A perfect 5.0 on Google? My advice for this K-BBQ: wear 'old clothes'
qponx
2026-03-06
This K-BBQ spot in Pekanbaru boasts a perfect 5.0 Google rating, and for good reason! Dive into high-quality Saikoro beef and rich hot pot broths. While the service is top-notch, there's a catch: no exhaust fans mean the whole place gets smoky, creating an authentic street-stall vibe. So, heed the advice and wear old clothes! Don't forget to check their Instagram for deals and grab your free post-meal ice cream to complete the experience.
I'm in Pekanbaru, and I was seriously drawn in by the reputation of this Korean BBQ place. Over 1600+ reviews on Google, all with a perfect 5.0 score[1], what kind of god-tier concept is that? With a "let's see just how amazing it is" attitude, I headed straight to Mal Pekanbaru.
As soon as I sat down, I understood why the title tells you to wear old clothes... I'll get to that later, let's talk about the food first, because that's what really matters!
A Carnivore's Delight, with Service Details on Point!
Honestly, the quality of the meat is undeniable. When I got the menu, I just went ahead and ordered the most recommended item, the Saikoro Beef[2]. Those diced beef cubes sizzled on the grill, grilled until the outside was slightly charred while the inside was still juicy. One bite was truly Mantap! The meat was fresh and tender, not at all like the stuff that's been frozen for ages[3].
Besides the BBQ, the hot pot is also a must-try. We ordered the Jigae soup base[4], and the broth was super rich, not the bland, watery kind. It was so satisfying with the meat and veggies. My friend who came with me ordered the Jeonggeol soup[5]. She said it was like a milder version of Tom Yum, with just the right amount of sourness, making it very appetizing.
What surprised me the most was the service. Halfway through, the Tteokbokki[6] we ordered was a bit undercooked. On a whim, I pressed the service bell on the table (such a convenient design[7]), and the waiter, without a second thought, immediately replaced it with a new one, which was soft, chewy, and super delicious. This attitude towards handling problems definitely deserves a five-star review!
The Only Bug, But Also Part of the "Vibe"?
Alright, time for the big reveal. The biggest drawback of this place is—there are no exhaust fans above the grills![8] Anjay!
As soon as the grilling starts, the whole place gets filled with smoke, like a mystical fairyland. Even though it stings your eyes a bit, why does it strangely feel like you're having a Nongkrong session at a Korean street-side stall? 😂 But seriously, after you're done eating, from your hair to your clothes, you'll be covered in that happy BBQ smell. So, for all the girls planning a date or wearing new clothes, think twice!
Editor's [Money-Saving & Pitfall-Avoiding] Cheat Sheet
Alright, time for the real tips, take notes!
- What to Wear: Don't wear new clothes! Don't wear light colors! Just wear whatever is comfortable, preferably your 'just-showered-and-ready-to-lounge-at-home' outfit.
- Free Perk: Don't rush off after your meal. They give out free Aice ice cream[9], which is perfect for cutting through the richness.
- Ordering Strategy: The meat quality is high, so order with confidence. If there are any issues with a dish (like the rice cakes I had), don't hesitate to tell the staff. They'll sort it out.
- Money-Saving Hack: You have to check their IG! They often have various set meal promos. For example, they previously had a set meal originally priced at 276k slashed to 202.6k[10]—an insanely good deal
- **Saikoro Beef** sizzles, crispy outside, juicy inside. One bite is pure Mantap! Meat lovers, get ready! [1][2]
- No exhaust fans at this BBQ spot?! You'll smell like delicious BBQ, just like a **Korean street food stall**. Nongkrong vibes are maxed! [3]
- Check their IG! The 276k set menu drops to 202.6k [4]! It's **basically free** – don't miss this deal!
Similar Articles
For the sisters heading to Pekanbaru! This is the only souvenir shop you need
Heading to Pekanbaru? Discover Toko Bolu Kemojo Dapoer Ummi, a must-visit souvenir shop that feels more like a cozy home kitchen. Indulge in their signature Bolu Kemojo, a flower-shaped pandan cake, or the rich Kue Talam Durian, all baked fresh on-site. Enjoy generous free samples, affordable prices, and even a hidden café inside. It’s the perfect spot for authentic, delicious, and Halal-certified treats that are far from your typical factory-made souvenirs.
Pekanbaru's ice cream: Delicious, but a bit short-tempered
Discover Uncle Dee's in Pekanbaru, a must-visit for affordable and delicious ice cream. While it melts incredibly fast, the rich, milky flavors are worth the rush. Try the recommended Waffle Peanut Ice Cream with its warm waffle and crunchy toppings, or the decadent Chocolate Oreo Sundae. This spot offers incredible value for money and fantastic service, making it a perfect, budget-friendly treat for anyone looking to chill. Just be ready to eat it quickly
Great Coffee, But Bring Your Own Food… This Pekanbaru Cafe is a Real Love-Hate.
One Refinery in Pekanbaru is a true love-hate experience. This spacious cafe features a lush, green outdoor area perfect for chilling out. The main draw is its rare, native Liberica coffee—a must-try for enthusiasts seeking a unique flavor. However, be prepared for a major trade-off: the service is notoriously slow and the food can be underwhelming. It's the perfect spot for a patient coffee lover, but definitely not for those who are hungry or in a hurry.
Google: 4.7 Stars, My Experience: -7! This viral spot in Pekanbaru? Run
Don't be fooled by the glamorous photos of Pekanbaru's viral Celebrity Cafe & Resto! This scathing review reveals the disappointing reality behind the hype. Discover why the "luxury" spot is more like a sauna with terrible service and shockingly small food portions. The author details a nightmare dining experience, from disorganized staff to hidden fees, warning potential visitors to stay far away. This is a must-read for anyone considering a visit to this overhyped establishment.