Seafood Restaurants
Surabaya, as a bustling port city, has always been closely tied to the ocean. Its location along the northern coast of Java ensures an abundance of seafood, making it one of the best places in Indonesia to savor freshly caught fish, shrimp, crab, and squid. For travelers who embark on a city tour Surabaya, tasting the city’s seafood is not just a culinary experience but also a cultural journey. Surabayan chefs and street vendors alike take pride in blending the freshness of the ocean with bold local spices, resulting in dishes that are rich, flavorful, and unforgettable.
The Tradition of Seafood in Surabaya
Seafood has long been an integral part of Surabaya’s food culture. Local fishermen supply markets and restaurants daily, ensuring that dishes remain fresh and seasonal. What makes Surabaya’s seafood stand out is not only its quality but also the way it is prepared. From fiery sambal crabs to grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves, the cooking methods highlight both authenticity and creativity.
During a city tour Surabaya, visitors often discover that seafood here is more than just a meal—it reflects the city’s identity as a maritime hub, where culinary traditions have been passed down through generations.
Must-Try Seafood Dishes in Surabaya
Travelers who sit down at one of Surabaya’s seafood restaurants are greeted with a wide range of specialties, many of which have become iconic. Some highlights include:
- Cumi Bakar (Grilled Squid) – Marinated in sweet soy sauce and garlic, grilled until smoky, and served with fresh sambal.
- Kepiting Saus Padang (Crab in Padang Sauce) – A fiery and tangy dish, beloved for its rich flavor and messy, finger-licking experience.
- Ikan Bakar Bumbu Kuning (Grilled Fish with Yellow Spices) – Fish marinated in turmeric and spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and cooked over charcoal.
- Udang Asam Manis (Sweet and Sour Shrimp) – A balance of tangy and savory, showcasing Surabaya’s love for bold flavors.
- Kerang Rebus (Steamed Clams) – Simple yet delicious, often enjoyed with a squeeze of lime and chili sauce.
These dishes perfectly showcase the way Surabaya transforms simple catches into culinary masterpieces. Trying them while on a city tour Surabaya ensures a memorable taste of the city’s vibrant food scene.
Famous Seafood Restaurants in Surabaya
For travelers seeking the best seafood experience, Surabaya offers a variety of restaurants ranging from traditional eateries to modern dining spots. Some popular recommendations include:
- Layar Seafood – Often considered the city’s top seafood restaurant, Layar is famous for its fresh ingredients and extensive menu, from crabs to lobsters. The lively atmosphere and signature sambal selections make it a must-visit.
- Seafood Pak Qomar – Known for its affordability and authentic flavors, this spot is a favorite among locals. Their grilled fish and spicy crabs are consistently popular.
- Warung Apung Rahmawati – This floating-style restaurant not only serves delicious seafood but also provides a unique dining experience with traditional vibes.
- Manyar Seafood Street – A lively area where small stalls compete to serve the best grilled squid, shrimp, and clams, creating an exciting atmosphere for evening culinary adventures.
Including one of these restaurants in a city tour Surabaya allows visitors to indulge in local flavors while enjoying authentic East Javanese hospitality.
The Secret: Local Spices and Sambal
What truly sets Surabaya’s seafood apart is the seasoning. Local cooks use traditional bumbu (spice blends) made of turmeric, coriander, garlic, candlenut, and chili to create bold flavors. No seafood meal in Surabaya is complete without sambal, a fiery chili paste that comes in dozens of variations.
Some of the most popular pairings include:
- Sambal Terasi (shrimp paste chili sauce) for grilled fish.
- Sambal Matah (raw shallot and chili relish) for squid and shrimp.
- Sambal Ijo (green chili sambal) for crab dishes.
This signature use of spices makes every bite a burst of flavor, something that every traveler on a city tour Surabaya should experience at least once.
The Dining Atmosphere: From Casual to Elegant
Seafood dining in Surabaya is diverse. Street-side seafood stalls create a casual and lively setting where locals gather for affordable meals. On the other hand, upscale restaurants offer refined presentations, comfortable seating, and extensive menus.
Whether you are sitting on a plastic stool by the roadside or enjoying crab in a modern restaurant, the taste remains rooted in Surabaya’s culinary traditions. This variety allows travelers on a city tour Surabaya to choose between adventurous local dining or a more polished experience.
Tips for Enjoying Seafood in Surabaya
To get the most out of seafood dining, here are some useful tips:
- Come Early: Popular seafood spots fill up quickly in the evening.
- Eat with Hands: Many dishes, especially crabs, are best enjoyed by hand. Don’t be afraid to get messy—it’s part of the fun.
- Try Seasonal Specials: Certain fish and shellfish are available only during specific times of the year.
- Balance with Rice: Indonesians rarely eat seafood alone—steamed rice is the perfect companion.
- Mind the Spice: If you’re not used to chili heat, request milder sambal.
Following these tips ensures a smooth and enjoyable culinary adventure during a city tour Surabaya.
Why Seafood Restaurants Belong in a City Tour Surabaya
Seafood restaurants offer more than delicious meals; they reflect the essence of Surabaya’s coastal culture. By dining at these places, travelers connect with local traditions, taste dishes unique to the region, and discover why the city is so proud of its seafood heritage.
Including seafood dining in a city tour Surabaya itinerary makes the journey well-rounded—balancing history, culture, and gastronomy in one unforgettable package.
Conclusion
Surabaya’s seafood restaurants are a celebration of the city’s maritime soul. From grilled squid to spicy crab, every dish combines fresh catches with flavorful spices that represent the boldness of East Javanese cuisine. Whether in lively street stalls or elegant dining venues, seafood in Surabaya promises an experience that excites the taste buds and enriches the journey.
For travelers, no city tour Surabaya is complete without sitting down to enjoy the ocean’s bounty, seasoned with local spices and served with warm hospitality. It’s more than just dining—it’s tasting the heart of Surabaya itself.