Balikpapan's best steak? Pick your meat downstairs, grilled fresh upstairs. This setup is wild
qponx
2026-03-05
Discover a unique steakhouse in Balikpapan where the experience is as fresh as the meat! Start at the boutique butcher shop downstairs to personally select your premium cut of Wagyu or Angus. Then, head upstairs to the cozy restaurant and have it grilled to perfection. This spot is famous for its incredible steaks and fall-off-the-bone ribs, offering a truly customized dining adventure. While it can be pricey and crowded, the flavor is said to be worth it.
To be honest, driving over 20 minutes just for this steak, at first I felt it wasn't really worth it[1]. When I got there, I saw the first floor was a butcher shop? I almost thought my GPS was glitching. But then... Anjay! This is where the real show begins!
Butcher Shop Downstairs, Heaven Upstairs 🥩
This shop's concept is seriously so cool. Downstairs is a boutique butcher shop, and the freezers are full of the good stuff—Wagyu and Angus steaks all lined up[2]. You can browse just like you're at a market, personally pick a cut of meat that catches your eye, and then hand it to the staff. They'll take it straight upstairs to grill for you—the sense of customization is off the charts!
I chose an Australian Tenderloin. The restaurant upstairs has a pretty cozy vibe, with a bit of a modern, minimalist style, perfect for a couple's date night or a small family gathering[3]. The moment the steak was served, the aroma was just explosive. The outside was seared and fragrant, while the inside was a perfect pink. The juices were locked in tight, and every bite was the purest, original flavor of the beef[4]. Mantap! It truly lives up to its reputation as "Balikpapan's Best," certified by so many people[5].
The friend I was with ordered the signature grilled Back Ribs, and the portion was absolutely huge. The meat was stewed until it was super tender and falling off the bone[6]. For friends who don't eat beef, you can also try the salmon steak. I hear it's also top-notch[7].
Let's Get Real…
To be fair, the main course steak was flawless, but the side dishes are like opening a blind box. The mashed potatoes I ordered were so good I wanted to buy an extra portion to-go, but a certain side dish my friend ordered was... emmm... very mediocre[8].
The prices are definitely not cheap. A 200g sirloin steak costs around 275k, so your wallet should be prepared. Also, the place isn't very big, and it gets super crowded during meal times. If you want to chill, it's best to come during off-peak hours.
Tips to Avoid Pitfalls/Save Money 📝
- Time: You'll definitely have to queue during peak hours, so it's recommended to plan ahead or just go earlier/later.
- Hidden Perk: The homemade baked goods at the butcher shop downstairs are 30% off after 6 PM![9] After your meal, you can conveniently grab some bread to take home for breakfast. So satisfying.
- Transportation: It's a bit far from the city center, so it's best to drive yourself or get a ride-hailing service.
- Thoughtful Amenities: The restaurant is on the second floor, but there's an elevator, so there's absolutely no problem if you're with the elderly, children, or have a stroller[10].
- Butcher downstairs, restaurant up. Choose your own beef and they'll grill it fresh for a custom meal [1].
- The Australian Tenderloin steak: perfect char, juicy pink center, pure beef flavor. Hailed as “Balikpapan’s Best” [2].
- Not just steak! Get huge, tender grilled ribs. Don't eat beef? Try the delicious salmon steak [3][4].
Similar Articles
Anjay! Started from a Toyota Kijang, this 'phenomenal' Balikpapan cafe is something else.
Discover ksm koppi, Balikpapan's phenomenal cafe that impressively grew from a Toyota Kijang van into a local hotspot. It features a spacious, bright ambiance perfect for working or chilling with friends. Don't miss their signature Koberry coffee or the fiery Sambal Matah series, all at super affordable prices. While it gets busy, the unique vibe and delicious, budget-friendly offerings make it a must-visit destination in the city.
Balikpapan's Secret Party Weapon! Why is This Dessert Delivery Shop a City-Wide Sensation?
Uncover the secret behind Balikpapan's party sensation, Kana's Kitchen! This unassuming takeaway window is famous for its incredible desserts and savory snacks that are a staple at local events. Discover why their signature choux, "plump and dense" lumpia, and flaky Portuguese egg tarts have the whole city talking. This guide reveals the must-try items and provides essential tips on how to navigate the crowds and score the best treats from this wildly popular spot.
Was this Halal ramen in Balikpapan really worth the 1-hour wait?
Is the famous Halal ramen at Shishi Ramen in Balikpapan worth the hour-long wait? This review dives into the bustling, Tokyo-style eatery to find out. Discover their must-try signature ramen with rich broth and rave-worthy crispy gyoza. While the main dishes shine, the wait times can be long. Get the inside scoop on what to order (and what to avoid), plus crucial tips for beating the queues and parking woes for a delicious, hassle-free experience.
This is Balikpapan's legendary restaurant?! Sucky service, but... I'd still go back?
Discover Balikpapan's legendary DECAFE, a beautifully renovated spot with a chic, cozy atmosphere. But be warned: the service is famously bad. Despite the icy waitstaff and long waits, some dishes are absolutely divine. The Black Pepper Beef with Buns and comforting Oxtail Soup are must-tries that make this a place you'll love to hate. This review weighs the pros and cons, helping you decide if the heavenly food is worth the devilish service.