Medan is a food lover's paradise, known for its diverse culinary offerings that reflect its multicultural heritage. As North Sumatra's largest city, Medan brings together Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Batak influences to create a unique gastronomic landscape that will tantalize your taste buds. Here are the top 5 dishes and dining experiences you absolutely cannot miss:
Why Medan's Food Scene is Special
Medan's strategic location as a trading port has made it a melting pot of cultures for centuries. This rich history is reflected in every bite, from spicy Batak specialties to delicate Chinese dim sum, aromatic Indian curries to fresh Malay seafood. The city's food culture is deeply embedded in daily life, with bustling street food markets, family-run warungs, and historic restaurants that have been serving the same recipes for generations.
1. Tabona Restaurant - Kari Bihun (Curry Rice Noodles)
Location: Jl. Hang Tuah No. 6, Medan
What to Try: Signature chicken or beef curry with rice noodles
Price Range: IDR 25,000 - 40,000 per portion
Why Go: Tabona has built a reputation over decades for serving some of the best curry in Medan. Expect a rich, flavorful broth infused with aromatic spices like lemongrass, galangal, and turmeric. The curry is served with your choice of rice noodles (bihun) or rice, and you can add roti jala (lacy pancakes) to soak up every last drop of the sauce.
The Secret: Their curry paste is made fresh daily using a blend of over 15 spices, including the rare andaliman pepper that gives it a unique tingling sensation.
Insider Tip: Arrive before 11:30 AM to avoid the long queues; this place fills up fast with office workers during lunch! Try the beef curry for a richer flavor or chicken for a lighter option.
2. Mie Tiongsim - Authentic Chinese Noodles
Location: Jl. Selat Panjang No. 1C, Medan
What to Try: Classic mie pangsit (wonton noodles) with char siu
Price Range: IDR 20,000 - 35,000 per bowl
Why Go: Mie Tiongsim is a favorite among locals for its springy handmade noodles and savory broth that's been perfected over three generations. The combination of fragrant fried shallots, fresh scallions, and perfectly seasoned toppings creates a comforting bowl that hits the spot any time of day.
The Experience: Watch the noodle masters hand-pull fresh noodles in the open kitchen - it's like dinner and a show!
Insider Tip: Pair it with a glass of es jeruk (iced citrus drink) for a zesty refreshment. Order extra wontons - they're handmade and absolutely delicious.
3. Lapo Batak - Traditional Batak Cuisine
Location: Various locations throughout Medan (try Lapo Ni Tondongta)
What to Try: Babi Panggang Karo (roasted pork), Saksang, and Arsik (spicy fish)
Price Range: IDR 30,000 - 60,000 per dish
Why Go: Batak cuisine is a cornerstone of North Sumatran culture, and a visit to a traditional lapo (Batak eatery) lets you experience robust flavors you won't find elsewhere. The combination of andaliman (a unique local pepper) and fragrant spices gives Batak dishes their signature zing that creates a tingling sensation on your tongue.
Cultural Note: Lapo dining is communal - dishes are meant to be shared, and meals often extend for hours with lively conversation.
Insider Tip: Some Batak restaurants serve pork and traditional dishes that may not be halal. If you prefer halal fare, confirm with the staff or look for "Lapo Halal" signs. Try the Arsik (carp in spicy sauce) for an authentic taste without pork.
4. Tip Top Restaurant - Colonial Heritage Dining
Location: Jl. Ahmad Yani No. 92, Medan
What to Try: Rijsttafel (rice table), old-school cakes, and Western-Asian fusion
Price Range: IDR 40,000 - 80,000 per person
Why Go: Established in the 1930s, Tip Top is both a culinary institution and a charming relic of Medan's colonial past. The restaurant maintains its original Art Deco interior, complete with vintage tiles and classic décor. Their bakery section offers European-style pastries alongside local favorites.
Historical Significance: This restaurant has hosted everyone from Dutch colonial officials to modern-day celebrities, making it a living piece of Medan's history.
Insider Tip: Grab a seat on the open terrace if you want to soak in the street view and watch city life go by. Don't miss their famous layer cake (lapis legit) - it's been made using the same recipe for over 80 years.
5. Ucok Durian - The King of Fruits Experience
Location: Jl. Durban (multiple locations)
What to Try: Fresh durian varieties, durian pancake, durian ice cream
Price Range: IDR 50,000 - 150,000 per kg (depending on variety)
Why Go: No trip to Medan is complete without sampling its legendary durian, and Ucok Durian is arguably the most famous spot in town. They open late into the night (until 2 AM), making it a great place for a post-dinner treat. The staff are durian experts who will help you pick the perfect fruit based on your taste preferences.
Durian Education: Learn about different varieties like Monthong (sweet and mild), Musang King (creamy and bitter-sweet), and local Medan varieties.
Insider Tip: If you're new to durian, ask for a milder variety like Monthong. Don't be shy about sampling before you buy - locals do it all the time. Try the durian pancake if you want a sweeter, less intense introduction to the fruit.
Food Tour Logistics with Our Transport Service
Exploring Medan's food scene is much easier with reliable transportation. Our private driver service can take you on a customized food tour, allowing you to: - Visit multiple restaurants without worrying about parking - Navigate narrow streets in Medan's old quarters safely - Get local recommendations from our experienced drivers - Store your purchases (like durian) in our vehicles - Enjoy your meal without worrying about driving after eating We can create a personalized food itinerary based on your preferences, dietary restrictions, and time constraints. Our drivers know the best times to visit each restaurant and can suggest the optimal route to minimize travel time and maximize your culinary experience.
Best Times for Food Adventures - Breakfast: 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM (try local coffee shops and traditional breakfast) - Lunch: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM (peak time for curry houses and noodle shops) - Afternoon Snacks: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (perfect for Tip Top's pastries) - Dinner: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM (lapo restaurants come alive) - Late Night: 9:00 PM - 2:00 AM (durian season and street food)
Food Safety Tips - Choose busy restaurants with high turnover - Drink bottled water or hot tea - Start with milder spices if you're not used to Indonesian food - Carry antacid tablets just in case - Ask about spice levels before ordering
Final Thoughts From the rich curries of Tabona to the authentic Batak spices found in every lapo, Medan's food scene offers a journey through flavors you won't soon forget. Each meal tells a story of cultural fusion, family traditions, and culinary innovation that spans generations. Make sure to plan ahead - some of these spots can get busy, especially during peak mealtimes. Consider booking our food tour service to make the most of your culinary adventure in Medan. Ready your appetite, explore the city's culinary heritage, and enjoy some of the best eats North Sumatra has to offer. Bon appétit, or as the locals say, selamat makan!
Hasan
Local Expert & Professional Driver
Sharing insider knowledge about Medan and North Sumatra