Whenever you come to Solo (Surakarta), one place you should never miss is Pasar Gede Surakarta. This market is more than a shopping center; it is a living story of the city. Pasar Gede Surakarta has undergone significant changes since its early days, and there are several local delicacies worth trying. We’ll share some insider tips so you can enjoy your visit like a local and have a truly memorable experience.
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History of Pasar Gede Surakarta
Pasar Gede Surakarta, also known as Pasar Gede Hardjonagoro, is one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in Solo. The name “Gede” means “big/huge” in Javanese, referring to the market’s large roofed space and its central role in city life.
The market building was designed by Dutch architect Thomas Karsten and was officially completed around 1930 during the colonial period. Before the current building, there was already trade at the site for many decades, even before Solo’s formal urban planning.
In earlier times, nearly everyone came to trade produce, livestock, spices, and daily necessities. Now, it is a blend of tradition and tourism: many stalls still sell fresh vegetables, meat, and herbs, but you also see an increasing number of food vendors, souvenir sellers, and even spots catering to street-food lovers. While the basic structure is preserved, renovations have been made to maintain the building and adapt it to modern use.
Today, Pasar Gede is declared a heritage market and often plays a role during cultural festivals in Solo, especially during Chinese New Year, Imlek, and local celebrations.
Culinary Exploration at Pasar Gede Surakarta
One of the main reasons people come to Pasar Gede is the food. In its busy alleys, you’ll find many authentic dishes that carry Solo’s flavor. Here are some must-try items you should not skip.
1. Dawet Telasih
Everyone loves Dawet Telasih. In Pasar Gede, there are a bunch of stalls where you can try this treat. Dawet is made from rice jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup, served over ice. The ‘Telasih’ (basil seeds) adds a unique texture to the drink. It’s sweet, refreshing, and the perfect treat for a hot day.
2. Timlo Sastro
Timlo is a traditional Solo soup, and Timlo Sastro is one of the more famous versions. This dish has a clear, warm broth mixed with chicken, shredded egg, bits of sausage or liver, and sometimes potato cubes or vermicelli. It’s light, comforting, and often consumed at breakfast or late at night by locals. You’ll find it in small warung corners inside or around the market.
3. Tahok Pak Citro
Tahok is a unique drink/dessert made from silky soy-based pudding (locally known as kembang tahu), ginger, palm sugar, and herbs. Tahok Pak Citro is one of the iconic stalls located in front of the western area of Pasar Gede. The warm, mild sweetness and silky texture make it beloved by the locals & tourists.
4. Nasi Liwet Bu Sri
Nasi Liwet is a Javanese savory rice cooked in coconut milk and aromatic herbs, served with side dishes like shredded chicken, tempeh, and sambal. Bu Sri is a well-known stall that offers this hearty meal, often on the second floor or near the inner wings of Pasar Gede. It’s ideal for lunch or a filling midday meal.
5. Ayam Panggang Bu Kas
Ayam Panggang (grilled chicken) is the most common Javanese dish. Bu Kas is a vendor inside or near Pasar Gede that grills marinated chicken, serving it with rice, sambal, and sometimes lalapan (fresh herbs/vegetables). It’s smoky, flavorful, and often eaten in the evening.
- Operating Hours: Open 24 hours (though many vendors open from about 8 AM – 5 PM)
- Location: Jl. Jend. Urip Sumoharjo, Sudiroprajan, Jebres, Surakarta
- Instagram: @pasargedeofficial
Visiting Pasar Gede Surakarta is like stepping into a living museum of food, trade, and local life. At the end of your day, you’ll have a deeper sense of Surakarta’s culture.