A 4.9-star Google gem, but the AC is just for show? My love-hate relationship with this Makassar spot
qponx
2026-03-06
Discover a Makassar hotspot with a near-perfect 4.9-star Google rating that has a major catch. This spot is a hit for its incredibly photogenic interior, delicious drinks, and budget-friendly prices, making it a favorite among students. However, be prepared for the heat, as the air conditioning is notoriously weak. It's the perfect place for great photos and affordable hangouts with friends, but you might want to dress lightly and skip it if you can't stand the heat.
Honestly, before coming, I saw over 1600 reviews on Google Maps, all a solid 4.9 stars[1], so I thought I had dug up some magical place in Makassar. But the moment I walked in... Anjay! Is this heatwave for real? I almost thought I had walked into a sauna. 🥵
But I have to admit, a lot of thought really went into the interior design[2]. The warm lighting, all sorts of photo-friendly corners—any random shot could be a masterpiece for your social media feed. No wonder the place was full of students and young people, all happily Nongkrong, and the vibe was pretty Chill.
Sitting down and ordering a drink, my mood was instantly lifted again. Their drinks are truly Mantap[3], with a great taste, not at all like some half-assed sugary water. The food is on point too, and the prices are super friendly for students[4], so you can totally hang out with friends for an afternoon without worrying.
✍️ Honest Review & Tips to Avoid Pitfalls
Alright, enough with the praise, let's get real. The biggest bug of this place is that it's hot! Super hot![5] The AC is basically non-existent, especially when it's crowded, you'll be sweating buckets. Girls, if you plan to go, definitely don't wear anything too thick.
A few other small details to point out:
Overall, if you're in Makassar looking for a place with nice design, good drinks, and affordable prices to chat and take photos with friends, this place is still a good choice. But if you have high standards for comfort, you might want to think twice. 🤷♀️
- The restroom smells: When I went, the smell in the restroom was a bit hard to describe. Also, if someone is having a party in the VVIP room upstairs, the soundproofing isn't great, so it can get a bit noisy[6].
- Slow service for large groups: If you're there for a class gathering or with a big group of friends, be mentally prepared to wait for your food, as service can be very slow[7].
- Don't make assumptions when ordering: Some hot drinks can't be turned into cold ones just by adding ice[8]. I was taken aback when I ordered... haha, so remember to ask beforehand.
- Gorgeous design with warm lighting and tons of photogenic corners. Your feed will thank you [1].
- Drinks are Mantap [2]—not just sugary syrup! Food's great too, with student-friendly prices [3]. Perfect for an afternoon Nongkrong.
- 1600+ Google reviews and a solid 4.9-star rating [4]. A Makassar spot with a score this high is a must-visit
Similar Articles
A 2-hour wait for an 11k coffee?! Investigating this Makassar cafe.
Is a coffee really worth a two-hour wait? This article investigates a wildly popular Makassar cafe where drinks cost as little as 11k IDR. Discover the secret behind the long queues at Yotta, which boasts a fantastic, work-friendly atmosphere with stable WiFi and ample power outlets, making it a haven for students and digital nomads. Find out which drinks are worth the hype and get exclusive tips to beat the crowds and save some cash.
5 RMB per person & a 1-hour queue: What makes this old alley shop so god-tier?
Why are people queuing for an hour down a tiny Makassar alley? For a legendary 5 RMB dish called Songkolo! This 20-year-old spot serves up a flavor-packed black sticky rice with toasted coconut and a secret chili sauce. It's a cheap, delicious, and authentic street food experience. This article reveals the hype behind this "god-tier" eatery and shares essential tips for visiting, from transportation to avoiding common pitfalls.
Listen up, Makassar Moms! This is THE spot to eat and play with your kids
Makassar parents, looking for a place where you can eat in peace while the kids play? Almaz Fried Chicken is your answer! This clean, three-story spot features a fantastic indoor playground to keep little ones entertained. While they burn off energy, you can savor the unique Saudi-style Fried Chicken, flavorful Spiced Rice, and a variety of special sambals. It’s affordable, family-friendly, and even open 24 hours, making it the perfect destination for a stress-free meal anytime.
Makassar's New Viral Spot: Worth the 1-Hour Wait?
Makassar's new viral hotspot, Camell Cafe, is turning heads with its stunning, spacious, and photogenic interior. While the ambiance is a huge draw and some dishes like the Seafood Fried Rice shine, the experience has major flaws. Expect frustratingly long waits, inconsistent food quality, and a smoky environment. This review gives you the full scoop, weighing the beautiful decor against the significant service issues to help you decide if it's worth the visit and how to avoid the pitfalls.