Ayam penyet has become one of the must-try culinary experiences for both locals and tourists in Surabaya. Famous for its crispy smashed fried chicken and spicy sambal, this dish is a staple in the city’s food scene. Many food lovers search for the most authentic, affordable, and delicious spots serving ayam penyet throughout Surabaya.
Culinary enthusiasts want to know the most popular ayam penyet spots that consistently attract crowds and receive excellent reviews. With diverse choices, from street-side warungs to modern restaurants, each place offers a unique twist in taste, sambal variety, and dining atmosphere.
1. Warung Ayam Penyet Jagir Wonokromo
This spot stands out due to its strategic location on Jalan Raya Jagir Wonokromo and long operating hours stretching from early morning to very late at night. Visitors can enjoy ayam penyet as early breakfast or even as late-night supper. The menu features not just chicken but also ikan pe (milkfish), lele (catfish), egg, and tempeh, all paired with their addictive spicy sambal. Average price per serving starts from just around twelve thousand rupiah, making it an affordable yet satisfying choice. The place’s authenticity and lively, laidback atmosphere deliver a truly Surabaya dining experience.
2. Ayam Penyet Surabaya Pak De
Known for its original recipe and consistently fresh ingredients, Pak De’s outlet is a favorite amongst students and office workers. The portion size is generous with crispy fried chicken laid over freshly smashed sambal. Sambal pedas (spicy chili paste) here is famous for its distinctive taste—spicy yet flavorful. Data from multiple food review platforms show that customers endorse its friendly price point and quick service. Families often visit due to its spacious seating and kid-friendly menu additions like fried tempeh and non-spicy side dishes.
3. Depot Ayam Penyet Bu Kris
Bu Kris is a household name when it comes to ayam penyet in Surabaya. The restaurant’s specialty lies in its ultra-tender fried chicken served with signature sambal and fresh vegetables. The menu also features beef, fish, and tofu options for variation. According to online testimonials, many regulars say the sambal is “unbeatable,” making it a main reason for return visits. The comfortable interior and strategic locations in major city areas add to its appeal for both dine-in and takeaway orders.
4. Ayam Penyet Ria
Ayam Penyet Ria is well-recognized for its modern hygiene standards while preserving home-cooked taste. The service is prompt, and customers have the flexibility to adjust sambal spiciness according to preference. Based on verified customer reviews, the chicken is marinated with a blend of traditional spices that seep deep into the meat, resulting in flavorful and juicy bites. Portion size and value have received positive mentions, making it a hit among a younger crowd seeking good taste at reasonable prices.
5. Warung Mbak Yani Ayam Penyet
Mbak Yani’s establishment impresses with its simple menu, focusing on quality rather than variety. Fried chicken is freshly made to order and paired with a generous scoop of their homemade sambal. Online food communities mention its quick turnover, a clear sign of continued popularity and trust from regulars. This warung typically serves more local foot traffic, contributing to the authentic East Javanese feel and affordable meal prices.
6. Ayam Penyet Surabaya Cak Mat
According to frequent diners, Cak Mat is valued for its balance between crispy outer and juicy inner chicken texture. Sambal is served in ample portions, often described as “very spicy but addictive.” The establishment’s informal setting encourages groups of friends and families to eat together, strengthening its image as a community favorite. With affordable pricing and consistent portion sizes, it garners favorable ratings online.
7. Ayam Penyet Bang Yos
Bang Yos brings a unique approach by integrating several types of sambal—there are at least three, catering to varying levels of spice tolerance. Each portion is complemented with fresh cucumber and basil, adding a refreshing touch. Based on customer insights on social platforms, Bang Yos maintains strict quality control, ensuring each serving meets their standard. Its central location makes it accessible for city commuters.
8. Warung Ayam Penyet Pandugo
Warung Pandugo is distinct for its home-style ambience and polite service. Diners point out that the fried chicken is always served hot and the sambal offers a sweet-and-spicy blend uncommon elsewhere. Vegetables are fresh and the rice is well-cooked, according to local guides’ reviews. This spot attracts loyal customers who value quiet settings away from busy downtown crowds.
Comparison Table of Popular Ayam Penyet Places in Surabaya
| Name | Notable Feature | Sambal Type | Price (start from) | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Warung Jagir Wonokromo | Late-night hours, local feel | Highly spicy | Rp 12,000 | 07.00 – 02.00/03.00 |
| Pak De | Generous portion, quick service | Pedas khas | Affordable | Standard mealtimes |
| Depot Bu Kris | Tender chicken, famous sambal | Signature | Mid-range | Business hours |
| Ayam Penyet Ria | Modern, customizable sambal | Mild-extra spicy | Affordable | Lunch-dinner |
| Warung Mbak Yani | Simple menu, always fresh | Homemade | Low | Standard mealtimes |
| Cak Mat | Community favorite, large portions | Pedas nagih | Affordable | Lunch-dinner |
| Bang Yos | Multiple sambal varieties | 3 types | Mid-range | Lunch-late night |
| Pandugo | Home-style setting, sweet-spicy | Unique blend | Low-mid | Standard mealtimes |
Each restaurant brings its own twist, whether it’s authenticity, sambal creation, or pricing. Factual reviews highlight that quality, affordability, and the “addictive” flavor of sambal are consistent attractions. Many diners value the flexibility of places like Warung Jagir Wonokromo, which open almost around the clock, offering reliable access to classic ayam penyet at any hour. For first-timers or seasoned foodies, exploring different spots can reveal the rich diversity of Surabaya’s ayam penyet culture. Searching for new taste experiences or reliable late-night meals, these eight recommendations can serve as your starting point to discover the famed spicy delight in Surabaya.
