Best ramen in Makassar? I tried it for you, and I'm telling it like it is.
qponx
2026-03-06
Is the ramen at Panakukang Mall truly the "Pride of Makassar"? This honest review gives you the full scoop. Discover the rich broth, gigantic portions, and a surprisingly tasty Cheese Ramen that offers great value. But it’s not all praise! The article also reveals the real talk—from broth that can be too salty to the shocking lack of a sink. Get the details on the good, the bad, and a fantastic birthday freebie before you visit.
Every time I come to Makassar, fans are always hitting me up, saying there's a ramen place in Panakukang Mall that's the "Pride of Makassar" ✨. With almost 500 reviews on Google and a 4.9 rating, it sounds pretty legendary.
Honestly, I usually don't have high hopes for ramen in a mall, but this time I couldn't resist and had to go check it out for you guys!
The Broth is the Soul, but Details Make or Break It
As soon as I walked in, the Japanese decor looked pretty legit, and the atmosphere was also chill enough, perfect for Nongkrong with friends. The staff were also super friendly, greeting us right away, which felt very welcoming[1].
I ordered the signature Shem Signature Ramen[2]. The first sip of the broth was truly Mantap! It was very rich, and the chicken was quite juicy too. However, towards the end, the broth felt a bit grainy. I'm not sure if that was just my bowl. My friend's Cheese Ramen[3], on the other hand, was a pleasant surprise. The cheese flavor was super strong but surprisingly not overwhelming. If you like adventurous flavors, you should give it a try. Most importantly, the portions are huge, the bowls are gigantic. It only cost a little over 170k[4] for the two of us, which is pretty good value for money in a mall. I also saw the table next to us order sushi, especially the Mentai Roll[5], it looked mouth-watering, I have to try it next time.
It's Not All Praise, Here Come the Complaints
Ok, I've covered the good points, now for some real talk. Although my bowl was fine, my friend felt her broth was a bit too salty[6], but that might just be a matter of personal taste. There's also a major flaw: the restaurant actually has no sink[7]! Anjay! After eating ramen, your hands are all greasy and you have to run all the way to the mall's restroom. This really needs to be improved, come on!
Guide & Time to Score Some Deals
Alright, here are a few useful tips for you, get your notebooks out and take notes!
Overall, it's a ramen place in Makassar that's worth a try. For those of you who have been, what do you think? Let's chat in the comments
- Birthday Perk: If you go on your birthday or within 7 days before or after, just show your ID, and you can get a free Volcano Don![8] Who doesn't love the joy of getting something for free?
- Special Requests: The service is super considerate! I saw a review saying that a pregnant customer went and was able to request a fully cooked egg and extra vegetables, and the restaurant accommodated it[9]. This definitely deserves a thumbs up! 👍
- Heads-up to Avoid Pitfalls: The music taste in the restaurant is a bit questionable... Sometimes they play some very tacky songs, which doesn't really match the Japanese atmosphere[10]. I hope the owner changes the playlist haha. Also, remember to use the restroom beforehand!
- 4.9 on Google [1]! Called the pride of Makassar ramen, is this a local must-try?
- Shem Signature Ramen: rich broth, juicy chicken. But the Cheese Ramen is the showstopper—super cheesy, not heavy [2][3]. For curious foodies!
- Massive ramen for just 170k [4]! Go on your birthday for a free Volcano Don [5]. A deal too good to pass up
Similar Articles
This 15K sushi in Makassar is super photogenic, but I have to be honest about the taste.
Discover a super photogenic Japanese spot in Makassar where all sushi plates are just 15K! It's the perfect place for a stylish, budget-friendly hangout. But is the taste as good as the photos? This honest review reveals that while the sushi is a bargain, the non-sushi dishes like the Salted Egg Yolk Pasta are the real stars. Get the full scoop and essential ordering tips to avoid disappointment and make the most of your visit.
Why is this 'hole-in-the-wall' the #1 Coto in Makassar?
Discover why a crowded, no-frills "hole-in-the-wall" serves Makassar's #1 Coto. This spot is all about the food, not the ambiance. The secret lies in customizing your own bowl: the initially simple broth transforms into a rich, complex soup after adding salt, lime, and their special sambal tauco. For an incredible price, you get a bowl of tender meat and offal that's so good, it's even attracted presidents. It’s a true taste-over-comfort experience.
24k per person, packed with Lokals, but this Coto is gone in one bite?
Don't be fooled by the simple roadside setup of Hidangan Coto Maros. This local gem in Makassar serves an incredibly authentic and savory coto soup that will captivate you instantly. While the flavor is a huge win, the portions are famously small—gone in just a few bites! The pro-tip? Ask for the free soup and topping refills to get your money's worth. For a cooler, more chill vibe, a nighttime visit is highly recommended.
This Makassar coffee sent me back to 1946
Step back in time at Phoenam, a legendary coffee shop in Makassar's Chinatown that feels straight out of 1946. This isn't a trendy cafe, but a genuine old-school Kopitiam brimming with nostalgic charm. Savor their signature rich and smooth Kopi Susu, made with Toraja beans, and pair it with a classic Roti Kaya. It's an authentic and affordable taste of local history, offering a truly memorable experience for any visitor looking for an escape from the modern world.