4.9 Stars on Google, but I tried Padang's new Japanese spot so you don't have to.

To be honest, when I saw a new Japanese-style restaurant in Padang with a Google rating as high as 4.9, my first reaction was: For real? 🤨 After all, for the influencer-famous spots around here, it's pretty common for the looks and the taste to be inversely proportional.

The Taste is On Point, But There Are Pitfalls

After sitting down and ordering, I basically tried a round of all their signature dishes:

But! To be brutally honest as promised, here are the downsides.

• Ramen[3]: This one gets high praise! The broth is rich, the spiciness is on point, and for people who love spicy food, it's absolutely anjay! One bite is super satisfying.
• Es Teller & Kopi Gula Aren[4]: I didn't expect an Indonesian dessert and coffee from a Japanese restaurant to be this good. The coconut milk and fruit in the Es Teller were very fresh, and the coffee was fragrant and smooth, easily rivaling dedicated coffee shops.
• The portions are really generous[5], so guys don't have to worry about not getting full. That's a big plus.

A Must-Read Guide to Avoid Pitfalls Before You Go

Although the ambiance and some dishes are truly mantap, there are some major flaws in the experience that everyone should know about, otherwise, it could really ruin your mood:

Overall, it's a place with very clear pros and cons. It's suitable for friends who want to find a pretty place to take photos, aren't in a hurry, and have a preference for specific dishes (like the spicy ramen). If you're looking for the best value for money and service efficiency, then you might want to think twice.

• 1. Waiting until the end of time: Key point! If you go during peak meal times, be mentally prepared. The service is incredibly slow. We waited for almost an hour for our meal[6], and we were starving. I suggest going during off-peak hours, or just don't go when you're extremely hungry.
• 2. Large groups should book in advance: Although it's suitable for gatherings, the place isn't very big. If you plan to bring the whole family or a group of more than 8 people, it's best to call and make a reservation in advance[7], to avoid making a wasted trip.
• 3. Be extra careful when paying the bill: This is the most important one! A follower complained to me that when paying with QRIS, the restaurant 'rounds up' the bill without consent[8]. Even though it might only be a few hundred Indonesian Rupiah, it feels very uncomfortable. So after you pay, you must! must! check the bill!