KBRN, Surakarta: For generations of locals and tourists alike, Ice Cream Tentrem has been a beloved escape from the tropical heat in the Central Java's town of Surakarta, or Solo as it is more popularly known.

Established in 1952 by Mrs. Juwito, the legendary parlor has grown into a culinary icon while staying true to its roots. Today, it’s run by third-generation owner Didik Tedjo Saputro, who continues to uphold the family’s commitment to quality and tradition.

Its current outlet, opened in 2015, sits prominently at the Ngarsopuro intersection on Jalan Slamet Riyadi, Keprabon Village, Banjarsari Subdistrict, Surakarta City. The location is just steps away from Mangkunegaran Palace and Triwindu Market, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring Solo’s cultural heart.

Despite its modern setting, Ice Cream Tentrem retains its original handmade process and signature flavors crafted from natural ingredients. Known for being low in preservatives and gentle on the throat, the ice cream maintains its nostalgic charm while embracing innovation.

To keep pace with changing tastes, the current management has introduced a contemporary concept and expanded the menu significantly.

Today, the shop offers 21 distinct flavors of its signature “old-school” ice cream. Classic options like cocktail, chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry are joined by trendy favorites such as lotus biscuit, tiramisu, bubblegum, Oreo, red velvet, and a variety of fruit-based selections.

To further diversify its offerings, Ice Cream Tentrem serves es serut (shaved ice desserts), ice cream tarts, es kopyor (a coconut milk-based treat), klappertaart, and light snacks including lumpia (spring rolls), sausages, and croquettes (crispy potato bites filled with savory meat or vegetables).

For heartier appetites, the menu includes traditional Indonesian dishes like gado-gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce) and nasi langgi (rice served with assorted side dishes such as seasoned chicken and sambal goreng).

Originally located on Jalan Urip Sumoharjo No. 93 near Hardjonegoro Grand Market, Ice Cream Tentrem is more than a dessert shop; it’s a living piece of Solo’s culinary heritage.

The name “Tentrem", meaning “peace” in Javanese, reflects the founder’s vision of offering comfort through food. That spirit lives on in the shop’s tranquil, nature-themed interior dominated by calming green tones.

While the family remains committed to the original small-batch recipe and preparation methods, they’ve embraced innovation to stay relevant. With prices starting at just IDR 25,000 (USD 1.49), the parlor continues to attract a wide range of customers.

Best-selling treats include Tutty Fruity (a blend of chocolate and cocktail fruit ice cream), Banana Split, Ice Cream Sandwich, Belgian Waffle, Duda Keren (durian ice cream with real durian), and Mango Sensation.

The timeless appeal of Ice Cream Tentrem resonates with younger generations as well. Yogyakarta residents Naura and Nayla are among its enthusiastic fans.

Naura, who discovered the shop through social media, praised its nostalgic flavor. “It reminds me of childhood. The texture is coarse like traditional Indonesian ice cream, but the taste remains rich,” she said.

“I hope Tentrem continues to preserve its authentic and traditional taste. That’s what makes it special,” Naura added.

Nayla, meanwhile, was drawn by her passion for legendary ice cream parlors. Having long been hoping to visit Zangrandi in Surabaya and Ragusa Es Italia in Jakarta, Nayla considers Ice Cream Tentrem Solo’s equivalent. “The texture isn’t too creamy; it’s more icy, but still soft. The taste is unique and authentic,” she noted.

This enduring appreciation for Tentrem’s distinctive texture and flavor cements its status as one of Indonesia’s most treasured urban culinary institutions, which is irreplaceable, nostalgic, and proudly local. ***