Oslo welcomed on 30 January 2025 its first Indonesian restaurant, Boboko, located in the Vika Nationaltheatret area at Via Village. The grand opening was graced by the presence of Indonesian Ambassador to Norway and Iceland, Tengku Faizasyah, who highlighted the restaurant’s significance as the only Indonesian dining establishment in Oslo.
Boboko offers a modern take on the traditional warung concept, serving authentic Indonesian dishes that promise to introduce the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia to the Norwegian capital. The event also featured a showcase by local artist Irene Indriasari, adding a cultural touch to the celebration.
Boboko, which means “bowl” in Sundanese, is a West Javanese tradition of sharing food from a large communal bowl. It symbolizes togetherness and hospitality.
“Boboko is not just about food, but also about relationships and love,” said Diana, one of the owners said according to the Indonesian media rri.co.id.
While Boboko’s name is Sundanese, its menu extends beyond Sundanese cuisine. It offers a diverse range of Indonesian dishes, such as fried rice with chicken or lamb, fried noodles, grilled chicken, maranggi satay, ayam geprek (smashed fried chicken with chili), Padang rice, soto Betawi (Betawi-style coconut soup with beef), gado-gado (Indonesian-style salad with peanut sauce), cendol (pandan jelly drink served in coconut milk), and es teller (beverage made of shredded ice, syrup, and fruits).
Diana and her team use only authentic Indonesian spices imported from the Netherlands to maintain authenticity.
“You see, not all spices can be found in Norway, and even if they can, the taste differs from the authentic Indonesian taste. I even had to grow turmeric myself,” said Diana.
The event also featured a showcase by local artist Irene Indriasari, adding a cultural touch to the celebration.
