Google 4.8, packed with lokals! But this Medan buffet serves meat by the slice?
qponx
2026-03-06
Curious about a Medan Japanese BBQ with a stellar 4.8 Google rating? This popular Halal spot is a local favorite for its lively atmosphere, perfect for hangouts. While the grilled satay is a definite must-try, there's a surprising catch: the all-you-can-eat premium beef is served by staff, just a few slices at a time. Get the full scoop on the food, the service, and tips on how to get the best value before you go.
Drawn by the 3000+ reviews and super high 4.8 rating on Google[1], I dragged my girls to check out this Japanese BBQ and shabu-shabu buffet (AYCE) with a strong Medan vibe. I was thinking: This has got to be Mantap, right? But as it turns out... once we sat down, I realized things weren't that simple. 😂
Walking in, the ambiance was actually pretty nice, playing popular K-Pop, perfect for friends to come and Nongkrong. But Anjay, the sign at the entrance is way too low-key; the faded colors almost made me think I was at the wrong place. Girls, if you go, make sure to use your GPS.[2]
I Tried the Food For You
We chose the premium package, which came out to a little over 150,000 IDR[3] per person after tax, and we were there for their Premium Beef. Honestly, the meat quality was okay, but here are my complaints:
- Grilled Satay: I have to rave about this! I ordered the mildly spicy chicken skin satay[4], and the sauce was incredible, grilled to fragrant perfection, so good I wanted to order ten more skewers!
- Premium Beef: This one was a bit tricky... The meat is served by the staff plate by plate; you can't get it yourself[5]. And one plate only has two or three thin slices. I was eagerly waiting for the waiter to bring more meat, and I felt a lot of pressure trying to eat my money's worth. 🥲
- Ramen: I ordered a bowl on the side, but the flavor was really a bit bland[6]. The broth wasn't rich enough; it's the kind of thing you eat once and never order again.
To Be Honest
Even though it's an AYCE, the overall experience was a bit frustrating. The service really needs improvement. During peak hours, you have to call out for a long time just to get more food or change the grill pan[7]. Especially when asking for more meat, if you want to focus on a specific expensive cut, the staff will still mix it with other cuts, which makes you feel like the value for money drops instantly.
So that 4.8 rating on Google, I guess it's probably more for the atmosphere and its niche as a "Halal Japanese Buffet." After all, there aren't many options in Medan, so this place has indeed become a popular spot for family and friend gatherings.
Tips to Avoid Disappointment / Save Money
- 1. Don't insist on the most expensive package: Unless you only eat Wagyu, the regular package is actually enough. After all, they're quite "reserved" with how much premium meat they give you.
- 2. Focus on the satay and the buffet station: Their satay is really delicious, and there are plenty of side dishes at the buffet station, so you can try more of those.
- 3. Look out for promotions! I scrolled through their IG and found that they often have "buy three, get one free" type of deals[8] during holidays. It's much more worth it if you can gather enough people!
- 4. Go with a Chill mindset: Don't go in with a "battle" mentality to eat your money's worth. Just treat it as a meal to chat with friends and have some BBQ on the side, and you'll have a much better time. 🤙
- Grilled satay is a must! The spicy chicken skin is smoky, charred, with a secret sauce. You'll want 10 more. [1]
- This 4.8-star [2] Halal Japanese BBQ & shabu-shabu buffet is a Medan hotspot, perfect for a Nongkrong session.
- For ~150k IDR [3], Premium Beef is portioned, but go wild on unlimited satay & buffet sides for hidden gems. [4]
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