A Short Walk to Braga Street and Lunch at Braga Permai

 Bandung - After finishing my visit at the Asian–African Conference Museum, I decided to take a leisurely stroll towards Braga Street, one of Bandung’s most charming and historic areas. The walk was short and pleasant, taking me past colonial-era buildings, old shop lots, and lively sidewalks that still carry the nostalgic heartbeat of old Bandung. It felt like stepping from one chapter of history into another — from political significance to cultural charm.

As I approached Braga Street, the scene transformed into a vibrant stretch filled with cafés, boutique shops, restaurants, and creative displays. Despite being a relatively small street, Braga is packed with character. On both sides, you’ll find a mix of old Dutch architecture and modern touches, giving it a unique blend of Bandung’s past and present. The street is also known for local murals, vintage stores, and quirky items, making it a favourite stop for both tourists and locals looking for something special.

I decided to have lunch at Braga Permai, a long-standing restaurant that has been serving customers since the colonial days. It’s one of those places where you immediately feel a sense of nostalgia — from the white-tiled terrace to the classic décor that has remained faithful to its early roots. The atmosphere was calm and inviting, perfect for a break after a morning of walking.

For my meal, I ordered a mixed satay platter of mutton and chicken. To my surprise, the mutton satay was exceptionally tender, even more so than the chicken. It was juicy, flavourful, and grilled beautifully, making each bite satisfying. The chicken satay was decent, but the mutton definitely stole the show. 

I also tried their Rendang Nasi Goreng. The rice itself was aromatic and delicious, infused with the signature spices of rendang, but the beef was slightly tough — a contrast to the tender mutton I had enjoyed earlier.

To refresh myself, I ordered a whole young coconut, chilled and naturally sweet. There’s something wonderful about drinking fresh coconut water on a warm Bandung afternoon — pure, simple, and incredibly thirst-quenching.

After lunch, I continued my walk along Braga Street, exploring its small alleys and shops. The street may be short, but it is packed with interesting finds: handmade crafts, vintage artwork, local snacks, antique-style décor, and unique souvenirs. Each corner had something that caught my eye. Some cafés displayed pastries in glass counters, while others showcased Bandung’s growing art scene with paintings and handmade accessories.

The atmosphere was relaxed and delightful, with people taking photos, sipping coffee, and browsing through the small boutiques. The blend of creativity, history, and charm made my time on Braga Street feel both refreshing and inspiring.

Overall, this little afternoon journey — from the Asian–African Conference Museum to Braga Street — was a perfect mix of learning, culture, good food, and leisurely exploration. For anyone visiting Bandung, a stroll down Braga followed by a meal at Braga Permai is an experience not to be missed.