A 200k steak that chews like a rubber slipper?
qponx
2026-02-25
Thinking of visiting the legendary Holycow! steakhouse? You might want to read this first. This review details a disappointing experience, from a 200k steak as tough as a flip-flop to serious hygiene concerns and incredibly long waits. While the mushroom sauce still shines, the article questions if the poor value and "nostalgia tax" are worth it. Get the full scoop on why this once-great spot might not be the happy place it used to be.
Girls, I'm speechless! As a veteran of the Jakarta steak scene, Holycow! used to be my happy place for Nongkrong when I first arrived. But this revisit to the Cilandak Town Square location sent my mood on a roller coaster, from the peak of excitement straight to rock bottom…🎢
Something felt off as soon as I sat down. The table was wobbly, and the lighting was so dim it felt like we were in a thriller movie. Isn't this retro vibe a bit over the top? The air was filled with a "the boss hasn't invested in renovations for a long time" kind of vibe. My friend joked that the atmosphere was going for a "Creepy" style. 😂
Drawn by its reputation, we ordered the Wagyu and Sirloin steaks[1]. Turns out, when I cut into my medium-rare, the center was cold and tough. Did the chef forget to turn on the stove? My friend's piece was even more tragic. She struggled to cut it for ages and finally put down her knife and fork, saying: "This thing is tougher to chew than a flip-flop!"[2] Anjay! I really couldn't laugh…
Of course, it wasn't all bad. The only thing worth praising was their mushroom sauce[3]. The flavor was still so Mantap, and you could get free refills. I mixed it with my mashed potatoes and felt like I could get full just from the side dishes.
To be honest, lots of red flags!
Seriously, the Holycow! of today is not what it used to be. The prices have gone up a lot—a steak easily costs two or three hundred thousand rupiah—but it turns out they use Meltique (injected fat meat) without clearly stating it[4]. As for the value for money, all I can say is... hehe. 🤷♀️
What's absolutely unbearable is the hygiene! I'm almost embarrassed to say this, but someone in the comments section said they saw a mouse while eating, and another saw a waiter use a floor broom to clean a table[5]... Holy cow, you've got to be kidding me?!
Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls | A Must-Read Before You Go
In short, what was once a legendary spot has now become a "nostalgia tax." To go or not to go, you decide.
- Ordering Tips: If you absolutely must go for nostalgia's sake, don't order the regular 200g steak. It's too thin and will be well-done in a flash. If you're going to order, get the 400g "Big Bite"[6]. The texture of the thick cut is the only thing that barely lives up to the name "steak."
- Time Management: Expect a queue during weekend meal times. A 20-minute wait is standard procedure[7]. Also, they're understaffed, so waiting 40-50 minutes for your food is the norm[8]. They might even bring the wrong dish, so you really need to be patient.
- Hidden Perk: Apparently, you can get a free steak on your birthday[9]. If you want to take advantage of that, you can ask in advance. But whether it's worth your time and mood for that free steak is for you to decide.
- The Mantap mushroom sauce still comes with free refills. Mix it with the mash—you'll get full on the sides alone![1] Can't wait!
- Feeling nostalgic? Get the 400g "Big Bite"[2]. Only the thick cut feels like a real steak—the thin one is a hard pass!
- Go on your birthday for a free steak[3]! It's basically free, so you'd be crazy not to go for it.
Similar Articles
South Jakarta's forest steakhouse: Mantap or a wallet assassin?
Discover El Profesor, a steakhouse nestled in South Jakarta's lush Urban Forest. This spot boasts a stunning green oasis ambiance and standout dishes like a DIY Wagyu Blade and rich Mac and Cheese. However, the review reveals it's a mixed bag with inconsistent quality, small portions for the price, and hit-or-miss service. Is this "forest" steakhouse worth the splurge? The article dives into the highs and lows, offering tips on what to order and how to save.
Jakarta's 4.8-star forest gem: Is the food as watered down as the rating?
Is Jakarta's Little Talk Bistro worth its 4.8-star hype? This forest gem boasts a stunning glass-house setting, making it a go-to for photos, coffee, and afternoon hangs. While the ambiance is incredible and certain dishes shine, this honest review cautions that many main courses are average for the price. It also exposes a sneaky trick behind its high rating, offering a practical guide on what to actually order and when to visit this photogenic, family-friendly spot.
The best steak in Jakarta is at a restaurant with 'blind box' service?
Lobo at The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta offers a true love-hate experience. While the service is a "blind box" gamble and prices are high, the food is spectacular. The Ribeye steak is hailed as one of the city's best, and the innovative Lamb Tongseng is a creative triumph. Set in a stunning European-style venue, this is a spot of extremes. This article gives you the essential tips on what to expect and how to make the most of your visit.
A 150k Princess Dream... Worth It? Watch This Before You Decide
Step into a dreamy, flower-filled cafe in South Jakarta that looks like a real-life princess vanity. This spot is a photo-lover's paradise, but is it worth the 150k price tag? While the ambiance gets a perfect score and the Bomboloni is a must-try, the food is mostly average. This review weighs the stunning visuals against the influencer-level prices, giving you the essential tips on what to order, when to go, and how to avoid the nightmare parking.