Is this 10k sushi on Batam Island a bargain or a bust?
qponx
2026-03-06
A Batam sushi spot advertises an irresistible 10k per plate deal, but is it a bargain or a bust? This review dives into a disappointing experience, highlighting unsanitary conditions, unfresh conveyor belt sushi, and incredibly slow service. Spoiler alert: the promotion comes with hidden rules and surprise charges on the final bill. The article warns diners to think twice before falling for the tempting price, offering tips for those who still dare to visit this viral restaurant.
Girls, I just got back from Batam and I have to spill some major tea with you right away! While shopping at BCS Mall, I was lured in by a huge "SUSHI 10K" sign at a place called Sushi Rio. Only 10k Indonesian Rupiah for a plate of sushi? Isn't that basically free? At that moment, only one word came to mind: Mantap! I thought I was going to eat until I couldn't walk straight.
However, the moment I sat down, I felt like something was a little off…
The Moment I Sat Down, I Was Speechless…
At first glance, the ambiance seemed okay, pretty suitable for taking a picture for my story. But you know, a blogger's occupational hazard is paying attention to the details. I took a closer look, and Anjay! Why were there little flies having a team-building event next to the sauce bottles?[1] The vibe instantly went from minimalist Japanese aesthetic to a tropical rainforest adventure… 💀
Then I looked at the sushi on the conveyor belt, and emmm… how should I put it? It had that "I've been spinning on here for a long time, and I'm very tired" look. The colors were a bit dull, and it just didn't look very fresh[2]. My survival instincts kicked in, and I decisively gave up on the conveyor belt and ordered directly from the menu.
To be fair, the salmon soup I ordered à la carte was not bad, quite flavorful. But the udon noodles were just… bland and tasteless, felt like the chef forgot to add salt[3]. As for their advertised specialty, the Kani Katsu Sushi[4], the taste was just so-so, it didn't wow me.
The worst part was the service, it was a disaster. It was basically self-service the whole time. Getting a waiter's attention was next to impossible, and I waited almost an hour just to place my order. I almost thought they had gone to Japan to catch the fish themselves[5].
The Shocking Plot Twist at Checkout
By the end of the meal, I had no expectations left and just wanted to pay the bill and leave. But the moment I got the bill, I was completely dumbfounded—what happened to the 10k per plate deal? Why did the bill clearly show 15k or even the original price?![6] When I went to argue with the staff, they just mumbled and stuttered that the promotion had "special rules." Heh, their marketing tricks are more elaborate than my photo editing skills.
Seriously, the high 4.6 rating on Google made me think I was in the wrong place[7], but this experience was a total catfish!
A Guide to Avoid This Trap, You're Welcome!
OK, complaints aside, I still have to give you some tips. If you absolutely insist on trying it, remember these points:
In short, if you want to chill and have some Japanese food in Batam, I'd advise you to think twice about this place. After all, you've got to save either your money or your good mood, right? 🤷♀️
- Don't touch the conveyor belt: If you want something fresh, just stick to ordering from the menu. The salmon dishes are supposedly okay.
- Keep your eyes peeled at checkout: Before paying, you must! absolutely! check the bill! If you see the wrong price, confront them immediately.
- Bring a power bank: Because the waiting time is really long, and it'll be boring if your phone dies.
- Go on a promo day: Their 10k promo seems to only be from Monday to Wednesday[8], but even then, you should confirm the rules with the staff first to avoid getting ripped off.
- 10k IDR sushi at BCS Mall! A price so cheap it feels unreal. You'd be crazy to miss this deal.[1]
- The à la carte salmon soup was a surprise hit—so savory it blew my mind. Totally redeems any past food fails.
- It has a 4.6-star Google rating, making you wonder: is it hype from fake reviews, or is there a secret menu?[2]
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