Rated 4.7 on Google & swarmed by celebs. Is Roti Romi really that good?
qponx
2026-01-25
Celebrity-owned Roti Romi has massive social media buzz and high ratings, but does the experience match the hype? This honest review dives into the reality of long waits, a crowded atmosphere, and disappointing main dishes. However, a single menu item shines: the signature vintage toast, Roti Jadul Bakar. Find out if this one saving grace is enough to make this polarizing, 24-hour spot worth a visit, or if you should just grab that famous toast to go.
Every time I scroll through Instagram, I always see goddess-level figures like Maudy Ayunda and Cinta Laura checking in at Roti Romi[1], and then I check Google Maps, and whoa, 7500+ reviews with a 4.7 rating! It's a shop co-owned by celebrity Baim Wong[2], so the prestige is maxed out.
I thought, I have to go Nongkrong there, right? The result... let's just say, the gap between reality and the Instagram filter is more congested than Jakarta's evening rush hour.
A Long Wait, A Tiring Experience
As soon as I walked in, something felt off. It was packed with people, the seats were super close together, and the space was stuffy and hot[3], completely lacking a Chill vibe. After ordering by scanning a QR code, the real test began.
I watched as the table next to me got impatient and just left, and my noodles only arrived after I rushed them several times, taking almost an hour[4]. The waiter drifted by with an 'I'm busy, don't bother me' look on his face. Anjay, the service was seriously infuriating.
As for the Taste, It's Hard to Describe
Let's talk about the food. The chicken noodles that many people mentioned, for 50,000 IDR[5], only came with a few small pieces of chicken, the noodles were dry[6], and the portion was so small that even I, a girl, couldn't get full. The value for money is rock bottom.
But! To be fair, the one and only saving grace of this place is their signature vintage toast, Roti Jadul Bakar[7]. The bread is toasted crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and the aroma of butter and chocolate mixed together is truly Mantap! This is the true soul of the place, and the only thing worth my nod of approval.
Editor's Honest Opinion (A Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls)
So you see, this is a place with extremely polarizing pros and cons. The gap between its glamorous social media presence and the real-life experience is quite large. If you've been influenced to go, listen to my advice:
In short, it's worth making a special trip just to get the bread to go. But if you want to sit down for a proper meal? I'd advise you to think twice. 🤷♀️
- If you just want the bread: Promise me, just get it to go (Take away)! Don't even think about dining in; it's not worth an hour of your precious life.
- If you absolutely must dine in: Be mentally prepared to wait for over an hour[8]. Don't come when you're starving, or you'll want to flip the table.
- Ordering tip: The online menu often shows items as"Sold Out," but they're actually available. Don't trust the app; just grab a staff member and ask[9].
- Other TIPS: It's open 24 hours and supports QRis payments. However, there's no toilet or prayer room inside the shop[10], so you have to go outside, which is a bit of a hassle.
- Maudy Ayunda & Cinta Laura visited [1], Baim Wong collaborated [2]! 7500+ Google reviews, 4.7 stars – serious hype!
- Their signature vintage grilled bread Roti Jadul Bakar[3] is pure soul! Crispy outside, soft inside, amazing butter & chocolate aroma – pure bliss!
- But reality vs. hype is like Jakarta's rush hour [4]. Why is its reputation so polarized, loved and hated?
Similar Articles
Stop wasting your money on fine dining. This West Jakarta spot is so good it left me speechless.
Discover West Jakarta's hidden gem, Satu Meja, a cozy cafe serving Western food that rivals fine dining. This photogenic spot in Tanjung Duren isn't just for coffee; it's a culinary surprise with standout dishes like a super tender Chicken Steak and rich Truffle Mushroom Pasta. Perfect for working from, it offers great value for its quality. Just note that parking is limited and payments are cashless. Prepare to be wowed by this affordable luxury.
I was eating this in a roadside tent 15 years ago. Now, with AC, does it still taste the same?
From a humble roadside tent to a comfy, air-conditioned shop, has Jakarta's famous Bakmi Ahok kept its soul? This review revisits the legendary non-halal noodle joint, known for its signature chewy "Bakmi Karet." Discover the must-try "Bakmi Spesial" packed with toppings, including a unique pork sausage. Get an honest look at the taste, portion sizes, and ambiance to see if this old favorite still delivers its incredible flavor after its major upgrade.
A mall with a park in Central Jakarta? Totally worth getting lost in
Central Park in Jakarta is more than just a mall—it's a destination. Its standout feature is Tribeca Park, a stunning outdoor oasis with a koi pond that becomes magical at night. This massive complex is a shopper's paradise and a foodie's dream, with a dedicated dining level and a huge kids' play area. Connected to Neo Soho mall, it’s an all-in-one spot for an entire day of fun and exploration, even if you get a little lost.
They say this legendary chicken congee is the best supper in Jakarta. I finally tried it, and all I can say is…
Curious about Jakarta's legendary Bubur Ayam Jadul The Legend? This late-night spot is famous for one thing: a mountain of shredded chicken piled high on its congee. While the portion is massive, the porridge base is surprisingly plain, so be ready to add your own seasoning. This review gives you the honest truth on the taste, the crowded street-side vibe, the price, and essential tips on portion sizes and parking before you brave the crowds for this viral supper.