7 Must-Try Traditional Foods in Bogor for Foreign Tourists

Experience the authentic taste of West Java’s culinary gems!

By: Awan Yulianto
Indonesian culinary enthusiast and travel writer with over 10 years of experience exploring regional cuisines.

Why Bogor Is a Hidden Foodie Paradise

Nestled just south of Jakarta, Bogor is known for its cool climate, lush botanical gardens, and vibrant Indonesian street food. While it may not always be the first name on a tourist's radar, the city offers some of the most unique and flavorful dishes in Indonesia—many of which are exclusive to this area.

If you're searching for what to eat in Bogor, here are seven authentic local dishes you absolutely must try:

1. Soto Mie Bogor – Savory Noodles with a Crunch 🍜

A hearty noodle soup that combines yellow noodles, vermicelli, slices of beef or chicken, and a special twist—crispy risol (fried spring roll). This mix of textures and flavors makes it a top Bogor street food favorite.

Pro Tip: Try it from a local warung (street stall) for the most authentic taste.

2. Asinan Bogor – A Tropical Tangy Delight 🥗

This vegetarian-friendly dish features pickled vegetables or tropical fruits soaked in a sweet and spicy vinegar sauce. It’s light, refreshing, and ideal for Indonesia’s tropical weather.

According to the Indonesian Culinary Tourism Board, 73% of tourists prefer refreshing local dishes like Asinan.

3. Laksa Bogor – Creamy, Fragrant, and Comforting 🍛

Laksa Bogor is a creamy soup made with vermicelli, thick coconut milk, boiled egg, and fragrant lemon basil. Milder than its Southeast Asian cousins, it's a soothing yet flavorful dish deeply rooted in Sundanese culture.

4. Toge Goreng – Not What It Sounds Like 🥢

Despite its name, Toge Goreng is not fried. It’s a warm mixture of bean sprouts, tofu, yellow noodles, and a rich tauco (fermented soybean) sauce.

Flavor profile: Earthy, slightly sweet, and umami-packed.

5. Roti Unyil – Tiny Buns, Big Variety 🍞

Roti Unyil are bite-sized buns available in a wide variety of fillings—from chocolate and cheese to savory sausage. They’re perfect as snacks or edible souvenirs from Bogor.

Tourist Tip: Visit Venus Bakery for the largest selection of these mini bread delights.

6. Cungkring – A Bold Local Experience 🍢

Cungkring consists of cow skin (kikil) stewed in yellow spices and served with rice cakes (lontong) and fried tempeh. It’s chewy, flavorful, and distinctly Sundanese.

Typically sold in the morning—arrive early for the freshest servings.

7. Doclang – A Classic Sundanese Breakfast 🍚

This filling dish includes lontong, tofu, vermicelli, and boiled egg, smothered in rich peanut sauce and sweet soy sauce. It’s a common breakfast option for locals and tourists alike.

Try it from: Mobile food carts around morning markets in Bogor.

Final Thoughts: Taste the Culture of Bogor

Trying Bogor’s traditional dishes is more than just eating—it's a way to connect with Sundanese culture, meet locals, and savor recipes passed down for generations. Whether you're a casual foodie or a serious culinary traveler, Bogor’s food scene is a journey worth tasting.