Going on holiday in Indonesia typically involves buying souvenirs as well. Most people buy traditional Indonesian food souvenirs when they go out of town or on vacation.
If you are visiting cities in Indonesia, such as Pekanbaru, you should learn about their local souvenirs.
What are the must-buy souvenirs from Pekanbaru? This article lists some of the best souvenirs from Pekanbaru that you can buy for your loved ones!
Recommendations of Souvenirs of Pekanbaru
Pekanbaru has many unique souvenirs you can take home for your family. Here are some recommended souvenirs from Pekanbaru you should know about:
1. Bolu Kemojo
The first souvenir is bolu kemojo. This traditional cake is one of Pekanbaru’s signature delicacies and reflects the region’s rich cultural heritage. It is made from glutinous rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar.
Interestingly, bolu kemojo was initially only served at special occasions and formal ceremonies, such as Eid celebrations, weddings, and death commemorations. However, today you can buy bolu kemojo as a souvenir for your family and friends.
2. Lempuk Durian
Pekanbaru is popular for its abundance of durians, so you should consider buying lempuk durian, a traditional souvenir from the city. Lempuk is a type of dodol with a chewy texture and a sweet taste that is loved by tourists.
3. Durian Pancake
Durian pancake is a traditional souvenir from Pekanbaru made of durian. You shouldn't miss this delicacy because of its growing popularity. It combines the soft texture of the pancake with rich durian filling, making it a favorite among many people.
4. Lopek Bugi
Lopek bugi is a small snack that many tourists enjoy when they visit Pekanbaru. Lopek, or lepat bugi, is made of pandan leaves, coconut milk, rice flour, and sticky rice. You can also choose lopek bugi made with white or black glutinous rice.
5. Dodol Kedondong/ Ambarella Dodol
In Indonesia, ambarella, or kedondong, is often found in rujak (fruit salad). However, in Pekanbaru, it is processed into a chewy dodol.
This dodol combines the signature chewy texture of dodol with the tangy flavor of kedondong, making it a unique souvenir to bring home from Pekanbaru.
6. Kacang Pukul
Kacang pukul is one of the favorite souvenirs among tourists visiting Pekanbaru. This savory snack is made of fried peanuts mixed with spices, giving it a crunchy texture and a savory, slightly spicy flavor.
This snack is similar to enting-enting from Java, which is also made of peanuts. Kacang pukul can be enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
7. Kue Bangkit/ Bangkit Cookie
This small cookie is made of sago and cassava flour, resulting in a soft texture. This cookie is named kue bangkit because it expands during the baking process. It comes in various unique shapes, making it an excellent choice for a souvenir
8. Salai Ikan Patin/ Silver Catfish Salai
Aside from durian, Pekanbaru is also popular due to its abundant silver catfish. Interestingly, this fish can be made into a unique souvenir known as salai ikan patin.
This dish is made from smoked patin fish, allowing it to last longer. You can also cook salai ikan patin into pindang, gulai, or other traditional dishes.
9. Keripik Nanas/ Pineapple Chips
Another widely available local product in Pekanbaru is pineapple. Don’t miss pineapple chips as a souvenir from the city.
Pineapple chips can be enjoyed during your trip home. They are also packaged properly to help preserve their freshness and extend their shelf life.
10. Peyek Jangkrik/ Cricket Chips
If you are interested in unique souvenirs, don’t forget to buy cricket crackers. These crackers have a savory and crispy texture and can be enjoyed either as a side dish or as a snack on their own.
This concludes our list of souvenirs from Pekanbaru that you can take home. From unique treats to popular local specialties, don’t forget to buy some for your loved ones at home.
During your holiday, make sure to stay hydrated by meeting your daily fluid needs and drinking #AQUADULU.
You can bring AQUA bottled water in sizes ranging from 330 mL and 600 mL to 1,500 mL to stay hydrated during your trip to Pekanbaru and while exploring the capital city of Riau Province.
Why #AQUADULU? It’s important to remember that not all bottled water is AQUA. AQUA is sourced from 19 carefully selected mountains across Indonesia and contains natural minerals, providing a naturally refreshing taste even without refrigeration.
AQUA is safe to drink and is halal-certified, as well as certified by Indonesia’s relevant food safety authorities and the Indonesian National Standard (SNI). Ensure that you and your family stay hydrated by bringing AQUA during your holiday. AQUA: 100% Pure, 100% Indonesia, and 100% Halal.

