I forgave this Medan shop's every flaw, all for this silky egg tart.
qponx
2026-03-06
Discover a popular Medan dim sum spot where the signature egg tarts are worth forgiving a few flaws. While it can get crowded and some dishes miss the mark, the silky egg tarts and smooth shrimp rice noodle rolls are absolute must-tries. This family-friendly restaurant offers great value, but be prepared for potential service delays and a tricky parking situation. It's a place of clear pros and cons, with the dim sum shining brightest.
Came here because of the super high 4.8 Google rating, and this Haikou dim sum place is basically a household name in Medan's dim sum scene. The shop is decorated with Chinese lanterns, and the tableware also has that special vibe, so the atmosphere is totally on point. But honestly, during peak hours, it gets so crowded, Anjay! The whole place is buzzing with chatter and steaming hot. If you come at noon in the summer, it might feel a bit stuffy and crowded[1].
The Flavor is On Point, But With Hits and Misses
Without further ado, let's get to the food!
👍 The Good List (Must-tries!):
👎 The Bad List (Order with caution!):
- Signature Egg Tarts: I have to praise their new egg tarts[2] first! The crust is incredibly crispy, the filling is silky smooth, and the sweetness is just right—not cloying at all. I could finish a whole plate by myself!
- Shrimp Rice Noodle Rolls: These are also Mantap! The sauce is perfectly balanced, the noodle sheets are slippery smooth, and the shrimp inside is fresh. It's one of the few dishes I couldn't find any fault with[3].
- Drinks: Their drinks are really something special, especially the matcha and fruit juices. The flavors are rich, they use solid ingredients, two thumbs up![4]
- Honestly, not every dish is perfect. The chicken my friend ordered was a bit dry and tough[5], and some of the noodles tasted overly sweet. I feel like the dim sum quality is decent, but the main courses might be a bit of a gamble.
Let Me Be Clear, You'll Have to Accept These Downsides
Alright, let me tell you some hard truths. While the food is generally good, there are a few pitfalls I need to give you a heads-up about.
First, the menu pictures are for reference only. The actual portions feel a tiny bit smaller than they look on the menu[6], so for those of you whose eyes are bigger than your stomachs, you can order without worrying too much about waste.
Second, the service is hit-or-miss. When the place gets busy, the waiters and waitresses are running around like crazy, so it's possible you might wave for a while before anyone notices you[7]. Just be a little more patient, Chill～
Third, parking is a huge problem! There are basically no dedicated parking spots in front of the shop, so friends who are driving should be prepared to circle the area looking for a spot[8].
Finally, My Sincere Tips for You
So, is it worth a visit?
Overall, it's a place with very clear pros and cons. For those egg tarts, I'd still go back! What about you?
- Parents with kids, this is a no-brainer! This place is super family-friendly; they've got high chairs, kids' meals, and even toys all ready for you[9]. It's definitely a haven that frees up parents' hands.
- Friends looking for good value, you can come here to Nongkrong! The prices are really reasonable, and among the dim sum places in Medan, its value for money has been vouched for by many[10].
- Vegetarian friends, don't worry, they can help customize vegetarian dishes, just remember to let the staff know in advance[11].
- For my girls who love a good deal, check their social media before you go. They often have fun activities like New Year's lucky draws or firework giveaways[12]!
- Signature egg tarts: Super flaky crust, silky smooth filling, perfectly sweet. You'll want the whole plate to yourself! [1]
- Don't skip the drinks! The matcha and juices are rich and intense. You can taste the real ingredients in every sip. [2]
- Parents, rejoice! With high chairs, kids' meals, and toys, it's a mini playground that finally frees up your hands. [3]
Similar Articles
Mantap food, but room-temp coffee? Is Zisel really worth it?
Zisel in Cemara Asri, Medan, offers a cozy spot for friends to gather, but is the food worth it? This review dives into their menu, praising the authentic Western dishes. The homemade gelato, thin-crust pizza, and a surprisingly stellar granola yogurt bowl are definite must-tries. However, there's a catch for coffee lovers: the brews are a major letdown, often served lukewarm. The final verdict? Absolutely visit for the delicious food, but maybe get your coffee elsewhere first.
Is Medan's 'Old Place' worth a 1-hour drive just for dumplings?
Is a long drive just for dumplings worth it? This Medan spot, 'Old Place', makes a strong case. It boasts a nostalgic 80s/90s retro Chinese decor perfect for family outings. The main draw is the authentic, no-MSG cooking, featuring must-try juicy potstickers (kuotiek), a rich hot pot with free broth refills, and flavorful pork belly noodles. While it requires a journey and can be pricey, the unique atmosphere and delicious food make it a popular destination.
Calling all Pork Heads! This K-BBQ is so good, it forgives all sins
Discover Mabac, a hidden gem in Medan for authentic, non-halal Korean BBQ. This open-air spot might be no-frills, but the food is heavenly. Get ready for sizzling Marinated Samgyeopsal with a perfect char, super crispy Chicharron, and soul-warming Ramyeon. The flavors are straight from the streets of Korea, and with affordable prices and free side dish refills, it's a true pork lover's paradise that's well worth a visit for a genuine street-food experience.
This farm restaurant in Medan: Truly beautiful, but also truly hot 🥵
Discover a hidden farm restaurant in Medan with a stunning open-garden design and lush greenery. This spot specializes in generous portions of healthy vegetarian fare, including a famous Char Kway Teow, and you can even pick your own vegetables! But be warned: the beautiful setting comes with intense heat and pesky bugs. This review gives you the full scoop, offering essential tips on the best times to visit and what to order for the perfect farm-to-table experience.