A perfect 5.0 on Google? My advice for this K-BBQ: wear 'old clothes'
qponx
2026-03-06
This K-BBQ spot in Pekanbaru boasts a perfect 5.0 Google rating, and for good reason! Dive into high-quality Saikoro beef and rich hot pot broths. While the service is top-notch, there's a catch: no exhaust fans mean the whole place gets smoky, creating an authentic street-stall vibe. So, heed the advice and wear old clothes! Don't forget to check their Instagram for deals and grab your free post-meal ice cream to complete the experience.
I'm in Pekanbaru, and I was seriously drawn in by the reputation of this Korean BBQ place. Over 1600+ reviews on Google, all with a perfect 5.0 score[1], what kind of god-tier concept is that? With a "let's see just how amazing it is" attitude, I headed straight to Mal Pekanbaru.
As soon as I sat down, I understood why the title tells you to wear old clothes... I'll get to that later, let's talk about the food first, because that's what really matters!
A Carnivore's Delight, with Service Details on Point!
Honestly, the quality of the meat is undeniable. When I got the menu, I just went ahead and ordered the most recommended item, the Saikoro Beef[2]. Those diced beef cubes sizzled on the grill, grilled until the outside was slightly charred while the inside was still juicy. One bite was truly Mantap! The meat was fresh and tender, not at all like the stuff that's been frozen for ages[3].
Besides the BBQ, the hot pot is also a must-try. We ordered the Jigae soup base[4], and the broth was super rich, not the bland, watery kind. It was so satisfying with the meat and veggies. My friend who came with me ordered the Jeonggeol soup[5]. She said it was like a milder version of Tom Yum, with just the right amount of sourness, making it very appetizing.
What surprised me the most was the service. Halfway through, the Tteokbokki[6] we ordered was a bit undercooked. On a whim, I pressed the service bell on the table (such a convenient design[7]), and the waiter, without a second thought, immediately replaced it with a new one, which was soft, chewy, and super delicious. This attitude towards handling problems definitely deserves a five-star review!
The Only Bug, But Also Part of the "Vibe"?
Alright, time for the big reveal. The biggest drawback of this place is—there are no exhaust fans above the grills![8] Anjay!
As soon as the grilling starts, the whole place gets filled with smoke, like a mystical fairyland. Even though it stings your eyes a bit, why does it strangely feel like you're having a Nongkrong session at a Korean street-side stall? 😂 But seriously, after you're done eating, from your hair to your clothes, you'll be covered in that happy BBQ smell. So, for all the girls planning a date or wearing new clothes, think twice!
Editor's [Money-Saving & Pitfall-Avoiding] Cheat Sheet
Alright, time for the real tips, take notes!
- What to Wear: Don't wear new clothes! Don't wear light colors! Just wear whatever is comfortable, preferably your 'just-showered-and-ready-to-lounge-at-home' outfit.
- Free Perk: Don't rush off after your meal. They give out free Aice ice cream[9], which is perfect for cutting through the richness.
- Ordering Strategy: The meat quality is high, so order with confidence. If there are any issues with a dish (like the rice cakes I had), don't hesitate to tell the staff. They'll sort it out.
- Money-Saving Hack: You have to check their IG! They often have various set meal promos. For example, they previously had a set meal originally priced at 276k slashed to 202.6k[10]—an insanely good deal
- **Saikoro Beef** sizzles, crispy outside, juicy inside. One bite is pure Mantap! Meat lovers, get ready! [1][2]
- No exhaust fans at this BBQ spot?! You'll smell like delicious BBQ, just like a **Korean street food stall**. Nongkrong vibes are maxed! [3]
- Check their IG! The 276k set menu drops to 202.6k [4]! It's **basically free** – don't miss this deal!
Similar Articles
More than just Durian Tarts! Have you fallen for the traps at this Pekanbaru souvenir shop?
Heading to Viera Oleh-Oleh in Pekanbaru? This massive souvenir shop is a must-visit for its legendary Ketan Talam Durian, a rich and authentic durian sticky rice tart. But it’s not all treats! This guide gives you the inside scoop on what to buy and what to avoid, revealing potential traps like low-quality snacks and tricky checkout practices. Shop smart and make sure you only bring home the best of Pekanbaru's local flavors.
Want to Nongkrong? Don't! But this coffee can save your life in 1 minute
In a rush but need a coffee fix? Kopi Kulo is the ultimate lifesaver for your busiest days. This grab-and-go spot serves up coffee in under a minute, so don't expect to sit and hang out. The real star is the signature Avocatto—a heavenly mix of avocado, espresso, and chocolate ice cream. It’s the perfect pit stop for a uniquely delicious caffeine boost when you're short on time but craving something special.
Calling all Digital Nomads! I found a god-tier cafe in Pekanbaru for a full day of quiet grinding
Looking for a quiet workspace in Pekanbaru? Discover a serene cafe hidden behind a temple, offering the perfect escape from the city buzz. This spot is a digital nomad's dream, boasting fast WiFi and ample power outlets. Fuel your workday with a fully vegetarian menu featuring fresh Lucky rice and healthy breads. With its tranquil, spiritual ambiance and traditional music, it's the ideal place to focus and chill. A true hidden gem for a productive day.
Great Coffee, But Bring Your Own Food… This Pekanbaru Cafe is a Real Love-Hate.
One Refinery in Pekanbaru is a true love-hate experience. This spacious cafe features a lush, green outdoor area perfect for chilling out. The main draw is its rare, native Liberica coffee—a must-try for enthusiasts seeking a unique flavor. However, be prepared for a major trade-off: the service is notoriously slow and the food can be underwhelming. It's the perfect spot for a patient coffee lover, but definitely not for those who are hungry or in a hurry.