What to Buy in Sabang: A Foodie’s Paradise in Central Jakarta
If you are a traveler and wondering what to buy in Sabang, it is an understandable curiosity since this area is known for its tasty culinary scene.
Though this area is considered small since it is literally just one of the streets in the district, this small area stands out from the whole district in terms of a culinary standpoint.
Without further ado, let’s find out what to buy in Sabang!
Shortcuts
What to Buy in Sabang: Edible Finds
- Local Specialty Dishes
- Local Coffee and Traditional Bottled Drinks
- Packaged Snacks and Sweets
- Widely Favored by Locals
- Hidden Non-Food Treasures
Where to Stay Near Jalan Sabang
What to Buy in Sabang: Edible Finds
Sabang is surely the right place to explore local flavor, especially if you are travelers looking for an authentic experience in your designated travel area.
So, let’s take a look at the options below on what to buy in Sabang!
1. Local Specialty Dishes
If only you have ever tasted nasi uduk in Sabang, you know how irresistible it can be. Alongside nasi uduk, you can also try something like gudeg which is also an authentic local dish.
Here are some of the alternatives near this area:
- Warung Nasi Uduk Ibu Sum — Located right along Jalan Sabang, this humble stall is popular for its nasi uduk and sambal. They offer pre-packed sambal and bumbu uduk (nasi uduk spice mix) starting from IDR 25,000.
- Gudeg Jogja Bu Tinuk (Sabang Branch) — Though famous for gudeg, this spot also sells spiced krecek sambal and gudeg sauce packs that make for unique edible souvenirs. Each pack goes for around IDR 25,000–50,000 and keeps well for a few days.
Insider Tip: Ask if the sambal is travel-safe and sealed—some vendors will vacuum-pack it for you.
2. Local Coffee and Bottled Beverages
Coffee culture is deeply rooted in Jakarta, and Sabang has several beloved spots where you can grab a bag of beans or a bottled beverage to take home.
Here are some alternatives:
- Kopi Oey Sabang — A legendary coffee shop located on Jalan Haji Agus Salim. They roast and sell their signature blends of robusta and arabica. A 250g pack goes for around IDR 65,000. Open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Circle K Sabang — Open 24 hours and located right on Jalan Sabang, Circle K is a handy stop for grabbing bottled cold brews, milk teas, and local canned drinks. While not artisanal, they make practical drink souvenirs or refreshers after a street food crawl. Most items range from IDR 10,000 to 25,000.
Insider Tip: Store the bottles in your hotel minibar before packing them to keep them fresh during travel.
3. Packaged Snacks and Sweets
From crunchy keripik to traditional sweets, Sabang has a variety of local treats perfect for gifting—or snacking on yourself.
Here are some places you can try to find local snacks and sweets:
- Toko Kue Subur — A local favorite offering dried snacks like keripik singkong, rempeyek, and mini bagelen. Prices start from IDR 10,000 to 40,000, depending on size and flavor.
- Convenience Stores along Jalan Sabang — Indomaret and Alfamart in this area stock quick snacks like kripik singkong, roasted peanuts, wafer rolls, and bottled teas. While not traditional, they’re easy to pack and satisfy cravings on the go.
Insider Tip: Choose individually packed snacks if you are planning to share with others or bring them through airport security.
4. Widely Favored by Locals
One of the best answers to “what to buy in Sabang” is actually an experience. Walking through Sabang’s food stalls is a feast for all senses.
- Martabak Bangka — Located right on Jalan Sabang, this vendor is a local favorite for sweet martabak with toppings like cheese and chocolate. While the martabak itself is best eaten fresh, you can also purchase their signature topping jars starting from around IDR35,000.
- Sate Jaya Agung — A staple of Jalan Sabang’s street food scene. While you can’t pack the satay itself, their signature peanut sauce is sometimes sold in takeaway jars (IDR 30,000–50,000).
Insider Tip: Visit between 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM to catch the full vibe of Sabang’s bustling night food culture.
5. Hidden Non-Food Treasures
Though not commonly sought after by travelers, but a few shops off Jalan Sabang offer finds beyond food.
These are places to find it:
- Sarinah Department Store (Souvenir Section) — Just around the corner from Jalan Sabang, Sarinah’s curated souvenir area includes tote bags, mugs, and mini crafts featuring Jakarta and Batik designs. Items typically range from IDR 50,000 to 150,000.
- Pasar Baru Accessory Vendors (10 minutes away) — If you’re willing to explore slightly outside Sabang, Pasar Baru offers affordable jewelry and quirky trinkets that make for fun souvenirs.
Insider Tip: These items aren’t always on display—ask the vendor if they have other crafts behind the counter.
Where to Stay Near Jalan Sabang
After exploring Sabang’s culinary scene, having a nice place to rest nearby would be good for you.
Here are some of the options you might want to consider:
Located right on Jalan Haji Agus Salim, this hotel is a 1-minute walk to street food hotspots like Sate Jaya Agung, Martabak Bangka, and Kopi Oey. A top pick for foodies who want everything right at their doorstep.
Just 5 minutes walk to the start of Jalan Sabang, this hotel offers quick access to Sarinah, local art stalls, and nearby convenience stores. It’s ideal for travelers who want both culinary and cultural experiences.
About 10 minutes by car from Jalan Sabang, this location gives you better access to broader shopping areas like Pasar Baru while still being close enough to swing by Sabang for dinner and snacks.
Insider Tip: Book a weekday stay to enjoy fewer crowds and more relaxed dining experiences.