This Japanese Buffet in Makassar is God-Tier... For Its Pasta and Pudding?
qponx
2026-03-06
Discover a Japanese AYCE barbecue spot in Makassar where the side dishes unexpectedly steal the show! While the grilled meat plays a supporting role, the buffet counter is the real star. Prepare to be amazed by a rich and creamy Fettuccine Carbonara that's surprisingly authentic. Also, don't miss the divine but tiny Caramel Pudding—if you can get your hands on it! This spot offers a unique dining experience perfect for a casual hangout with friends.
Girls, I'm seriously speechless! On a business trip in Makassar, I was looking for a place to satisfy my meat cravings, and ended up going to a Japanese AYCE barbecue spot with a 4.9 rating on Google. But in the end, a plate of pasta completely broke me... Anjay! 🤯
The Meat is a Supporting Actor, the Sides are the Main Event!
Walking in, the Japanese decor had a pretty good vibe, quite suitable for coming to Nongkrong with friends. But as it got more crowded and the grills were turned on, the air conditioning couldn't really keep up, and it felt a bit hot[1].
Okay, let's get to the main point. The system here is that you order the meat from the waiter[2], and the other side dishes are self-serve. I first ordered a round of all the different meats, then went for a stroll to the buffet counter. And guess what?
The Main Character: The Meat: Well, how should I put it... it's a bit hard to describe. Some of the meat slices were as thin as tissue paper[3], they cooked instantly on the grill, giving you no time to even appreciate the texture. Plus, it felt like the marinade hadn't really penetrated the meat, so it tasted a bit bland. Of course, it might be better if you order the most expensive Premium package[4], but the regular package I got was a bit... emmm…
The Showstopper: The Side Dishes: Just when I was feeling disappointed with the meat, the Fettuccine Carbonara[5] I casually picked up completely blew me away! Seriously Mantap! The creamy flavor was rich, the sauce coated every single noodle perfectly, the texture was super authentic, it was so good I started to wonder if this was a pasta joint held back by its barbecue business! 🤣
The "Mini" Dessert I Have a Love-Hate Relationship With
Another thing at this place that I both love and hate is the Caramel Pudding[6]. The taste is absolutely divine, the texture is silky smooth and super milky, a perfect palate cleanser after a meal. But! The portion is so small it's like a shot glass, gone in one bite!
The most frustrating part is, this thing is constantly out of stock! Want another one? You basically have to fight for it. The restocking speed is so slow it makes you question your existence[7]. If you want to try it, you must ask for it the moment you sit down. First come, first served!
My [Save Your Money] Guide
Alright, let me give you some honest truths and money-saving tips from the heart:
- Price Secrets: The regular package is about 170,000 IDR per person[8], but I highly recommend you check their official IG! They often have deals for two, like two people for only 198,000 IDR[9] or something similar, which makes the value for money go through the roof!
- Ordering Strategy: Don't have high expectations for the meat; treat it as a side character. Focus on the buffet counter, especially that pasta—just grab it! Popular items like specific meats and the pudding are often out of stock[10], so tell the waiter you want them as soon as you sit down!
- Keep a Chill Attitude: During peak hours, getting more meat and refilling dishes is really slow. Be zen about it, and just think of it as coming to chat with friends and grabbing a bite on the side.
- Birthday Perk: To be fair, even though the service is slow, the waiters and waitresses are all super nice. If it's your birthday, they'll sing for you and give you a surprise[11], so the atmosphere is still pretty great
- The pasta is the star here! The Fettuccine Carbonara is so rich and creamy you'll think you're in the wrong place. [1]
- The crème brûlée is shot-glass tiny, a one-bite wonder that's always sold out. Race to snag this taste of delicious desperation. [2][3]
- Check their IG for deals for two. Feast for just 198k IDR—insane value! [4]
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