Toko Oen (Semarang) Indonesia

Toko Oen, Semarang Overview

Toko Oen, often referred to as “Oen” is one of the most popular eating joints in Indonesia. It is also one of the oldest family-owned restaurants in the nation that is still run and maintained by the descendants of those who initiated this eatery. What started as an idea in 1910, is now one of the leading restaurants in Semarang. A genuine combination between Indonesian and Peranakan, Toko Oen is a great eating joints for those who want to experience a fusion between colonial and authentic Asian food.

This nostalgic spot can easily pass off as one of the few valuable places in the history of the country. It is generally difficult to separate Toko Oen from Semarang not only because it is truly one of the most iconic restaurants in this city but also because it is the convenient snack spot for locals and migrants in Semarang. The ambience of this place will leave you with a homely feeling with the glass jars and Dutch-style tablecloths that you will find here. All in all, this colonial restaurant is definitely a must-visit for the foodies.

Toko Oen is mostly known for its baked goods and dessert dishes such as pastries, cookies and cakes. However, this restaurant is special for its European, Continental and Chinese main courses. European dishes include pastas and French delicacies such as Macaroni, Spaghetti, Bolognaise, Cordon Bleu, etc. continental dishes include steaks, especially BBQ steak which is quite famous here and BBQ King prawns. Chinese dishes involve sate, Nasi Goreng and Bakmie Goreng. There are a number of soups and salads to choose from such as Gado-gado, Huzarensla, Salad Udang and Salad Telur. Appetisers include Gevulde Kip, Bitterballen, Loempia Toko Oen and Kroket. Desserts are most popular here and include Ice creams Dutch dishes such as Poffertjes, Theekrantjes Coklat, Kaasstengel and Savoy. Oen Symphony ice cream and Tutti Frutti are signature dishes.

History

The history of Toko Oen goes back to 1910 when Mrs. Niam Gien Nio (Omo Oen) decided to start a pastry shop in Yogyakarta. This is where Toko Oen was first established. In 1922, this placed expanded into an ice cream parlour and restaurant. The kitchen was based on Chinese, Indonesian and Dutch cuisines. By 1934, branches Jakarta and in Malang were opened. The nest year, they opened another branch called “Grill Room” in Semarang. In 1973, the branch in Jakarta was shut down and taken over by a Dutch Bank while the Toko Oen patent holder lost the ownership in the Malang branch. Thus, leaving the branch in Semarang with original rights. Till date, Toko Oen in Semarang prepares food in such a way that it seems like Grandma Oen’s food.

Tips

You can still taste free pastries.
Toko Oen is not a halal restaurant
You are advised to make a reservation.

How To Reach Toko Oen

The restaurant is located in Semarang, the address is JI, Permuda 52, Semarang, 50138. It is right next to Commonwealth Life P.T and is on JI Permuda Road. The closest airport to Semarang is Jenderal Ahmad Yani International Airport (SRG) which is around 7.9 kilometres (15 minutes) away from Toko Oen.

Visitors can take a cab, taxi or a bus from different locations in Semarang to the restaurant.