Don't Be Fooled by the 4.9 Google Rating! A Brutally Honest Review of Makassar's Legendary Retro Spot.
qponx
2026-03-06
Thinking of visiting Makassar's highly-rated Kedai Lawas? This honest review looks past the 4.9-star hype. While the photogenic 80s retro vibe and incredible Nasi Daging Cabe Ijo are major wins, it's not all perfect. Learn about the inconsistent service, slow food, and practical pitfalls like limited parking and a lack of power outlets. Discover if the nostalgic atmosphere and standout dishes are worth the potential hassle before you visit this legendary spot.
Friends, on this trip to Makassar, I saw a legendary spot with over 600 reviews on Google and still a 4.9 rating[1], and I just had to check it out! The place is called Kedai Lawas, which means "Old Shop." To be honest, I came in with a bit of skepticism at first, because, you know, Indonesian influencer-hyped spots... But the moment I walked in, I was just like, anjay!
This isn't just a cafe, it's practically a movie set from the 80s! The air is filled with that comforting smell of old wood mixed with coffee. Old-fashioned radios, rotary dial phones, and those big-backed CRT TVs[2]—every corner is brimming with stories. The background music is all classic oldies, making you just chill out completely. It's super photogenic; any spot looks like it's been carefully curated, maxing out the atmosphere! 📸
I ordered a few of their signature dishes. The Nasi Daging Cabe Ijo[3] (Green Chili Beef Rice) deserves a huge thumbs up! The beef is stewed until it's super tender and melts in your mouth. The green chili is fragrant but not overpowering, and it comes with a huge portion of warm rice. One bite and it's just mantap! Coffee lovers must try their Kopi Turki[4] (Turkish Coffee). It's incredibly rich and very strong, great for a quick pick-me-up. But for those of you who don't drink coffee often, be cautious—it might be a bit too much for you. There's also a small cart at the entrance selling the traditional Makassar snack Buroncong[5], a coconut-flavored traditional cake. It's perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, a great way to get that lokal feel~
Okay, enough praise, let's get real. While the atmosphere and the main dishes are top-notch, it's not without its flaws. The fried rice my friend ordered was a bit undercooked, and I've heard that the quality control for the mixed rice and the tofu and egg dish (Tahu Tek)[6] can be inconsistent—it's hit or miss, depending on your luck. 🤷♀️
And the service... how should I put this? The young waiters and waitresses are often busy chatting happily among themselves, sometimes laughing quite loudly[7], which can break the quiet, nostalgic atmosphere. The speed of service is also a matter of luck; some dishes might take a very long time[8], so if you come starving, you'd better be mentally prepared.
Editor's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls 📝
- 1. Don't drive here! Parking spots are extremely limited and hard to find[9]. I recommend using Grab or Gojek to save yourself the hassle.
- 2. Don't come here to WFC! (Work From Cafe) The number of power outlets is pathetically low[10]. Trying to find a place to charge your device is like a treasure hunt, so don't even think about it.
- 3. Don't plan a big gathering! The indoor space is not large, so it's basically impossible for a group of more than 5 people to sit together[11]. It's suitable for two or three friends to come nongkrong and reminisce.
- 4. Price & Deals: The prices are genuinely affordable, offering great value for money. If you're ordering delivery, you can often find big discounts on GoFood or GrabFood—a lifesaver for the lazy!
- 5. Ordering Recommendations: If you're just here for the vibes and photos, just order any drink. If you're genuinely hungry, the top choice is Nasi Daging Cabe Ijo. If you want to try a local specialty, give Buroncong a go.
- Instant 80s vibes! Vintage radios, rotary phones, bulky TVs[1], every corner tells a story. Photos are **movie blockbuster quality**, vibe's maxed out! 📸
- Must-try: **Nasi Daging Cabe Ijo**[2]! Beef melts, green chili fragrant (not hot). Big, filling portion with warm rice – pure mantap!
- 600+ Google reviews, 4.9 stars[3]! A legend among Indonesian viral spots. Experience this **'old shop'**'s charm, Anjay!
Similar Articles
Same taste for 40 years, sold out by 1 PM. Just how legendary is this pork ball shop?
Step back in time at Kios Asia Timur, a legendary Makassar spot serving authentic pork meatballs (Nyuknyang) for over 40 years. This no-frills shop is so popular it often sells out by early afternoon! Don't miss the giant, bouncy meatballs, massive fried meatballs, and unique Buras (coconut rice). The vibe is pure, bustling nostalgia. Just be sure to arrive before noon and bring cash to experience this unforgettable taste before it’s all gone.
Makassar Youth, Listen Up! Why Is This Super Sweet Coffee So Viral?
Curious about Kopi Teori, the viral coffee spot captivating Makassar's youth? This review explores the bustling local chain, known for its lively atmosphere and super sweet signature drinks like Es Koja. If you don't have a major sweet tooth, the refreshing "Fruity" blend is a fantastic alternative. The article also raves about their must-try muffins and shares essential tips for ordering and snagging a seat in the crowded, energetic space.
Top-tier WFC in Makassar? Plenty of power outlets, but the WiFi during peak hours will drive you crazy
Searching for the perfect work-from-cafe spot in Makassar? ROKET ROASTERY is a top contender, hailed as a digital nomad's paradise with abundant power outlets and a chill atmosphere. While the in-house roasted coffee and must-try Basque Cheesecake are major draws, there's a catch. The space gets crowded and the WiFi slows to a crawl during peak hours. This review gives you the honest truth and essential tips for planning your visit to this highly-rated cafe.
Who says Makassar is just the sea? This college cafe is a nostalgia trip with esports-grade WiFi
Discover PLAZGOZZ, a massive Makassar cafe with a nostalgic soul. Founded by university alumni, it feels more like a community home than a trendy spot. It boasts a huge open courtyard, private rooms, and lightning-fast, esports-grade WiFi perfect for gamers and digital nomads. Don't leave without trying the legendary giant fried banana and authentic coffee. This is the ultimate place to chill, work, or gather with friends and family for hours, offering a truly welcoming vibe for everyone.