Every time I visit Batam, I stumble on hidden gems, and my belly always leaves more than satisfied. This time, that gem was Noesantara in the Penuin area. The large storefront first caught my eye when we passed by the street in a car. (Yes, I tend to notice shiny and different things, as you may have noticed from my posts.)
Nestled in a row of shophouses, Noesantara is one of the latest additions to the neighbourhood, and the raving Google reviews rightly reflected the taste of their food. As the name suggests, this restaurant specialises in nusantara cuisine, the rich and varied flavours that span the Indonesian archipelago, and it serves with confidence.
We ordered rather generously for three: ayam bakar (grilled chicken), tempe and tahu (tofu) with eggs, nasi bakar (grilled rice) with chicken, and ubi tumbuk (cassava leaves).
My personal order, the ayam bakar, came to be one of the best grilled chicken I ever had. The chicken was tender through and through with a smoky depth. I paired it with my usual favourite, jus alpukat, a creamy avocado juice blended with milk and chocolate that brimmed with sweetness. The ubi tumbuk, mashed cassava leaves, had such a flavourful taste that left me contemplating for yet another serving.
The nasi bakar, wrapped in banana leaf and grilled to perfection, arrived fragrant and smoky, packed with spices that unfold with every bite. Meanwhile, my sister went with the signature golden Indonesian rice; the turmeric rice was served alongside tender chicken rendang.
Nusantara flavours, served well with heart.
The ambience had also matched the food: cosy interior and friendly staff who are quick to help if you are new to the menu. They had even offered to lend us an umbrella when the sudden rain came pouring right as we were leaving.
For anyone craving authentic Indonesian food in Batam, Noesantara is the place. The restaurant has also been recognised among the Indonesian Food Top 30, which tells this place is more than a local favourite, but a certified one.
The best part? The food is both delicious and affordable. Expect to pay around IDR 50,000 for a single dish. Full menu prices here.
Address: Ruko Sinar Penuin Blok F No.1 – 2, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29444, Indonesia
Not a sponsored post.
Looking for more Batam recommendations? For delicious vegan food, Towzen and Ikinokoru are worth the visit. For great coffee, head to Ta-ti-do, or if you want your coffee with a view, Liminal Coffee + Bites has you covered.
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