Blok M's viral shaved ice: Hot, expensive, and nothing else?
qponx
2026-01-24
Curious about Blok M's viral Bao Bao Shaved Ice? This spot is famous for its incredibly fine, melt-in-your-mouth ice and fresh flavors like Mango and Strawberry. But is it worth the hype? This honest review gives the full scoop, weighing the delicious taste against the high price, small portions, and the surprisingly hot, open-air location. Find out if you should brave the heat for this trendy dessert and learn some pro tips before you go.
Anjay, Jakarta's weather is no joke! I just walked around Blok M and felt like I was about to melt. Urgently needed a place to Nongkrong and cool down, and I remembered this super popular spot, Bao Bao Shaved Ice.
So I navigated to the Pasaraya building, only to find that it's actually a semi-open stall in the lobby![1] I was dumbfounded on the spot... No air conditioning, just gusts of hot wind, I almost turned around and left.
So, is it any good?
But since I was already here, I bit the bullet and ordered. I chose the most recommended Mango Shaved Ice[2], and my friend got the Strawberry Shaved Ice[3].
When the ice arrived, it looked really impressive. I took a spoonful, and it was instantly Mantap! The texture of the ice was absolutely amazing, super fine and melts in your mouth, not at all like those coarse ice shards[4]. The sweetness was also just right; the mango flavor was sweet, tangy, and fresh, not that cloyingly sweet artificial syrup flavor. My friend's strawberry one had a richer, milky flavor and was also very Chill! I saw the table next to us ordered the UBE[5] flavor, which came with cornflakes and looked pretty good too.
To be honest…
Although the taste is on point, I still have to point out the downsides. The portion size of this shaved ice is really not big…[6] It costs over 40,000 IDR for one, and I finished it in just a few bites. I feel like the value for money is just so-so, and it left me wanting more. Also, I've seen people say the Matcha flavor is a bit weak[7], so serious matcha lovers might want to hold off for now.
Pro Tips (You're welcome!)
Finally, here are a few tips for the girls who want to check it out:
- 1. Be prepared to"steam in a sauna": I'll say it again, there's no AC here[8]! If you can't stand the heat, I suggest coming in the evening or on a cloudy day, otherwise you'll be sweating while you eat, which will diminish the experience.
- 2. Hidden Easter egg: Don't rush off after you finish. Leave a review for them on Google Maps, and you can get a cute souvenir card from the staff![9]
- 3. Keep an eye out for collabs: They're quite creative with their marketing. They previously had a promotion with Pigeon where you'd get a free face mask with a shaved ice purchase[10]. Before you go, check their IG to see if they have any new tricks up their sleeve. You might be able to score a good deal
- The mango shaved ice is incredible! The ice is super fine, melts in your mouth, not rough shards[1]. The mango flavor is fresh, sweet-sour, with no cloying artificial syrup sweetness[2].
- Don't be fooled by its viral fame; this spot is just a semi-open stall in a mall lobby, no AC, so you'll sweat while you eat[3]. Such an Indonesian vibe!
- Before you leave, write them a Google review and get a cute souvenir card! This hidden gem is too fun to miss[4]!
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