This is Bojo's calling card — everything a rijsttafel should be, presented on one plate for one person instead of spread across a table. White rice forms the base; around it sit marinated beef, a fried egg, gado-gado style vegetables, crispy peanuts, pickled cucumber, spicy chicken, and a satay skewer with peanut sauce. Generous portions mean you're not leaving hungry. Reviewers describe it as authentically Indonesian and remarkably good for the price. It's been this way for decades and Bojo hasn't felt the need to change.
Tips from diners
At €16, this is one of Amsterdam's best values. The portion is hefty and the quality is genuine — no corners cut.
Order the mini-rijsttafel and a cold drink — the food is flavorful and generous, and this is the menu item Bojo is known for.
The satay comes as part of the mini-rijsttafel but can also be ordered separately. The meat is grilled and tender; the peanut sauce is thick and flavorful. For €5-6 per skewer, it's a solid value and a good option if you want to supplement a light meal.
Tips from diners
Order extra satay to share at the table — it's a good value and disappears fast.
The spicy chicken in the mini-rijsttafel brings real heat without being punishing. It's properly seasoned, the chicken is cooked through without being tough, and the sauce is savory rather than one-note hot. Part of what makes the rijsttafel work is this progression from mellow elements to spicy notes.
Tips from diners
Ask the kitchen for extra sambal on the side if you want to dial up the heat beyond what comes on the plate.
The rice is properly yellow from turmeric, fluffy rather than dense. Mixed through are chunks of chicken, hard-boiled egg, and vegetables. The spice is warm and present without being aggressive. This is a classic counterpart to the fried rice — gentler flavor profile, fragrant from turmeric and spices. Reviewers mention good variety and generous portions.
Tips from diners
Nasi kuning is a solid lunch option — lighter than rendang curry but more substantial than plain rice.
The nasi goreng is cooked rice fried with egg, chicken, shrimp, and scallions — straightforward and satisfying. The rice stays distinct grain-by-grain rather than clumping. The proteins are generous. Reviewers consistently praise the generous portions and taste quality. At €12-14, it's another good-value option when you want something simpler than the rijsttafel.
Tips from diners
Nasi goreng is quick to prepare — good for post-theater meals when you want to eat and leave in 30 minutes.
Bojo opened over 50 years ago on Lange Leidsedwarsstraat, steps from theaters and music venues in Amsterdam's Leidseplein district. The restaurant built a reputation for authentic Indonesian food at prices that didn't require a second mortgage — mini-rijsttafels for €16 or less, nasi goreng for €12. Artists perform nearby and often eat here after shows; the late 11pm-midnight hours mean it's as much a post-show spot as a dinner destination. The kitchen stays true to recipes without pretension.
This is a theater-crowd spot — come after 10pm for a quieter table, but know kitchen service slows as midnight approaches. Order 30 minutes before close.
No reservations needed — come whenever, especially between 4-6pm when tables are available and service is quick.
For €20-30 per person, you get a full meal with quality protein and sides. This is one of Amsterdam's best bargains for genuine Indonesian food. Pair it with a beer or soft drink and you're under €30 total.
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