A 4.9-star, 100-year-old spring roll shop... gaming its reviews with freebies?
qponx
2026-03-04
This famous 100-year-old spring roll shop in Semarang boasts a near-perfect 4.9-star rating, but is it legit? This review explores the truth behind the hype. While the freshly fried spring rolls are genuinely delicious, the shop games its ratings by offering freebies for five-star reviews. It's more of a busy souvenir stop than a cozy eatery. Find out if it's a must-visit or an overhyped tourist trap, with tips on what to order and what to avoid.
Every time I come to Semarang, a visit is never complete without stopping by Lunpia Cik Me Me. The walls are covered with black-and-white photos and awards dating back to 1870, and the story of its five-generation legacy is truly awe-inspiring[1]. With over 30,000 reviews on Google, its 4.9-star rating is blindingly impressive. But… it didn't take long after I sat down to realize something was off.
The flavor is on point, but don't deify it
The place was bustling with people. It felt less like a restaurant and more like a one-stop souvenir supermarket[2], with everyone carrying vacuum-packed spring rolls in one hand while picking out other local specialties with the other. There aren't many seats for dining in, and the vibe is pretty much eat-and-go. If you're thinking of coming here to Nongkrong and chat, you can forget it.
I ordered the most classic Fried Spring Roll (Lunpia Goreng)[3] and the Original (Original Lunpia)[4]. The freshly fried spring rolls are truly Mantap! The skin was so crispy it crunched with every bite, and eating it hot was pure bliss. The bamboo shoot filling was prepared very well, with no weird aftertaste. The sweet and savory seasoning is an authentic Central Javanese flavor. I also tried the non-fried Wet Spring Roll (Lunpia Basah)[5]. The skin is softer and chewier, suitable for those who prefer a traditional texture, but I personally prefer the crispiness of the fried version. As for the price, the original one is about 22,000 Indonesian Rupiah each, which is okay.
Anjay! I discovered the secret to their high rating…
Halfway through my meal, I finally figured out where that 4.9-star rating came from. When the tourists at the next table were paying, the staff smilingly said they'd get a free spring roll for leaving a five-star review… Anjay! What a slick move, right[6]? No wonder some people call it a "tourist trap."
To be honest, the taste is good, but it's not mind-blowingly amazing. Plus, the portion size is definitely a bit smaller compared to other old-school local spots[7]. Waiting forever for your food during peak hours is also common[8], and you'll get really frustrated if you're not patient.
【Honest Talk & Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls】
So, is this place actually worth visiting? Here's my advice:
- ✅ Dining in is a go: If you're nearby and want a quick taste of this century-old shop, ordering a freshly fried spring roll is a pretty good experience. The flavor is on point, but don't expect it to be a "divine delicacy."
- ❌ Don't blindly trust the high rating: When you see the 4.9 stars on Google, just Chill a bit. After all, it's quite inflated. Manage your expectations; it's just a decent local snack.
- ⚠️ Think twice about takeaway souvenirs: Here's the most important part! Don't believe their claim that the vacuum-packed ones can last for a month! A friend of mine bought some to take home, and they went bad in just a few days[9]—a total loss. I've also heard their airport pickup service is unreliable, with a history of missed orders[10]. If you really must buy, just get enough for the day.
- 💡 It's okay for one-stop souvenir shopping: If you're too lazy to run around and want to buy all your Semarang Oleh-Oleh in one go, this place is quite convenient. But for the main star, the spring rolls, don't stock up
- A 5-generation century-old shop. Feel the history from walls covered with photos and awards dating back to 1870 [1].
- Audibly crispy fried spring rolls with a sweet-savory bamboo filling. One blissful bite is an authentic taste of Central Java [2].
- It's also a one-stop shop for Semarang specialties. Saves time, perfect for lazy foodies who want to go all-in [3].
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