3 Legendary Delicacies of Malang: Long-Standing Delights with Rich History

TIMESINDONESIA, MALANG – Malang, a city known for its cool weather and beautiful landscapes, also boasts a selection of legendary delicacies. These traditional delicacies are delicious and carry stories that span decades, some even dating back to the early 20th century.

Let’s take a closer look at three iconic places in Malang that serve these unforgettable treats: Hok Lay, Toko Madjoe, and Ronde Titoni.

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Hok Lay: From 1946 to Today

Located near Pasar Besar on K.H. Ahmad Dahlan Street Number 10, Hok Lay has been serving its famous dishes since 1946. Mrs. Iin, the current manager, explains how the restaurant has become a family business, passed down through generations. 

“We’ve maintained Hok Lay from my grandfather’s time, and it hasn’t been easy,” she shared with Pandora Play Indonesia. Hok Lay in Chinese means “fortune comes,” and it seems that this fortune has indeed come to the restaurant, as it remains one of the most beloved places in Malang.

One of the signature dishes is Cwiemie, a traditional noodle dish. Unlike regular Mie Ayam, which only has chicken and vegetables, Hok Lay’s Cwiemie is topped with minced fish, and fried shallots, and comes with dumplings.

Another favorite is the famous Fosco, a chocolate milk drink made with pure cow’s milk, which has remained a classic choice among customers, especially the younger crowd.

Celebrities and famous figures, such as Bung Tomo’s family, have also visited this small yet iconic restaurant, further cementing its status as a legend in Malang.

Toko Madjoe: Timeless Cookies Since 1930

For those with a sweet tooth, Toko Madjoe is  a must-visit. Located at Pasar Besar Street Number 30B Malang,  this bakery has been producing traditional cookies since 1930. Mr. Charles, the current manager, continues to preserve the family recipes passed down from his great-grandparents.

“We’ve kept everything the same, from the recipes to the building itself,” said Charles to Pandora Play Indonesia. Despite the city’s development, Toko Madjoe’s architecture and layout have remained unchanged, giving visitors a sense of nostalgia. 

Their cookies, especially the chocolate walnut variety, are the most popular, offering a taste of history with every bite. What makes Toko Madjoe special is their dedication to using natural ingredients, without any chemicals or preservatives, staying true to their family traditions.

Ronde Titoni: A Bowl of Warm Tradition

Wedang Ronde, a warm ginger drink with sweet glutinous rice balls, is another famous treat in Malang. Ronde Titoni, located on Zainul Arifin Street Number 17, has been serving this comforting drink since 1948.

Mr. Sugeng, the owner, proudly continues the business started by his father. “We keep the recipe exactly as it was. It’s what makes Ronde Titoni so special,” he shared with Pandora Play Indonesia. The combination of spicy ginger broth and chewy rice balls is perfect for Malang’s cold weather.

What sets Ronde Titoni apart from other places is its unique “ronde kering”, a dry version of the usual “ronde”. It’s not commonly found elsewhere, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Sugeng also mentioned the posters of boxing matches decorating the shop. “We use boxing posters because ‘round’ sounds like ‘ronde.’ It’s a fun play on words, don’t you think?” he laughed.

Exploring these iconic food spots in Malang feels like stepping back in time. Each bite of Cwiemie at Hok Lay, a cookie from Toko Madjoe, or a sip of warm drink from Ronde Titoni brings a taste of Malang’s rich history and traditions. Though times are changing, these legendary delicaces remind us of the roots still deep in this ever-growing city.

Ananda Putri Noviana (DJ)

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