200k Per Person for a Fish? How Does This Legendary Surabaya Restaurant Get Away With It?
qponx
2026-03-05
Discover Ikan Bakar Cianjur, a legendary Surabaya restaurant that proves its high price tag is worth it. This spot shines with its incredible fish dishes, especially the must-try Pesmol Gurame with its divine turmeric sauce and the perfectly charred Gurame Bakar. The spacious, "old-time" ambiance makes it ideal for family dinners or large gatherings. For an unforgettable meal, focus your order on their signature fish specialties and prepare to be impressed by the authentic Sundanese flavors.
To be honest, spending 200,000 Rupiah per person for an Indonesian meal in Surabaya made my wallet hurt a little... But after eating, I just wanted to say one thing to the owner: Mantap! 👍
The restaurant is called Ikan Bakar Cianjur, and it's a well-established chain in the Indonesian food scene. But don't run off just because you hear "chain"—this one is really different! The moment you walk in, it's not that trendy, Instagrammable style, but a wave of "old-time" (Tempo Doeloe) vibes hits you. The space is huge, filled with the gentle sound of Sundanese music, and you instantly chill out[1]. It's especially suitable for bringing elders or for business dinners, definitely a safe bet.
Focus on the fish, don't get distracted!
When you open the menu, don't hesitate, just go straight for the fish!
👑 King-Tier Recommendation: Pesmol Gurame
I have to rave about this dish[2]! The fish is unbelievably tender, and that yellow turmeric sauce (Pesmol) is absolutely divine. It's sweet, sour, savory, and fragrant, with rich layers of flavor. I could eat three bowls of rice just with this sauce!
🔥 An All-Time Classic: Gurame Bakar
Their signature grilled fish[3] is also a must-order. The skin is grilled until it's fragrant and slightly charred, while the meat inside remains juicy and locks in all the moisture, with no muddy taste at all[4]. Even my friend, who's been in the seafood business for 40 years, nodded in approval. Anjay!
🍲 A Heartwarming Choice: Gouramy Fish Soup
If you're in the mood for something hot, their fish soup (Gouramy Fish Soup)[5] is also incredibly delicious. The portion size is generous too[6], definitely not one of those dishes that looks good but doesn't fill you up.
Let's be real (What to avoid & complaints)
Now that I've said all the good things, it's time for some real talk.
- Wallet Warning: The prices are definitely not cheap. The two of us casually ordered and spent 200,000 Rupiah[7], and one fish alone is almost 90,000. Although it's worth the money, it's definitely not street food prices, you know.
- Focus Your Order: Their other dishes besides fish, like fried rice, noodles, and so on, are pretty... um... a safe bet, with nothing surprising[8]. So when you come here, just focus on conquering all the fish dishes!
Blogger's Private Tips ✍️
Girls who want to go Nongkrong, take notes!
- 1. Go early, not late: If you want to eat here, you have to go early! I heard that after 8:30 PM, many of the popular fish and vegetable dishes are sold out[9], so you don't miss out.
- 2. Snag a little freebie: Before ordering, check their Instagram. Sometimes there are little surprises, like getting a free drink for following them or something[10]. It's a small perk, so why not take it!
- 3. Top Choice for Gatherings: The space here is huge, perfect for bringing the whole family or a large group of friends for a meal[11], so you don't have to worry about not having enough space. It's the perfect safe bet for family dinners and friend get-togethers
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