Calling all coffee heads! Is this Jakarta spot's only flaw the heat?
qponx
2026-01-24
Craving a taste of Melbourne in Jakarta? St. Ali in Setiabudi serves up exceptional, top-tier coffee that will impress any enthusiast, guided by expert baristas. However, be prepared for the heat—this semi-open spot has no air conditioning! While some dishes like the Wagyu burger shine, food quality can be inconsistent. This is a must-visit for serious coffee lovers who don't mind the heat or lack of Wi-Fi, but it’s not for a long, leisurely hangout.
Whenever friends ask what to do when they miss Melbourne in Jakarta, someone always says:"Go to St. Ali!"[1]
Alright, here I am. But as soon as I sat down at this spot in Setiabudi, something felt off. In Jakarta's 30+ degree weather, this place... had no! air! conditioning![2] Anjay, I instantly felt like I was Nongkrong on a hot plate, and almost melted on the spot 🫠.
Coffee is Godly, Food is a"Mystery Box"
But the moment my pour-over was served and I smelled the aroma, okay, I forgave them. As expected of a brand from Melbourne, the coffee is truly Mantap! The beans have a rich and mellow flavor with incredible complexity, making it one of the top-tier spots in Jakarta's coffee scene for me[3]. The barista also really knows his stuff; after a short chat, he can recommend something that's just perfect for you.
As for the food, well, it's a bit like opening a mystery box. The Wagyu Beef Burger[4] I ordered was a pleasant surprise—the patty was juicy and the fries were golden and crispy. My friend's Smashed Avo on Toast[5] also looked healthy and refreshing. But to be honest, I also overheard the table next to me complaining that the food quality isn't as good as it used to be[6], saying the meat was dry and tough, so it seems quality control can be a bit hit-or-miss.
Your Wallet or the Portion Size, One of Them is Crying
Let's be real, the prices here are not cheap. A simple breakfast with coffee can easily cost close to 200k[7], and my wallet really felt the pain. The portion size is also a mystery; my burger was huge, but other people's breakfast platters looked a bit mini. So, when it comes to value for money, you'll have to be the judge.
Cafe-Hopping Memo, You're Welcome!
- Attention, heat-haters: The place is a semi-open space with no AC! I suggest either coming super early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the sun is setting, otherwise, you'll be hot enough to question your life choices[8].
- Not for digital nomads: They do not provide Wi-Fi[9]! If you were planning to work here, you can forget about it. This place is only suitable for just chatting and zoning out.
- Time your visit: It gets crowded during peak hours, and there are dining time limits for both indoor and outdoor seating (around 1-2 hours)[10]. So it might not be ideal if you're looking to chill for a long time.
- A must-do for coffee lovers: Don't be shy, just talk to the barista! Tell them what flavors you like and let them recommend some hidden gem beans. It will definitely open up a whole new world for you[11]
- Melbourne-born St. Ali coffee: rich, layered beans, Jakarta's top-tier [1]!
- Food's a gamble, but the Wagyu Beef Burger[2] – juicy patty, crispy fries – is a delicious, must-try surprise.
- Jakarta's 30°C heat, no AC [3]? True coffee lovers still flock for hidden beans [4] and barista's expert picks.
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