Spicy, Hearty, and Halal: Must-Try Indonesian Food in Tokyo

A trip to Japan often feels incomplete without indulging in its choices of unique cuisine. Iconic dishes like ramen and sushi frequently top the must-try lists, as experiencing their authentic flavors in their homeland offers a distinct difference from what you might find elsewhere. However, if you happen to visit during the colder months, the craving for spicy and warming comfort food can be undeniable. It's precisely this kind of satisfying fare that the Indonesian restaurants scattered throughout Tokyo provide.

Also read: 8 Muslim-Friendly Hotels in Tokyo For Your Next Stay

Imagine savoring a plate of warm rice accompanied by vibrant green chili sambal and other quintessential Indonesian side dishes, or the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of rendang that's simply irresistible. Whether you're a traveler already familiar with the archipelago's cuisine or an adventurous palate eager to explore new tastes, here's a guide to Indonesian restaurants in Tokyo that not only serve delicious and halal options but also deliver truly authentic flavors.

1. Monggo Moro: Enjoying the Taste of Home-Style Cooking

Image credit: @monggomoro._pasti._enak

For those wandering around Shinjuku, particularly near the serene Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, you can discover a well-regarded Indonesian eatery. Monggo Moro serves halal dishes that evoke the comforting feeling of a home-style restaurant back in Indonesia. Here, you can find crispy fried fish, tender and richly flavored rendang, and even the uniquely Indonesian dog fruit with spicy chili sauce! Of course, these flavorful dishes are best enjoyed with a side of warm rice. Pressed for time? Not to worry, Monggo Moro offers takeaway options in convenient bento boxes. Additionally, the restaurant provides several warming traditional beverages like bandrek (ginger drink), wedang uwuh (spiced herbal drink), and beras kencur (rice ginger tonic).

Address: 2 Chome−7−2 1F 2F, Shinjuku, 160-0022 Tokyo

2. Cabe Indonesian Restaurant Meguro: A Spicy and Halal Haven

Image credit: Cabe Indonesian Restaurant | Official Website

Just a pleasant five-minute stroll from Meguro Station will lead you to Cabe Indonesian Restaurant. This establishment, true to its name ("Cabe" meaning chili in Indonesian), is a paradise for halal spice enthusiasts. The menu proudly displays dishes that are sure to make your mouth water with the thought of fiery chilies, such as shrimp in chili sauce, tahu tempe penyet (smashed tofu and tempeh with chili), and eggplant in chili sauce. Still craving more heat? You can order their Sambal 3 Macam (three kinds of chili sauce) for around ¥350.

Address: 3-5-4 Kami Osaki 1st Tanaka Bldg 2F, Shinagawa 141-0021 Tokyo
Opening hours: 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM & 5:30 PM - 10:00 PM (Monday-Saturday)

3. Bintang Bali: Culinary Delights from the Island of the Gods

Image credit: Cn0ra | Canva Pro

Balinese cuisine isn't just popular domestically; it has also captured hearts in the Land of the Rising Sun, evidenced by several Indonesian restaurants featuring dishes from this enchanting island. One such place you can find in Tokyo is Bintang Bali. During your visit, be sure to order their halal specialties, such as ayam betutu (slow-cooked spiced chicken) or a set menu featuring crispy fried duck. If you're in the mood for something warm and savory, the mutton curry is an excellent choice.

Address: Hyakunincho 3F Dai2 Hashimoto Bldg., Shinjuku 169-0073 Tokyo
Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Wednesday), 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Thursday-Sunday)

4. Kuta Bali Cafe Harajuku: A Hunger Fix Near Harajuku Station

Image credit: Kuta Bali Cafe | Official Website

Located a mere minute's walk from the bustling Harajuku Station, you'll discover a restaurant with a distinctive Balinese interior serving halal Indonesian fare. It's not uncommon to spot Indonesian influencers and officials visiting Tokyo choosing Kuta Bali Cafe. Despite its "cafe" moniker, the menu is surprisingly comprehensive, featuring dishes ranging from the traditional and iconic nasi campur (mixed rice) and ayam sambal matah (chicken with raw chili relish) to Balinese spiced gourami fish. Moreover, if the weather is chilly, you can order comforting Indonesian porridge like mung bean porridge or black glutinous rice porridge to warm you up from the inside out.

Address: Le ponte bulding 3F D-1, 1 Chome-14-2 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001
Opening hours: Daily, 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

5. Cinta Jawa Cafe: A Popular Indonesian Eatery in Japan

Image credit: @cinta_jawa_cafe

When talking about Indonesian restaurants in Tokyo, Cinta Jawa Cafe is a name that simply cannot be omitted. In fact, this beloved eatery already has two branches in Tokyo, one in Akihabara and another in Shibuya. Unsurprisingly, classic Indonesian dishes, particularly those hailing from the island of Java, are the main attractions. Here, you'll find Bandung-style steamed dumplings, fried chicken with grated coconut, fried catfish with chili paste. Rest assured, all the dishes here boast an authentic taste and using halal meat, almost indistinguishable from what you'd find in Indonesia itself.

Address: Kokusai bld A, 4F, 13-16 Udagawacho, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0042
Opening hours: Daily, 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

6. Kopikalyan: Authentic Indonesian Coffee Culture in Tokyo

Image credit: @kopikalyanjapan

While not strictly a restaurant, this authentic Indonesian coffee shop that has opened a branch in Shibuya can certainly serve as a place to fill your stomach. Beyond offering a diverse selection of Indonesian coffee beans, you can also find signature Indonesian dishes like beef rendang with rice or chicken. Or, to accompany your morning coffee, you can opt for simpler fare like a Grilled Chicken Sandwich. Craving something sweet? Not to worry. Kopikalyan boasts a delectable array of sweet treats, such as pisang cokelat (chocolate banana) and apple pie served with ice cream.

Address: Garden Square Harajuku, 6 Chome−15−14, Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001
Opening hours: Daily, 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Also read: Japan Food Guide: Top Halal Ramen Shops in Tokyo Visited by Celebrities

So, as you explore the vibrant streets of Tokyo, don't let a craving for familiar or new Indonesian flavors go unsatisfied. These establishments not only provide a taste of home for those who miss it but also offer a delightful culinary adventure for anyone eager to broaden their palate. Embark on a delicious journey through the diverse and authentic tastes of Indonesia, right in the heart of Japan's bustling capital.