Established in 1986, Warung Bravo is recognised by the residents of Makassar as one of the best places to enjoy Es Pisang Ijo (shaved ice with banana wrapped in green-coloured flour dough). Well, at least according to Pak Irwan; a local who kept me company as we visited 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,”says Pak 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 such an opportunity, so I went straight to Warung Bravo. Rather small in size, the joint is housed in a shoplot on Jalan Andalas and has a capacity of around 15 to 20 customers.

Its unassuming, run-of- the-mill restaurant-like appearance belies its cosy environment – perfect for putting your feet up while indulging yourselves 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, its specialities remain its Es Pisang Ijo and Es Pallubutung (shaved ice with banana) – and I ordered them both.

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 an Es Pisang Ijo is wrapped in green-coloured flour dough. Both are served with Bubur Sumsum (rice pudding) and a splash of sweet syrup in one bowl. The use of plantain 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 savouriness dancing on my palate. The syrup – Warung Bravo utilises local Makassar syrup – brought a unique sweet flavour with a very distinct aroma to the party. You will not encounter such a sensational combination between savoury and sweet anywhere else.

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

You can also read this article on The Jakarta Post: The one ‘warung’ not to miss when visiting Makassar

Jl. Andalas, Makassar
T: 0411 361 5180
Open daily from 8am-10pm
Rp.40,000/US$3 per person