Solo isn’t just famous for its traditional textiles like Batik; it’s also a culinary haven tucked away in Central Java, Indonesia. Locals proudly call it a food paradise, and after a little digging, I couldn’t help but agree. While on my way to Yogyakarta—a cultural hotspot just 63 kilometers away—I knew I had to make a pit stop here. Why? Because I had one thing on my mind: Soto Gading.

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My mom was on board too, though she was more interested in hunting for Batik. But for me, it was all about tasting the legendary Soto Gading—a traditional Indonesian soup made with savory broth, tender meat, and fresh vegetables. So, what makes this humble bowl of soup so special? Well, it turns out Soto Gading has earned itself quite the prestigious fan club. One of its most loyal patrons?

None other than former President Joko Widodo himself. Yep, the same Jokowi who once posted a photo on Instagram, happily enjoying Soto Gading with his family. That post sparked a culinary frenzy, turning this unassuming eatery into a social media sensation.

But Jokowi isn’t the only high-profile figure drawn to Soto Gading. Over the years, the place has hosted a lineup of former Indonesian presidents, including Soeharto, Gus Dur, Megawati Soekarnoputri, and Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. Each one has made at least one memorable visit to this iconic food spot. With three branches (Soto Gading 1, 2, and 4), I decided to hit up Soto Gading 1 since it was conveniently located near our hotel.

Little did I know, the place was bustling with hungry patrons. Whether it was the pre-New Year’s holiday crowd or just everyday chaos, we were lucky to snag a seat after only a 15-minute wait. First impressions? Humble. Really humble. I mean, considering presidents have eaten here, I half-expected a grander setup. Instead, it was just a small, typical roadside joint with no air conditioning and simple wooden tables crammed together. But you know what? That’s part of its charm.

My First Time Eating Chicken Bum

When we finally sat down, my eyes were drawn to the spread of side dishes laid out on the tables: satays of every kind—quail eggs, chicken skin, liver and gizzard, intestines, shrimp, and more. There were also fried goodies like tempeh, tofu, perkedel (potato cakes), and croquettes. It was like a street food buffet right on the table.

But let’s talk about Soto Gading. This traditional Indonesian soup features a clear, thick broth with shredded chicken, glass noodles, fried shallots, and sliced celery leaves. You get to choose between Regular Soto or Soto Brutu. And yes, I had to Google it: "Brutu" means chicken bum—you heard that right! I couldn’t help but laugh when I figured out what I was about to eat. The meat was surprisingly tender and juicy with a slightly chewy texture. Not your everyday chicken cut, but it definitely made for an interesting bite.

In true Javanese style, the rice was served mixed with the soup—a tradition that might surprise some from the western part of Java, where rice is typically served separately. It’s little details like these that reflect the cultural diversity of Indonesian cuisine.

A Quick Detour Into The Origins of Soto

As a Medanese, I’m used to bold, spicy dishes, and I have to admit, the broth didn’t quite hit the mark for me. It was light and subtly savory—not the explosion of flavors my tongue usually craves. Still, I can appreciate the Javanese style of cooking that focuses on simplicity and highlighting the natural taste of the broth. For the brave souls looking for a spicy kick, the restaurant offers two sauces: hot chili sauce and spicy soy sauce. I had read rave reviews on TripAdvisor about the spicy soy sauce being the secret to Soto Gading’s signature flavor.

Javanese cuisine has always been about subtle, savory flavors, influenced by centuries of royal tradition from the Kingdoms of Surakarta and Yogyakarta. They prioritize onions, garlic, and minimal coconut milk. This traditional Indonesian soup has a fascinating history rooted in cultural fusion. The word "Soto" itself is believed to have derived from the Chinese word "Cao do", which means a broth dish containing meat and vegetables.

Originally, Soto was inspired by Chinese-style soup, brought to Indonesia by early Chinese immigrants. Over time, the dish was adopted by locals and transformed with indigenous ingredients and spices, resulting in a diverse range of regional variations.

Every region in Indonesia has its own unique take on Soto. For instance, Soto Betawi from Jakarta uses rich coconut milk, while Soto Lamongan from East Java features a clear, yellowish broth. In Central Java, where Soto Gading originates, the broth is often clear and light, highlighting the savory simplicity that characterizes Javanese cuisine.

Like it or not, Soto Gading is still an experience worth having. Seriously, where else can you enjoy a legendary presidential breakfast for just IDR13,000 (about $1)!

How to Find Soto Gading

My one regret? Not ordering the warm sweet tea that everyone seemed to rave about. It’s said to have a distinct leafy flavor that pairs perfectly with the soto. Next time, I’ll definitely give it a try. As I’ve mentioned, there are actually three branches of Soto Gading scattered across Solo, and the good news is—they all serve the exact same menu and taste. So no need to stress about which one to pick. Whether you end up at the central branch (Soto Gading 1) or one of the others, you’re in for the same legendary experience. Just follow your gut (or whichever is closest) and dig in!

One little hiccup, though—if you’re driving a car, brace yourself. Parking right next to Soto Gading 1 is practically a mission impossible. There’s no designated parking lot, so you might end up leaving your ride a bit of a walk away. If you’re lucky, you could snag a spot at one of the small shops next door—but only if you’re early enough. So, be prepared to do a bit of strategic parking.

Here’s Where to Find Them:

Instagram: @sotogadingsolo

🥣 Soto Gading 1

📍 Jalan Brigjen Sudiarto No. 75, Joyosuran, Surakarta, Central Java, Indonesia

🥣 Soto Gading 2

📍 Jl. Veteran No. 285, Kratonan, Surakarta, Central Java, Indonesia

🥣 Soto Gading 4

📍 Jl. Brigjen Sudiarta No. 74, Joyosuran, Surakarta, Central Java, Indonesia

⏰ Operational Hours: 6 AM - 3 PM

Whether you’re aiming to satisfy your curiosity about why presidents keep coming back or just looking to try a true Javanese culinary classic, Soto Gading won’t disappoint. Pick a branch, park smart, and get ready for a one-of-a-kind experience!

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