Pay first to taste? Why is this Pekanbaru Gelato so cocky?
qponx
2026-03-06
A Pekanbaru gelato shop has a bold "pay before you taste" rule, making every order a gamble. But is the risk worth it? This review dives into the "cocky" local spot that boasts high ratings. Discover its standout authentic Matcha flavor, generous portions, and great value for money. While not every flavor is a guaranteed hit, this article explores the highs and lows to help you decide if you're brave enough to order blind.
Anjay! First time seeing a gelato shop with so much attitude. They don't give out samples, you have to pay before you can even taste the flavors[1]?!
If it weren't for its high 4.7 rating on Google, I would've thought it was some kind of shady shop and almost turned around and left. With an "I'll see just how good you are" attitude, I braced myself and went in.
The Joy of Ordering Blind: Half Surprise, Half Scare
The shop isn't very big, with just three small tables[2], but the AC is blasting, and it's super clean, perfect for coming to Nongkrong with friends for a bit. After agonizing for a while, I blindly ordered the Matcha[3] flavor, and my friend chose Tiramisu.
And the result... the moment my scoop of matcha hit my tongue, I instantly understood where its confidence came from! That rich, slightly bitter tea flavor was so authentic, not at all like those cloyingly sweet, generic kinds. The texture was silky smooth, Mantap! Looking at the menu, Cookies and Cream[4] and Lotus Biscoff[5] are also fan favorites, so I have to try them next time.
I chose the Flat Top Cone, 30k Indonesian Rupiah for two scoops[6], and the portion was super generous[7]. Really great value for money.
But, gotta be honest…
Although my matcha was amazing, my friend's Tiramisu was a bit of a letdown. The coffee flavor was so faint it felt like an accident[8], which left her a little disappointed. So yeah, this "pay before you taste" rule is definitely a challenge for those with decision paralysis. If you happen to pick a bad one, it's really... well, you know 🥲.
The Editor's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls
As usual, here are the key points for you guys:
As one of the first Lokal Gelato brands in Pekanbaru[9], to be popular for this long, they've definitely got some skills. Have you guys been? What's your favorite flavor? Let's chat in the comments! 👇
- Best Time to Visit: Definitely don't go at high noon! The shop has glass walls, and it gets really hot with direct sunlight. I suggest coming around 4 or 5 PM[10]; eating ice cream in the cool AC, now that's what I call Chill.
- Ordering Strategy: Matcha lovers can order it without hesitation! If it's your first time and you're afraid of picking a bad flavor, I suggest buying a single scoop to test the waters. If it's good, you can always get more.
- Transportation: Highly recommend riding a scooter or taking a taxi. For those of you driving, be mentally prepared: the parking spots out front are pitifully few[11], and finding a spot can be maddening.
- Payment Methods: They accept QRIS and cash[12], which is very convenient.
- No free samples—you must pay first to taste the flavors[1]. Their confidence just makes you more curious to try.
- The Matcha Gelato is rich, bitter, and silky—the real deal, not some flashy, fake flavor[2]. A must-try for matcha fans!
- Two huge scoops[3] on a cone for just 30k IDR[4]. An absolute steal—you have to get it
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