A 4.9-star Halal Ramen on Google... isn't in Jakarta?
qponx
2026-03-05
Think the best Halal ramen is only in Jakarta? Think again! This article uncovers a hidden gem in a Balikpapan mall, a 4.9-star rated spot serving up bold and flavorful ramen. Discover its modern Japanese vibe and signature dishes like the rich Beef Curry Ramen. With wallet-friendly prices and a comfortable atmosphere, it proves that amazing, satisfying ramen can be found in the most unexpected places, offering a must-try experience for locals and visitors alike.
I always thought the best ramen was in Jakarta or Bali, but I was totally schooled on my trip to Balikpapan! Who knew? In a mall in a non-touristy city, there's such a hidden gem of a Halal ramen spot, and I almost walked right past it!
An Immersive Slurping Experience, Maxed-Out Vibes
As soon as I walked in, the modern Japanese-style design really caught my eye. With its warm lighting, it's clean and comfortable—not at all like the noisy vibe of a fast-food joint. It's super suitable for Nongkrong with friends or for a date[1]. The atmosphere was set, now it was time to see how the noodles were.
The menu has a pretty good selection, with ramen, sushi, and bento boxes. I blindly ordered the signature Beef Curry Ramen[2], and when it arrived, the rich curry aroma was just Anjay! The broth was bold in all the right ways, with complex layers of spices. The beef was stewed until tender and flavorful, and paired with the chewy noodles, having a bowl on a rainy day is so comforting. My friend ordered the Ultimate Beef Ramen[3]; the broth had a creamy texture but wasn't heavy at all—it was incredibly savory, a different, more gentle style. Oh, and don't miss their Gyoza[4]. A lokal friend recommended it as a must-try, and sure enough, the skin was slightly crispy and the filling was juicy. Mantap!
Some Honest Thoughts (whispering)
Of course, no place is perfect. If I had to be picky, it's that their broths are all on the "stronger" side. If you're someone who prefers a super light, traditional Japanese broth, you might find it a bit over the top[5]. As for the service, our experience was great this time; the waiter was very enthusiastic. But I've also seen some people complain that the service can be hit-or-miss, so it might depend on your luck[6].
Editor's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls
All in all, if you're in Balikpapan looking for a good, hot meal, this place is definitely worth a visit
- Price: For this quality in a mall, the price is quite wallet-friendly[7]. The portions are just right too, offering great value for money.
- Family-Friendly: Attention moms and dads with kids, they have a kids' menu and even provide coloring sheets—a great place to free up your hands![8]
- Scoring Deals: For my friends looking to save some money, keep an eye on their Instagram. They occasionally have promotions like getting a free snack for writing a review[9].
- A hidden gem Halal ramen spot in a mall in non-touristy Balikpapan! Almost missed it—the feeling is real!
- Beef Curry Ramen: The curry aroma is so rich, Anjay! Bold broth, layered spices, and super tender beef [1].
- Clean, modern Japanese vibe with warm lighting—not noisy like fast food. Perfect for Nongkrong with friends or a date [2].
Similar Articles
10k+ Per Person: This Soup Cured My 'Java Stomach' in Kalimantan
Discover Balikpapan's "Soto Champion," a humble roadside stall that has locals lining up daily. Don't be fooled by its simple appearance; this spot serves a heavenly Soto Semarang with a clear, savory, and intensely fragrant garlic broth. The experience is elevated by an array of delicious sides, from crispy fried tempeh to various satay skewers perfect for soaking in the soup. This article explores why this incredibly affordable and addictive meal is a must-try for any foodie.
Who says small towns don't have good coffee? This place in Balikpapan just shut me up
Discover House of Dondang, a surprising cafe gem in Balikpapan that shatters low expectations. This spot boasts a cozy, photogenic interior that's far from generic. Visitors rave about the top-tier signature Kopi and delicious, generously portioned Nasi Goreng, all at affordable prices. While it's better for chilling with friends than working, its unique vibe and an in-house photo booth make it a must-visit for a casual hangout.
Halal Dim Sum in a European Castle? This Chinese Restaurant in Balikpapan is Something Else!
Step into Empat Rasa, a Chinese restaurant in Balikpapan that looks more like a European castle! This visually stunning spot is a rare find, specializing in Halal dim sum and Chinese food. While some dishes like the lamian might underwhelm, the juicy shrimp dumplings and soft pandan kaya buns are absolute must-tries. It’s a unique dining experience that combines surprising decor with standout signature bites, though you might want to be prepared for potential service delays during peak hours.
Anjay! Started from a Toyota Kijang, this 'phenomenal' Balikpapan cafe is something else.
Discover ksm koppi, Balikpapan's phenomenal cafe that impressively grew from a Toyota Kijang van into a local hotspot. It features a spacious, bright ambiance perfect for working or chilling with friends. Don't miss their signature Koberry coffee or the fiery Sambal Matah series, all at super affordable prices. While it gets busy, the unique vibe and delicious, budget-friendly offerings make it a must-visit destination in the city.