1.5 Million for a Meal? Why is This Jakarta Chinese Restaurant So Expensive?
qponx
2026-02-25
Curious about the 1.5 million IDR price tag at Jakarta's Hay Thien? This review dives into the hyped Chinese restaurant to see if it's worth the splurge. While known for its comforting Shabu-shabu and must-try Pork Satay, the experience isn't flawless. The article weighs the delicious, homestyle food and spacious, family-friendly setting against inconsistent service and high costs. Get the full scoop on whether the taste truly justifies the price before you go.
There's been a lot of hype recently about this place in West Jakarta, Hay Thien, with people saying a meal there can cost you 1.5 million IDR[1]… Anjay, isn't that a rip-off? With an "I have to see what the fuss is all about" attitude, I went straight there.
I was a bit surprised when I walked in. It didn't have that typical over-the-top influencer vibe, just a very clean and bright Chinese restaurant. The space is ridiculously large, so even when it's crowded during lunch, it doesn't feel cramped[2], making it super family-friendly. Booking a private room for a small get-together with friends or a family dinner is definitely a safe bet.
The star of the show is, of course, the Shabu-shabu[3]. It has a warm, homestyle flavor that's very comforting to eat. The absolute best part is how you eat it: drizzle the sesame sauce over your rice, then pair it with the freshly cooked meat... Who understands the joy of a carb bomb! But what really got me hooked was the Pork Satay[4]. It's sweet and savory, the meat is tender and juicy, and one bite is truly Mantap! And that Sambal Bawang[5], with its rich garlic flavor that isn't harsh on the stomach, tastes good with everything.
Okay, enough praise, let's get real. The price is definitely not cheap; it'll hurt your wallet a bit. The service is also pretty hit or miss. Sometimes it's super fast, but in our VIP room, getting a waiter's attention was a real struggle[6], basically up to fate. There was another small issue: the skewers we ordered arrived lukewarm[7], which kind of affected the texture.
Pro Tips, You're Welcome!
Overall, the food is on point and the atmosphere is comfortable, making it suitable for a proper family dinner. As for whether it's worth the price, that depends on whether you value taste or service more~😉
- Don't go during peak hours! The line during the dinner rush will make you question your existence. If you want to eat comfortably, it's best to arrive before 6 PM[8].
- First choice for family gatherings. The place is big and has private rooms, so you can bring a large family and not worry about seating[9]. It's great for Nongkrong.
- What to do if your skewers aren't hot? Don't hesitate, just tell the waiter and ask them to reheat it for you[10].
- Cozy shabu-shabu, but the star is the sesame sauce mixed rice. Top with fresh meat for the ultimate carb-bomb high!
- The pork satay[1] is addictive. Sweet & savory, tender, juicy. One bite is pure Mantap!
- Ridiculously huge space never feels crowded, even at peak lunch[2]. Very kid-friendly, and a private room for family is a safe bet.
Similar Articles
Eating 300k steak at Central Park, but it's a blind box gamble?
Is Steak 21 near Central Park worth the hype? This review reveals a "blind box" experience where steak quality is a total gamble. The affordable set menu might serve up a tough, salty disappointment, while pricier à la carte options like the Truffle Garlic Steak are a tender, juicy dream. This guide helps you navigate the menu to avoid a bad meal and decide if the thrill of this steak lottery is worth the price.
Photographers Welcome, Foodies Beware! Moeda Coffee's Massive Identity Crisis
Looking for a photogenic spot in West Jakarta? Moeda Coffee boasts a stunning industrial design with high ceilings and gorgeous natural light, making it an Instagrammer's paradise. While the spacious cafe is perfect for photos or a work session, the experience can be a gamble. The food is a major letdown and service is notoriously slow. For a guaranteed good time, come for the vibe, snap your pictures, and stick to ordering the coffee.
Anjay! This campus cafe is so comfy I want to get a student ID.
Think all TOMORO cafes are the same? This branch at Tarumanegara University is a game-changer. It’s a massive, sun-drenched space that’s surprisingly quiet, creating the perfect atmosphere for studying or deep work. While it’s a paradise for students, this campus sanctuary is open to everyone. If you're looking for a productive and comfy spot in West Jakarta to escape the usual cafe chaos, this hidden gem is your answer.
75k per person with unlimited rice & iced tea! How did this West Jakarta duck spot get 4.9 stars on Google?
Curious how a West Jakarta duck spot earned 4.9 stars? Dapur Waris offers an unbeatable deal for around 75k per person! Feast on their signature sweet 'Bebek Gosong' or the spicy 'Bebek Goreng Madura' in a newly renovated, stylish space. The best part is the unlimited refills of three types of rice and iced tea. This spot delivers incredible flavor and value, making it a must-try dining experience for anyone craving delicious duck.