Is Google's 4.8-star Mie Gacoan really worth the queue?
qponx
2026-03-05
With a 4.8-star rating and endless queues, is Mie Gacoan worth the hype? This honest review uncovers the truth behind the popular Indonesian noodle spot. While its incredibly cheap prices make it a go-to for casual meetups, the food quality might leave serious foodies wanting more. Get the real deal on the noodles and drinks, plus crucial pro tips on beating the crowds, what to bring (tissues!), and an important allergy alert before you decide to go.
Friends, when you talk about Indonesia's "national canteen," Mie Gacoan is definitely on the list. Especially in Surabaya, this place is practically a legend. It has a 4.8-star rating from over 9600 reviews on Google[1], and every time I pass by, I see long lines of young people, just like a grand opening for a bubble tea shop!
The ridiculously cheap prices are definitely its biggest killer feature. Today, I made a special trip and rushed over before the lunch rush just to see what all the magic is about.
On-Site Report: Is the Food Actually Any Good?
To be fair, the atmosphere was better than I expected; both the space and the parking lot are quite large[2]. I arrived just before the lunch peak, so I got to eat without much of a wait, Mantap!
But honestly, when the noodles were served, I was a bit like, "Huh?" inside. The noodles were on the dry side, and even felt a bit like reheated leftovers, nothing particularly amazing[3]. The drinks, on the other hand, were sickeningly sweet. I guess it's to balance out the spiciness[4]. People with a sweet tooth might love it.
So, is the food worth it? My verdict is: if you're a student looking for the ultimate value for money, or just want a place to Nongkrong and grab a casual bite with friends, then you should totally go for it[5]! But if you're coming with a "food pilgrimage" mindset, you might be a little disappointed.
Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls (You're Welcome!)
Finally, here are some heartfelt tips for those of you who want to go:
Alright, I've given you the guide, whether you go for it is up to you! Anjay!😉
- Want to eat without the wait? Promise me, you have to get there before the lunch rush[6]! Otherwise, you'll seriously be waiting forever.
- A little-known fact: They don't provide tissues! No tissues! No tissues![7] The struggle of sweating buckets from spicy noodles with no tissues in sight, who gets it😭… Remember to bring your own!
- Allergy Alert: For those who love dumplings, be aware that their dumpling filling contains seafood[8]. Friends with seafood allergies, be super careful not to order them by mistake!
- A 4.8 rating[1] from 9600+ Google reviews. For notoriously picky foodies, that score says it all.
- Insanely cheap! Get the full "national canteen" experience for dirt-cheap prices. Perfect for students to feast on a budget.
- Expect queues like a boba shop grand opening. This place is an absolute legend among young Surabaya locals.
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