Same taste for 40 years, sold out by 1 PM. Just how legendary is this pork ball shop?
qponx
2026-03-06
Step back in time at Kios Asia Timur, a legendary Makassar spot serving authentic pork meatballs (Nyuknyang) for over 40 years. This no-frills shop is so popular it often sells out by early afternoon! Don't miss the giant, bouncy meatballs, massive fried meatballs, and unique Buras (coconut rice). The vibe is pure, bustling nostalgia. Just be sure to arrive before noon and bring cash to experience this unforgettable taste before it’s all gone.
As soon as I arrived in Makassar, a local foodie friend gave me a strict order: "If you want to eat the most authentic Nyuknyang in the whole city, you have to rush over to Kios Asia Timur before 12 PM, or else you'll be met with a closed door!"
I thought, how crazy could it be? But I was stunned the moment I got to the entrance. It was so crowded that people were almost spilling onto the street, and a wave of heat hit me in the face. Don't expect any air conditioning; the shop only has old fans whirring away[1]. Honestly, seeing this scene, I almost wanted to anjay and just turn around and leave. Is this really what a legendary old shop is supposed to look like? 😂
Once I squeezed inside, I found a whole different world. The whole place felt like time had stopped decades ago, with old tables and chairs, yellowed posters on the walls, and even the waitresses were older ladies who have been working here for decades[2]. This kind of atmosphere, full of nostalgia, is meant for you to just focus on your meal and Chill.
A menu? Doesn't exist. Just tell the auntie how many portions you want. I ordered a mixed portion of Nyuknyang (pork meatballs)[3], which included coarse meatballs, fine meatballs, and wontons. The meatballs are genuinely a size bigger than other places[4], with a solid, meaty texture, and are incredibly bouncy. The broth is full of spices, one sip and you get that old Makassar flavor, which they say hasn't changed in decades[5]. Their Bakso Goreng (fried meatballs)[6] is also a must-try, fried to be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and they're huge. For your main carb, don't order rice. You have to try the local specialty, Buras[7], which is coconut rice wrapped in banana leaves. Dip it in the meatball soup, Mantap!
However, I've got to point out the downsides. The soup does get a bit salty towards the end[8]. Friends who like strong flavors might absolutely love it, but those who prefer lighter food should be prepared. As for the service, it's all up to luck. When it's crowded, the aunties can be a bit 'Judes' (fierce), and rushing your order might get you an eye-roll[9], so it's best for everyone to just be zen about it.
📝 A Veteran's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls
- Time! Time! Time! I'll say it three times because it's important. You must get there before 12 PM[10]! Otherwise, the types of meatballs you've been dreaming of might be gone, or they might even be completely sold out and closed for the day.
- Cash only! Don't be a fool and pull out your phone to scan a QRIS; they only accept cash or bank transfers here[11]. Make sure to withdraw cash before you come, or it'll be awkward.
- Parking is a game of chance. Parking spots at the entrance are basically non-existent, and if you park randomly on the roadside, "unofficial" parking attendants will appear. I strongly recommend taking a ride-hailing service to get here[12], otherwise, the search for a parking spot will make you question your life choices.
- Have a chill mindset and Nongkrong. This isn't a place you go to for the ambiance; you come here to experience the most authentic, bustling local vibe. Friends who can't stand the heat or crowds should think twice, but for a taste of these one-of-a-kind pork meatballs, I think it's all worth it
- For the best Nyuknyang, get here before noon or it's gone. Expect "crowds spilling onto the road"[1][2].
- Their exclusive giant meatballs are firm & bouncy in a spiced, decades-old Makassar broth that awakens your Lokal DNA[3][4][5].
- Skip rice for the Buras coconut rice, wrapped in banana leaf. Dip it in the soup—that's the true Makassar soul food way[6].
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