38k for a small cup, a 30-minute queue… Is Blok M's viral EM Gelato worth the hype?
qponx
2026-01-24
Curious about the viral EM Gelato in Blok M? This review tackles whether the long queues and high prices are worth it. Discover standout flavors like the rich Pistachio and intense Triple Chocolate, praised for their authentic taste. However, be warned: portions are small, the texture is more like soft ice cream, and it's a tiny grab-and-go spot. Get the full scoop on the taste, value, and essential tips before you join the line at this trendy pink shop.
Every time I pass by Blok M, I always see this little pink shop packed with people at the entrance. It's completely blown up on TikTok and IG[1], and it feels like all the trendy young people in Jakarta are coming here to check in. To be honest, as a veteran who's been around Jakarta for years, I've always had a bit of PTSD when it comes to internet-famous shops... But this time, I couldn't resist my curiosity and dived right in.
The Flavor is Mantap, But Is This Gelato? 🤔
The shop is seriously tiny! The pink-themed decor is really cute (gemes banget!), making it a perfect backdrop for photos[2]. But want to sit down and chill inside? Forget about it, it's basically a grab-and-go concept.
As for the taste, it's really something special. While waiting in line, you can smell the freshly baked waffle cones, which is super therapeutic. I chose two flavors, a small cup for 38k IDR:
They also have some weird and wonderful flavors like toasted bread (Roti Bakar)[3]. If you have trouble deciding, you can ask the staff for a sample—they're super friendly[4]!
BUT! To be perfectly honest, the texture isn't really like the Italian Gelato I know. It's on the softer side, more like a high-end version of ice cream, and it melts super fast[5], so you have to eat it quickly.
- Pistachio: A must-order! This one is truly impeccable, the nutty flavor is explosively rich, not the kind of flavor that comes from artificial essence. You can tell it's made with real ingredients[6]. Absolutely love it.
- Triple Chocolate: Chocolate lovers, go for it! The flavor is super intense, but it's not overwhelmingly sweet, and the texture has a lot of depth[7].
Wallet Warning & Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls
Alright, time for some sharp criticism. While the taste is good, the value for money... is debatable. 38k for such a small cup, it feels like it's gone before you can even properly enjoy it[8], Anjay! I hope the owner can make the portions just a tiny bit bigger.
Also, the space inside is so small it's hard to even turn around, and during peak hours, the queuing and crowding can diminish the experience. If you're thinking of coming here to Nongkrong and chat with friends, I'd advise you to think twice.
【A Veteran's Shop-Visiting Tips】
Finally, here are a few practical tips for you, for all the girls who want to check it out, save this now!
- 1. Opt for takeaway: Don't expect any seating. After buying, go to a nearby park or eat on the roadside for more of a street-style vibe.
- 2. Don't bring cash: This shop is completely cashless and only accepts QRIS or card payments[9], so don't make a wasted trip.
- 3. Be bold and ask for samples: There are too many flavors, so don't be shy. Ask the staff for a taste test to find your true love before ordering.
- 4. Free life-saving water: The shop thoughtfully provides free drinking water and wet wipes[10], which are a total lifesaver when you feel a bit overwhelmed after the ice cream
- Always packed, this TikTok & IG-famous pink-themed spot is a perfect photo op for Jakarta's trendy youth, thanks to its adorable decor![1][2]
- Must-try: Pistachio for intense nutty flavor (no artificial stuff!), and the weird but wonderful Toasted Bread. You'll smell the comforting aroma of freshly baked cones while queuing![3][4]
- Soft texture, more like premium ice cream, it melts super fast! You gotta savor this fleeting deliciousness quickly![5]
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