegan options available
- Cozy atmosphere and friendly staff
🙏 Areas for Improvement & Potential Drawbacks:
Our thoughts on how to improve, based on online feedback and our personal experiences. Please keep in mind that reviews may reflect specific situations.
- No Complains or Recommendations
💁♂️All the Facts About: Bali Bali
| Name | Bali Bali |
| Website | http://www.balibalirestaurant.com/ |
| Address | 150 Shaftesbury Ave, London WC2H 8HL, United Kingdom |
| Contact Details | 020 7836 2644 |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 1:00 – 9:30 PM |
| Services | Indonesian Restaurant in London |
| Google Rating | 4.3 Stars out of 5 |
| Total Reviews | 569+ reviews |
| Customer Reviews | What Customers had to say: Small Indonesian restaurant with also vegetarian and vegan dishes. The restaurant indoor seating is limited and we were happy to have reserved our table well in advance. There was a pleasant atmosphere in the restaurant. The staff is fast and efficie… Been going here for years, took my bf here for his birthday awhile back, was his first time trying Indonesian food was great as usual. The owners are friendly and accommodating. my bf is gluten intolerant and they had gluten free options… |
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Makatcha Indonesian Street Kitchen
⭐ Our Unvarnished Impressions of Makatcha Indonesian Street Kitchen:
Makatcha Indonesian Street Kitchen – A place that left my taste buds wanting more of their incredible curries and dishes. From the moment I stepped into this vibrant restaurant, I knew it was going to be a unique dining experience. The traditional colourful decorations hanging on the walls added character to the venue whilst also allowing me to fully immerse in Indonesian culture.
The menu was extensive, making selecting one dish quite challenging. However, thanks to their attentive and friendly service, I received recommendations which made my decision easier. With each bite of my chicken coconut curry dish, I could feel myself drifting off to Indonesia with every mouthful of tenderly cooked meat alongside a perfect rice base.
Their 8-hour pulled beef rendang is next level! This rich and flavourful meal has now become one of my favourite dishes ever since having it at Makatcha Indonesian Street Kitchen. I keep coming back for its perfection in taste from start till end while featuring generous portion sizes that leave you satisfied without feeling overfed.
Overall if you’re seeking mouth-watering food combined with an inviting atmosphere where passion for cuisine shines through then give this little gem a visit- Its staff will guide you through what will undoubtedly be an unforgettable culinary journey. Don’t miss out on trying some of the best curries London has to offer via Makatcha’s fantastic kitchen team!
👍 Our Reasons for Recommending:
- Best chicken coconut curry
- Generous portion of 8-hour pulled beef rendang
- Friendly staff & inviting atmosphere
🙏 Areas for Improvement & Potential Drawbacks:
Our thoughts on how to improve, based on online feedback and our personal experiences. Please keep in mind that reviews may reflect specific situations.
- No Complains or Recommendations
💁♂️All the Facts About: Makatcha Indonesian Street Kitchen
Pinos Warung
⭐ Our Genuine Review of Pinos Warung:
Pinos Warung is the place to go if you’re in London and craving authentic Indonesian cuisine. Located in The Stables Market, Chalk Farm Road, this little gem serves up delicious dishes made with love by Pino himself. Being Indonesian, I have high standards for my country’s food and let me tell you – Pinos Warung does not disappoint. From the moment you step inside, the smells alone will transport you straight to Indonesia.
I highly recommend trying their signature dish – Nasi Padang. It may not be exactly like what you get back home but oh boy does it come close! The sambal was a bit spicier than usual but it added a nice kick to every bite. Another must-try is Ayam Geprek, fried chicken served with spicy sambal sauce. Although I found the sambal too spicy overall for my taste buds (and so did some other reviewers), there are still plenty of other condiments that make this dish enjoyable.
The best part about Pinos Warung? Pino himself! He is an absolute sweetheart who loves chatting with his customers and making sure they leave happy and satisfied with their meal. Don’t expect a fancy setting or lots of seating here though – it’s small but cozy and perfect for grabbing some food on-the-go or taking a quick break from exploring Camden Market. Trust me when I say that visiting Pinos Warung should definitely be on your list if you’re looking for mouth-watering Indonesian cuisine in London!
