Well, at least according to Pak Irwan, a local who kept me company as we visited one of the most celebrated eateries in Makassar. “Warung Bravo has quite a large local following; it has also seen its fair share of tourists who are here on holiday. Although it offers various delights, most go crazy for its es pisang ijo,” said Irwan.

Besides the already famous duo coto (beef soup) and konro (beef rib soup), Makassar is also renowned for its es pisang ijo. I certainly did not to want to waste my opportunity in there, so I went straight to Warung Bravo. Rather small in size, the joint is housed in a shoplot on Jl. Andalas and has a capacity of around 15 to 20 customers.

Its unassuming, run-of-the-mill restaurant-like appearance belies its cozy environment – perfect for putting your feet up while indulging yourself with the local treats on offer, which include nasi campur (mixed rice), nasi goreng (fried rice), mie pangsit (wonton noodles), soto ayam (chicken soup), sate (satay) and rawon (black nut beef soup). However, es pisang ijo and es pallubutung (shaved ice with banana) remain as its specialties – and I ordered them both.

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The two desserts are quite similar in appearance. The difference lies in the banana used. Es pallubutung features plain banana, while the banana that you find in es pisang ijo is wrapped in green-colored flour dough. Both are served with bubur sumsum (rice pudding) and a splash of sweet syrup in one bowl. The use of a banana that has yet to fully ripen lends a rather solid texture to the proceedings.

Its bubur sumsum was top notch; I could feel its velvety texture and a hint of savoriness dancing on my palate. The syrup – Warung Bravo utilizes local Makassar syrup – brought a unique sweet flavor with a very distinct aroma to the party. You will not encounter such a sensational combination between savory and sweet anywhere else.

Open every day from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., one of the employees there informed me that Warung Bravo has a second branch in Makassar that was launched not too long ago.

Explore more Indonesian cuisine here. (kes)

Jl. Andalas, Makassar, South Sulawesi

Contact: 0411 361 5180

Open daily from 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Rp 40,000 (US$3) per person