Who says ice cream shops are only for dessert? The Martabak at this Medan spot is the real star
qponx
2026-03-06
Don't let the name fool you! City Ice Cream in Medan is more than just a dessert spot. While the ice cream is a draw, the real star is the savory Martabak—perfectly crispy and flavorful. It's the ultimate comfort food after a day of shopping. Pair it with a jumbo City Ice Coffee for a perfect pick-me-up. This comfy, spacious cafe is a great hangout spot, and even features a rare indoor, air-conditioned smoking area.
Girls, I just shopped until my legs were about to break at Plaza Medan Fair in Medan and was just looking for a random place to crash. But my friend insisted on dragging me into this place, City Ice Cream. I was thinking, isn't it just another chain ice cream shop? What surprises could it possibly have? Turns out… Anjay! I was wrong!
The moment I walked in, the atmosphere was really comfy, bright and spacious, with the AC blasting. It's the perfect spot to recharge after shopping. Once you sit on the sofa, you won't want to get up, making it great for Nongkrong with friends for an afternoon[1]. It can get a bit noisy when it's crowded, with the staff clattering around, but it actually adds to the lively vibe. It just means business is good!
Following my friend's recommendation, I skipped the ice cream and ordered a main course first. I was blown away when the signature Martabak[2] arrived. The skin was fried to a perfect crisp, and the filling was packed with flavor. Dipped in the accompanying sweet and sour chili sauce, one bite was just so Mantap! To quench my thirst, I ordered the jumbo City Ice Coffee[3]—espresso + sweet cream + a full cup of crushed ice. It's an absolute lifesaver in Medan's weather! My friend's Waffle with Ice Cream[4] was also a hit. The waffle was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and there were so many ice cream flavors it was hard to choose.
⚠️Real Talk Time
But let's be real. This place is really Chill, but during peak meal times, the serving speed can be a bit of a gamble[5]... If you're starving, you should be mentally prepared. Also, my vegetarian friends might be disappointed; the vegetarian options are very, very limited[6]. You can basically only have coffee and ice cream.
✍️Editor's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls
Overall, it's a casual diner that's been overshadowed by its ice cream, and it's definitely worth a visit
- What to order?
- Must-try: Martabak, City Ice Coffee.
- For the dessert lovers: If you're in a small group, get the waffle with ice cream. If you're in a big group, go straight for the fun City Fondue[7]—who doesn't love a chocolate fondue!
- Money-saving tips
- They often have promotions, like getting a free dish when you spend over 300k or 600k Indonesian Rupiah[8]. Remember to ask before ordering, you might just score a free dish!
- Special Perks
- Extremely friendly to our smoker friends! They actually have an air-conditioned indoor smoking area[9], which is a rare find in a mall. It's a godsend for veteran smokers.
- Other
- It's also a good spot for families with kids. After all, not many kids can resist the temptation of ice cream. Payment methods are convenient too; cash and credit cards are both OK[10].
- Crispy Martabak with savory filling, dipped in sweet & sour sauce—so Mantap [1]! The hidden star of this ice cream spot.
- Shopped 'til you drop at Plaza Medan Fair? Nongkrong here all afternoon. Blast the AC, sink into a sofa, and instantly recharge [2].
- A rare air-conditioned indoor smoking area in the mall [3]. A smoker's paradise! Sending this to my friends now.
Similar Articles
Google 4.8, packed with lokals! But this Medan buffet serves meat by the slice?
Curious about a Medan Japanese BBQ with a stellar 4.8 Google rating? This popular Halal spot is a local favorite for its lively atmosphere, perfect for hangouts. While the grilled satay is a definite must-try, there's a surprising catch: the all-you-can-eat premium beef is served by staff, just a few slices at a time. Get the full scoop on the food, the service, and tips on how to get the best value before you go.
This 4.6-star Halal ramen in Medan: Portions are Mantap, but the hygiene and service... I'm so done
Thinking about trying the viral Orizuru Ramen in Medan? This review offers a heads-up. While the Halal ramen spot is famous for its massive, "mantap" portions that satisfy big eaters, the experience is a mixed bag. The article highlights disappointing flavor and questionable hygiene, like staff mopping with strong chemicals beside diners. With hit-or-miss service and a stuffy ambiance, it’s a spot where the portion size is the main, and perhaps only, major draw.
4.6 Stars on Google for This Hotpot?! Delicious, But So Hot My Makeup Melted Off
X.O Suki in Medan might have a high rating, but get ready to sweat! This popular hotpot spot is known for its intense, sauna-like heat that can melt your makeup. Despite the steamy atmosphere, the flavorful Tom Yum soup and especially the must-try crispy fried shrimp wontons make it a memorable meal. This review breaks down the pricey self-service system, essential tips on what to wear, and why those wontons alone might be worth the visit.
Coffee Purists, Step In! This 'No-Frills' Medan Cafe is the Cure for Fussy Coffee.
Discover Omerta Koffie, Medan's hidden gem for true coffee purists. This hardcore, no-frills spot ditches fancy decor and AC to focus on one thing: exceptional manual brew coffee. Experience authentic local beans prepared with soul, all at unbelievably cheap prices. It's a raw, community-focused hub perfect for those who prioritize the quality of their cup and an authentic local vibe over modern comforts. This is coffee with character, not for the faint of heart.