4.7 stars on Google, but I found a 'surprise' in my food? Run away from this Korean BBQ in Medan
qponx
2026-03-06
Don't be fooled by the high 4.7-star Google rating! This article exposes a Medan Korean BBQ's shocking reality. Despite its popularity, diners can expect a frustrating experience with extremely slow meat restocking during the all-you-can-eat session. The review highlights a smoky environment, poor-quality food, and, most alarmingly, terrible hygiene issues, including unwanted "surprises" in the dishes. This piece serves as a strong warning for anyone considering a visit, urging them to run, not walk, away.
Drawn in by the 2300+ reviews and high 4.7 rating on Google, I came to this AYCE Korean BBQ in Medan full of anticipation.
And the result? During the 90-minute dining time, I spent a full 30 minutes waiting for them to restock the meat[1]! Exo me? Am I here to eat or to practice meditation? I was about to have a mental breakdown right there…
An Immersive "Disaster" Experience
When it was finally our turn, we were led to the second floor. Good grief, the smoke was so thick I thought I'd stumbled into a fire scene. The waiter next to me and I were coughing our lungs out[2]. The whole space was small and cramped. Forget about a Nongkrong vibe; I just wanted to eat quickly and escape.
Let's talk about the food. The long-awaited meat slices were so thin they looked like they just came out of a paper shredder. They fell apart as soon as you grilled them, and some were so tough my jaw ached from chewing[3]. I wanted to grab some cooked food to fill my stomach, but the fried chicken and fried rice were all cold…
Then came the climax. Just as I was about to get some side dishes to comfort my wounded soul, I took a closer look… OMG, there were a few glistening... (a million curses omitted here) on the food[4]. Before I could even process it, I caught a glimpse of a dark shadow scurrying under the table out of the corner of my eye… Anjay! I froze on the spot, my appetite completely gone. I wanted to go to the restroom to calm down, but it was either broken or so dirty there was nowhere to step[5]. I gave up completely.
To be fair
Honestly, for an AYCE premium set at 139k IDR per person[6], my expectations were sky-high. But with this restocking speed, this meat quality, and especially this level of hygiene… Really, it's not Mantap at all. I even saw a Korean tourist leave a comment in Korean, heartbrokenly warning their fellow countrymen "definitely do not come here"[7]. In that moment, I truly understood.
The Ultimate Guide to Avoiding This Place (Quick, take notes!)
If you're stubborn and insist on going, or have already been invited by friends, take this guide written in blood and tears:
In short, I've already blacklisted this place for everyone. There's so much good food in Medan, don't waste your time and good mood here. Girls, run! 🏃♀️
- Hygiene Warning: The sanitary conditions are extremely unstable! There's a risk of finding foreign objects and "unexpected surprises" in the food[8]. Friends with sensitive stomachs, please think twice!
- Time Management: This is a "wait-for-the-meat buffet," not a BBQ buffet. Popular meats are restocked incredibly slowly[9]. Don't expect to get your money's worth in 90 minutes.
- Seating Strategy: Do not, under any circumstances, go to the second floor! Unless you want to experience being a free human range hood[10].
- Mental Prep: Keep calm and just think of it as paying to learn the life lesson that "Google ratings can't always be trusted."
- In a 90-min BBQ buffet, we spent 30 mins waiting for meat refills[1]. Is this a test of patience?
- Found a "translucent..." surprise in the food[2] and dark shadows scurrying under the table. What a "thrilling" meal![3]
- Overheard a Korean tourist warning friends in Korean: "don't ever come here"[4]. That tells you everything.
Similar Articles
This viral hotpot in Medan is expensive, but is the service and hygiene also Anjay?
Medan's viral hotpot spot is famous for its delicious Collagen soup and generous portions, but is it worth the hefty price tag? This honest review dives into the chaotic service, questionable hygiene, and surprising extra charges that might ruin your meal. Get the full scoop on whether this popular restaurant lives up to the hype. The article provides essential tips on what to order (and avoid!), the need for reservations, and helps you decide if it's a must-try or a hard pass.
Get stuffed on sushi for under 100k? I'm rushing to this Medan spot
Discover Sushi Mentai, a popular conveyor belt sushi spot in Medan offering an unbeatable, wallet-friendly experience. With plates starting from just 10k, you can feast without breaking the bank. Don't miss the Salmon Mentai Dragon Maki or their occasional 99k "All You Can Eat" promos. This bustling restaurant offers a fun, casual atmosphere perfect for a sushi fix, but be prepared for potential queues and a lively environment right next to the train tracks.
Calling All Matcha Lovers! This Medan spot is delicious, but has an attitude.
Nendō Matcha in Medan is a must-visit for serious matcha lovers, serving top-tier, authentic drinks in a stunning, minimalist setting. While the ceremonial-grade matcha is a showstopper, this spot isn't without its flaws. Get the full scoop on the disappointing desserts and potential service issues before you go. This guide tells you if the incredible drinks are worth the mixed experience, offering tips on parking, crowds, and what to order for the perfect visit.
Is this 4.9-star bakery in Medan really that legendary?
Curious if a 4.9-star Medan bakery lives up to its legendary reputation? This article dives into a spot that wins over even the biggest skeptics with its warm, friendly service and super chill atmosphere. The verdict is a resounding "yes," thanks to standout desserts like the masterpiece Swiss Roll and a rich Peanut Butter Brownie. Discover why this local gem is a must-visit for its therapeutic treats and a menu that is claimed to never fail.