Having bakmi, or mie ayam at a street warung is the quintessential Jakarta experience – but we’re not going to experience that anytime soon. Closer to home, head over to Kulon, the new kid on Bali Lane for a fix of the popular Indonesian street food.
A good bowl of mie ayam would consist of springy al dente egg noodles, diced chicken cooked in soy sauce, chopped spring onions and served with simple and flavourful clear chicken broth – and a side of chilli. At Kulon, there are many variations of this beloved noodle dish. The noodle served here is of a thicker variation than the Indonesian street style – but absorbs the gravy perfectly. Have it the classic style with the Bakmi Bangka; or for if you crave stronger flavours, go for the Bakmi Gulai Sapi which incorporates the Javanese beef curry with the noodles. If spice is top priority, take your pick between the bakmi with red – or green – sambal.
On the menu are also a selection of rice dishes and also burgers with a Javanese edge – think fried chicken burger with sambal – or a tempeh version as well. After a typical Indonesian meal, remember to wash it down with some cold teh botol (sweet jasmine tea) like the locals do.
