Is this Palembang seafood only for the rich? The two of us dropped 500k just for this crab
qponx
2026-03-06
Is Tanjung Seafood in Palembang worth the splurge? This review dives into their famous Smoked Crab, a showstopper with an incredible smoky flavor that's worth the hype. However, be prepared for a hefty bill—a meal for two can easily top 500k! Before you go, get the heads-up on the cash-only policy, tricky parking, and simple ambiance. While not for budget-seekers, it's a must-try for its signature dishes, especially if you can catch the weekday discounts.
Before coming to Palembang, my friend was hyping up this place, Tanjung Seafood, saying it's the absolute best for local seafood. Alright, I had to see what the hype was about. But when I opened the menu, whoa, some dishes didn't even have prices listed. My heart sank... Felt like I was about to get ripped off Anjay 🤣
I braced myself and ordered the signature Smoked Crab (Kepiting Asap)[1]. I was stunned when it arrived, wrapped in banana leaves. The mixed aroma of smoke and spices just hit me right away! 🦀️ When I cracked open the crab leg, the sauce had completely soaked in. The sweet and fresh crab meat had a unique smoky flavor, with not a hint of fishiness[2]. The taste was truly Mantap!
I also tried the staff's recommendation, the Grilled Sukang Fish (Ikan Sukang Bakar)[3]. Both the fish meat and bones were grilled until they were super soft and tender, and the soy sauce seasoning was just right—perfect with rice. But to be honest, my friend who came with me ordered the Padang Sauce Crab (Kepiting Saus Padang)[4], and she said the taste was... emmm... pretty standard, nothing surprising. I feel like it's only worth coming to this place for their signature dishes.
The ambiance is that of a very lokal shophouse. It's clean, for sure, and they have AC. But once it gets crowded, the AC feels like it's just for show. Halfway through the meal, I was sweating bullets 🥵, no way to Nongkrong gracefully.[5]
Speaking of the price, it's really not cheap. For the two of us, one crab dish, one fish dish, and two drinks came out to 530,000 Rupiah[6]... My wallet was crying instantly 💸. This is definitely not a place for "mending-mending" (value-for-money seekers). It's more suitable for family gatherings or business dinners.
A Veteran's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls 🚗
- Ask for the price before ordering! A lot of the seafood is market price and not listed on the menu. If you don't want a shock when the bill comes, definitely ask first!
- Bring enough cash! It's 2024 and they unbelievably don't accept cards or QRIS scans[7]! Only cash or bank transfer. I'm speechless...
- Parking is a huge pain. It's right on the roadside with very few spots, so be prepared to walk a bit.[8]
- Want to eat for cheaper? There are discounts on crabs from Monday to Wednesday, and on fish from Thursday to Friday. You can time your visit accordingly.[9]
- Reservations are a must on weekends! It gets insanely crowded. If you don't want to wait at the door just smelling the food, call ahead to book a table.[10]
- Smoked Crab in banana leaf hits you with a smoky, spicy aroma. The sweet meat is infused with a unique grilled flavor[1][2].
- Grilled Sukang Fish is incredibly tender with a perfect soy glaze. Amazing with rice[3].
- Budget tip: Discounted crab Mon-Wed, discounted fish Thu-Fri[4]. Time your visit for the same great flavor for less
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