The best thing at a place called "Curry House"... isn't curry?
qponx
2026-03-06
Don't let the name fool you! While Tore Curry House in Batam is a popular Halal Japanese spot, this review reveals a surprising secret: the best dishes aren't the curry. Instead, the must-try items are the incredible yakitori skewers and rich, savory mentaiko-topped plates. Discover why the namesake curry might not live up to the hype, but why the other delicious menu items still make this a must-visit eatery for an unexpectedly delightful meal.
Girls, I'm back exploring new spots in Batam! This time, I checked out a super popular Halal Japanese restaurant with a 4.8-star rating on Google, "Tore Curry House". Judging by the name, I thought it was the king of curry, but... Anjay! I discovered a huge secret. The most Mantap thing on their menu... isn't actually the curry! 🤯
False Advertising? Nope, Just a Surprise!
The place isn't big, but it's decorated so cozily. It immediately gives off the feel of a small Japanese eatery, perfect for coming with friends to Nongkrong and chat[1]. The only downside is that the space is a bit small, and the tables are close together. It would be perfect if it were a bit more spacious.
But that's not the main point. The main point is the food! When the menu arrived, I first ordered the Yakitori (Japanese skewers)[2] that everyone online has been raving about. The chicken skin skewer and the enoki beef roll—I'm begging you, you have to order them! They're grilled to fragrant perfection, the sauce is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, and with one bite, I was completely blown away! Next up was the Tamago Mentai (mentaiko tamagoyaki)[3]. A thick tamagoyaki topped with a generous amount of mentaiko sauce, torched until the aroma explodes. The texture is incredibly rich. The salmon in the sushi was also very fresh, the quality is on point.
The Star of the Show Arrives, but It's Just a Supporting Character…
Alright, let's get back to the main event—the curry rice. I ordered the officially recommended Ika Curry Rice (squid curry rice)[4]. To be honest, maybe my expectations were too high… The curry itself wasn't amazing, just a bit ordinary. My friend who came with me even thought it was a bit too salty[5]. Also, the medium portion of curry rice felt a bit small, so for the price, the value for money isn't particularly high.
✍️ Editor's Key Points (get your notebooks ready!)
- Ordering Guide: Go for the Yakitori (skewers) and anything with Mentai (mentaiko sauce) without a second thought! I've heard the ramen and udon are also amazing, I have to try them next time[6]. As for the curry rice... don't get your hopes up. You can try it for the experience, but it's not a must-order.
- Time-Saving Tip: This place is really popular, so service might be a bit slow during peak meal times[7]. Be prepared for that. If you want a more Chill experience, I suggest doing what I did and going around 11 AM[8]. You basically won't have to wait for a table, and the experience will be top-notch!
- In a nutshell: A skewer and sushi joint held back by its curry! The food is genuinely good, definitely a Japanese place in Batam worth trying[9].
- At this 4.8-star Halal spot, the skewers are the MVP! Chicken skin & enoki beef rolls are smoky, savory, and perfectly charred[1].
- Don't skip the Mentaiko Tamagoyaki! Thick, fluffy egg smothered in rich, torched mentaiko sauce. The texture is unreal[2].
- Legit Japanese food in Batam! Its cozy vibe is perfect for a chill Nongkrong session with friends[3].
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