As a professional chef, I’m always on the hunt for authenticity. While many people are searching for the next “trendy” spot, Doris WithaD and I find ourselves constantly drawn back to one of the best Asian restaurants in the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood area: Krakatoa Indonesian Cuisine.

Across multiple visits—including a fresh taping of Who’s at The Chef’s Table and a subsequent return to dive even deeper into the regional menu—we have experienced a level of culinary dedication that is truly rare. Located at 1910B Hollywood Blvd, Krakatoa is a vibrant gem that brings an authentic taste of the archipelago to South Florida.

The Rijsttafel Experience: A Fresh Taping
During our visit for Who’s at The Chef’s Table, we let Chef Abe take the wheel for what can only be described as an Indonesian Omakase. Our exploration centered around the Rijsttafel platter, a spectacular feast that showcased the kitchen’s range:

Rendang Sapi: This was, quite simply, a revelation. Known as Indonesia’s crown jewel, this slow-cooked beef is rendered in a rich reduction of coconut milk, garlic, and kaffir lime. The bumbu merah seasoning is the real deal—a dish I could enjoy every single day.

Chicken Sate: These perfectly grilled skewers offered a bright, familiar comfort. Bathed in Chef Abe’s homemade peanut sauce and signature sweet soy, they provided a flawless balance of savory and sweet.

Lamb Opor: The freshness of the ingredients shone through. Simmered with turmeric, galangal, and lemongrass, the coconut milk gave it a silky, vibrant finish.

Beef Semur: A Javanese specialty featuring an earthy, rich sauce of cardamom, cloves, and star anise. It was brilliantly put together—a deep and soulful celebration of flavor.

The experience was rounded out by Nasi Kuning (coconut turmeric rice) and Krupuk (addictive garlic and tapioca chips) that Doris WithaD could not get enough of. These elements provided the perfect crunch and aromatic base for the bold spices.

The Highlight Reel: Diving Deeper
In a subsequent revisit, we had the pleasure of exploring several traditional recipes that are rarely found outside of Indonesia, and the execution was flawless:

Gecok: Hailing from the island of Sumbawa, this dish features a complex profile of roasted black sesame, galangal, kaffir lime, and coconut milk. The aromatics of the sautéed shallots paired perfectly with the protein. It’s a savory, earthy experience that every diner in Broward County needs to try.

Indonesian Singang: This dish is personal, originating from Chef Abe’s mother. It features sautéed shrimp and fish swimming in a mouth-watering broth of tamarind, turmeric, basil, and candlenut. Using their signature Bumbu Samawa seasoning, the balance of acidity and spice makes it one of the most refreshing seafood dishes in Hollywood.

Chicken Sepat: A childhood favorite of Abe’s from Nusa Tenggara Barat. The chicken was grilled to perfection and then lightly tossed in a tangy, bright sauce made of lime, tomatoes, candlenut, and shallots. The smokiness of the grilled chicken against that citrusy “pop” is a total game-changer.

Why It’s a Top Pick for Hollywood Dining
At our company, we pride ourselves on vetting establishments through a professional lens, and Krakatoa passes every test. From the story of John’s “Don’t say no” trip to Indonesia that inspired the restaurant’s soul to the meticulous prep work of Chef Abe, every spice profile is respected and no corners are cut.

If you’re tired of the same old dining options and want a culinary experience that is as delicious as it is authentic, make the trip. Support this local “Mom and Pop” and experience the real flavors of Indonesia right here in South Florida.

Essential Details
Cuisine: Authentic Indonesian

Address: 1910B Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, FL 33020

The Hook: The “Crown Jewel” Rendang Sapi, the aromatic Lamb Opor, and the massive Rijsttafel feast.

Tip: If you like heat, ask for the Sambal. They have a scale from “Mild” to “Indo-Spicy.” We recommend starting mild to truly savor the multitude of complex flavors! Tag us @SoFloDining to share your spicy adventures.