Annissa Wulan
Mar 03, 2026
Tucked away in the cozy alleys of Prawirotaman and near the bustling campuses of UGM, Yogyakarta holds secret spots serving some of the most authentic Hummus and Lamb Kofta in Indonesia. In this guide, we step off the beaten path to find the small, family-run kitchens that are redefining Middle Eastern dining in the city.
City Grill
City Grill is a standout Eastern Mediterranean gem in Yogyakarta, bringing a unique Balkan and Turkish flair to the city’s culinary landscape. This restaurant is celebrated for its authentic charcoal-grilled specialties, including succulent Kebabs, Turkish Pizza, and hearty Mixed Grill platters. Owned and operated with a focus on traditional recipes, City Grill offers a warm, urban atmosphere and a diverse menu that caters to both meat lovers and vegetarians.
City Grill
Jl. Parangtritis No.95, Yogyakarta
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Omar Middle East Culinary
Omar Middle East Culinary (often referred to locally as Umar Restaurant) is a beloved destination for authentic Arabian comfort food, strategically located near the Selokan Mataram area. It is highly regarded for its unpretentious yet flavorful approach to Middle Eastern staples, with its Lamb Biryani and Hummus standing out as crowd favorites.
Omar Middle East Culinary
Bantul, Yogyakarta
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Restoran Marhaba
Restoran Marhaba (also known as Marhaba Arab Cuisine) is a hidden gem celebrated for its warm, family-style hospitality and authentic Pakistani-Arabian fusion. This cozy eatery stands out for its specialty Chicken Fry and aromatic Nasi Bukhori, offering a flavor profile that is deeply savory and rich in traditional spices.
Restoran Marhaba
Jl. Nusa Indah No.97A, Yogyakarta
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Rumkul Ateeya
Rumkul Ateeya (Rumah Kuliner Ateeya) is a standout destination for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine in Yogyakarta, celebrated for its premium ingredients and refined spice profiles. It has earned a loyal following for its signature Mandi Rice and exceptionally tender Lamb Shank, often cited as among the most authentic in the city.
Rumkul Ateeya
Jl. Anggajaya 2 No.111, Yogyakarta
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Sultaf Restaurant
Sultaf Restaurant is a vibrant culinary newcomer in Yogyakarta that serves as a unique cultural bridge between Pakistan and Yemen. Founded by former international students, the restaurant prides itself on absolute authenticity, offering specific regional specialties like Yemeni Nasi Zurbiyan and Pakistani Nasi Biryani. Unlike many general Middle Eastern eateries, Sultaf focuses on precise flavor profiles—distinguishing its "White Karahi" (yogurt-based) from its "Chicken Karahi" (tomato-based).
Sultaf Restaurant
Jl. Harjosudiro No.129, Yogyakarta
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The Tannoor Restaurant
The Tannoor Restaurant is a uniquely intimate "hidden gem" in Yogyakarta’s Mantrijeron district, offering a rare and soulful exploration of authentic Afghan cuisine. Unlike typical eateries, it operates primarily on a reservation-only basis, providing a private-dining feel where dishes like Mantu (Afghan beef dumplings) and Qabuli Palaw are prepared with home-cooked precision. With an ambiance that blends the owner’s art studio with Middle Eastern heritage, The Tannoor offers a sophisticated, spice-rich journey that feels like an invitation into a private home.
The Tannoor Restaurant
Jl. Sartono No.827, Yogyakarta
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Yassalam Resto Jogja
Yassalam Resto stands as a cornerstone of authentic Arabian cuisine in Yogyakarta, specifically renowned for its mastery of traditional rice dishes like Mandi, Biryani, and Kebuli. Located conveniently in the Sleman area, it offers a culturally immersive dining experience where the emphasis is on slow-cooked, tender lamb and authentic spice blends that stay true to Middle Eastern roots. The restaurant's popularity stems from its generous communal platters and consistent quality, making it the top-tier choice for foodies seeking a genuine "taste of the desert" in the heart of Java.
Yassalam Resto Jogja
Jl. Timoho No.56, Yogyakarta
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