The President's Favorite Restaurant? Really?! Watch This Before You Visit This Banjarbaru Spot
qponx
2026-03-05
Is the president-approved Kampung Kecil in Banjarbaru worth the hype? This popular spot boasts a stunning setting with bamboo gazebos over water, making it incredibly photogenic. While signature dishes like Karedok and fried fish shine, the experience isn't flawless. This honest review reveals the truth about inconsistent food quality and service pitfalls, giving you the essential tips you need to decide if this atmospheric restaurant is the right choice for your next outing.
Girls, just got back from the super popular Kampung Kecil in Banjarbaru, and I have mixed feelings... 🤔
I was truly impressed the moment I walked in. The whole restaurant is built on water, with individual gazebos (Saung) made entirely of bamboo. There's even a photo of President Jokowi's visit hanging at the entrance[1], and the whole setup feels like the kind of place where you can post a nine-photo grid and dominate your social media feed. We found a spot over the water and sat down, and the breeze was pretty chill. It really felt like we were nongkrong in the Sundanese countryside[2], and the photos turned out amazing.
As for the taste, it was half amazing, half emmm…
We ordered a few dishes that were highly recommended online. To be fair, the signature dishes were pretty solid:
BUT! It's rant time. Besides these, the other grilled chicken we ordered was a bit of a letdown. The flavor was very bland, felt like the marinade didn't even penetrate the meat[3]. Also, while the environment is photogenic, the details don't really hold up to scrutiny. It wasn't raining when we went, but I heard the roofs leak on rainy days[4], and the pond next to us was also full of green moss. It feels like the hygiene and maintenance aren't keeping up.
- Karedok[5] (Sundanese vegetable salad): This was Mantap! They were super generous with the peanut sauce, the flavor was very authentic, and it was refreshing and appetizing.
- Ikan Gurame Goreng[6] (Fried Tilapia): It was fried perfectly crispy, not greasy at all, and the fish was fresh.
- Es Teler[7] (Indonesian fruit cocktail): The portion was shockingly huge! It was packed with ingredients, and you're basically full after drinking it. Perfect for sharing among a few people.
A Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls, You're Welcome!
Overall, this is the kind of place with very obvious pros and cons. If you want to check it out, here are a few key points for you, girls:
So, if you're just looking for atmosphere, or a lively and spacious place for a family gathering, this place is okay. But if you have high standards for food quality and service details, you might be disappointed.
- 1. Go early to avoid the queue: This place is way too popular, so it's best to get there before 11 AM[8]! Otherwise, the weekend queue will make you question your existence.
- 2. Service is a gamble: The speed of service is inconsistent. The table next to us had finished their meal before their drinks even arrived. Keep calm and be zen about it[9].
- 3. Remember the ordering process: You have to order and pay at the cashier by the entrance first, then go find a seat! Don't be a fool and grab a seat only to have to run back[10].
- 4. Secondhand smoke hazard zone: The restaurant has no non-smoking area. If you hate the smell of smoke or are with kids, you might get smoked out by the next table, so consider this carefully[11].
- Dine over the water in private bamboo gazebos that feel like a Sundanese village. Totally Instagrammable! [1]
- The Karedok is loaded with a rich, authentic peanut sauce. Super refreshing and a perfect appetizer. [2]
- The Es Teler is massive and packed with a mix of fruits and jellies. Definitely big enough to share! [3]
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