The best ramen in Pekanbaru? I tried it for you, and I have something to say.
qponx
2026-03-06
Curious about the bustling Halal ramen joint in Pekanbaru Mal? This honest review breaks it all down. Discover if the signature Tori Ramen and juicy Chicken Karaage live up to the hype. While the flavors are a hit, be warned about salty broth, smaller portions, and chaotic service during peak times. Get the full scoop, including insider tips on how to save money and enjoy a better dining experience before you go.
Every time I pass by this ramen place at Pekanbaru Mal and see it bustling with people, I always wonder: can a chain brand really live up to the title of "best in the city"? 🤔 I was craving something warm today, so come on, I'll take you to check it out!
The flavor is on point, but don't get your hopes up too high
As soon as I sat down, the modern Japanese-style design paired with Japanese songs created a pretty good atmosphere, perfect for coming to Nongkrong with friends [1]. I flipped through the menu and got straight to the point, ordering their signature Shem Signature Tori Ramen[2].
The soup came out quickly. The first sip, hmm... the richness of the chicken broth was there, and the chicken was quite tender. Most importantly, the whole place is Halal, with no pork or alcohol, so our Muslim friends can go for it without worry [3]! The fried chicken in the Chicken Karaage Ramen[4] my friend ordered really impressed me—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, Anjay, and so juicy!
Don't be too quick to praise, here come the complaints!
Alright, enough with the praise, let's get real.
Although the broth is rich, for someone like me who prefers lighter flavors, it was really a bit on the salty side[5]. And the portion size... how should I put it? For guys or big eaters like me, one bowl will probably only get you about 70% full, leaving you wanting more[6].
The service is also a matter of luck. Once it gets crowded during meal times, the waiters and waitresses are clearly overwhelmed. Calling out to them is like they can't hear you; trying to get a water refill depends on fate[7].
✍️ Editor's Key Takeaways: Tips to Avoid Pitfalls & Save Money
For those who don't want to make a mistake, listen to me:
- 1. What if the soup is too salty? Don't just suffer through it! Tell the staff directly. Their attitude is super nice, and they'll help you fix it. Gotta give them a thumbs up for this, Mantap![8]
- 2. Ordering is a bit confusing! The ramen and sushi are in two separate areas. If you want to eat both, the ordering process is a bit weird; you might need to pay for the ramen first. If you're afraid of the hassle, just stick to one thing[9].
- 3. Don't be a fool and pay full price! You must check their Instagram! They often have weekday specials, employee discounts, and other promotions. You can save enough for a cup of coffee with just a few taps[10]!
- 4. Avoid peak hours! If you don't want to wait for a table or experience the "deaf" service, just go outside of the main lunch and dinner peak hours. The experience will be much better.
- Halal ramen! Pork & alcohol-free, serving authentic Japanese flavor that's Muslim-friendly. [1]
- A delicious surprise! The Chicken Karaage Ramen has crispy, tender, juicy karaage that will make you shout "Anjay"! [2]
- Awesome vibes! Modern Japanese decor and J-pop tunes create a Tokyo street vibe, perfect for hanging out with friends. [3]
Similar Articles
From Hidden Gem to Noisy Market: What Happened to This 4.7-Star Cafe?
Once a quiet hidden gem, the 4.7-star Barak Kopi has transformed into a bustling, noisy hotspot. This article explores what happened, detailing the now-crowded atmosphere, exceptionally long wait times, and standard-tasting coffee. While the vibe might be perfect for lively group hangouts, it's no longer ideal for those seeking a peaceful corner to work or chat. Find out if this popular cafe, a victim of its own fame, is still the right spot for your next coffee run.
A 4.9-Star 'God-Tier' Spot on Google? I'm Here to Give You the Real Scoop
Is Pekanbaru's 4.9-star Kopitiam truly "god-tier"? This honest review spills the tea. While the retro vibe is perfect for photos and the rich Singapore Laksa is a must-try, there are major drawbacks. Prepare for a parking nightmare, a noisy atmosphere when crowded, and some hit-or-miss dishes. The article provides the real scoop, weighing the delicious highs against the frustrating lows, complete with tips to make your visit worthwhile and enjoy this trendy eatery.
Only 10k IDR per person! This café in a flower shop is criminally cute
Discover a hidden gem in Pekanbaru! Tucked behind a flower shop, Celupin Cafe is a super cute and cozy escape with a lovely floral scent. With prices starting from just 10k IDR, it's perfect for a chill afternoon. Don't miss the adorable, wobbly Jiggly Cat Pudding and delicious Roti Bakar. It's a great spot for catching up with friends, and they even provide Legos and clay to keep kids entertained, making it a relaxing outing for everyone.
Who says the best thing at a Soto shop has to be the Soto?
Soto Betawi 999 in Pekanbaru offers an authentic taste of Jakarta, but the real stars aren't what you'd expect. While the signature Soto Betawi is a solid, comforting choice, the must-try dishes are the surprisingly phenomenal ones. Don't miss the incredibly rich and tender Soto Iga (beef rib soup). The true hidden champion, however, is the Ketoprak—a flavor-packed Indonesian salad with generous peanut sauce that delivers unbeatable value and taste. It's a must-visit for its delicious secrets.