Road trippers, listen up! You'll actually cry if you miss this legendary spot on the Jakarta-Bandung drive.
qponx
2026-03-04
Planning a road trip from Jakarta to Bandung? Make a pit stop at the legendary SHSD in Purwakarta! This spot is a retro museum and a restaurant rolled into one, perfect for a unique break. Get ready for a table full of dishes served Padang-style. The main attraction is the incredibly tender "Wet Fried Chicken" (Ayam Goreng Basah) and its killer sambal. It’s a must-try culinary landmark that will make your journey unforgettable.
Every time I travel from Jakarta to Bandung, I always get indecisive when I reach the Purwakarta stretch. But this time, I headed straight for the legendary old shop SHSD that my lokal friends have been raving about. I heard it's a childhood memory for generations[1], and it's right off the highway exit—basically a canteen tailor-made for road-trippers like us!
I was stunned the moment I walked in—this isn't a restaurant, it's practically a mini retro museum![2] The walls are covered with all sorts of old-brand tin signs, and the corners are piled with old-fashioned furniture. The vibe is totally on point, and any photo you take looks like a vintage masterpiece. The place is huge, with both indoor and outdoor seating, so you don't have to worry if you're bringing kids—there's even a small children's playground next to it.
Before I could even get settled, the waiter, like a magician, whipped out and covered the table with a ton of dishes[3]. There's no menu here; it's just like eating Padang food—you pick what you want to eat, and they charge you by the plate at the end. My indecisiveness was cured on the spot, because I wanted it all! 🤣
The spotlight has to go to their signature Wet Fried Chicken (Ayam Goreng Basah)[4]. Anjay! This chicken is so incredibly tender! It's only briefly fried, perfectly locking in all the juices, super rich in spices, but not greasy at all. The texture is moist, a completely different species from the usual crispy fried chicken, Mantap! The Sambal Hejo and Sambal Dadak[5] from their name are also the soul of the meal—I could eat three bowls of rice just with them! I also tried the Sate Maranggi[6], which was sweet, tender, and grilled to perfection.
But to be honest, I have to say a few things. The portions for the signature fried chicken and satay are a bit on the mini side[7], so guys might need to order a few more servings to feel satisfied. Also, some long-time fans say the dishes aren't served as piping hot as they used to be[8]. I thought it was fine this time, but the taste of the chili sauce is definitely subjective—my friend didn't think it was out of this world.
📝 Editor's Tips to Avoid Pitfalls
- Ordering Style: Remember, the table full of food isn't free! You only pay for what you eat. Don't be shy, just ask the waiter to take away what you don't want.
- Check the Bill: Since there are so many dishes on the table, make sure! absolutely! to double-check the bill with the waiter before paying[9]. See what you actually ate to avoid being overcharged! Tested and proven!
- Hidden Menu: For those who want to try the special flavored rice (Nasi Liwet), remember to pre-order it[10], because you can't get it on the spot.
- Best Time to Go: This is a popular roadside stop, so it gets crowded during meal times. Either go early or come during off-peak hours to Nongkrong for a much better experience.
- A total time warp! Vintage tin signs & old-school furniture create a super retro, photogenic vibe [1].
- The Ayam Goreng Basah (wet fried chicken) is super juicy, exploding with spice. Add the soul Sambal—a rice lover's dream [2][3].
- No menu—they bring ALL the dishes to your table! [4] Feast like royalty, just pick what you want. Perfect for the indecisive.
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