Anjay! Started from a Toyota Kijang, this 'phenomenal' Balikpapan cafe is something else.
qponx
2026-03-05
Discover ksm koppi, Balikpapan's phenomenal cafe that impressively grew from a Toyota Kijang van into a local hotspot. It features a spacious, bright ambiance perfect for working or chilling with friends. Don't miss their signature Koberry coffee or the fiery Sambal Matah series, all at super affordable prices. While it gets busy, the unique vibe and delicious, budget-friendly offerings make it a must-visit destination in the city.
Before coming to Balikpapan, my lokal friends were raving about ksm koppi to me, calling it a "phenomenal" cafe here[1]. I was thinking, how amazing could it be? It wasn't until I was sitting here that I understood why it could evolve from a beat-up 90s Toyota Kijang van[2] into the go-to spot for local youth it is today.
KSM is short for "Kijang Street Market," what a cool story! The owner's got some vision.
A Vibe and Flavor You'll Love in a Second
The new location's ambiance is seriously amazing; the space is huge, so spacious and bright[3]. The afternoon sun streams in, making the whole atmosphere quiet and comfortable. It's not one of those influencer-famous cafes that are so loud they give you a headache. Bringing your laptop here to WFH or just Nongkrong with friends for an afternoon is just so chill.
The food and drinks are totally on point, and the prices are super cheap[4]!
☕️ Must-Try Recommendations:
The pour-over and hot chocolate my friend ordered were also very rich, definitely not some half-hearted effort. You can tell they're serious about making good products.
- Koberry[5]: You have to get their signature drink! It's a berry-flavored iced coffee with a very unique taste. I fell in love with it on the first sip, Mantap!
- Sambal Matah Series[6]: For main courses, you can't go wrong with their sambal matah series. That fresh chili sauce with hot rice, Anjay! It's god-tier!
- Mie Kari Ayam[7]: If you're feeling down, a bowl of this chicken curry noodles will instantly revive you. The rich broth is super comforting.
But, Let's Be Real for a Sec…
As much as I love this place, it's not perfect. Their service is a bit hit-or-miss… When I was there, I overheard the table next to me arguing with the staff about a missed order[8]. It feels like when it gets crowded, the kitchen and front-of-house can't really keep up, so if you go during peak hours, be prepared to be patient.
Also, the indoor air conditioning doesn't seem strong enough, so for my friends who can't stand the heat, you might want to consider sitting in the outdoor area.
Tips & Tricks for Your Visit
✍️ Your Senior's Pro-Tips!
Overall, the good far outweighs the bad. It's definitely a place in Balikpapan worth visiting again and again. Next time any of you girls visit BPN, I'll take you here
- 1. Avoid peak hours! Avoid peak hours! Avoid peak hours! Important things must be said three times. During lunch and dinner times, especially before and after Friday prayers, the place gets insanely packed[9], and you'll have to fight for a parking spot.
- 2. Attention WFH Crew! The power outlets in the cafe are very limited[10]. If you want to snag a prime spot to keep your laptop alive, you have to get there early; otherwise, just be sure to bring a power bank.
- 3. Muslim-friendly for the girls! The cafe has a very clean and comfortable prayer room (Musholla)[11], so you don't have to panic when it's prayer time. This is a huge plus!
- Born from a 90s Toyota Kijang van—such a cool story! Had to check out the magic of this "phenomenal" cafe [1][2].
- The must-try Koberry is a unique berry-flavored iced coffee. Love at first sip, and a rare find in Balikpapan [3].
- Bright and spacious, the vibe is instantly relaxing. Quiet and comfortable, it's a chill spot for WFH or an afternoon Nongkrong [4].
Similar Articles
I almost returned my medium-rare steak for these 40-hour slow-roasted ribs
JJ Steak is a buzzing, packed spot where the 40-hour slow-roasted ribs are the undisputed star—so tender they fall off the bone. While the atmosphere is loud and the steaks can be a letdown, this article reveals the secrets to a great visit. Discover what to order, the best times to go to avoid long lines, and other essential tips for navigating this popular but imperfect eatery for a truly satisfying meal.
Was this Halal ramen in Balikpapan really worth the 1-hour wait?
Is the famous Halal ramen at Shishi Ramen in Balikpapan worth the hour-long wait? This review dives into the bustling, Tokyo-style eatery to find out. Discover their must-try signature ramen with rich broth and rave-worthy crispy gyoza. While the main dishes shine, the wait times can be long. Get the inside scoop on what to order (and what to avoid), plus crucial tips for beating the queues and parking woes for a delicious, hassle-free experience.
Under 50k per person, why is there always a queue for this Halal ramen in the mall?
Discover the secret behind the long queues at Shem Ramen, an affordable Halal spot in Pentacity Mall. For under 50k, dive into rich, satisfying bowls like the Beef Abura Ramen. While the ramen is a hit, the real showstopper is the "champion-level" Chicken Karage, celebrated for its crispy skin and super juicy meat. This review breaks down the must-try dishes, what to avoid, and tips for a great, budget-friendly meal that’s worth the wait.
Bad Service, Hard to Find... But I'd Still Go Back to This Balikpapan Hidden Gem
Discover a flawed but charming hidden gem in Balikpapan that’s worth the hunt. While the service might be lacking and parking is a challenge, the reward is a cozy spot with a stunning outdoor city view. The real stars are the snacks—don't miss the massive, crispy portion of fried cassava. This spot is perfect for a chill evening hangout, but be sure to bring cash and consider booking ahead for the best seats with a view.