This TikTok-viral Bakmi in Jakarta... Don't follow the hype?
qponx
2026-01-25
Is Jakarta's viral Mie Ayam Bang Abu worth the hype? This review dives past the TikTok fame to give you the real scoop. While the shop's springy noodles are a definite highlight, the article warns of major pitfalls: an overly salty flavor, a questionable chili sauce, and a "price assassin" for extra toppings. Get an honest verdict on this affordable "hidden gem" and learn crucial tips on how to visit without falling for the hype and managing your expectations.
Friends, who gets it! Lately, I've been seeing food bloggers on TikTok and YouTube non-stop recommending this noodle shop called Mie Ayam Bang Abu, saying it's the peak of affordable hidden gems in East Jakarta. I couldn't resist the curiosity, so I braved the scorching sun and went for it today.
The GPS led me winding through the narrow alleys of a residential area, and it took me forever to find it. The storefront is your typical super `lokal`, no-AC `warung`, with a few fans blowing hard, mixed with the steam from the boiling noodles. I was already sweating before I even started eating. Looking at the surroundings and the crowded place, my heart sank a little: Is this place really that amazing? 🤔
Taste is Subjective, Experience Depends on Luck
Without further ado, here comes the star of the show!
The signature Mie Ayam[1] was served, and it looked pretty good. The noodles are definitely the biggest highlight. They have this very thin, curly texture that holds the sauce perfectly, and they're springy and chewy, which is quite rare to find in Jakarta. The first bite was savory and quite `Mantap`! But... as I ate more, it started to taste overwhelmingly salty[2], and the flavor was a bit one-dimensional.
Now for the important part: I'd advise you to think twice about the chili sauce on the table. I added a little, and it had this indescribable cheap, weird taste that instantly ruined the balance of the whole bowl. Later, a follower even DMed me saying they felt nauseous and wanted to throw up after eating, suspecting it was the sauce's fault[3]. Anjay! The owner really needs to switch to a better brand.
On the other hand, their Pangsit Chili Oil[4] (chili oil wontons) was a pleasant surprise; it's pretty good as a side dish. As for the portion size, it's just right for a girl, but guys might need to ask for more[5].
Don't Just Listen to the Hype, You Need to Know These Pitfalls
Honestly, if it was just that the taste was average, I would have just chalked it up to a normal `Nongkrong` experience. But the biggest turn-off for me was the"hidden menu" here 💸.
Never, ever add your own toppings randomly! I personally saw a guy at the next table who felt the chicken portion was too small and wanted to add a bit more. When he paid the bill, he was charged almost the price of a whole new bowl of noodles[6] and was completely stunned on the spot. This"price assassin" is way too ruthless!
Plus, when it gets crowded, the service basically becomes a game of chance. We waited for ages, and it turned out the waiter got our order wrong and even served the"louder customers" who came after us first. The experience really hit rock bottom in an instant[7].
A Sober Take: A Guide to Visiting
So, is this bowl of noodles that's been hyped to the heavens actually worth making a special trip for? My advice is: Masters of expectation management, this one's for you!
If you live nearby and just want to spend 15k to 20k Indonesian Rupiah[8] to get a meal, then it's fine to come and try it out. But if you're traveling across half of Jakarta just to check in, you'll probably be disappointed.
For the girls who want to give it a try, here's some practical advice:
- 1. Time it right: Go on a weekday during off-peak hours! During lunch and on weekends, it's packed, and finding a seat is like going to war[9].
- 2. How to get there: Riding a motorcycle or taking a Gojek is your best bet. If you drive, trying to find a parking spot in the residential area will make you question your life choices[10].
- 3. Order smart: Just get the basic Mie Ayam, and don't get tempted to add extra toppings. The sauce[11]... you know what I mean.
- 4. Keep your expectations in check: Treat it like a very ordinary street-side stall, not some"internet-famous god-tier shop," and you'll be much happier. Much. Much. Happier. 😂
- Jakarta's rare thin, curly, springy noodles perfectly cling to broth for savory, chewy bites. A must-try! [1]
- Beware the "price assassin"! Added chicken topping, got charged almost a whole extra bowl of noodles [2]. Seriously shocking!
- TikTok/YouTube-hyped "common people's food ceiling": Legit, or just for "expectation management masters"?
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