The Influence of Gastronomy on Culinary Tourism of Nasi Jamblang: A Case Study at Rumah Makan Nasi Jamblang Ibu Nur, Cirebon

Abstract

Background: Gastronomy—the scientific study of the relationship between culture and food—plays a pivotal role in shaping culinary tourism destinations. Nasi Jamblang, a traditional dish from Cirebon, West Java, Indonesia, is uniquely served in steamed teak leaf wrapping (daun jati) with an extensive variety of side dishes and carries significant historical and cultural heritage dating back to the Dutch colonial era. Rumah Makan Nasi Jamblang Ibu Nur, established in 2008, has grown from a roadside stall into one of Cirebon's recognized culinary landmarks. Purpose: This study aims to analyse the gastronomic influence on the culinary tourism of Nasi Jamblang with a case study at Rumah Makan Nasi Jamblang Ibu Nur, Cirebon, covering four gastronomic dimensions: history, culture, geographical landscape, and cooking method, as well as culinary tourism attraction factors including food quality, price, accessibility, environment, and menu diversity. Methods: A descriptive qualitative approach was employed. Five key informants were interviewed: the restaurant owner (Bapak Wachid Chozin), a Cirebon Tourism Office official (Bapak Iman Fachrurochman), a professional culinary expert (Chef Agus Prastyo), and two consumers (Bapak Firman Wijaya and Evan Ananta Mulyono). Data were collected through in-depth interviews, direct observation, documentation, literature review, and data triangulation. Results: Gastronomy positively and strongly influences culinary tourism at Rumah Makan Nasi Jamblang Ibu Nur. The establishment demonstrates strong attraction through its historically rooted recipe, cultural significance within Cirebon's heritage, strategic location near two railway stations, fresh daily ingredients, approximately 40 side dish varieties, and affordable pricing. Its primary promotional channels remain word-of-mouth and social media, with limited digital marketing development identified as the key growth obstacle. Conclusions: Nasi Jamblang constitutes an authentic and distinctive culinary tourism destination with strong gastronomic heritage. Government promotion, facility expansion, and active social media engagement are recommended to enhance its sustainable tourism potential.