From iconic Malay river dishes to legendary coffee shops and vibrant night food streets, Pekanbaru offers a rich and authentic culinary journey.
Pekanbaru, the capital of Riau Province in Sumatra, is a city where culinary traditions remain deeply rooted in everyday life. Influenced by rich Malay heritage and coastal flavours, the local food scene offers a unique combination of bold spices, comforting textures, and authentic cooking techniques passed down through generations.
For travellers and food lovers wondering where to eat in Pekanbaru, the city presents a wide range of dining experiences from legendary traditional restaurants to nostalgic coffee shops and local dessert centres. Here are some of the best food places in Pekanbaru where you can taste authentic Riau flavours.
Rumah Makan Pondok Patin
One of the most famous culinary destinations in Pekanbaru is Rumah Makan Pondok Patin, widely known for serving the city’s signature dish — gulai ikan patin. This freshwater catfish curry is cooked in a rich turmeric and coconut milk broth, sometimes enhanced with tempoyak (fermented durian), creating a bold and distinctive Malay flavour profile.
The restaurant is often busy during lunch hours, reflecting its popularity among locals. Served with warm rice, sambal, and fresh vegetables, this dish offers a truly authentic Pekanbaru food experience.
Kedai Kopi Kim Teng
No Pekanbaru food guide is complete without mentioning Kedai Kopi Kim Teng, a legendary coffee shop that has become part of the city’s cultural identity. Popular for breakfast, the café serves traditional kopi susu, soft-boiled eggs, and toasted bread with kaya (coconut jam).
The nostalgic ambience and simple yet comforting menu make it a favourite gathering place for locals who enjoy starting their day with authentic flavours and warm conversations.
Mie Sagu Speciality Spots
For a unique culinary adventure, visitors should try mie sagu Selat Panjang, one of the most distinctive traditional foods in Riau. Unlike regular noodles, mie sagu is made from sago flour, giving it a chewy texture and slightly smoky aroma when stir-fried.
Typically cooked with shrimp, anchovies, bean sprouts, and local spices, this dish delivers a savoury and mildly sweet flavour that perfectly represents coastal Malay cuisine. It is a must-try for anyone exploring the Pekanbaru food scene.
Rumah Makan Bare Solok — Padang Flavours Loved by Locals
Although originating from Minangkabau cuisine, Rumah Makan Bare Solok is extremely popular in Pekanbaru. The restaurant serves a wide variety of dishes such as rendang, gulai ayam, and sambal lado.
Affordable prices and generous portions make it a go-to place for daily meals.
Bolu Kemojo
For dessert lovers, trying bolu kemojo is essential when visiting Pekanbaru. This traditional Malay cake is known for its distinctive flower shape, fragrant pandan aroma, and soft custard-like texture.
Widely available at local cake shops and souvenir centres, bolu kemojo is not only a delicious treat but also a meaningful representation of Riau’s culinary heritage.
Credit: Ines Yolanda
