Calling all Palembang natives! Is this legendary Jakarta Pempek still the real deal?
qponx
2026-01-24
Wondering if Jakarta's legendary Pempek Eirin 10 Ulu still lives up to its reputation? This review dives into the iconic Glodok eatery, known for its authentic Palembang fish cakes like the crispy Pempek Kulit. Get an honest take on the flavors and the bustling, old-school atmosphere. The article also shares essential tips for visiting, from avoiding peak hours and parking hassles to finding the air-conditioned branch, ensuring you have the best experience at this legendary spot.
Every time I ask Jakarta locals where to eat the most authentic Palembang fish cakes (Pempek), nine times out of ten they'll point to this old shop in Glodok—Pempek Eirin 10 Ulu.
As a childhood memory for countless people, this shop's legendary status is undeniable[1]. But lately, the reviews seem a bit polarized; some say it's the GOAT, while others say"it's the end of an era." So, I had to come and check it out for myself!
The Authentic, Bustling Experience
The moment I arrived, I understood what they mean by"legendary." The shop is incredibly small, and during meal times, it's basically packed shoulder-to-shoulder. The whirring fans can't beat the heat—it's a pure warung vibe. But this bustling, street-side atmosphere is the very taste of old Jakarta!
Without a second thought, I ordered a set of their signature dishes to try.
- Pempek Kapal Selam[2]: The submarine fish cake. The skin is fried to a golden crisp, and when you bite into it, there's a real whole egg inside. The savory fish flavor is still on point, and the texture is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Not bad.
- Pempek Kulit[3]: Fish skin cake! My absolute favorite! It's fried to be super crispy, and the aroma of the fish skin is top-notch. This one is truly Mantap! A must-order item.
- Tekwan[4]: If you're tired of fried food, get a bowl of this fish ball soup for a change of pace. The broth is reasonably savory, served with mushrooms and vermicelli. It's warm and comforting, but not particularly memorable.
Time for Some Hard Truths
Alright, enough praise, let's get real. I don't know if it's just me, but I feel like the fish flavor has faded just a tiny bit compared to when I had it a few years ago[5]. It's missing that definitive wow factor.
Also, the portions feel like they've"shrunk" a bit, especially the soul of the dish, the Cuko sauce. The amount they give you is so"delicate"[6]. Unlike other places that put a big bottle on the table for you to pour freely, here you have to ask the staff for more. For a heavy Cuko user like me, it's just not quite satisfying.
A Veteran's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls 📝
Finally, for the girls who want to check it out, here are a few"no-nonsense" tips:
- 1. Avoid peak hours! Avoid peak hours! Don't even think about coming during meal times, or you'll find yourself in a massive Nongkrong scene. The queue will be long enough to make you question your life choices[7].
- 2. Not for those who can't stand the heat. The main shop's environment is very down-to-earth. For friends who are sensitive to heat and crowds, you can go directly to the branch in the Pancoran China Town Point mall[8]. It has air conditioning, the ambiance is several levels better, and the taste is the same.
- 3. Don't drive! Important note: parking here is basically non-existent[9], and the roads are narrow. Calling a Gojek or parking at a nearby mall and walking over is the only right way to do it.
- 4. Bring cash! Some branches, especially the old one, might only accept cash or bank transfers and not support QRIS[10]. You don't want to be unable to pay, that would be Anjay.
- Jakarta locals' historic Palembang fish cake spot, a childhood icon [1].
- Recently, reviews are polarized: some say 'yyds,' others 'my youth is over.' What's the truth? [2][3]
- Must-try fish skin crackers! Crispy, intense fish flavor – one bite is pure Mantap! [4]
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