Outrageous portions for under 50k! This 'knockoff' Bakmi GM is the real canteen.
qponx
2026-03-04
Discover MGM in Serpong, a budget-friendly eatery affectionately called the "knockoff" Bakmi GM. While the noodles are familiar, the real highlights are the unbelievably massive portions and wallet-friendly prices, with meals under 50k! Don't miss the show-stopping Ayam Goreng Mentega (Butter Fried Chicken) and be sure to grab a seat in the charming hidden backyard garden. It’s the ultimate spot for a satisfying, affordable feast that won't break the bank.
Whenever friends come to Serpong to eat with me, and we're on a budget but still want a comfortable meal, the first place that pops into my head is this MGM.
Lokal friends all jokingly call it "Mirip GM" (Looks like GM)[1], because the taste of their signature noodles is practically a carbon copy of the national Indonesian noodle house, Bakmi GM. But the price and portion size? That's on a whole other level. It's simply Mantap!
The Vibe and Food are Seriously Chill
To be honest, I think their most famous signature noodle, Mie[2], is actually just okay—it has that familiar, can't-go-wrong taste. What really makes me order an extra portion every time is the Ayam Goreng Mentega (Butter Fried Chicken)[3]! The chicken is fried till it's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, the sweet and savory butter sauce is intoxicatingly fragrant, and when you pair it with fried rice, Anjay! I could devour two bowls!
The most insane thing is their portion size[4]; it's definitely the most generous I've ever seen in a Chinese restaurant in Indonesia. Every time I order, the waiter gives me a "Are you sure?" look, and sure enough, they bring out a dish the size of a washbasin. The value for money is off the charts.
The ambiance is also really interesting. It's not that picture-perfect, influencer-style decor, but more of a family restaurant with a nostalgic feel. Don't just sit by the entrance; head straight to the back. There's a hidden little garden with a fish pond[5], perfect for bringing kids or for Nongkrong with friends. Surrounded by greenery, it's much more comfortable than sitting inside and smelling the cooking fumes.
Editor's Honest Take
Of course, it has its downsides too. Besides the signature noodles which I find just average[6], the indoor seating is close to the kitchen, so the smell of cooking fumes can be quite strong during peak hours. Friends who are sensitive to smells should be cautious. However, for the sake of that backyard and the free-refill hot tea[7], this small issue is totally negligible.
Pro Tips to Avoid Pitfalls, You're Welcome ✍️
- Go early! Waiting in line during weekend meal times is the norm, and the parking spots out front are very limited[8]. If you don't want to wait for a table under the equatorial sun, you have to go during off-peak hours.
- Choose the backyard seating! You can feed the fish for free, which kids absolutely love, and adults can chill for a bit. It's definitely the best seat in the house[9].
- Order without fear, it's not expensive! The three of us ordered a table full of food, and the bill was less than 150,000 IDR[10]. That's less than 50k per person to eat until you're stuffed. Can you believe it?
- Ordering Guide: For your first visit, just go for the Ayam Goreng Mentega[11] and Nasi Goreng[12] without a second thought. You can order a portion of the noodles to try, since it is the soul of "Mirip GM" after all.
- Butter Fried Chicken (Ayam Goreng Mentega) is a must-order! Crispy chicken in a sweet-savory sauce, incredible with fried rice [1].
- Portions are huge—you'll get a washbasin-sized plate and an "Are you sure?" look from the waiter. Amazing value [2].
- The hidden backyard garden with a fish pond [3] is a chill spot to Nongkrong, away from the kitchen smoke.
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