Traveling can indeed be exhausting, especially if you have to transit or fly from CGK. But don't worry, around Soekarno-Hatta Airport there are plenty of culinary options that will fill your stomach and keep your wallet safe. Let's explore!
1. Soto Betawi H. Ma'ruf: Rich Coconut Milk Broth That's Addictive
If you stop by the Cengkareng area, Soto Betawi H. Ma'ruf is a must-try. The coconut milk broth is thick, savory, and deeply spiced. The beef chunks are tender, complemented with tomatoes and fried potatoes. Must Try: order warm white rice and green bird's eye chili sambal. Prices start from Rp25,000 per serving. Halal Check: Halal, no pork.
2. Nasi Uduk Gondangdia: Legendary Spice Aroma
In the Tangerang area near CGK, there's the famous Nasi Uduk Gondangdia. The uduk rice is fluffy, with strong aromas of pandan leaves and lemongrass. Favorite side dishes: jengkol stew, fried spiced potatoes, and fried chicken. The rice texture is soft but not mushy. A complete meal costs around Rp30,000. Must Try: don't forget to add omelette and crispy tempeh. Halal Check: Halal, uses chicken and beef.
3. Seafood 99: Fresh and Boldly Spicy (Great for Group Gatherings)
Located in Ciledug, near the toll gate, Seafood 99 is famous for its Padang sauce crab and honey-grilled shrimp. The crab meat is fresh, and the sauce is thick and spicy. Prices start from around Rp50,000 per serving. Perfect for feasting with friends. Halal Check: The seafood is halal, but make sure to order without alcohol.
4. Sate Khas Senayan: Knockout Peanut Sauce
In the Terminal 3 area of the airport, there's a convenient Sate Khas Senayan. Chicken and beef satay with creamy, slightly sweet peanut sauce. The rice cakes are soft, and the pickles are fresh. A portion costs around Rp40,000. Must Try: young goat satay with sliced shallots and tomatoes. Halal Check: Halal, all meat from halal-certified slaughterhouses.
5. Bakmi GM: Premium Chicken Noodles Since Forever
Bakmi GM is located in Terminals 1 and 2. The chicken noodles are chewy, topped with savory minced chicken and crispy fried wontons. The clear chicken broth soup is warm and comforting. Prices around Rp35,000. Must Try: add meatballs and drizzle with soy sauce. Halal Check: Halal, no non-halal ingredients.
6. Roti Bakar Eddy: Sweet Snack to Fill Your Tummy
In the airport parking area, there's the legendary Roti Bakar Eddy cart. The bread is grilled with butter and topped with sprinkles, chocolate, or cheese. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. Prices start from Rp10,000. Perfect for a pre-flight snack. Halal Check: Halal.
7. Bubur Ayam Barito: Warm and Satisfying
Bubur Ayam Barito in Kebon Jeruk (near CGK) is open 24 hours. The porridge is smooth, topped with shredded chicken, fried crullers, and soybeans. The yellow broth is savory. Price Rp20,000 per serving. Must Try: ask for extra salted egg and chili sambal. Halal Check: Halal.
8. Kantin Ria: Long-Lasting Nasi Padang
On the main road leading to the airport, Kantin Ria serves Nasi Padang with dry rendang and rich spices. The beef is tender. A portion of rendang costs Rp30,000. Halal Check: Halal, Padang restaurants are clearly halal.
So, don't worry about food when at CGK. Plenty of delicious, affordable, and halal options. Enjoy!
