Google 4.7 Stars vs. a 1-Hour Wait: Is this Medan buffet Mantap or a trap?
qponx
2026-03-06
This Medan restaurant boasts a 4.7-star Google rating, but is it worth the one-hour wait? While praised for its impressive free sambal bar and delicious grilled chicken, the experience can be a trap. This review dives into the reality behind the hype, exposing the non-existent service, surprisingly high prices, and long waits. Get the full scoop and essential tips on how to navigate this popular spot before you decide whether it's worth your time and money.
The hype for this place in Medan is real, with a high score of 4.7 on Google[1], and everyone says it's the top choice for family gatherings. Walking in, I was truly intimidated by the scene: rows of small huts (saung) were filled with fresh fish, meat, and vegetables, which really whets your appetite just looking at it. You pick what you want to eat, and they'll grill or fry it on the spot. Sounds amazing, right? Heh, the real show was yet to come.
On-the-Scene Report: Half Flame, Half Seawater
The decor has a rustic vibe, the space is quite large, and the AC is strong[2], definitely suitable for a large group to Nongkrong. But their ordering system is self-service style (prasmanan), and the ordering area is really narrow and crowded. During peak hours, the smell of cooking fumes... Anjay! It was so strong it made my eyes water[3].
As for the food, it was also a mixed bag. Their main draw is the free sambal and vegetable salad (lalapan). To be fair, the variety of the Aneka Sambal (assorted sambals)[4] is truly extensive, and the taste is actually pretty good, spicy and packs a punch! The signature Ayam Bakar (grilled chicken)[5] had a decent sauce, a sweet and savory flavor, and the meat wasn't dry. But that's about it. The other dishes were just very ordinary, some were even a bit too salty or too sweet, with nothing memorable.
Gotta Get This Off My Chest: I just can't!
Alright, now that the compliments are out of the way, it's time for me to complain!
1. Service? Non-existent.
There were plenty of waiters, but they all seemed to be daydreaming. We waited for half an hour and no one came to take our order, so in the end, I had to go to the cashier myself[6]. After finally managing to order, we waited almost an hour for all the food to arrive, and when it came, it was just lukewarm?! I was so done.
2. Price gouging + stingy portions.
The worst part is, there's no menu with prices when you order; all the prices are at the cashier, so it's easy to go over budget. When we got the bill, there was a 5% service charge and a 10% tax[7]! What service? The service of waiting for an hour? That so-called "free and unlimited" lalapan, no one brings it to you proactively. We had to ask for ages just to get a tiny plate. For 8 people, they only gave us that little bit[8]? And the beef tendon (kikil), for 35k, we only got three small pieces, served in a tiny soy sauce dish. I was stunned right then and there.
Guide to Avoiding the Pitfalls (Quick, take out your notebooks and jot this down)
Overall, if you have plenty of time, a big budget, and extremely good patience, you can give it a try. Otherwise, I'd advise you to think twice. If you do decide to go, remember these points:
- Ask for the price first! Before ordering, you must! You must! Go to the cashier to check the price list first, or directly ask how much each dish costs. Don't be a sucker.
- Go during off-peak hours! Definitely don't go during meal times or when you're starving. Be mentally prepared to wait for over an hour. I suggest trying your luck in the afternoon during non-peak hours.
- Be proactive! For the free lalapan and sambal, don't wait for them to bring it. Ask for it as soon as you sit down, otherwise, you might not see it at all by the time you finish your meal.
- Parking is a game of chance! Parking spots are very limited, and the management is a mess. I heard the parking attendant only takes your money and doesn't do his job[9]. It's best to take a taxi or be prepared to look for a spot on the side of the road.
- Small thatched huts (saung) displaying fresh fish & meat create a village vibe that instantly makes you hungry.
- Aneka Sambal (various sambal sauces)[1] offers a serious spicy kick. Served with free lalapan for an authentic taste.
- The signature Ayam Bakar (grilled chicken)[2] is a must-order: tender meat in a balanced sweet & savory sauce.
Similar Articles
Hailed as Medan's Best Bread, But Be Warned About the Cakes! I Have a Love-Hate Relationship With This Shop.
Discover All Day Bread, a chill spot in Medan hailed for having the city's best bread. Dive into their must-try signature salted egg yolk fried bread or a creamy avocado dessert in a quiet, comfortable atmosphere perfect for working or chatting. But here's a heads-up: while the bread is a winner, be very cautious when ordering custom cakes. This review breaks down the highs and lows, plus tips on scoring free donuts and other deals.
I thought I'd walked into an airport VIP lounge, but it's an ice cream shop in Medan?
Ever dined in an airport lounge without a boarding pass? In Medan, you can! City Ice Cream boasts a stunning VIP lounge design but serves surprisingly affordable Indonesian classics. This spot is a must-visit for its flavorful Nasi Goreng and legendary Avocado Ice Cream. It’s the perfect place to impress family and friends with a high-end atmosphere on a budget. Discover this unique, family-friendly restaurant that offers amazing value and a cool vibe, but just be aware there's no Wi-Fi.
A Medan `Lokal`'s favorite Martabak for over 10 years! Tourists, don't miss out
Discover where Medan locals get their martabak fix! For over a decade, Martabak Atrium has been a legendary street-side favorite. Don't miss the savory Martabak Telur Spesial, overflowing with generous meat and mushroom fillings. For a sweet treat, the ultra-crispy Martabak Tipis Kering (Tipker) is a game-changer. This humble stall offers incredible taste and value, making it an essential, can't-miss experience for any visitor exploring the city's authentic flavors.
4.9 on Google & No Sign? This 'Underground' Medan Cafe is the Real Deal.
Discover a top-rated Medan cafe so hidden, it doesn't even have a sign! Behind a simple blue door lies a secret garden oasis with a cozy, bohemian vibe. This spot is the real deal, serving up some of the city's best coffee and an absolutely divine Basque Cheesecake that you can't miss. It's the perfect afternoon hideaway, but be sure to arrive before their early 6 PM closing time and be prepared for limited parking.