Google: 20,000+ reviews, 4.9 stars. Is Hachi Grill's buffet really that amazing?
qponx
2026-01-24
Is Hachi Grill's legendary Jakarta buffet worth the 4.9-star hype? This all-you-can-eat favorite serves an incredible feast featuring both Yakiniku and Shabu-shabu, so you don't have to choose. Prepare for premium beef, a massive buffet station with endless options, and a dazzling dessert bar complete with a cotton candy machine. This review dives into the best dishes, what to potentially skip, and crucial tips for beating the infamous crowds and making the most of your visit.
To see just how intense meal times in Jakarta can get, just take a look at the entrance of Hachi Grill. No exaggeration, if I hadn't booked a table on their official website in advance[1], I'd probably still be standing at the door, feeling the hot wind and smelling the aroma of other people's barbecue.
As soon as I sat down, it was time to go all out! I got both Yakiniku (grilled meat) and Shabu-shabu (hot pot) at the same time, which is a total godsend for someone like me who has a severe case of indecisiveness. The quality of their beef is truly impeccable, the meat is fresh[2], and it sizzles on the grill. That sound is a symphony of dopamine, Mantap!
But what truly blew my mind was the buffet station, which is comparable to a small supermarket. From all kinds of seafood, vegetables, and Japanese side dishes to cooked food, the spread is dazzling, and the drink selection is also ridiculously extensive. For the hot pot, I tried the highly recommended Collagen Soup, and the broth was indeed incredibly savory[3]. I think the girls will really love it.
⚠️ Major Alert: You absolutely MUST save a second stomach for dessert! Ice cream, homemade yogurt, crème brûlée, freshly made waffles[4]… there's even a cotton candy machine on the side, taking you back to your childhood in an instant! Anjay, who could possibly resist this?!
Editor's Honest Take (Feel free to skip if you don't want to hear the complaints)
Of course, no place is perfect. My friend's Tom Yum soup base was... a bit hard to describe. It was on the salty side[5], which makes me think the quality control might be a bit inconsistent. Also, the restaurant gets so busy that during peak hours, it's packed, and the air conditioning can't seem to keep up[6]. It's pretty common to be sweating while you eat. If you want to Nongkrong comfortably, you definitely need to pick the right time.
Oh, and one more minor complaint: the restroom is outside the restaurant and shared by the entire building[7], which is a little inconvenient for touching up your makeup.
My Heartfelt Guide, Take It!
- 1. Don't be lazy, you MUST make a reservation! I'll say it again, if you just show up, you'll most likely be waiting in line until you question your life choices. Use the website or call, don't be stubborn![8]
- 2. Watch the time! The buffet has a time limit, usually 90-105 minutes for a standard package[9]. Don't get too caught up in taking photos and chatting; the battle horn sounds the moment you sit down!
- 3. Money-saving tip! If you're on a budget or just want a casual bite, you can try their weekday Ready to Eat (RTE) package. It's just over 10
- BBQ hotpot combo! Fresh beef sizzles on the grill – pure dopamine, perfect for indecisive foodies! [1]
- A mini-supermarket buffet with endless seafood, cooked dishes, Japanese sides, plus value sets for just over 100k IDR! [2]
- Epic dessert buffet! Fresh waffles, marshmallow machine... instant childhood nostalgia. Sweet tooths, prepare to be overwhelmed! [3]
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