👍 Our Reasons for Recommending:
- Authentic Indonesian food
- Made with love by Pino himself
- Popular among Indonesians in London
🙏 Areas for Improvement & Potential Drawbacks:
Our thoughts on how to improve, based on online feedback and our personal experiences. Please keep in mind that reviews may reflect specific situations.
- No Complains or Recommendations
💁♂️All the Facts About: Pinos Warung
| Name | Pinos Warung |
| Address | Unit 2, Italian Alley, The Stables Market, Chalk Farm Rd, Chalk Farm, London NW1 8AH, United Kingdom |
| Contact Details | 07498 463780 |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Services | Indonesian Restaurant in London |
| Google Rating | 4.8 Stars out of 5 |
| Total Reviews | 263+ reviews |
| Customer Reviews | What Customers had to say: If you want to eat authentic Indonesian food than this is the place to go in London. Whenever I miss Indonesia I head over, chat with Pino who is the sweetest man and eat his delicious food. Everything he makes is authentic and made with love. Pino’s… I had “Nasi Padang” and Chicken Satay, they are delicious, authentic Indonesia (obviously because Pino is Indonesian), but don’t get me wrong, not all Indonesian can cook Indonesian food properly, but he does! As Indonesian living in London, whenever… |
Triple Hot Spicy Café
⭐ A Personal Take on Triple Hot Spicy Café:
Alright, listen up my foodie friends, I’m going to tell you about the place that will knock your socks off – Triple Hot Spicy Café. This little hidden gem on Queensway Market is the real deal when it comes to Indonesian cuisine. You won’t be left wanting more because their portions are generous and so full of flavour!
The lovely atmosphere inside the café definitely adds to the ambiance with bright lighting and soothing vibes despite it being located right next to a busy road in West London. Me and my partner walked out of this place feeling fully satisfied, with no room for improvement because everything from service quality to dish flavours was above par.
Not only do they offer amazing prices for such high-quality food but also have friendly staff who actually cares about your visit experience! One of the servers even offered us personalized adjustments while dining there which we found delightful. Honestly speaking if you’re craving some yummy Indonesian dishes or just looking for a new spot in town then take my word- give Triple Hot Spicy Cafe a try!
👍 Our Reasons for Recommending:
- Accessible location to Bayswater and Queensway stations
- Halal and amazing Indonesian food
- Reasonable price, friendly staff, soothing atmosphere
🙏 Areas for Improvement & Potential Drawbacks:
Our thoughts on how to improve, based on online feedback and our personal experiences. Please keep in mind that reviews may reflect specific situations.
- No Complains or Recommendations
💁♂️All the Facts About: Triple Hot Spicy Café
| Name | Triple Hot Spicy Café |
| Address | 23-25 Queensway, London W2 4QP, United Kingdom |
| Contact Details | 07983 084006 |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Services | Indonesian Restaurant in London |
| Google Rating | 4.8 Stars out of 5 |
| Total Reviews | 175+ reviews |
| Customer Reviews | What Customers had to say: Good Indonesian cafe located nearby the Bayswater and Queensway underground stations, very accessible. The food is halal and amazing, very tasty. The price is reasonable and the staff are very friendly. Give this place a try to have Indonesian food i… Lovely cafe with yummy Indonesian dishes. The customers who went to the cafe are all so happy and sociable, too. This cafe gives us a nice and soothing vibe despite it is next to a very busy road in west London…. |
Toba
⭐ Our Genuine Review of Toba:
Toba London! Where do I begin? Let me tell you, if you’re looking for an authentic Indonesian culinary experience, Toba has got you covered. This hidden gem is perfectly located in the heart of St. James’s Market and oh boy, they deliver big when it comes to taste! The moment we stepped in, we felt at home – the ambience was spot on, welcoming and cozy.
