5 minutes for photos, 1 hour wait. I'm so done with this viral Batam spot…
qponx
2026-03-06
This viral Batam spot is a visual dream with its retro pop art style, making every corner perfect for your social feed. Don't miss the cute self-service photo booth! While the ambiance is a 10/10 and the Mie Kari is delicious, be warned: the service is notoriously slow. This honest review breaks down whether the stunning photos are worth the frustratingly long wait, offering tips on what to order and when to go for the best experience.
Girls, I have such a love-hate relationship with this place in Batam! 🤯
Drawn by its retro pop art style that's all over the internet, I was truly blown away the moment I walked in. Every corner was screaming "take a picture of me." Although the lighting was a bit dim and not great for working, the mysterious vibe was off the charts, and you can get a great shot in any random nook. My phone was overheating from taking so many pictures, and then my stomach started growling. I looked at the time, Anjay! Where's my food?!
📸 Ambiance and Food, Half Heaven Half Hell
Honestly, the ambiance here is truly Mantap![1] Especially the self-service photo booth on the second floor—it's cute and retro, you have to go for it!
After waiting for what felt like a century, my bowl of Mie Kari (Curry Noodles)[2] finally arrived. OK, when I took the first sip of the rich, Jakarta-style broth, I admit I forgave it halfway... The flavor was really authentic! My friend's Nasi Goreng Kalimantan[3] had that great wok hei, and the portion was super generous[4], definitely enough to fill you up.
BUT! Praises are over, now it's time to rant. The speed of service at this place, seriously, was testing my patience. I waited a full 40 minutes for their signature Bingsoo (Korean Shaved Ice)[5], and the place wasn't even that crowded...[6] Plus, I overheard the next table saying that some drinks were sickeningly sweet, and the snacks they ordered were served cold[7]. That really just ruins the whole experience.
✍️ My [Honest Truth] Guide
Come on, let me give you some heartfelt tips. If you're planning to go, you must read this!
- 1. Mindset is key: If you're impatient or starving, definitely don't come here. Treat it purely as a place for taking photos and Nongkrong, and be mentally prepared for the wait.
- 2. Ordering Guide: For main courses, go straight for the Mie Kari[8]; you basically can't go wrong. But if you have expectations for service and efficiency, you might need a bit of patience for the desserts and drinks.
- 3. A must-do for photo lovers: You have to check out the self-service photo booth on the second floor! It's only 25k Indonesian Rupiah[9] to get a set of retro photo booth pictures, super worth it!
- 4. Money-saving tip: For students and workers who come on weekdays, remember to bring your student ID or work badge for a discount on snacks and desserts![10]
- 5. Weekend plans: If you want to experience something different, try coming on a Friday night. I heard they have a live DJ with a 90s retro theme, and the vibe should be super Chill～[11]
- 2nd floor self-service photo booth[1]! Get retro photo strips for just 25k IDR. Maxed-out vibes—take pics till your phone overheats!
- The Mie Kari[2] has a rich, Jakarta-style broth. One taste and you'll forgive the slow service.
- Friday nights feature a 90s retro themed live DJ[3] for a different kind of Batam nightlife. Super Chill vibes
Similar Articles
88k for 20 All-You-Can-Eat Dishes! Batam's retro tea house: A steal or a scam?
Step back in time at a retro Batam tea house offering an incredible 88k All-You-Can-Eat deal. With a nostalgic 70s vibe and a menu of over 20 dishes, it's a value hunter's dream. The creamy Salted Egg Chicken Rice and champion-level Kaya Toast are absolute must-tries. Just be prepared for potentially slow service and hit-or-miss dim sum. It’s a unique spot where the amazing value and cool atmosphere require a little patience.
Who still dares to hype Lamoist as a Batam must-buy? I stepped on this landmine for you
Is Batam's famous Lamoist layer cake worth the hype? This honest review dives deep into the popular souvenir. While the signature original cake is praised for its delicious, buttery flavor, a shocking discovery of cockroaches and terrible service might make you think twice. Find out why the in-store experience is a gamble and learn the best tips for snagging this treat without the drama, like pre-ordering for a hassle-free pickup at the ferry terminal.
Google 4.8 stars? Don't be fooled! Read this before you visit this spot in Batam
Tempted by a 4.8-star Batam spot with a gorgeous, modern Indonesian vibe? This article gives you the real story behind the rating. While the aesthetic is perfect for photos, the experience is a mixed bag. Prepare for frustratingly slow service and inconsistent food quality. Read on for crucial tips on what to expect, how to avoid being overcharged for unpriced seafood, and why you should visit for the ambiance but lower your expectations for everything else.
Worth It Just for Photos? An Honest Rant on Batam's "Fake Bali" Cafe
Is Batam's Volla Social House worth the hype? This "Fake Bali" cafe offers a stunning, Instagram-worthy interior perfect for photos. But the experience is a total mixed bag. While the ambiance is a win and some dishes shine, this honest review dives into the inconsistent food, steep prices, and lackluster service. Get the inside scoop on what to order and what to avoid to decide if this beautiful spot is truly worth your money.