250k for Meat Freedom, but dining with flies? Reconsider this Jakarta AYCE.
qponx
2026-01-24
SHABU SIY in Jakarta offers an affordable AYCE hot pot and BBQ experience in a stunning, art gallery-like setting. For around 250k, meat lovers can feast on unlimited high-quality, thick-cut beef. However, this review reveals a major downside: significant hygiene issues, including persistent flies that disrupt the meal. The article weighs the fantastic meat and ambiance against the poor cleanliness and other hassles, helping you decide if this budget-friendly spot is truly worth the visit.
Girls, the scene in South Jakarta is insane! Even a random All You Can Eat (AYCE) place is designed like an art gallery.
I was passing by this place, SHABU SIY, and was immediately drawn in by its Japanese garden-style entrance and super high ceiling design[1]. I was thinking to myself, a place with this kind of ambiance must cost at least 500k per person, right? But when I asked, it's a hot pot and BBQ combo buffet for only around 250k IDR per person[2]. Doesn't that sound super Mantap?
A Paradise for Meat Lovers vs. A Nightmare for the Detail-Oriented
Getting straight to the point after sitting down, their main selling point is the freedom to eat all the meat you want. Honestly, the quality of the meat is impeccable. It's served plate after plate, and you can see how fresh it is. The thick-cut beef, in particular, is super juicy and has an amazing texture after grilling[3]. The individual pot design is also very hygienic, and you can choose your own soup base.
The buffet bar has a lot of options too. I even found a hidden gem—the fried rice was surprisingly delicious[4]! Paired with the grilled meat, I could eat two bowls of it. The whole space is tall and doesn't feel cramped, which is really great for Nongkrong with friends and taking pictures. The ambiance is on point.
But! Here it comes, I have to be honest, or it wouldn't be fair to this meal... The biggest problem is the hygiene! While I was eating, there were flies constantly buzzing around my table that I just couldn't shoo away... Anjay, that just tanked the experience by 100 points. I also saw a review saying someone found a small green caterpillar in their vegetables, so I didn't dare to take too many leafy greens during my meal[5].
Editor's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls
So, is it worth going? I'll summarize a few honest points for you, so you can decide for yourselves:
- 1. Parking is a hassle: For those of you driving, take note: their parking lot is very small, and valet parking is basically mandatory. Also, the fee isn't transparent. I was charged 25,000 IDR[6], so remember to have some small change ready.
- 2. You have to"push" for food: If you see that something at the buffet bar (like that delicious fried rice) has run out or doesn't look fresh, be bold and just tell the staff. They'll push the kitchen to restock it[7]. Don't just wait around foolishly.
- 3. Wait for a discount: They occasionally have PayDay discounts or lunch specials like 'buy two, get two free'[8]. If you want to go, you can keep an eye on their official Instagram. Every little bit you save counts.
- 4. Final Advice: If you're extremely sensitive about hygiene, run! If you're just looking for a place to feast on meat with friends, are on a budget, and don't mind battling it out with flies, then... maybe wear a 'fly-proof helmet' before you go. 😂
- South Jakarta AYCE! Japanese garden entry, high ceilings. Thought 500k, but hotpot & BBQ buffet is just 250k IDR [1][2]!
- Meat lover's paradise! Thick-cut beef is amazing, juicy grilled. Individual pots = super hygienic [3].
- Super high ceilings for epic Nongkrong photos. Don't miss their amazing fried rice – perfect with BBQ, you'll want seconds [4][5].
Similar Articles
Stop eating random Thai food in Jakarta! The real connoisseurs all come to this old house.
Discover Jakarta's best-kept secret for authentic Thai cuisine, hidden inside an unassuming old house in Wijaya. This spot offers a chill, modern-yet-homey atmosphere and serves bold, uncompromising flavors. Don't miss the god-tier Thai Fried Egg or the incredibly tender 48-hour slow-cooked Wagyu Massaman Curry. It’s a refined dining experience perfect for foodies seeking genuine Thai tastes, but be sure to book your table in advance as this popular gem fills up fast
Jakarta's New WFC Spot for Workers, But Never Come on an Empty Stomach
Discover Mbok Ndoro, a new WFC paradise in Jakarta's trendy M Bloc Space. With its cool vintage Javanese decor, fast WiFi, and comfy seating, it's perfect for digital nomads or a chill hangout. While the home-style food gets mixed reviews, the homemade sambal is a standout star. A word of caution: the service can be incredibly slow, so make sure you're not in a hurry or on an empty stomach. It's the ideal spot to get paid to chill.
A 4.9 'God-Tier' Spot on Google? Here's the catch with this Senopati restaurant: only order the right things.
Tempted by a 4.9 Google rating? This Senopati spot is a visual stunner with its retro-luxury decor, making it perfect for photos. But the food is hit-or-miss! To ensure a great experience, stick to the must-try dishes like the Singaporean Chili Oil Noodle and Fettuccine Truffle Mushroom, and definitely grab their affordable croissants. A huge plus: the restaurant is fully Halal-certified and features a spacious prayer room, making it a fantastic and inclusive hangout spot.
Under 250k/pax & Mantap meat! But I have to roast Gyu-Kaku Jakarta
Craving affordable all-you-can-eat Japanese BBQ? Gyu-Kaku offers delicious, tender meats like Suki Shabu and Rosu for under 250k per person! The silky milk pudding is also a must-try finisher. However, be warned: this popular spot is known for its notoriously long queues and slow service during peak hours. This review weighs the fantastic food against the frustrating wait, giving you the full scoop on whether the "mantap" meat is worth the battle.