The menu may be small but definitely concise with every dish being absolutely flawless. From the egg yolk fried wings (OMG!), potato patties to mouth-watering Rangand beef and Cod in Torched Ginger; everything was just bursting with flavour leaving us craving more!
What truly caught our attention were the pendan pancakes with coconut & taro moose; a perfect finish to an already amazing meal.If that wasn’t enough praise, let me commend their exceptional customer service as well – friendly staff who went above and beyond making sure my allergies were taken care of.From start to finish Toba exceeded expectations-making my dining companions happy.The prices are certainly affordable considering its location-which is always a plus-point.Also giving 4 stars as they’re still relatively new but definitely worth visiting again soon!
In conclusion, from great food presentation,to delicious dishes,Toba London provides a phenomenal Indonesian experience with perfect Customer Service thrown in.I honestly don’t remember last time I had such enjoyable dining experience.Even though there has been some buzz about their opening,the hype is real.No wonder people keep raving about ’em.Treat yourself-and head over now for what surely will be memories-made.
👍 Our Reasons for Recommending:
- Authentic Indonesian cuisine
- Reasonable prices for location
- Friendly and attentive staff
🙏 Areas for Improvement & Potential Drawbacks:
Our thoughts on how to improve, based on online feedback and our personal experiences. Please keep in mind that reviews may reflect specific situations.
- No Complains or Recommendations
💁♀️All the Facts About: Toba
| Name | Toba |
| Website | http://tobalondon.co.uk/ |
| Address | 1a St James’s Mkt, St. James’s, London SW1Y 4AH, United Kingdom |
| Contact Details | 020 7839 8659 |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 3:00 PM, 6:00 – 11:30 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Services | Indonesian Restaurant in London |
| Google Rating | 4.7 Stars out of 5 |
| Total Reviews | 92+ reviews |
| Customer Reviews | What Customers had to say: We were in town and stumbled across this Indonesian restaurant. We couldn’t contain our excitement as we recalled all the wonderful dishes we tried on our travels across Java and Sumatra…. We tried the egg yolk fried wings and potato patties to start, followed by the beef Rangand and Cod in Torched Ginger, all delivered plenty of flavour and some unique tastes. To finish, we tried the pendan pancakes with coconut and Taro Moose, and bo… |
Nancy Lam’s Enak Enak
⭐ Our Honest Opinion of Nancy Lam’s Enak Enak:
Nancy Lam’s Enak Enak is a hidden gem located on Lavender Hill that should be added to your foodie bucket list! My friends and I stumbled upon this Indonesian restaurant and we couldn’t have been happier with our experience. The food was fantastic – each dish had its own unique flavour that tantalised the taste buds. The beef rendang was absolutely delicious, but do not let the small portion size fool you; it’s incredibly filling. Moreover, Nancy herself adds an extra element of fun to dining here, as she shares anecdotes about her life whilst running her joint efficiently.
Whilst service can be quite slow no one can really complain because when the food finally arrived after almost an hour wait it was worth it! We were teased by wafts of sizzling aromas from nearby tables so much so that I couldn’t resist taking photos for Instagram (sorry Nancy!). Prices are reasonable given the quality of both cuisine as well as hospitality provided by all staff members including Nancy who made sure everything went smoothly throughout our meal.
If you’re looking for great customer care then look no further than Nancy Lam’s Enak Enak! We felt truly welcomed in this lovely establishment notably due to the warm temperament of all employees working there, which includes owner Ms Lau herself who has become a mini-celebrity amongst locals yet remains down-to-earth and genuine.Their unruly group behavior did make us feel somewhat uneasy in hindsight but thankfully everything worked out okay at this phenomenal spot nonetheless.”
👍 Our Reasons for Recommending:
- Delicious food with unique flavors
- Friendly and humorous owner Nancy Lam
- Amazing customer service from all staff
🙏 Areas for Improvement & Potential Drawbacks:
Our thoughts on how to improve, based on online feedback and our personal experiences. Please keep in mind that reviews may reflect specific situations.
