PONDOK NASI BAKAR - Indonesian Grilled Rice — Restaurant in Melbourne

Dropping off my glasses @southmelbouneoptical for a repair, I mentioned I was hungry for lunch. The staff knowing I’m a food reviewer recommended me to try the new #indonesianrestaurant that has taken #clarendonstreetsouthmelbourne by storm. Only four doors from SMO - it was a given I’d try it out. Known for having queues on the weekend that are out the door and down the street. The word is out. A fresh new place to dine that is authentic but they are also finding their feet as a new business, which is kinda refreshing post Covid. #pondoknasibakar have another site in Geelong but here in Melbourne, we are soaking up some tasty #indonesianfood The menu has the usual choices with plenty of variety, for vegans and vegetarians as well. If you have special dietary requirements, please liaise with the staff directly. I’ve spent a considerable amount of time in Indonesia- Bali, Gili Islands, Lombok, Sambawa, Flores, Komodo Island and more. I know my Indonesian food, the ambience, the service, the presentation, right down to the music and Pondok has it in spades. At Pondok you can dine indoors or outside on the wide pavements of #clarendonstreet which at this time of year can be quite glorious watching the comings and going’s. You order at the counter or via the QR code on the table. Please make note of your table number If ordering at the counter. There is a self serve area for cutlery, water, glasses, napkins etc. I had to try the #gadogado a classic vegetarian meal but heck, I’ll have to return as there are so many of my favourites to explore. The Gado Gado was generous in portion size and oozing with satay sauce. It’s quite different to what I’ve eaten in Australia, but very similar to what I’ve eaten in Indonesia. Fresh ingredients obvious. Choice of refreshments range from water to lemonade, Coconut milk and other basic drinks. Notes: high chairs available. Parking not too bad. Indoor and outdoor dining. Takeaway available. Lovely playlist playing in the background.

#thewanderingreviewer @thewanderingrevewer @pondonnasibakargrazeland #tastyindonesianfood...

The food never fails! Always delicious!

UPDATED

I would love to share some insights from a loyal customer.

I’m a very regular guest, and a few of the staff know me quite well – the lady with glasses, the tall gentleman who often handles service – they even remember my order without needing to ask. I’ve visited countless times and have even recommended your restaurant to my family. It has become one of our favourite places to dine.

Recently, I’ve visited your new location at least four times. Unfortunately, on 2 of those visits, I had disappointing experiences when making simple requests.

The first time, I asked to buy extra emping. The lady at the front was lovely, but the young cook in the back rudely refused. Perhaps he thought I was asking for it for free, but I had clearly said I was happy to pay. I brought this up to the lady with glasses, as I felt it was better to share my concern directly rather than leaving a public review.

The second time, I requested to change the chicken in my noodles – something I’ve done many times before (you can even check your Uber Eats order history for confirmation) – and my request was refused, again in a tone that felt unnecessarily dismissive.

I’m genuinely happy to see your business growing, but I’m quite disappointed that the quality of service has declined. I hope you’ll take this note into consideration.

I don’t want to leave a low rating for the food, as it’s still excellent. But if I could rate the service separately, it would unfortunately be...

Hello again @pondoknasibakarvictoria ! We first encountered them at Grazeland but with locations in Geelong and now South Melbourne it's the perfect time for another visit. . 🍗 Grilled Chicken 🍗 Fried Chicken 🍚 Nasi Goreng Fried Rice 🍹 Iced bandung (rose syrup drink) . That marinade on the grilled chicken was delicious, the fried chicken a bit dry but both dishes were plated up with this amazing aromatic banana leaf steamed rice, with what I thought was tofu and peanut slice (Tofu Tempeh). The fried rice was also a highlight of the show/dinner, with that beautiful 'wok hey' wok breath that gives it this smokeyness you don't get in regular fried chicken. Drinks were good, I had the refreshing (but feared by some lol, who fear sweetness) iced bandung. . Prices are actually very reasonable these dishes and most of the menu are $14-16-ish. . The venue feels a bit in need of a renovation, but the food is cheap and good. Perfect for casual meals. We'll absolutely be returning when in the area (we've been back since this visit lol). . 🍗 @pondoknasibakarvictoria 📍 South Melbourne 🎁 #invite dinning with...