Calling All Steak Lovers! I Braved Holycow! in Pekanbaru for You.
qponx
2026-03-06
Curious about the Holycow! steakhouse in Pekanbaru? This review details a true love-hate experience. While the signature Wagyu Sirloin and a standout creamy mushroom sauce earn high praise, it's not all perfect. The article warns of a hit-or-miss gamble with inconsistent steak cooking, some lackluster dishes, and service issues. Get the inside scoop and crucial tips—like sitting upstairs and hunting for promos—to decide if this famous steakhouse is worth your visit.
Honestly, I came to this Holycow! in Pekanbaru drawn by Chef Afit's big name, with the mindset of making a pilgrimage. After all, it's considered Indonesia's national steakhouse, so I thought nothing could go wrong. Well, the result... how should I put it? This meal was an emotional rollercoaster 🎢 for me, with both pleasant surprises and shocks.
🥩A Love-Hate Steak Experience
Let's start with the good stuff. I went straight for their signature Wagyu Sirloin[1] and ordered it medium, as the waiter recommended. The price was around 300,000 IDR. When the meat arrived, the aroma was incredible, and when I cut into it, it was a beautiful pink. The texture was Mantap! My friend's Hokubee Tenderloin[2] was also good, served with BBQ sauce and fries, a very classic American style.
I have to give a special shout-out to their Mushroom Sauce[3]. It's genuinely rich and super creamy. To say it's one of the best steak sauces in Pekanbaru isn't an exaggeration, in my opinion. 👍
But! The ambiance is a bit hard to describe. The storefront looks pitch-black from the outside; I almost thought it was closed[4]. Walking in, the first floor was incredibly hot, like the AC wasn't even on. We quickly escaped upstairs and finally felt alive again. Friends who want to Nongkrong here should take note.
🤫Some Hard Truths I Have to Share
The biggest problem with this place is that the quality control is a total lottery, Anjay! My steak was fine, but I overheard a guy at the next table complaining to the waiter that his steak was still well-done after being sent back twice[5]. Also, some dishes are real landmines. For example, my friend ordered the salmon steak, and he said it was completely tasteless and dry inside[6]. The service, too. As soon as it gets crowded, you can't find a waiter. You can call out for ages and no one responds[7], making it hard to even order more food. For a chain restaurant like this, inconsistent quality control and service are a real turn-off.
✍️ My Guide for You Girls to Avoid the Pitfalls
For the girls who want to give it a try, get your notebooks out and jot these down. They'll make your experience way better!
- 1. If you can't stand the heat, sit upstairs! Don't hesitate. You'll be sweating buckets on the first floor. If you want to eat comfortably, head straight to the second floor[8].
- 2. Ask before you order! Some specialty sauces or kids' meal pastas might often be unavailable. Don't get your heart set on something only to find out you can't order it[9].
- 3. Be bold about your steak's doneness! If you're particular about how your steak is cooked, make sure to emphasize it clearly to the waiter when you order. If you have to, stare them down. Don't be shy.
- 4. Taking advantage of promos is the way to go! Be sure to follow their IG or TikTok Go. They often have buy-one-get-one-free deals or set menu promotions[10]. Paying full price feels like a bit of a loss. This time, we lucked out with free refills on iced tea, so we felt like we got some of our money's worth~
- Holycow!'s Wagyu Sirloin: a fragrant, medium-rare cut with a perfect pink center. One bite is pure bliss—it'll make you dance! [1]
- The rich, creamy Mushroom Sauce is hailed by locals as Pekanbaru's best. Skipping it would be a crime! [2]
- Follow Holycow! on IG or TikTok Go to snag Buy One Get One deals. They're always on, so it's basically free! [3]
Similar Articles
First meal in Pekanbaru: I was conquered by this flying fish
Looking for the perfect first meal in Pekanbaru? Head to Koki Sunda, a stylishly renovated Sundanese restaurant near the airport. The must-try signature dish is the 'Flying' Fried Gurami—a visually stunning whole fish, crispy on the outside and tender inside. While waiting for the generous portions, enjoy the free self-service salad bar with unlimited Lalapan and Rujak. This spot offers an authentic taste of Indonesia, though it's best to visit outside peak hours to avoid a long wait.
The best ramen in Pekanbaru? I tried it for you, and I have something to say.
Curious about the bustling Halal ramen joint in Pekanbaru Mal? This honest review breaks it all down. Discover if the signature Tori Ramen and juicy Chicken Karaage live up to the hype. While the flavors are a hit, be warned about salty broth, smaller portions, and chaotic service during peak times. Get the full scoop, including insider tips on how to save money and enjoy a better dining experience before you go.
Coffee lovers, listen up! This Pekanbaru cafe's burgers and latte art are seriously Mantap
Discover a hidden gem in Pekanbaru! This hard-to-find spot is a cozy cafe by day, perfect for work with its aromatic coffee and impressive latte art. By night, it transforms into a lively bar with live music. The main attraction is the beef burger, praised as the "best in town" for its incredibly tender and juicy patty. It’s an affordable and cool hangout for any time of day, offering a unique dual atmosphere for visitors.
Pizza Hut's 50% off: a blessing or a trap? The crust was hard as a cracker, I'm so done…
Thinking about using that 50% off Pizza Hut coupon? You might want to read this first. A customer's review details a disappointing experience, receiving a pizza with a cracker-like crust and scarce toppings after an hour-long wait. This article exposes the potential "coupon trap" and offers practical tips for avoiding a similar pizza nightmare. Learn how to find real deals and what to watch out for, from slow service to limited parking, before you place your order.