A 4.9-star ramen shop on Google, hidden in a mall with a river view?
qponx
2026-03-05
Discover a hidden gem in Samarinda's Big Mall! This ramen shop boasts a near-perfect 4.9 Google rating and a stunning view of the Mahakam River. Don't let the mall location fool you; the rich broth and chewy noodles are the real deal. From delicious Chicken Karaage Ramen to savory Gyoza, the food is a must-try. The article also shares insider tips on snagging the best seats, saving money, and ordering like a pro.
Honestly, after shopping at Big Mall in Samarinda until my legs were about to break, I was just looking for a random place to Nongkrong and fill my stomach. But I ended up stumbling into this ramen shop, and it almost blew my mind! Who would have thought that on the LG floor of a mall, you could find such a heavenly spot to eat ramen while looking at the Mahakam River view?
Great Taste, Perfect View 💯
The moment I sat down, I understood why it has a 4.9 rating on Google with over 1200+ reviews. The shop is very cozy, playing J-POP, and the vibe is just perfect[1]. The best part is the row of seats by the window, where you get a full view of the coal barges coming and going on the Mahakam River. This view is an absolute luxury for a spot inside a mall!
I didn't have high expectations for mall ramen, but the first sip of the broth changed my mind. It had that rich, mellow flavor, not the bland taste you get from a seasoning packet. The noodles were also perfectly chewy and held the broth really well[2].
I ordered the Chicken Karaage Ramen, and the fried chicken was crispy on the outside while the meat inside was still juicy, Mantap![3] My friend ordered the Curry Ramen[4], and the aroma that wafted over, Anjay! The curry flavor was super rich and appetizing. We also added an order of Pan-fried Gyoza[5]; the bottoms were pan-fried to a fragrant crisp, and the filling was quite generous. The bowls don't look huge, but I was seriously full after finishing. The portions are very generous[6].
To be honest…
The price for the ramen itself is very reasonable for a mall, offering good value for money. But be careful, their side dishes and appetizers are also delicious, and if you're not careful and order too many, the final bill might still make you wince a little, haha. But since the food is so good, it's worth it!
✍️ Your Editor's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls & Saving Money
Save this post so you don't make any mistakes next time!
- The Ultimate Seat-Grabbing Strategy: If you want the view, you have to go early and snag a window seat! If you go in the evening, you can even watch the sunset[7].
- Ordering Secrets: For those of you ordering the Chicken Karaage Ramen, remember to ask the staff to serve the fried chicken on the side (minta dipisah), otherwise it'll get soggy in the soup![8]
- Money-Saving Tips: The Ocha comes with unlimited refills[9], a true blessing for big eaters!
- How to Score a Deal: Check their official IG before you go. They often have promotions like weekday special sets or staff discounts, which can save you a good amount of money[10].
- Hidden ramen in Big Mall with a killer Mahakam River view, watching coal barges float by.
- Forget mall ramen stereotypes. This broth is rich and full-bodied with chewy noodles, not some bland instant mix[1].
- The Chicken Karaage Ramen has crispy, juicy chicken. Perfect with the broth, Mantap![2] Plus unlimited refills on Ocha[3]
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