Menu of Tulang Jambal in Sukamaju, Bandung City, West Java, Indonesia

Menu Overview

Tulang Jambal, a Sundanese culinary gem nestled in the heart of Bandung at Jl. Cikaso No.91, offers a distinctive and fiery dining experience that truly stands out. Specializing in the titular "Tulang Jambal," a spicy dried salted fishbone soup, this restaurant invites you to savor a dish that is both unique and rich in local tradition.

The Paket Nasi Tulang Jambal is undoubtedly the highlight here. Served with fragrant white rice, this dish features intensely spiced broth infused with chili, shallots, and that characteristic pungent aroma from the dried jambal fishbones. Despite the minimal fish meat clinging to the bones, the seasoning penetrates deeply, creating a complex and layered flavor profile that lingers pleasantly on the palate. Customers have praised its authentic heat and savoriness, making it a must-try for fans of bold, spicy Indonesian cuisine.

Accompanying this flagship dish are several Sundanese classics that complement the meal beautifully. The Cah Kangkung and Kangkung Tumis bring fresh, leafy greens quickly sautéed with garlic and chilies, balancing the rich broth with brisk vegetal notes. The Tumis Tulang Jambal is another flavorful twist on the core ingredient, presenting the fishbones stir-fried for those who prefer a drier texture punctuated by savory spices.

To round out the meal, Tahu Garang Pedas offers a fiery tofu dish that highlights Sundanese affinity for heat, while the Sayur Asem acts as a refreshing, slightly tangy vegetable soup that cleanses the palate. The Nasi Ayam Goreng provides a textural counterpoint with its crispy, well-seasoned fried chicken. For seafood lovers, the Baby Asin Cumi—salted baby squid—adds a briny, tender bite that pairs excellently with the beverage choice of Teh Manis Hangat, which soothes and balances the meal’s fiery elements.

Reviews from patrons echo the sentiment that while the Tulang Jambal is a bone-centric dish with scarce meat, the depth of flavor and spiciness compensate incredibly. One diner described the experience as "Heavenly Taste!!", highlighting the addictive quality of dipping fish chips into the bold soup. Another noted the ambiance and live music, praising not just the food but the complete Sundanese dining atmosphere, enhanced by attentive service and ample parking.

My impression, after exploring Tulang Jambal’s menu, is that this establishment executes its niche with passion and authenticity. The dishes aren’t just meals; they are cultural expressions imbued with heat, aroma, and texture that evoke the Sundanese heartland. For those craving an adventurous palate filled with spice-laden seafood broths and complementary vegetable sides, Tulang Jambal delivers a memorable experience that remains true to its roots.