Makassar sisters! Looking for a Chill place to Nongkrong? Read my rant about this spot first
qponx
2026-03-06
Thinking of chilling at Panbaker's in Makassar? This spot wins on aesthetics with its stunning industrial loft style, making it a super photogenic place to hang out, complete with live music. But this honest review gives a crucial heads-up. While the vibe is top-notch, the service can be incredibly slow and some signature dishes might disappoint. Get the full scoop on what to order (and what to avoid!) to make the most of your visit to this stylish but flawed spot.
Recently in Makassar, I was looking for a place to Nongkrong with my girls and came across this spot, Panbaker's, with a 4.6 rating on Google. The photos looked pretty good, so I went for it!
The moment I walked in, wow, that industrial loft style really got me! High ceilings, exposed brick walls, the whole sense of space is amazing, and the atmosphere is very comfortable. It's super photogenic. At night, there's also Live Music or a DJ[1], so the vibe is turned all the way up. It's so Chill[2] for chatting and hanging out with friends! Based on the ambiance alone, it's definitely Mantap level.
As for the food… it was a mixed bag
We ordered a few dishes recommended online and tried them out for you all:
- Cheese Chicken Spaghetti[3]: This one was pretty good. The cheese flavor is rich, a safe choice you can't go wrong with.
- Fettuccine Truffle Mushroom[4]: This is an official recommendation. The aroma of cream and truffle is strong, so you can order this if you like a creamy texture.
- Avocado on Toast[5]: This is from the Brunch menu. The ingredients include avocado, beef bacon, and a poached egg. It looked quite substantial.
BUT! Here come the complaints, girls
No matter how good the ambiance is, it can't make up for a bad experience! The service here is truly… Anjay! So slow it makes you question your existence. We waved for ages before a waiter slowly came over, and ordering food was like going to war[6]. It really brought down the whole experience.
Plus, some of the dishes really give off that "pictures are for reference only" vibe. We saw the table next to us order that legendary 1-meter pizza, and when it arrived… huh? It felt like it had seriously shrunk, okay[7]! Also, a friend who came before said the steak was as thin as a piece of paper. My people, who gets it!
Guide to avoid the pitfalls, take it and you're welcome!
So, for the girls who want to check this place out, here are the key takeaways:
- 1. Go for the ambiance: If you're purely going for photos, music, and to Nongkrong, this place definitely passes. The vibe is top-notch.
- 2. Ordering strategy: The pasta dishes are a relatively safe bet. But promise me, DO NOT order their Pancakes, a friend complained they were both ugly and tasted bad[8]! Also, if you order a salad, double-check if the leaves are clean[9].
- 3. Keep your cool: As for the service… just be zen about it. Don't have high expectations, or you'll likely get upset.
- 4. Money-saving Tip: Keep an eye out for their Friday nights. They often have DJ performances, and sometimes there are buy-one-get-one-free deals on coffee
- Industrial loft look with high ceilings and exposed brick walls. Super photogenic with a totally Chill vibe[1].
- The chicken cheese pasta is a foolproof, delicious choice, loaded with rich cheese and tender chicken[2].
- Friday nights feature DJ performances for maximum vibes. Look for buy-one-get-one coffee deals to party for less[3]
Similar Articles
Calling all Makassar Digital Nomads! I could stay welded to my seat all day at this 'library' cafe.
Looking for a quiet workspace in Makassar? Discover a hidden, minimalist cafe that's a digital nomad's dream. With its serene, all-white "library" vibe, it's the perfect spot to focus. Fuel your productivity with their acclaimed lattes and delicious spicy chicken wings while browsing bookshelves and local art. This review also shares essential tips on the best seating, navigating limited parking, and what to order (and what to skip) for the best experience.
Who says Soto Betawi has to be coconut milk-flavored? This shop in Makassar just schooled me.
Think Soto Betawi is always creamy? A popular spot in Makassar is changing the game with its unique clear-broth version. This savory soup is packed with meaty flavor, minus the heaviness of coconut milk. Customize your bowl with tender beef cuts and don't miss the legendary pairing with Nasi Sambal Goreng (spicy potato rice). It's a flavor combination you won't forget at this bustling, no-frills local eatery that serves food fast.
4.6 stars on Google, but why is the floor an oily skating rink?
This highly-rated Padang restaurant is a true paradox. While the floors are notoriously slippery and hygiene can be questionable, the authentic food is an absolute showstopper. This guide reveals the must-order dishes, like the incredibly tender Ayam Pop and savory Sate Padang, that make it all worthwhile. Discover the essential tips for navigating the pitfalls—from service quirks to checking your bill—to enjoy a truly memorable meal that’s packed with flavor.
This top-tier seafood in Makassar has no prices on the menu?
Discover Makassar's "Seafood God," a restaurant where flavor is king. Don't let the noisy, basic setting or the menu with no prices scare you away. This spot serves incredibly fresh, top-tier seafood with huge portions and amazing value. Must-try dishes include the soul-warming Pallumara Fish Soup, champion Salted Egg Yolk Squid, and unique Ikan Kudu-kudu. It's an authentic dining experience for true seafood lovers who prioritize taste above all else.