JAKARTA, Jakartaweekly.com—For many Indonesians, Independence Day is not only about celebrating the country’s history but also about looking for food deals. As Indonesia marks its 81st Independence Day on August 17, 2026, restaurants and food chains are offering a range of special promotions.
From buy-one-get-one deals and affordable sharing meals to special menu bundles, these Independence Day promotions can be an option for those planning to dine with friends or family. Some deals are also tied to Indonesia’s Independence Day numbers, making them part of the festive atmosphere.
Here are five food and drink promotions to look out for as Indonesia celebrates August 17, 2026.
Pepper Lunch is marking Indonesia’s Independence Day with its Merdeka Buy 1 Free 1 promotion, which runs from August 12 to 17, 2026. Customers with one of 17 selected Indonesian names can receive Beef & Chicken Pepper Rice with Egg for free when they purchase Pepper Steak.
The promotion is available specifically to customers whose names match the designated list. The names include Wahyu, Agung, Wulan, Citra, Dian, Dwi, Dewi, Ayu, Indah, Fitriani, Sari, Rizky, Adit, Ardi, Bayu, Fajar and Agus.
Customers who want to claim the deal should bring a valid identification card. The promotion offers a simple way to turn a name into an Independence Day food deal.
Bakmi GM is also joining the Independence Day celebrations with its GMakbar Merdeka program. The promotion features three sharing meal options with dishes ranging from chicken noodles and fried chicken to fried rice.
Each package is designed to be shared by around three to four people. With prices starting at around Rp30,000 per person, the promotion can be an option for families or groups looking for a more manageable dining budget.
HokBen has introduced a special Independence Day package called Bento 17. The promotion offers three menu options, with prices starting at around Rp53,637.
Customers can also choose from several Indonesian-style sambal options to suit their preferences. Choices include sambal bawang, sambal ijo and sambal matah.
The promotion is available at participating HokBen outlets across Indonesia. However, outlets in the Sulawesi region are excluded, so customers should check availability before visiting.
Roti O is celebrating Independence Day with its Proklamasi promotion. One of the deals allows customers to buy four pieces of bread and receive one additional piece for free, subject to the applicable terms.
Customers can also get a sundae for Rp5,000 after purchasing two pieces of bread under the promotion. These bundle offers may be useful for customers who are already planning to buy several items.
Ichiban Sushi is joining the Independence Day festivities with its Merdeka Hemat promotion. According to the restaurant’s Instagram account, @ichibansushi_id, customers can order a Ramen Package priced at Rp89,000.
The package includes Gyuniku Teriyaki Ramen or Tori Abura Ramen, Crispy Crab Sticks and two boxes of Tehbotol Sosro. Another option is the Sushi Package, also priced at Rp89,000, which includes Dory Mentai Roll, Top Gun Roll, Crispy Crab Sticks and two boxes of Tehbotol Sosro.
The Ichiban Sushi promotion is available through GrabFood, GoFood and ShopeeFood. Customers should check the latest availability and terms before placing an order, as promotional conditions may change.
Food promotions can make an Independence Day gathering more affordable, but customers should check the details first. A few simple steps can help avoid unexpected costs or disappointment.
First, check the promotion period. A deal that looks attractive may no longer be available when customers visit the restaurant.
Second, make sure the chosen outlet is participating. Some promotions apply only to selected branches or exclude certain regions.
Third, read the terms and conditions carefully. Pay attention to requirements related to names, payment methods, minimum purchases and other restrictions.
Finally, set a budget before dining out to keep your spending under control. These Independence Day food promotions can make celebrations more affordable, but always check the latest terms and availability before making a purchase.