Coffee heads in Medan, don't get it wrong! This is the `Lokal`'s secret roastery.
qponx
2026-03-06
Don't be fooled by its old-school exterior! This hidden Medan spot is a secret roastery for true coffee lovers. Step inside and be greeted by the intoxicating aroma from a giant roasting machine. While the snacks are just okay, the main event is the coffee. Explore a vast selection of local and international beans, from Sidikalang to Brazilian. It's the perfect place to savor an authentic cup or grab some high-quality beans to take home as a souvenir.
Friends who are new to Medan always ask me where to get coffee. I'm not going to talk about those trendy spots today; let's talk about the real deal.
This shop, honestly, from the outside looks exactly like one of those old-school coffee shops (warung kopi bapak-bapak) where local uncles `nongkrong` [1], I almost just skipped it. But the moment you push the door open, that rich, intoxicating aroma of roasting coffee instantly pulls you in! Anjay, this is a place that's serious about coffee!
Coffee is the Main Character
Don't expect any fancy decor here. The heart of the whole shop is that giant roasting machine[2], and sometimes you can even see the master roaster at work, filling the air with the aroma of caramel and nuts. Lining the walls are rows of burlap sacks and jars filled with coffee beans from all over Indonesia, from Gayo to Sidikalang, and even Brazilian beans[3]. My analysis paralysis kicked in on the spot.
I didn't go for anything complicated; I just told the owner I wanted a cup that best represents Sumatra. He brewed me a cup of Sidikalang, and that kick, Mantap[4]! It was strong and smooth, and one sip woke me right up. My friend's `Sanger Dingin` (specialty iced coffee) was also surprisingly delicious; the balance of sweetness and milkiness was perfect, and the taste was unforgettable[5]. We also got a side of `Roti Bakar Srikaya` (kaya toast) [6], which, paired with the strong coffee, was a decent afternoon tea companion.
The Real Talk (The Good and The Bad)
While the quality of most beans is on point, I have to be fair. One time, I got a craving and tried their so-called “premium” Gayo beans, and I was a bit disappointed. It was roasted too dark; I could barely taste any of the fruit acidity, and all that was left was a burnt, bitter taste. It felt like drinking Robusta[7]... Also, the snacks at the shop are really just average[8]. They don't seem to be homemade, so it's better to just focus on the coffee itself when you come here.
✨ Pro Tips ✨
- Your first mission is to buy beans! This place is an absolute heaven for buying souvenirs (`oleh-oleh`). They have a wide variety and fair prices[9], and they can even grind the beans for you on the spot based on your request. The packaging is quite nice too[10].
- This place is for true coffee lovers. If you're looking for a place for a family gathering or a full meal, this isn't the right spot[11]. But if you want to quietly enjoy a good cup of coffee or chat about beans with fellow enthusiasts, this is the place for you.
- A note on the prayer room: The shop has a prayer room, but a friend mentioned that it's a bit stuffy inside. Hopefully the owner can add a fan to improve it[12].
- The rich coffee roasting aroma hits you at the door—air thick with caramel & nuts. You know they're serious about coffee [1][2].
- Asked for their signature Sumatra. One cup of Sidikalang is strong, smooth, and instantly wakes you up [3].
- They roast prized Gayo beans dark and even diss them as Robusta-like. Keeping it real, this is a spot for true coffee snobs [4].
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