1M per person for a crab? At this legendary Singaporean spot in Medan, watch this before you book.
qponx
2026-03-06
Planning a fancy seafood feast in Medan? Palm Beach Seafood, a legendary Singaporean import, offers an upscale dining experience perfect for special occasions. It’s famous for its incredible crab dishes, especially the rich and addictive Butter Crab. While the 'wok hei' is authentic and the flavors are top-notch, be prepared for a hefty price tag and potentially inconsistent service. This review tells you what to order and how to get the best experience before you book your table.
Bringing important guests to Medan was such a headache. The streets are full of street food, and trying to find a high-class, impressive place for a banquet, the options are really limited. Finally, a local friend pointed me to this place, Palm Beach Seafood, saying it's a time-honored brand from Singapore that specializes in high-end seafood. Alright, this is the one!
🦀️ A Feast for Crab Lovers, The Sauce is The Soul
The moment I walked in, wow, the place is seriously spacious. The tables are set far apart, so you don't have to shout to be heard. The decor has an understated elegance, with a bit of a beach vibe but still very refined. It's definitely impressive enough for a business dinner or for bringing the elders[1].
We came specifically for their crabs. We ordered the signature Butter Crab[2], Anjay! That butter sauce was so rich and thick, and the crab meat was super fresh and plump. My friends who came with me all said this stuff is addictive. There's also the classic Chili Crab[3]—the sauce is amazing with rice! Their stir-fried dishes are top-notch; you can taste that special 'wok hei'[4] unique to Chinese restaurants, not just carelessly thrown together.
Another dish, the King Prawn Soup[5], was also a pleasant surprise. One sip, and it was so savory it blew me away, Mantap!
💸 Your Wallet Will Hurt, Service is Hit-or-Miss
To be honest, it's not cheap. The crabs are priced by the gram; the cheese crab we ordered was about 108k/100g[6]. A casual meal can easily cost hundreds of thousands or even millions per person. Your wallet will really feel the pain, so I'd recommend saving it for 'big occasions' like birthdays, anniversaries, or important banquets[7].
But what I really want to complain about is the service... it's really polarized. Some people online praise it to the heavens, but the day I went, the staff was a bit slow to respond; it took ages to get someone's attention[8]. It felt like it didn't quite match the price point. Maybe they get overwhelmed when it's busy, so the experience is a bit of a lottery.
📝 Editor's Honest Guide (Save This!)
Alright, here are a few tips to avoid any pitfalls. If you're planning to go, you must read this!
- The Ultimate Way to Eat It: You have to get the Butter Crab[9] with fried mantou buns! Dip those golden, crispy little buns into the sauce, pop one in your mouth, and who understands the joy of carbs + fat!
- Want to Eat Lobster?: Their signature Coco Lobo is super popular. If you want to try it, it's best to book a week in advance[10], otherwise, you'll most likely have made the trip for nothing.
- Upgrading Your Service Experience: If you have high expectations for service, or want a bit more privacy, just book a VIP room[11]. Although there's a minimum charge, I've heard the service experience improves dramatically, helping you avoid the awkwardness of being 'ignored' in the main dining area.
- Halal-Friendly: This place is No Pork, No Lard[12], so it's perfectly fine to bring Muslim friends. That's a big plus.
- Butter Crab's rich butter sauce coats fresh, plump meat. Mop it up with fried mantou for ultimate carb+fat bliss[1].
- King Prawn Soup is incredibly umami—a pure, natural sweetness from the ingredients, no MSG. Absolutely Mantap![2].
- A Singaporean institution for high-end seafood. Perfect for business dinners or treating elders. You're guaranteed to impress[3].
Similar Articles
This Medan Spot: I'd go for the photos, but avoid these red flags.
Thinking of visiting that viral Medan cafe? It's a photographer's dream with a gorgeous aesthetic, making it a Gen Z hotspot. The article raves about the signature coffee and delicious, shareable churros. However, it also flags some issues: disappointing main courses (watch out for unwanted spice!), drinks in plastic cups, and very limited parking. Head there for the amazing vibes and sweets, but maybe skip the full meal for a better experience.
Medan parents, get in here! I'm rushing to this Sundanese restaurant with its own playground
Discover Lembur Kuring, a sprawling Sundanese restaurant in Medan that feels more like a park! This spot is perfect for families, boasting a playground and fish ponds to keep kids entertained. Feast on authentic dishes like the dramatic Standing Fried Fish and crispy Signature Fried Chicken set within beautiful bamboo gazebos. While it gets incredibly busy, the unique atmosphere and delicious food make it an ideal choice for large gatherings, offering a spacious and relaxing dining experience for everyone.
4.6 Stars on Google for This Hotpot?! Delicious, But So Hot My Makeup Melted Off
X.O Suki in Medan might have a high rating, but get ready to sweat! This popular hotpot spot is known for its intense, sauna-like heat that can melt your makeup. Despite the steamy atmosphere, the flavorful Tom Yum soup and especially the must-try crispy fried shrimp wontons make it a memorable meal. This review breaks down the pricey self-service system, essential tips on what to wear, and why those wontons alone might be worth the visit.
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.