Medan's top photo spot? Can Garden Deli's beauty excuse its bad food and service?
qponx
2026-03-06
Garden Deli in Medan captivates with its stunning European-style architecture, making it an Instagrammer's dream. But is the beauty only skin deep? This honest review explores whether the gorgeous, photogenic ambiance is enough to excuse the disappointing food, high prices, and lackluster service. It's a must-read for anyone wondering if this viral spot is worth visiting for more than just the photos, offering tips to avoid a disappointing experience.
Girls, passing by this Garden Deli in Medan, I was truly stunned by its storefront! A whole European-style retro building, it feels like you're instantly transported to a European street, who could resist that? I heard this place used to be Oito[1], no wonder it has such a great vibe. I immediately dragged my friend inside, thinking my Instagram feed for the day was sorted. But… hold on, don't rush in just yet. Let me finish.
The moment you walk in, the atmosphere is on point. It's a renovated old building, and the interior design is especially elegant, with a bit of a Renaissance vibe[2]. Every corner seems like it was made for taking pictures, the lighting and decor are Mantap! We found a seat by the window and happily started ordering. The menu looks quite impressive, and the prices aren't cheap either, a pasta dish is around 75k.
I ordered the recommended Aglio Olio Bone Marrow[3], and my friend got the Truffle mushroom pasta. The result… Anjay, how should I put this, the taste really doesn't live up to the looks. My bone marrow pasta was as bland as plain boiled noodles with a sprinkle of chili powder, and my friend's truffle pasta was also underwhelming, the kind you can't even remember the taste of after you've finished[4]. Honestly, I feel like I could make this food better at home.
OK, let's be real. This place purely sells its ambiance. If you're coming just to take photos and check in, then it's no problem, any photo you take will turn out great. But if you have some standards for food, your wallet might hurt, and your heart might sink. And the service is also hard to describe. We called for a waiter for ages with no response, it felt like they were all just Chill-ing in their own worlds, and their attitude was, emmm…[5] not very enthusiastic. I even heard another customer complain that there was dust piled up under the table and a weird smell[6], which instantly ruined the mood.
Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls | Honest Advice from the Heart
- For Photo Lovers Only: Let me be clear, this place is just for taking photos. Wear your prettiest dress, come in the afternoon when the lighting is best, take your photos and leave, perfect.
- Don't Get Your Hopes Up for the Food: If you're really hungry, just order a drink, at least you won't be hugely disappointed. Don't order those signature dishes that sound amazing, the higher the expectation, the greater the disappointment.
- Service is a Game of Luck: Before you go, chant to yourself three times, "I'm a fairy, I don't get angry." The waiters might be busy, or they might be daydreaming, just keep a calm mindset.
- Attention Birthday Babes: If you plan to bring a cake to celebrate, make sure to ask about the charges in advance! I heard some girls brought a cake and were charged a sky-high "cakeage fee"[7], 100k per person, that's a total rip-off!
- Seating Tips: For those of you who can't stand the smell of smoke, remember to choose indoor seating, the outdoor area is the smoking section[8].
- Instant European vibes at this vintage building. The exterior alone makes your social feed pop. [1]
- This old building's Renaissance-style makeover means every corner is made for photos. Vibes are off the charts. [2]
- Pricey menu, but your photos will be epic. Photo-worthiness is sky-high, ideal for afternoon tea with your besties. [3]
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