The server was colder than the ice cream, but I forgave everything for this salty cheese gelato.
qponx
2026-01-24
Tucked away in Kemang, Jakarta, is a hidden gelato shop with a surprise pet-friendly courtyard. While the service might be frosty, the gelato is unforgettable. Forgive the flaws for wildly creative flavors like a mind-blowing salty cheese (Kastengel) and nostalgic Teh Botol. This affordable backyard oasis offers a unique treat for the adventurous, but be prepared for a few quirks along the way.
Winding through the back alleys of Kemang, Jakarta, if it weren't for my trusty GPS, I would have totally missed this shop hidden in a residential building. The small sign at the entrance is super low-key, it looks exactly like a private house, you know what I mean! I even started to wonder if I was in the wrong place…
Stumbling into a friend's backyard?
Pushing the door open, I have to admit, I was pleasantly surprised. Inside is a completely different world, a lush little courtyard with sunlight filtering through the leaves. It felt like I had accidentally wandered into a friend's backyard, super suitable for Nongkrong. The biggest plus is that it's pet-friendly! [1] Seeing several cute doggos frolicking on the grass, my mood instantly became Mantap! The atmosphere is so comfortable, simple yet cozy, and any random shot looks great.
Teh Botol flavored ice cream, what the heck?
Honestly, I came here specifically for their wildly creative ice cream flavors. My indecisiveness kicked in right away, but in the end, I went for the most bizarre flavors.
That signature Kastengel Gelato[2], Anjay! It's a perfect recreation of the savory cheese cookies often eaten during Indonesian New Year. A blast of sweet and savory, the rich cheese aroma melts in your mouth, so good it makes you want to stomp your feet! And the ice cream flavored like the Indonesian national drink, Teh Botol[3], the first bite was a bit confusing, but the aftertaste is that familiar jasmine tea fragrance. So creative.
The texture of the ice cream is very smooth, it just melts a bit fast[4], so if you want to take pictures, you gotta be quick!
OK, enough praise, let's get real…
Although I really loved the ice cream and the atmosphere, their service is really hit-or-miss…[5] When I went, the staff guy was just playing on his phone and was pretty dismissive when I tried to order. I wanted to try an extra flavor but was told no, which instantly cut the experience in half. I saw online reviews mentioning payment disputes, so everyone should be careful and double-check when paying.
39k per person, should you go? My guide to avoiding pitfalls
Finally, here's some useful info for my friends who want to go:
Overall, if your curiosity for bizarre ice cream flavors outweighs your need for good service, then this place is definitely worth a visit
- Price: Very reasonable! A small cup lets you choose two flavors for about 39k Indonesian Rupiah[6], which is definitely a bargain for the Kemang area.
- Transportation: The location is honestly a bit tricky. If you're driving, make sure your GPS is set correctly, and don't drive past it because the sign is tiny. Luckily, the parking space in the yard is quite spacious.[7]
- Hours: Heads up! Their closing time isn't very reliable[8]. Google says 8 PM, but they might start clearing out at 7:30 PM. I suggest not going right at closing time, or maybe call ahead to confirm.
- Hidden Events: They often host a community market called “Trinket Market”[9], featuring many local niche brands and handicrafts, which is pretty cool. You can follow their IG, you might find some great stuff.
- Hidden green courtyard, sun-dappled, a friend's backyard with puppies playing. Great vibe![1]
- Kastengel Gelato: spot-on Indonesian savory cheese cookie. Sweet-salty kick, rich cheese melts![2]
- Teh Botol-flavored ice cream! Jasmine aroma. Creative! Small double scoop: 39k![3][4]
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