3 Seats, 45-Min Wait: Why Is This PIK Matcha Shop So Hyped?
qponx
2026-01-24
A tiny PIK matcha shop with only three seats is drawing massive crowds and 45-minute waits. Why the hype? This spot serves authentic, strong Japanese matcha that's not overly sweet, with standout items like a rich Matcha Latte and a massive, cream-filled Choux. Find out if the delicious, affordable treats are worth the frustratingly long queue and get crucial tips on how to tackle your visit, from payment methods to the best way to order.
Went to By The Sea at PIK over the weekend, and from a distance, I saw a small crowd squeezed in front of a tiny shop. I thought some celebrity had made a surprise appearance. As I got closer... Anjay, it turned out to be a matcha shop!
The line was super long, and the shop was pitifully small, with only 3 seats[1]. With this setup, are people here to drink matcha or to be punished by standing? With a"since I'm already here" attitude, I joined the queue, wondering to myself, what kind of heavenly flavor is worth such a long wait?
A Matcha Lover's Love-Hate Relationship
After waiting for almost half an hour, it was finally my turn. The menu was a sea of green, a matcha lover's absolute delight. I ordered their signature Matcha Latte[2] and a Choux Matcha[3].
First sip of the latte, hmm? The matcha flavor was quite strong, the authentic Japanese kind with a slight bitterness and a sweet aftertaste, not the overly sweet, flashy stuff. Truly Mantap![4] But my friend who went with me thought the matcha flavor was too weak, almost like drinking milk… So taste is really a subjective thing.
The matcha choux, on the other hand, was a pleasant surprise. It was huge, and the matcha cream inside just burst out with one bite, and it wasn't too rich. This one is a must-try! I heard their Matcha Pannacotta[5] is also amazing, but unfortunately, I got there too late and missed out. Maybe next time.
Let's get real…
To be fair, the prices aren't expensive at all, a drink is only around 30-40k rupiah[6], so the value is good. But! The waiting time can really make you frustrated. Waiting 30-40 minutes during peak hours is the norm, and when it gets crowded, the staff get a bit flustered. As for the service... you know how it is, don't expect too much[7].
Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls (Save this!)
Alright, for the girls who want to check this place out, here are the key points. Save this guide!
Although there are quite a few things to complain about, I saw on their Instagram that they often do charity work, encourage bringing your own cup, and things like that[8], which is quite endearing. So… would you queue up for a taste of this matcha? Let's chat in the comments
- Takeaway! Takeaway! Takeaway! Important things must be said three times. This place is really only suitable for grab-and-go, don't even think about sitting down to Nongkrong, or you might be waiting until the end of time.
- Bring your bank card to save your life. The shop only accepts cashless payments, but the signal in that area is terrible, and the QRIS often fails to scan. Don't ask me how I know…[9]
- Don't mess with the sugar level! For your first time, I recommend getting the normal sugar level. I tried my friend's less sugar version, and the bitterness of the matcha was a bit too prominent, making the taste very bland[10].
- Have a zen attitude. If you're a true matcha lover and have enough patience, then you can give it a try. If you're just looking for a place to Chill, I'd advise you to go somewhere else.
- The Matcha Puff is mind-blowing! Huge, creamy burst without being greasy – matcha heaven [1]. Also, their Matcha Pannacotta is a gem [2]!
- Only 3 seats [3], but folks happily queue for their authentic Japanese bitter-sweet matcha latte [4].
- Drinks are a steal at just 30-40k IDR [5]! But be quick – hot items sell out in a flash!
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