Lesehan Food: Yogyakarta, Central Java

Yogyakarta is not only considered the cultural heart of Java, it is an epicureans delight with literally hundreds of restorans and warungs from which you can choose the delicious foods of Indonesia.

The city is also famous for its Lesehan food. Late afternoon, crudely constructed open front tents are erected, and by nightfall, the tempting odours of spicy fresh chicken and fish waft through the air. Such delights as Gudeg Yogya (jackfruit cooked in coconut milk and served with boiled rice and chicken), and Burung Darah (pigeon cooked to your liking and highly spiced) will tempt you.

Usually around 9pm when the shops generally close and the street vendors cover their stalls for the night, straw mats are laid out on the pavement where small tables are placed for the customers to sit and eat the delights of their choice. These places are great to acquaint yourself with the friendly locals and be entertained by the wandering minstrels who walk from place to place. The eating and the conversation go on into the early hours of the morning.