Menu of Aroma Coto Gagak in Mariso, Makassar City, South Sulawesi, Indonesia

Menu Overview

Aroma Coto Gagak, located on Jl. Gagak No.27 in Makassar, is a distinguished South Sulawesi restaurant known for its authentic take on traditional Indonesian flavors. The restaurant specializes in Coto Makassar, a fragrant beef soup rich in spices and steeped in local heritage. What stands out is the meticulous preparation of the broth, cooked in a heated cauldron over firewood, infusing it with a deep, smoky aroma that enhances the overall savoriness.

The menu boasts highlights like Coto Makassar Gagak, Coto Daging Sapi, and Coto Gagak Campur. Each bowl delivers a complex blend of spices balanced by tender cuts of beef and, for those who prefer, a mixed selection including beef organs such as paru (lung). The broth is thick yet smooth, reminiscent of Pallu Basa, another regional specialty, but distinct in its unique layering of flavors.

Patrons often praise the hearty portions of meat that belie the initial appearance on the plate. This generosity in serving tender, flavorful beef ensures a satisfying and comforting meal. Additional accompaniments like ketupat (compressed rice cakes), bawang goreng (crispy fried shallots), and daun bawang (scallions) perfectly complement the coto, allowing diners to customize each bite.

The experience is further elevated by thoughtful side offerings such as burash—cassava snacks served with chili sauce—which add a delightful textural contrast and a spicy kick. Beverages like Es Teh (iced tea) and Teh Pucuk provide refreshing balance to the rich flavors. The ambiance is inviting, featuring a non-smoking section for those who prefer a smoke-free environment, while parking options along the roadside make accessibility straightforward.

What truly resonates is the harmony of tradition and taste. While the price remains affordable, around IDR 20,000 per bowl excluding ketupat, the quality and authenticity deliver far beyond expectations. Aromatic, robust, and satisfying, Aroma Coto Gagak is not just a meal but a cultural experience—a place where every spoonful tells a story of South Sulawesi’s culinary heritage.

For anyone seeking a genuine taste of Makassar’s iconic coto, this restaurant is a must-visit. The rich, spice-laden broth, tender beef, and thoughtful accompaniments promise a memorable and deeply satisfying culinary journey.