Jakarta's 'Cake ATM': A 1-hour queue just for this?
qponx
2026-01-24
Is Jakarta's viral "Cake ATM" worth the hour-long queue? This Blok M spot dispenses cheesecake from a tiny window after you order on a screen. Discover which flavors are heavenly, like the silky original cheesetart, and which ones you can skip. This review gives the lowdown on the hype, the high prices, and crucial tips for visiting—from the best times to go to its QRIS-only payment system, ensuring you don't make a trip for nothing.
Anjay! Passed by Blok M over the weekend and was shocked by the sea of people in line… Took a closer look, and wow, they were all lining up for a small window that looks like a bank ATM? I thought to myself, what's this new viral trend? Lining up under the scorching sun, is it really worth it? 🤔
Cheesecake dispensed from an"ATM"?
The whole process is really fun. You order and pay on a self-service screen next to it, and after getting your receipt, you just wait for the small window on the wall to"spit out" your cake. The sense of ceremony is definitely there, but is the taste any good?
I first went for their super-hyped signature The Perfect Cheesetart (Original)[1]. After the first bite, I got it! The texture is absolutely incredible, super silky and dense, it just melts in your mouth. It has that sophisticated feel where the sweet, salty, and sour are perfectly balanced, not the kind that's just sickeningly sweet. Mantap! No wonder they dare to call it that, it's really something.
As a matcha lover, I also tried the Matcha Cheesecake[2]. The slight bitterness of the matcha intertwines with the creaminess of the cheese, and the sweetness level is just right. Love it, love it. One piece is quite substantial. It's a bit much for one person to finish, so for friends with smaller appetites, I suggest sharing one[3].
Alright, let me be honest…
Although the signature flavor is on point, I have to tell you about some of the duds too. For example, I followed the hype and tried the very popular Dubai Kunafa Cheesecake[4]. Hmm... how should I put it? For me, it was a bit ordinary. The pistachio flavor wasn't very prominent. It's not bad, but it's in the category of"you don't need to go out of your way to try it."
Also! The price, well, one piece of cake is around 60k Indonesian Rupiah[5], so your wallet will definitely feel a little pinch. Most importantly, the shop is so small there's almost no seating. It's completely designed for takeaway, so don't even think about sitting down to Nongkrong for a bit[6].
A guide to avoid the pitfalls, you're welcome!
As usual, let me highlight the key points for the friends who plan to check it out!
- Time: Definitely don't go on a weekend afternoon! Otherwise, a 45-minute wait is no joke[7]. It's much better to go on a weekday.
- Payment: ⚠️ A heads-up for tourist friends! They only accept QRIS payments here! International credit cards, Malaysia's Touch n Go, none of them work! Don't make a trip for nothing[8]!
- Storage: The cake's texture is super soft and melts very easily. I recommend eating it immediately after buying, or bring your own ice pack[9], otherwise it'll just be a puddle of cheese goo by the time you get home.
- Process: Ordering and pickup are all self-service. Remember your order number, or you won't know whose cake it is when it comes out.
- Cheesecake from an "ATM window" [1]? This self-pickup totally redefines dessert shops!
- The Perfect Cheesetart (Original) [2] is divine! Silky-smooth, melt-in-your-mouth, perfectly balanced sweet, salty, sour.
- Matcha Cheesecake [3] is a must for matcha lovers! Bitter matcha blends with creamy cheese, perfect sweetness, and a generous slice [4]!
Similar Articles
Dharmawangsa's newest hotspot: WFC paradise or a major turn-off?
Dharmawangsa's new hotspot, Houm Coffee, is creating a buzz with its homey vibe and photogenic interior. While the article praises its must-try snacks like fried cassava and a "champion-level" banana dessert, it's a tale of two extremes. Be warned: the coffee is a letdown, the space is cramped with flies, and it's not the WFC paradise it seems. It's a spot for great photos and snacks, but not for serious coffee lovers or remote workers.
To everyone who hates the smell of smoke: I found Jakarta's breathing zone in an SCBD parking lot
Tired of smoky bars? Discover a hidden, smoke-free speakeasy tucked away in an SCBD parking lot, offering a true breathing zone in Jakarta. This cozy spot boasts a creative, ever-changing cocktail menu, with the nutty and creamy Queen Pistacia as a must-try signature. While the space is small and reservations aren't an option, it’s the perfect intimate escape for those seeking inventive drinks and conversation without the usual haze. It’s your promised land for a smoke-free night out.
Waited 30 mins for THIS? I tried South Jakarta's 'Space Capsule' ice cream to see if it's a bust.
Is South Jakarta's viral "space capsule" ice cream shop worth the long wait? This review dives into the futuristic, but tiny, spot known for its wild and creative flavors. Discover which unique scoops are a must-try, like the refreshing Strawberry Torch Ginger, and which ones fall flat. Find out if this trendy, pricey dessert lives up to the social media hype or is better left for a quick photo-op. It's a spot for adventurous eaters, not for chilling with friends.
Jakarta's National Canteen: The flavor hasn't changed in 40 years. Neither has the AC.
Discover Bakmi GM, Jakarta's iconic "national canteen" that has served generations for over 40 years. The flavor of its signature Bakmi Special GM and legendary, must-try Pangsit Goreng (fried wontons) remains unchanged. While the decor and AC are a blast from the past, the authentic, nostalgic taste is a true local experience. It's a taste of Jakarta's soul, perfect for those wanting to eat like a local and experience a piece of the city's history.