Surabaya: Where Culinary Heritage Meets the Future of Food Innovation By Writer on-the-Go | FavWrite for FAVSTYLE Magazine

Indonesia's vibrant port city of Surabaya is rapidly emerging as one of Southeast Asia's most compelling destinations, where centuries-old culinary traditions blend seamlessly with cutting-edge innovation. Often celebrated as Indonesia's second-largest city and a thriving commercial powerhouse, Surabaya offers far more than business opportunities. It invites travellers to experience a destination rich in culture, gastronomy, creativity, and warm Indonesian hospitality.

Opening ceremony of food expo in Surabaya featuring two robotic puppies named Udon and Ramen

During the recent international food exposition held at Grand City Surabaya from 18 to 21 June 2026, the city transformed into a vibrant showcase of flavours, craftsmanship, and technological advancement. The exhibition gathered food producers, culinary artisans, hospitality professionals, and international buyers under one roof, highlighting Indonesia's growing influence in the global food and beverage industry.

Another robotic feature in human-like figure Christopher Salim

Leading a delegation from Sabah, Malaysian visitors were welcomed by the Consul General of Indonesia in Kota Kinabalu, Noorman Affendy, who described Surabaya as one of Indonesia's most important industrial and manufacturing centres. Beyond its economic significance, the city continues to strengthen its position as a gateway for regional collaboration, particularly within the flourishing food processing and hospitality sectors.

Visiting booth exhibition with Bapak Noorman Affendy who led Sabah delegation to the expo

One of the exhibition's most memorable attractions demonstrated how technology is reshaping the visitor experience. Guests were greeted by three intelligent robotic hosts. Two charming robotic puppies named Udon and Ramen, alongside the humanoid Christopher Salim, interacted effortlessly with visitors using artificial intelligence, creating an atmosphere where hospitality embraced tomorrow's possibilities.

Yet amidst the technological marvels, Indonesia's rich artistic heritage remained firmly in the spotlight.

Joni Purwantoro, a skilled fruit carver from Jogja, one of the exhibitors

Joni's creation received admiration from visitors

Master fruit carver Joni Purwantoro from Yogyakarta captivated audiences with extraordinary sculptures meticulously crafted from fresh fruit. Self-taught over eight years and now an instructor at the prestigious Budi Mulia School of Culinary, his intricate creations, featuring birds, dragons, marine life, and personalised portraits, transformed ordinary produce into breathtaking works of edible art. His live demonstrations reminded visitors that culinary excellence is as much about storytelling as it is about flavour.

Various Indonesian products showcased at the food expo

The exhibition also celebrated Indonesia's remarkable agricultural diversity. Premium coffees, tropical fruits, artisanal products, traditional basketry, and value-added food innovations reflected the country's abundance of natural resources and entrepreneurial spirit. Every aisle offered new discoveries, inviting visitors to sample authentic regional flavours while exploring products destined for international markets.

Among the most popular experiences were the complimentary noodle tastings, where fragrant broths and richly layered Indonesian bumbu showcased the country's remarkable spice heritage. Every bowl reflected generations of culinary knowledge, presenting authentic flavours that continue to captivate food lovers across the globe.

The VIP tours

For discerning travellers seeking experiences beyond sightseeing, Surabaya offers the perfect blend of culinary exploration, cultural encounters, and meaningful business connections. Whether discovering local street food, dining in elegant restaurants, visiting vibrant traditional markets, or engaging with innovative food producers, the city provides an immersive journey into Indonesia's dynamic gastronomic landscape.

The culinary journey continues later this year as Indonesia prepares to host another major international food exhibition in Tangerang from 4 to 7 November 2026. Expected to welcome more than 1,000 chefs, culinary professionals, and international exhibitors, the event will feature world-class cooking competitions, coffee championships, gelato showcases, business matching sessions, and networking opportunities designed to foster regional partnerships.

Food sampling gave visitors a firsthand of Indonesia's rice and diverse cuisine

According to Tita Soendoro, Executive Director of Krista Interfood, the exhibition reflects more than three decades of commitment to connecting the global food and beverage community. She warmly extends an invitation to Sabah exporters and industry professionals to participate in this international gathering, strengthening collaborations that continue to bridge cultures through food.

As Southeast Asia continues to emerge as one of the world's most exciting culinary regions, Surabaya stands proudly at the heart of this movement. It is a destination where innovation complements heritage, where business flourishes alongside culture, and where every journey is enriched by unforgettable flavours.

Nasi  Padang a popular culinary delights also showcased its authentic dishes

For travellers with a passion for gastronomy, culture, and meaningful experiences, Surabaya is more than a destination.

It is an invitation to savour the future while celebrating tradition.