Inside the Experience
RM Lontong Orari stands out as a culinary gem in the heart of Banjarmasin, Kalimantan Selatan. Nestled on Jl. Simp. Sei Mesa No.80, this traditional eatery is celebrated for its authentic lontong — a steamed rice cake delicacy that embodies the rich flavors of local Indonesian cuisine. The menu highlights two signature dishes: Lontong Sayur, featuring tender rice cake served with a fragrant young jackfruit curry cooked in creamy coconut milk, and Nasi Kuning, a vibrant yellow rice dish infused with aromatic spices.
The lontong at RM Lontong Orari is notable not only for its taste but also for its generous portions. Customers often recommend ordering the “separuh” or half portion to enjoy just the right amount, as the standard serving comes with a double portion of lontong, including options of chicken, haruan (snakehead fish), and egg. The combination of these proteins with the rich lodeh curry creates a harmonious blend of textures and spices – with the subtle sweetness of coconut milk balancing the savory and spicy notes.
From my experience, the culinary journey here is deeply satisfying. The lontong itself is tender, and the accompanying curries – especially the spicy red chicken curry and the haruan fish – deliver a powerful yet well-rounded heat that is characteristic of South Kalimantan’s local palate. The young jackfruit curry adds a unique, earthy flavor that complements the richness without overwhelming the senses. While some may find the coconut milk richness a bit heavy, it truly defines the authenticity and depth of the dish.
What makes RM Lontong Orari irresistible is not just its taste but the cultural ambiance, where diners often enjoy their meals in a traditional lesehan style, sitting comfortably on the floor. Despite minor service hiccups noted by some patrons, the overall experience offers a genuine taste of Banjarmasin’s culinary heritage. For visitors seeking an authentic Indonesian rice cake experience coupled with bold, spicy curries, RM Lontong Orari is a must-visit destination that leaves an indelible impression on the palate.
“ Taste the Lontong Dish, quite good, the nasi kuning dish also look great, will have it next time ”
“ A place where long range radio enthusiasts get together. Offering nasi kuning and the famous lontong (rice cake). Lontong served with 3 options: chicken, haruan (snake head / gabus) and egg. And if you just order one portion, they will serve you double lontong: BIG portion! Theredore, order "separuh" or half, and you will get 1 lontong portion. very nice and highly recommended. Affordable and will make you full for real (double lontong). ”
“ By far is the best lontong/rice cake meal I've ever tried in my culinary experience. The lontong itself was tender and blend perfectly with the Haruan fish or chicken along with Lodeh - curry soup made of jackfruit with coconut milk, which was the part of the whole set, will make your culinary journey in Banjarmasin complete. ”
“ Yes for nasi kuning menu. Ney for theirs favour lontong. Indeed,too sweet for me. Portions is quite large for them who eat in average size.price are reasonable ”
“ A very unique and tasty local food of Banjarmasin. It is very rich in coconut milk, some people might not find it healthy. But it does taste really good. I took away one star just because it wasn’t a good dining in experience for me. I came to the counter to order my food, but nobody seemed to be willing to take my order despite some staff was visibly joking in the nearby kitchen. ”