An 8k Rupiah Padang Buffet? I'm afraid the owner will go broke
qponx
2026-03-06
Discover a foodie paradise in Pekanbaru! RM Bagindo serves authentic Lintau-style Padang cuisine buffet-style, with a mind-blowing starting price of just 8,000 Rupiah for a rice set. Load up your plate with must-try dishes like the rich Gulai Jengkol and traditional desserts. This no-frills eatery is all about incredible flavor and unbeatable value, making it a haven for anyone seeking a true taste of Indonesia without breaking the bank.
Honestly, coming to Pekanbaru for a business trip, I didn't have high hopes for the food. I passed by this place, RM Bagindo, and from the storefront, it looked like a super lokal, home-style eatery (Rumah Makan). I almost walked right past it.
But once I went inside, wow, the spread made me hungry instantly! A whole row of dishes was laid out right there, you grab a plate and take whatever you want—it's the Prasmanan (buffet) style that Indonesians love, which is so awesome! My analysis paralysis kicked in on the spot!
A Carb Lover's Happy Place
The soul of this place is definitely the Gulai sauce! It's so thick and rich, you could just pour it over hot rice and finish a whole plate. The flavor is super authentic, it's that very traditional Lintau style. Mantap! 👍
Following a local friend's recommendation, I bravely tried the Gulai Jengkol[1]. Anjay! It's not stinky at all, the Jengkol is prepared perfectly, the texture is chewy and bouncy, and it's coated in a rich curry—a certified rice-killer!
After the savory dishes, don't forget to save room for dessert! That special Lintau glutinous rice cake, Pulut dan talam khas lintau[2], is a must-try. It's soft, sticky, and sweet, with that traditional, old-school Indonesian flavor that you don't often find in Jakarta.
Some Real Talk
To be fair, this place is purely for the food. The atmosphere is very simple and down-to-earth, so don't expect any Instagram-worthy decor. If you're coming for the ambiance to check in and take photos, you might be disappointed. But if you're a true foodie, then this place is heaven, trust me!
Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls & Saving Money
I've laid out the ordering guide for you, follow this and you can't go wrong!
- Basic Set: Go straight for the Nasi Kapau set (rice + vegetables + sambal), it's only 8,000 Indonesian Rupiah[3]! Yes, you read that right, 8k!
- Add-ons: Go pick your own side dishes, most are just 15k-20k per portion. The signature Gulai Jengkol I ordered was only 10k Indonesian Rupiah[4], the value for money is off the charts!
- Gatherings: If you have a large group, you can ask in advance if they have a private room[5], it's perfect for Nongkrong with friends.
- Transportation: Parking is convenient right out front, there's space for both motorcycles and cars[6], so you don't have to worry about going crazy looking for a spot.
- A dazzling Prasmanan (buffet) style spread with endless choices [1]. Pick whatever you want—the soul of a true lokal spot!
- Gulai Jengkol that'll blow your mind! No stink, just chewy, bouncy texture in rich curry. Explosively good [2]!
- A Nasi Kapau set (rice, veggies, sambal) for just 8k IDR [3]! A total steal for Pekanbaru
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