Rawon Setan & Rawon Kalkulator – Legendary Beef Soup with Black Broth
Rawon Setan & Rawon Kalkulator
When it comes to traditional food in Surabaya, nothing captures the city’s culinary soul better than Rawon, the legendary black beef soup. Made with keluak nuts that give the broth its dark color and earthy taste, Rawon has been part of Javanese culture for centuries. While you can find it in many warungs and restaurants across East Java, Surabaya is home to two of the most iconic Rawon destinations: Rawon Setan and Rawon Kalkulator.
Both of these eateries have achieved legendary status not just for their flavor but also for the stories and experiences that surround them. For anyone joining a city tour Surabaya, tasting Rawon Setan or Rawon Kalkulator is an unmissable highlight that combines history, culture, and unforgettable flavor.
The History of Rawon – More Than Just a Soup
Rawon is often described as the oldest traditional dish of Indonesia, with origins tracing back more than 1,000 years. Ancient Javanese inscriptions already mentioned black soup dishes, showing how deeply rooted Rawon is in the region’s history. The use of keluak nuts is what makes Rawon unique. Their slightly bitter, nutty flavor creates a broth that is rich, aromatic, and unlike any other soup in Southeast Asia.
In Surabaya, Rawon evolved from a family dish into a street food legend. Served with rice, bean sprouts, salted egg, and sambal, it became a complete meal beloved by workers, students, and even late-night adventurers. It is no surprise that Rawon holds a place of honor in Surabaya’s culinary tourism scene.
Rawon Setan – The “Devil’s Rawon”
The name Rawon Setan translates literally to “Devil’s Rawon,” but don’t be intimidated. The name was inspired by the fact that this legendary eatery only opened late at night, often past midnight, when most other food stalls were closed. Hungry students, workers, and travelers flocked there after dark, giving the place its mysterious and catchy name.
Key features of Rawon Setan:
- Large Beef Chunks: Unlike other versions, Rawon Setan is famous for its generous portions of tender beef.
- Rich, Bold Broth: The soup has a stronger, spicier flavor than usual, making it unforgettable.
- Late-Night Culture: Eating Rawon Setan after midnight became a tradition for many Surabaya locals.
For travelers on a city tour Surabaya, stopping at Rawon Setan is more than a meal—it is an authentic cultural experience that connects you to the city’s nightlife.
Rawon Kalkulator – The “Calculator Rawon”
Another iconic destination is Rawon Kalkulator, located in the famous Taman Bungkul area. The name was born from the unique skill of its cashier, who could calculate bills for dozens of customers in seconds without using a calculator. The speed and accuracy amazed visitors, and the nickname stuck.
Highlights of Rawon Kalkulator:
- Affordable and Authentic: Known as one of the most budget-friendly spots to enjoy Rawon.
- Local Atmosphere: It attracts a mix of students, families, and office workers.
- Taman Bungkul Vibe: Located in one of Asia’s award-winning urban parks, visitors can combine food with a walk in the park.
If Rawon Setan is about mystery and boldness, Rawon Kalkulator represents efficiency and community spirit. Both are equally essential stops for a culinary-focused city tour Surabaya.
Why Rawon Is a Culinary Icon of Surabaya
- Unique Flavor: The use of keluak nuts sets it apart from other Indonesian soups.
- Cultural Symbol: Rawon is deeply tied to East Javanese identity.
- Social Experience: Eating Rawon is not just about food but about community—whether sharing a table at midnight or enjoying lunch in a bustling park.
- Timeless Appeal: From ancient times to the modern day, Rawon continues to thrive.
This combination of tradition, flavor, and atmosphere makes Rawon central to Surabaya’s culinary tourism.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Best Time to Visit:
- Rawon Setan is ideal for late-night diners (open until dawn).
- Rawon Kalkulator is best for lunch or dinner after exploring Taman Bungkul.
- What to Order: Always pair Rawon with salted egg and sambal for the complete experience.
- Price Range: Both options are affordable, making them accessible to all travelers.
- Getting There: Easily included in guided city tour Surabaya routes, or reachable by online ride-hailing services.
Rawon in a City Tour Surabaya Itinerary
A typical day exploring Surabaya might include:
- Morning: Visit Heroes Monument and House of Sampoerna.
- Midday: Try Rawon Kalkulator for lunch near Taman Bungkul.
- Afternoon: Explore Bungkul Park and take a stroll through modern Surabaya.
- Evening: End the night with Rawon Setan for a bold, unforgettable dinner.
This blend of culture, history, and food ensures that visitors see Surabaya from every angle.
Beyond Rawon – What It Represents
Eating Rawon Setan or Rawon Kalkulator is not just about enjoying soup—it is about understanding Surabaya. Rawon represents resilience, tradition, and togetherness. The way locals gather around steaming bowls, whether in a late-night warung or a bustling park, shows how food connects people to their city.
For travelers, Rawon is a taste of Surabaya’s authenticity. For locals, it is a reminder of heritage. For the city itself, it is a culinary icon that keeps Surabaya’s traditions alive in a modern world.
Conclusion
Rawon Setan and Rawon Kalkulator are more than legendary eateries—they are cultural landmarks that define Surabaya’s culinary identity. With their unique flavors, colorful histories, and vibrant atmospheres, both destinations showcase why Rawon is considered the city’s signature dish.
Every city tour Surabaya should include a stop at one or both of these iconic places. To sip the black broth of Rawon is to taste centuries of tradition, resilience, and pride. In Surabaya, Rawon is not just food—it is history in a bowl, waiting to be savored by everyone who visits the City of Heroes.