Who says Kalimantan is just rainforests? This Chinese restaurant made even Chinese people say Mantap
qponx
2026-03-05
Discover Ta Xiao, a top-rated Halal Chinese restaurant in Banjarmasin that challenges expectations. While known for its Bebek Peking, the real showstopper is the ridiculously huge and savory Sup Jagung. This spot is perfect for family gatherings with its clean ambiance and generous portions. The article also shares insider tips on snagging discounts, finding the best seats, and navigating potential noise issues. It’s a must-try for a hearty and authentic meal in Kalimantan.
Don't ask me why I ended up in Banjarmasin… During a break from work, a lokal friend mysteriously said they were taking me to the "best" Halal Chinese food in town. I was rolling my eyes so hard: How good could it be? The result… I had to eat my words. 😂
This place, called Ta Xiao, is super popular locally, with a 4.7 rating on Google, and many say it's the best in the city[1]. Once inside, the ambiance is indeed quite nice. The decor is pretty decent, clean and bright, totally suitable for family gatherings or business dinners.
There weren't many of us, so we just ordered a few signature dishes. The signature Bebek Peking[2] tasted on point, but! When it arrived at the table, it was just warm, not hot enough. Minus points, minus points! Luckily, the Kailan 2 Musim[3] and Tahu Sutra ala Thai[4] that my friend ordered saved the day. They're the kind of safe bets you can order with your eyes closed and not go wrong, and the taste was spot on.
What made my jaw drop was the bowl of Sup Jagung[5]. Anjay! It was served in something the size of a washbasin, the portion was ridiculously huge. The three of us tried our best but couldn't finish it, and it was also incredibly savory! The owner is just too generous![6]
Hold on, don't rush off yet, let me finish
Now that I'm done with the pros, it's time for my favorite part: the roasting session. 😈
Although the taste and portions were Mantap, the experience wasn't perfect. First, if you're unlucky and someone has booked the upstairs for an event with karaoke, you'll basically be eating to the beat of heavy bass downstairs. Forget about having a proper conversation[7]. Second, I don't know if I'm just a mosquito magnet, but I got several bites that day. I suggest my friends who are afraid of mosquitoes wear long pants[8]. Although the online reviews are overwhelmingly positive, I did see one bad review about the ingredients not being fresh[9]. I didn't experience that this time, but everyone should still be mindful.
Editor's Key Takeaways (get your notebooks ready 📝)
- 💰 Money-Saving Hack: Prices are in the mid-to-high range, but always ask for a discount before paying! We got a 15% discount for spending over 300k, and I heard you can get a 20% discount if you spend over 500k with a BRI card[10]! You'd be losing out big time if you don't ask!
- 🚗 Heads-up for Drivers: For my friends who drive, be warned that the parking spots in front of the restaurant are narrow and few. New drivers might have a bit of a meltdown, so be mentally prepared.[11]
- 🪑 Seating Secrets: If you can't stand the heat, head straight for a seat under the AC vent![12] If you're worried about noise, you can call ahead before booking to ask if there's an event upstairs.
- 👨👩👧👦 Must-Know for Gatherings: The place is spacious and great for family gatherings or company team-building events. But it gets crowded on weekends, so it's best to call and book in advance if you want to go![13]
- A Banjarmasin lokal took me to Ta Xiao, the "best" Halal Chinese spot (4.7 on Google). Is the "city's best" [1] really that good?
- Must-order: Sup Jagung. The bowl is huge—too big for 3 people—and packed with ingredients [2]. So generous!
- 15% off >300k, or 20% off >500k with a BRI card [3]. It's a money-saving secret—ask or you'll miss out
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