Attention Palembang! Looking for a place to Nongkrong? I fell into the trap at this J.Co so you don't have to.
qponx
2026-03-06
Thinking of chilling at the J.Co near Palembang Square? You might want to read this first. This popular three-story spot might seem like a safe bet, but this review exposes its major flaws. From a hot and smelly second floor to questionable service and surprise charges on your bill, the experience is far from sweet. Learn about the potential pitfalls and get essential tips on how to navigate this "trap" if you decide to visit for the donuts.
Friends, who gets it! When you're looking for a place to sit in downtown Palembang, the first place that comes to mind is the J.Co next to Palembang Square. After all, it's a national brand, a three-story building with J.Co and BreadTalk downstairs, and Roppan upstairs. It feels like you can't go wrong, right?
Turns out… after sitting down, I realized this place is a total tale of two extremes. 🫠
Familiar Taste, Strange Experience
The vibe on the first floor is still that familiar formula: the ordering area is bustling with people, and the air is filled with the sweet smell of donuts. Many students and office workers are here with their laptops, either rushing deadlines or slacking off. It really has that nongkrong vibe[1].
The quality of their signature donuts[2] is pretty consistent, so you can't go wrong ordering randomly. But honestly, I don't know if they changed the coffee beans[3] here, but it always tastes like something's missing, not at all up to the standard you'd expect from J.Co.
What I couldn't stand the most was the second floor. I originally wanted to find a quiet corner, but as soon as I went up, a strange smell, a mix of toilet cleaner, hit me in the face. The air conditioning was basically just for show, and it was so hot I started questioning my life choices[4]. This environment... Mantap! Are they trying to give me an early sauna experience?
I Have to Get This Off My Chest! You Need to Know These Complaints
Besides the environment, the service here is also really a bit Anjay… 🤯
I personally saw a customer complain that they had pre-ordered over twenty boxes a day in advance, but when they came to pick it up the next day, the staff just looked innocent and said they knew nothing about it[5]. Another friend was tricked by the staff, who said that buying two dozen donuts as an upgraded package would get them free pasta. Only after getting home and checking the receipt did they realize they were charged full price for the pasta[6]! Isn't that such a shady move?
A Guide to Avoiding the Pitfalls, You're Welcome!
To sum it up, if you absolutely must go to this J.Co, remember these points:
All in all, if you're craving donuts, you can come, but if you're looking for a chill afternoon? emmm… I'd suggest you go somewhere else. 🤷♀️
- 1. Seat Selection: Girls who can't stand the heat, do not go to the second floor[7]! Just stay on the first floor; it might be a bit noisier, but at least there's air conditioning.
- 2. Be Careful When Ordering: They might not let you choose your donuts freely anymore; they come in pre-set packages[8]. Also, the small donut that comes free with a drink now seems to be for dine-in only; you don't get it if you take away[9].
- 3. Lower Your Expectations: The staff isn't very familiar with their own menu, and the service is pretty hit-or-miss. Tables aren't cleaned promptly, the Wi-Fi signal is unreliable[10], so if you're hoping to work efficiently here, I'd advise you to think twice.
- 4. Check Your Bill: After paying, you must! MUST! check the receipt! To avoid being "upgraded" and overcharged!
- National brand J.Co's 3-story downtown hub combines J.Co, BreadTalk & Roppan [1]. A solid hangout spot.
- The first floor smells of donuts with a chill nongkrong atmosphere, full of students & workers on laptops grinding or chilling [2].
- While not perfect, their signature donuts are reliable. Order anything—you won't be disappointed [3].
Similar Articles
50k/pax to Nongkrong at an old Palembang house, but for these things… thanks for nothing.
Thinking of chilling at Rumah Loer in Palembang? This article reviews the popular hangout spot, a retro cafe in an old house known for its 80s vibe and wallet-friendly prices around 50k per person. Get the scoop on its photogenic lattes and tasty fried rice, but also a heads-up on the noisy crowds, overly sweet coffee, and some hit-or-miss snacks. This honest review tells you what’s great and what’s not at this budget-friendly spot.
Google 4.9 stars, but I waited almost 2 hours? Jala Seafood, are you serious?
Thinking of visiting the highly-rated Jala Seafood in Palembang? This review gives you the full scoop. The restaurant offers a spacious setting with private karaoke rooms, making it great for large groups. While the seafood dishes are tasty, the service is a major letdown, with chaotic management and wait times stretching up to two hours. Read on to see if the decent food and pleasant ambiance are truly worth the incredible test of patience before you decide to visit.
Who says vegetarian food is boring? This Palembang shop's 'fake meat' can fool everyone
Think vegetarian food is boring? This bustling Palembang spot will prove you wrong with its mind-blowing mock meat that could fool even dedicated carnivores. The vegetarian Rendang is a must-try, with a rich and spicy sauce that's simply irresistible. Plan a Sunday visit for their legendary Lontong Sayur! This lively, warteg-style eatery offers amazing value and generous portions, making it a paradise for food lovers. You can even grab some semi-prepared ingredients to cook at home.
Koppi Warehouse: Came for the photo ops, got blown away by the main dishes…
Koppi Warehouse is Palembang's latest Instagram hotspot, and for good reason! Its stunning industrial design and spacious, sunlit interior make it a photographer's dream. While the ambiance is perfect for chilling with friends over snacks and drinks, be warned: the main courses might disappoint. This is the ideal spot for capturing amazing photos and enjoying the vibe, but perhaps not the best choice if you're looking for a satisfying meal.