Batam Food Guide: Must Try Local Delights, Budget Bites and Cafes

Just a short ferry ride from Singapore, Batam offers a culinary escape brimming with authentic Indonesian flavours, wallet-friendly street food and a burgeoning café scene. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, here’s your ultimate guide to eating well in Batam without breaking the bank.

Also read: Day Trip to Batam From Singapore For Budget Travellers

Local flavours

Mie Terempa’K

A signature dish from the Riau Islands, Mie Tarempa features chewy flat noodles tossed in a tangy-sweet sauce, often paired with tuna or mackerel. Served dry or with a light gravy, this spot in Batam Centre is a definitive go-to for authentic Mie Tarempa.

Price range: 19,000 IDR to 27,500 IDR (~S$1.50-S$2.17)

Location: Ruko Royal Sincom, Blk. D No.15 – 16, Tlk. Tering, Kec. Batam Kota, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29431, Indonesia

Bakso Kota Cak Man

Situated in BCS Mall, Lubukbaja, Batam, this chain offers delicious bakso with a variety of toppings. The meatballs are tender, and the broth is flavourful, making it a favourite among locals.

Price range: 5,500 IDR to 25,000 IDR (~S$0.43-S$1.98)

Location: Bcs Mall, Jl. Bunga Raya Lantai Dasar, Batu Selicin, Kec. Lubuk Baja, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29422, Indonesia

Ayam Bakar Chaniago

Ayam Bakar Chaniago specialises in smoky, tender grilled chicken served with a spicy sambal. Simple yet full of flavour, it’s a quintessential taste of Indonesian street food culture.

Price range: 4000 IDR to 32,000 IDR (~S$0.32-S$2.53)

Location: Perum Bengkong Jaya A No.1, Bengkong Laut, Kec. Bengkong, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29444, Indonesia

Budget-friendly eats

Sei Enam Seafood Batam Centre

Known for its fresh and tasty seafood, Sei Enam offers a variety of dishes in a comfortable setting. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and affordability makes it a standout in Batam’s seafood scene.

Price range: 150,000 IDR to 500,000 IDR per person (~S$11.85- S$39.51)

Location: Komplek Ruko Mahkota Raya, Jl. Raja H. Fisabilillah, RW.2, Teluk Tering, Batam Kota, Batam City, Riau Islands 29461, Indonesia

RM Danau Toba

A humble local eatery in Orchid Park, RM Danau Toba, serves a variety of Indonesian dishes at very affordable prices. Must-tries include Babi Kecap (soy-sauce pork) and Ikan Bakar (grilled fish), most dishes under IDR 30,000. Perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.

Price range: 35,000 IDR to 47,500 IDR (S$2.77-S$3.71)

Location: Jl. Orchid Park Jl. Kelurahan No.8, Taman Baloi, Kec. Batam Kota, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29444, Indonesia

Martabak 818

Indulge in a local favourite at Martabak 818, where you’ll find giant stuffed pancakes filled with sweet or savoury fillings, such as Nutella, cheese, and peanuts. These oversized treats are perfect for sharing and offer a delightful end to your meal.

Price range: 4,000 IDR to 12,000 IDR (~S$0.32 to S$0.95)

Location: Ruko Nagoya Paradise Centre Blok H No. 2, Batu Selicin, Kec. Lubuk Baja, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29432, Indonesia

Nasi Goreng Kambing Kebon Sirih Tunas

For a satisfying plate of fried rice, Nasi Goreng Kambing Kebon Sirih serves up aromatic goat fried rice that’s both flavourful and filling. It’s a popular choice among locals seeking a quick and tasty meal.

Price range: 50,000 IDR to 68,000 IDR (S$3.95-S$5.37)

Location: Jalan Kawasan Industri Tunas 1, Ruko Blok A2 No.8, Belian, Batam Kota, Batam City, Riau Islands 29444, Indonesia

Cafes

Also read: Cafe Hopping in Batam: 5 Cafes Every Singaporean Must Visit

Liminal Coffee + Bites

A top-rated cafe in Batam, Liminal Coffee + Bites is known for its expertly brewed coffee and delectable bites. With a cosy ambience and attentive service, it’s an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a leisurely meal.

Price range: 80,000 IDR to 360,000 IDR (S$6.32 to S$28.45)

Location: Jl. Sudirman, Sukajadi, Kec. Batam Kota, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29432, Indonesia

Common Space Coffee & Bar

Blending a cafe and bar experience, Common Space Coffee & Bar offers a creative menu of beverages and light bites. Don’t miss their Dirty Latte, a unique twist on the classic coffee drink.

Price range: 35,200 IDR to 63,000 IDR (S$2.78 to S$4.98)

Location: Lubuk Baja Kota, Lubuk Baja, Batam City, Riau Islands 29444, Indonesia

Anchor Cafe & Roastery

For coffee aficionados, Anchor Cafe & Roastery is a must-visit. They roast their own beans and serve a range of speciality coffees in a minimalist setting, perfect for those seeking quality brews.

Price range: 51,984 IDR to 181,944 IDR (S$4.11 to S$14.38)

Location: Dermaga Culinary Paradise RF No. 11, Sukajadi, Kec. Batam Kota, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29444, Indonesia

Jills Cafe

A cosy, homestyle bakery-cafe known for its warm ambience and freshly baked goods. It’s a perfect quiet retreat!

Price range: 25,000 IDR to 168,000 IDR (S$1.98 to S$13.28)

Location: Baloi Permai, Ruko Megamas Blok A 1-3, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29444, Indonesia

Final thoughts

Batam’s culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Indonesian flavours, street food favourites, and modern café culture. Whether you’re indulging in a bowl of Mie Tarempa, sharing a Martabak with friends, or sipping on a handcrafted coffee, Batam offers a dining experience that’s both diverse and affordable. Hop on a ferry and embark on a gastronomic adventure just an hour away from Singapore.