I thought I'd walked into an airport VIP lounge, but it's an ice cream shop in Medan?
qponx
2026-03-06
Ever dined in an airport lounge without a boarding pass? In Medan, you can! City Ice Cream boasts a stunning VIP lounge design but serves surprisingly affordable Indonesian classics. This spot is a must-visit for its flavorful Nasi Goreng and legendary Avocado Ice Cream. It’s the perfect place to impress family and friends with a high-end atmosphere on a budget. Discover this unique, family-friendly restaurant that offers amazing value and a cool vibe, but just be aware there's no Wi-Fi.
Anjay! OMG, who gets it? I was shopping at Center Point in Medan and almost thought I was in the wrong place. My friend mysteriously brought me to this spot, with the entrance outside the mall[1]. The moment I pushed the door open, I was completely stunned... Are you sure this isn't some airline's executive lounge? The luxurious vibe was maxed out, and I felt like I was about to board a flight any second. 😂
Not Selling Plane Tickets, But Fried Rice and Ice Cream Instead?
After sitting down and collecting myself, I opened the menu and discovered that this is actually a chain store called City Ice Cream. They really went all out with the design, which has a bit of an Italian architectural vibe. The AC is super strong, a total lifesaver in hot Medan. It has two floors, and a very Chill outdoor smoking area[2], making it perfect for bringing family or just to Nongkrong with friends.
Don't let the high-end environment fool you, the menu is actually very approachable. I randomly ordered the Nasi Goreng Spesial[3] that many people recommended, and the result... Mantap Banget! The aroma was so rich, the fried chicken was cooked just right, the meat was very tender, and it came with two large prawns—so delicious I could have licked the plate clean. My friend who came with me ordered the Nasi Goreng Kari[4], which is also a classic flavor and a must-order for returning customers. Of course, how can you come to an ice cream shop and not have ice cream! The signature Es Krim City Avocado[5] was super soft, and the avocado flavor was so authentic! Long-time fans say it's a must-try, and it really lives up to the hype.
Let's be real...
Although the overall experience was great, I have to be frank. Their fried rice is genuinely delicious, but for a big eater like me, I feel the portion could be just a tiny bit bigger to be perfect[6]. And the most crucial point, girls, take note: There's no Wi-Fi here![7] My plan to work and edit photos here for the afternoon failed.
Tips to Avoid Pitfalls & Save Money, You're Welcome!
Finally, let me highlight the key points for you, so get your notebooks ready and take this down:
- 📍Don't go to the wrong entrance: Let me say it again, the store is outside the Mall, so don't wander around inside.
- 🍦Must-Order Item: The avocado ice cream, menu number 826[8]. You can't go wrong ordering this!
- 💰How to Save Money: For girls who want to get a good deal, remember to follow their official Instagram. They often have promotions like getting a free dessert with a minimum spend[9].
- 👨👩👧👦Who is it for: Especially suitable for family dinners[10] or small gatherings with friends. The ambiance is definitely impressive, and the prices are reasonable. You can get a main course for around 40-50k per person, so the value for money is pretty good.
- Hidden in Medan's Center Point Mall, this spot looks like a luxe "Airline Executive Lounge". You'll think you're in the wrong place [1].
- But the hidden star is the Nasi Goreng Spesial. Tender chicken, bouncy prawns—it's lick-the-plate good [2].
- The Avocado Ice Cream (#826) is a fan-favorite must-try. Soft, fragrant, and a guaranteed win [3].
Similar Articles
Calling all pork heads! This Medan spot has no AC, but I was sweating buckets and still wanted to order more.
Get ready to sweat for some seriously good pork! This popular Medan Batak spot may lack air conditioning, but its food is worth the heat. Dive into the star dish, Babi Panggang (roast pork), featuring incredibly crispy skin and juicy meat you can customize to your liking. Don't miss the rich Saksang stew, perfectly paired with rice. For the ultimate flavor experience, brave the crowds and dine in—it’s an authentic, unforgettable adventure for any pork lover.
This 4.9-Star Hotpot in Medan: Trust Me, Don't Mix Your Own Sauce
Discover Lao Lao Huo Guo, a stunning 4.9-star hotpot spot in Medan that feels more like a design showroom than a restaurant. The must-try signature is the silky Truffle Collagen Soup, perfectly paired with top-quality beef and juicy Chicken Truffle Dumplings. For the ultimate flavor, skip the DIY station and ask the staff to mix their incredible "secret sauce" for you. With its impressive ambiance and free post-meal treats, it's the perfect spot for a special occasion.
Attention, Medan Digital Nomads! Found a cafe that lets you bring your own food—I'm rushing over
Discover me& Wahid, a digital nomad's paradise in Medan! This minimalist, sun-drenched cafe is perfect for working, offering a quiet atmosphere and abundant power outlets. While the coffee is premium, the standout feature is the rare policy allowing you to bring your own food—a fantastic money-saving hack! Settle in for a productive afternoon with quality coffee and a chill vibe. It's a top-rated spot for anyone needing a "mobile workstation" for the day.
Pork Heads, Get In Here! This roasted suckling pig in Medan is so good it'll make you curse
Forget good service; this Medan spot is all about the pork! While the atmosphere is chaotic, the "Nasi Samcan Guling Komplit" is a plate of pure bliss, piled high with golden crispy skin, savory fried pork belly, and hearty satay. The real star is the unique fusion of a Balinese classic with local Andaliman pepper. Despite the challenging environment, the mind-blowing flavor and affordable price make it an experience pork lovers shouldn't miss.