4.8 stars on Google, but a 2-hour wait for scorched rice?
qponx
2026-03-05
Don't let a 4.8-star Google rating fool you! This review shares a disastrous dining experience at a highly-rated hotel restaurant that failed to deliver. Despite the hype, the reality involved a two-hour wait, unavailable menu items, and disappointing food, including lukewarm soup and a bowl of scorched rice. Read this cautionary tale to understand why the glowing reviews are a mystery and why you should seriously lower your expectations before visiting for a meal.
In Samarinda, just landed and checked into the Ibis hotel. I was too lazy to go out, so I thought I'd just grab a quick bite at the hotel restaurant. I checked Google Maps, and wow! 4.8 stars with over 700 reviews. I thought, "What could possibly go wrong?" The result... Anjay, this meal really taught me a lesson and made me truly understand the meaning of "the greater the expectation, the greater the disappointment."
The Hotel Restaurant's "Mystery Box" Experience
The ambiance is just your standard hotel breakfast restaurant, nothing special. I saw them hyping up the Soto Betawi[1] on their Instagram, calling it "authentic and rich" and "a taste of home." Alright, I'll have one of those! The waiter was friendly enough[2] and took my order quickly.
And then, the long wait began... ⏳
I scrolled on my phone until my battery was dying, chatted with my friend until we ran out of things to say, and the food still wouldn't come. I had to ask about it a few times, and finally, just as I was about to pass out from hunger, the food arrived. My friend's fried rice was incredibly salty[3], and the Soto I was so excited for was lukewarm?! The most ridiculous part was the side of rice I ordered came out as a bowl of scorched rice[4]... I'm speechless! Excuse me? Am I eating bibimbap?
What made it even more frustrating was watching the waiter run back and forth to the table next to us three or four times, each time saying, "Sorry, we're out of that." Half the items on the menu were basically just for show[5].
Let's Be Real
To be fair, I can accept that it's pricey for a hotel restaurant, and I can even tolerate the small portions[6]. But the service was so slow it made me question my existence—waiting one or two hours is the norm here[7]—and then to be served food of this quality is just unacceptable. Although I heard they also host community events like PlayStation tournaments[8], maybe this place is better for just Nongkrong. Forget about having a proper meal here.
A Guide to Avoid This Place, You're Welcome!
A heads-up for friends who are planning to go or are staying at the Ibis:
- If you're really hungry, don't go! Be prepared to wait for over an hour.
- "Interrogate" the waiter before ordering: Ask directly what's available today. Don't just point at the menu, or you'll likely be waiting for nothing[9].
- Check your food immediately when it arrives: Is the dish hot? Is the rice scorched? If there's a problem, speak up on the spot. Don't be shy!
- Lower your expectations: Just think of it as a place to Chill in the hotel and grab a bite. Don't have high hopes for the taste or efficiency.
- IG hyped the hotel's Soto Betawi as 'authentic & rich' and a 'taste of home', so I was curious [1].
- After a long wait, my friend's fried rice was a salt bomb, my Soto was lukewarm, and the rice was just scorched rice crust. A "blind box" experience [2].
- Half the menu is unavailable. Ordering is a blind box; what you get is pure luck [3].
Similar Articles
A King's Taste at a Commoner's Price? I Tried the President-Approved Kampung Kecil
Curious about the president-approved Kampung Kecil? Don't let the "Little Village" name fool you—this spot is more like a palace! Discover its stunning Indonesian-style gazebos, perfect for group gatherings. This review explores their "king's taste, commoner's price" promise, offering a look at the solid Sundanese fare and incredible value. Get the inside track on what to expect, from the grand atmosphere to essential tips for your visit, like when to go and what to wear.
My Yearly Go-To: The Honest Truth About Something Sweet Cake
Discover why Something Sweet Cake in Samarinda is a local favorite in this honest review. The article celebrates its signature cream, described as being like melted premium ice cream, and highlights must-try cakes and cookies. However, it also reveals the "buts"—offering a crucial heads-up on slow communication, a past hygiene issue, and other essential tips. Learn everything you need to know for a smooth ordering experience and how to best enjoy their popular treats.
A 4.9-star ramen shop on Google, hidden in a mall with a river view?
Discover a hidden gem in Samarinda's Big Mall! This ramen shop boasts a near-perfect 4.9 Google rating and a stunning view of the Mahakam River. Don't let the mall location fool you; the rich broth and chewy noodles are the real deal. From delicious Chicken Karaage Ramen to savory Gyoza, the food is a must-try. The article also shares insider tips on snagging the best seats, saving money, and ordering like a pro.
God-tier ice cream, but the mains are a flop? This viral spot in Samarinda is something else
Frozento Cafe in Samarinda is a viral spot with a stunning, Bali-inspired beach vibe perfect for photos. The real star, however, is the divine homemade ice cream—don't miss the Coconut and Taro flavors! While the desserts are a must-try, be warned: the main courses are a major letdown. Visit for the amazing sweets and chill atmosphere, but get your savory fix elsewhere. It’s the ultimate destination for dessert lovers and photo-ops.