When you’re traveling in Yogyakarta, you can’t miss the local cuisine! And the one you definitely have to try is “Gudeg”!
I’ve heard that Gudeg is very sweet, so I’m a bit worried if I’ll like it… I haven’t tried it yet.
I want to recommend it even to people like you! Let me introduce you to “Gudeg Yu Djum,” a popular Gudeg restaurant in Yogyakarta.
In this article, we’ll thoroughly dissect the charms of “Gudeg Yu Djum,” a long-established Gudeg specialty shop that has been loved in Yogyakarta for over 70 years! From its less sweet flavor that appeals to the Japanese palate, to its extensive menu and convenient access information, we’ll deliver all the information you need for a perfect Gudeg debut. Be sure to read to the end and use it to help plan your trip to Yogyakarta!
1. Gudeg Yu Djum: The Story of a Beloved Institution
Takeout box | Gudeg Yu Djum Yogyakarta Restaurant
Gudeg Yu Djum was started in the 1950s by Mrs. Yu Djum from a small stall. Her passion for uncompromising ingredient selection and cooking methods, along with a unique taste, spread by word of mouth, and it has now grown into a representative famous restaurant of Yogyakarta, loved not only by locals but also by many tourists. Even after more than 70 years, the dedication from its founding is still passed down, and it continues to offer the same delicious taste.
The secret to Gudeg Yu Djum’s popularity lies in the rich and deep flavor of the slow-cooked jackfruit, the traditional recipe that hasn’t changed since its founding, and its “dry” gudeg, which is different from other shops. This “dry” cooking method concentrates the flavor and also makes it last longer, making it perfect for souvenirs.
2. Menu, Prices, and How to Order
Gudeg | Gudeg Yu Djum Yogyakarta Restaurant
At Gudeg Yu Djum, you can order a base of gudeg and combine it with your favorite toppings, such as chicken, beef, or egg. The exquisite match of the sweet and savory gudeg and the richness of coconut milk creates an unforgettable deliciousness.
Here are some representative menu items and their price range (as of January 2025, subject to change). A rough estimate in Japanese yen is also provided (calculated at 1 IDR = 0.008 JPY).
Gudeg Yu Djum Representative Menu
Gudeg Telur (Gudeg with egg): Approx. 25,000 IDR (approx. 200 JPY) – Simple is best!
Gudeg Ayam (Gudeg with chicken): Approx. 35,000 IDR (approx. 280 JPY) – The combination of gudeg and chicken is excellent!
Gudeg Daging (Gudeg with beef): Approx. 45,000 IDR (approx. 360 JPY) – The umami of the beef further deepens the flavor of the gudeg.
Gudeg Komplit (Gudeg with everything): Approx. 55,000 IDR (approx. 440 JPY) – Includes everything: chicken, beef, egg, and chicken skin krecek!
Let’s Try Ordering in Indonesian
Don’t worry if you’re not confident about ordering in Indonesian. Pointing is okay, but trying to order in simple Indonesian is part of the fun of traveling.
“Saya mau Gudeg Ayam, satu.”
→ “I’d like one Gudeg with chicken.”
“Saya mau Gudeg Komplit, dua.”
→ “I’d like two Gudeg with everything.”
“Minumnya, es teh tawar.”
→ “For my drink, I’ll have unsweetened iced tea.”
Notes on Ordering
It uses coconut milk, so be careful if you don’t like it.
It’s on the milder side, but if you don’t like spicy food, you can say “Tidak pedas” (not spicy).
Takeaway is also available. It’s also recommended as a souvenir.
3. Access to Gudeg Yu Djum
There are over 20 Gudeg Yu Djum locations in Yogyakarta city. Please visit a Gudeg Yu Djum near you.
4. Tips for Enjoying Gudeg Further: Reviews and Points to Note
Here are some tips for enjoying Gudeg Yu Djum even more, along with reviews from people who have actually visited.
What to wear/bring: The restaurant may have air conditioning, so it’s a good idea to have something to cover up. Payment is cash only, so be sure to have enough Indonesian Rupiah.
Crowds and waiting times: It can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays, so it’s a good idea to visit with plenty of time or avoid peak hours. At some locations, the wait can be over 30 minutes. Takeaway is also available.
Hygiene: It’s relatively clean, but if you’re concerned, it’s a good idea to bring wet wipes.
Voices from Social Media
Positive: “The jackfruit is exquisite!” “A must-eat when you come to Yogyakarta!”
Negative (and advice): “Quite sweet” → If you’re not a fan of sweet things, it’s good to eat it with a spicier sambal. “Only chicken was left” → They often sell out, so it’s better to visit earlier or call in advance to check. “The staff’s attitude was bad” → If you have an unpleasant experience, it’s best to respond with a firm attitude.
It’s a Nasi Gudeg shop. The menu lists the types of toppings. I don’t think it affects the basic taste. It’s a good idea to ask the staff for their recommendation when ordering. The ingredients in the photo are chicken thigh, beef, and tofu. The stewed jackfruit alone is delicious, but the toppings enhance the flavor even more. The tofu has a spicy seasoning that adds a nice accent. It’s not an unpleasant spiciness, but be careful if you’re not a fan of spicy food. You should definitely eat it when you come to Yogyakarta! (Is jackfruit like a fibrous, less flavorful pineapple? Strangely, the more you chew, the more a non-cloying sweetness fills your mouth. It’s a mysterious fruit.)
Japanese tourist: It’s quite sweet. I wonder if this is the taste of Indonesian home cooking. I finished my portion, but my three friends left theirs. As others have written, we were told that only chicken was left on the menu. The very sweet chicken? organs and the surprisingly spicy fried tofu? were interesting.
Gudeg is characterized by its sweet flavor. However, within that sweetness, a complex aroma of spices unfolds, and it’s a taste you won’t forget once you’ve tried it. Be sure to experience the authentic taste!
