I visited the original location of Garang Asem Masduki, which still has a very simple, warteg-style setup. To be honest, I came with no expectations at all. I ordered garang asem telur, nasi megono, and cumi ireng—and I was genuinely surprised by how much I enjoyed it. The garang asem itself was very unique. To me, it tasted like a combination of garang asem, sop janda, and rawon all in one bowl. It had that rich, savory depth with a slightly tangy profile, making it both comforting and interesting at the same time. Pairing it with nasi megono made the experience even more special, adding texture and a distinct local flavor. I also noticed they have otak and otot dishes on the menu, which made me curious—definitely something I’d like to try next time I’m in Pekalongan. Overall, I really liked the food. The only downside for me is the price, which feels a bit on the higher side for this type of setting—around IDR 41k for garang asem telur, 6k for nasi megono, and 15k for cumi. Still, it’s a memorable and unique dining experience that I’d happily come back to.

+3

As a staple local food restaurant, this place is recommended. Vegetarian friendly as we order a vegetarian friendly food as well and the side dishes have some multiple plant-based protein options. Non cash payment friendly-QRIS or card friendly. We love that the place is OG, the kitchen is open-there is a bar seating setting to watching how the prepare the food, and the place is clean! Oh bonus, there some busker going in an out to the restaurant, if you lucky will found the good one to hear.

+3

The atmophere of this place is very nice, the service is great. Servants were serving and answering our questions nicely. The toilets are clean and the musholla is good. The food are nice but my fella said the food is too sweet heheh.. for me, it was good. The price is worth and the drink was fresh. But the parking lot is too small!!

+3

Not a bad place for a quick bite. I think the base is rice with the garang asem soup. The soup is quite refreshing, highly recommended. Then you have the option of adding more dish to your rice like beef rendang, beef tendon, duck egg, mince meat, and many more to choose from. It's definitely a local delicacy worth checking out.

+2

Went to the other branch (sorry, I dont remember the street's name, definitely not the one near Alun-alun Pekalongan). It has an airconditioned room in front, but when you go inside, you'll be seated in a "pendapa" (semi outdoor) style room. The garang asem is a bit different from the one I had in another city. Their garang asem (beef) is light and sweet. Served with megana rice/ sega megana (rice with young jackfruit + crushed coconut + herbs), it's a local delicacy you should never miss when you are visiting Pekalongan.

+3