- No Complains or Recommendations
💁All the Facts About: Nancy Lam’s Enak Enak
| Name | Nancy Lam’s Enak Enak |
| Website | http://nancylam.com/ |
| Address | 56 Lavender Hill, London SW11 5RQ, United Kingdom |
| Contact Details | 020 7924 3148 |
| Opening Hours | n/a |
| Services | Indonesian Restaurant in London |
| Google Rating | 4.3 Stars out of 5 |
| Total Reviews | 70+ reviews |
| Customer Reviews | What Customers had to say: What a brilliant night! Nancy’s pure joy! The food was delicious-the portions are a bit on the small side but really tasty. The service was wonderful. Loved hearing Nancy’s anecdotes. Pity she’ll be closing up soon. I’d strongly advise anyone to have… This is wonderful Indonesian food. My family are Indonesian so I had high expectations but it totally hit the mark! The beef rendang is a must but portion quite small make sure you get one portion per person. Nancy herself who runs the joint is a cut… |
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Indulge in Authentic Indonesian Delights: London’s Culinary Gems Await
Exploring London’s best Indonesian restaurants has been an absolute joy. I’ve been dazzled by the vibrant flavours and authentic dishes that truly capture the essence of Indonesia right here in the heart of London. Each restaurant offered a unique experience, from cosy settings to bustling street kitchens, making every meal a delightful adventure. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the journey of tastes and aromas that these establishments bring to life. I’m thrilled to have shared this gastronomic journey with you, and I’m certain your visits to these Indonesian culinary havens in London will be just as enchanting and fulfilling. Enjoy the journey and the incredible flavours!
Navigating London’s Indonesian Eateries: Your Questions, Our Answers
What Distinguishes Indonesian Cuisine in London’s Food Scene?
Indonesian cuisine in London is a remarkable fusion of diverse cultural influences, known for its unique blend of flavours and spices. What makes it stand out is the intricate combination of sweet, spicy, and savoury tastes, often featuring ingredients like coconut milk, lemongrass, and sambal. This cuisine offers an exciting culinary adventure, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Indonesia, right here in the heart of London.
Can I Find Authentic Indonesian Vegetarian Dishes in London?
Yes, Indonesian restaurants in London offer a delightful range of vegetarian options. Traditional dishes like Nasi Goreng (vegetable fried rice) and Gado-Gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce) are commonly available. These vegetarian dishes are infused with the same aromatic spices and herbs, ensuring a flavorful dining experience without compromising authenticity.
For a First-Time Taster, What Indonesian Dish Should I Try?
If you’re new to Indonesian cuisine, I suggest starting with Nasi Goreng or Satay. Nasi Goreng is a flavorful and aromatic fried rice, often mixed with vegetables and sometimes topped with a fried egg. Satay, consisting of skewered and grilled meats with a rich peanut sauce, offers a delightful taste of Indonesian street food.
Is Indonesian Street Food Available in London?
Indeed, London’s vibrant food scene includes Indonesian street food options. You can find stalls and pop-ups serving traditional Indonesian street food, offering an authentic taste of dishes like Satay, Nasi Goreng, and Rendang. These are perfect for experiencing the heart and soul of Indonesian culinary culture.
What Should I Expect When Dining at an Indonesian Restaurant in London?
Expect a warm, inviting atmosphere when you dine at an Indonesian restaurant in London. Be prepared for a culinary journey through a variety of spices and rich flavours. It’s advisable to be open to trying different dishes and ask for recommendations to fully appreciate the diverse offerings of Indonesian cuisine.
How Do I Choose the Best Indonesian Restaurant in London?
When looking for the best Indonesian restaurant in London, consider factors like the authenticity of the dishes, the variety offered, and the overall dining experience. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations can also be helpful. Look for places that offer a mix of traditional dishes, which is a good indicator of an authentic Indonesian culinary experience.
What Are Some Common Ingredients in Indonesian Cuisine?
Common ingredients in Indonesian cuisine include spices like turmeric, galangal, and coriander, as well as ingredients like coconut milk, lemongrass, and tamarind. These are used in various combinations to create rich and complex flavours, characteristic of Indonesian dishes. Expect a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and savoury elements in their meals.
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