Mantap steak but Anjay slow service! This 4.9-star Google-rated spot in Padang: Should I praise it or complain?
qponx
2026-03-06
This highly-rated Padang spot is a true test of patience! While the signature steak and strawberry cheesecake are absolutely worth the hype, be prepared for an incredibly long wait. The service is notoriously slow, and prices are on the higher side. Is the fantastic food enough to make up for the frustrating experience? This review breaks down the pros and cons of this popular but polarizing restaurant, helping you decide if it's worth the visit.
For real, I waited an hour and a half for the food to arrive at a restaurant in Padang, and my patience was running out. I was about to leave[1]. If my friend hadn't stopped me, I might have missed out on this amazing place that I now have a love-hate relationship with.
After eating Nasi Padang for a few days straight, I wanted a change of pace, so a lokal friend recommended this place. When we arrived on a weekend night, there was already a line at the door[2]. Wow, this place is seriously popular. The space inside isn't big, and the seats are quite close together, but magically, it wasn't noisy at all. They were playing light French music, and there was a pretty chill aquarium in the corner[3]. The atmosphere was just right. Just as I was about to reach a state of zen, the food finally arrived!
We ordered their signature steak (Meat/Steak)[4]. The aroma of the meat was incredible, and it was cooked to perfection. After the first bite, I told my friend, "Okay, this hour and a half wait was worth it." Then there was the Panini Carbonara[5], the outside was toasted crispy, and the creamy sauce inside was so thick and rich. So sinful! The strawberry cheesecake[6] at the end was the perfect finishing touch. The balance of sweet and sour was just right, totally satisfying my dessert stomach! 🍰
However, I have to be fair. The food is mantap, but the service is... anjay slow. The dishes came out one by one, with gaps of up to 20 minutes in between, which made the experience feel a bit disjointed. Also, the prices are on the high side for Padang[7], so the value for money is subjective. Oh, and be careful with the drinks. My friend's coffee was very mediocre[8], and when they asked to exchange it, they were refused, with the staff saying there's no such policy[9], which was a bit of a turn-off.
My Guide to Avoiding the Pitfalls 📝
So, this place is a classic test of 'How much are you willing to endure for good food?'. If you're tired of Padang food and want a change of pace, this place is definitely a pleasant surprise. But if you're an impatient person, I'd advise you to think twice! 🤷♀️
- Zen Mindset: If you go, be prepared to wait. Don't go on an empty stomach, you'll go crazy. It's suitable for when you're not in a rush and just want a place to nongkrong and chat.
- How to Order: Go to the counter to order and pay yourself, don't just sit at your table waiting for a server[10].
- What to Order: Go for the main meat dishes and desserts without hesitation, especially the steak and cheesecake. As for the drinks... emmm... you know what I mean.
- Best For: It's pretty good for a date night or a small get-together with your girlfriends, after all, the ambiance is quite stylish. For a family meal, if you have impatient elders to consider, I'd suggest thinking twice.
- The signature steak has a 1.5-hour wait, but one bite proves it's worth it. So aromatic and perfectly cooked! [1]
- Panini Carbonara: Crispy on the outside, with a ridiculously rich and creamy sauce inside. A true guilty pleasure [2].
- Soft French music and an aquarium create the vibe. An unexpectedly chill little spot to find in Padang! [3]
Similar Articles
Introvert's Heaven! Found my sanctuary in Downtown Padang, and the owner is a psychologist
Discover Kedai Teh MonAmi, a cozy, Ghibli-inspired tea shop in Padang that’s a true sanctuary for introverts. Run by a psychologist, the space offers a uniquely healing and quiet atmosphere perfect for reading or doodling. Don't miss their exceptional matcha and artisan teas, or ask the owner to create a surprise drink from the secret menu. You might even get to meet the resident cat, Legam! It's the ultimate spot to unwind and enjoy slow living.
The server's a bit Jutek, but I'm here for the city's #1 beef tendon
Discover a hidden gem in Padang known for its award-winning Gulai Tunjang! This casual "Pondokan" hut serves up melt-in-your-mouth beef tendon in a rich curry that's worth the trip. While the service might be a bit "aloof," the incredible food, including tender Dendeng and refreshing Jus Timnas, makes it a must-visit. It's a no-frills, authentic experience, so arrive early before the best dishes sell out and enjoy the phenomenal food
Who says Sumatra is only about Rendang? This Solok pour-over is the hidden king
Think Sumatra is just about Rendang? Think again! Discover Rimbun, a hidden gem coffee shop in Padang that will completely change your perspective. This spot is famous for its soul-awakening Solok Espresso and single-origin pour-overs, crafted by award-winning baristas. More than just a cafe, Rimbun is a community hub with deep local roots. Don't leave without grabbing their house-roasted beans or handmade chocolates—it's a must-visit for any coffee lover exploring the region.
Forget Rendang, this grilled rice is the real Mantap
Look beyond Rendang on your next trip to Padang! This article uncovers Bang Jojo, a humble, family-run eatery that locals rave about. The star here is the Nasi Bakar—fragrant rice grilled in banana leaves until it's bursting with authentic flavor. Forget fancy decor; this hidden gem is all about serving a soulful, 'Mantap' meal that's highly rated by locals and offers a true taste of Indonesia.