East Jakarta's New `Nongkrong` Spot: Vinyls & Coffee Above a Barbershop?
qponx
2026-01-24
Discover a new hidden gem in East Jakarta perfect for a chill hangout session! Tucked away on the third floor above a barbershop, this cozy spot feels like a private living room for music lovers. Unwind to the warm sound of vinyl records—guests can even pick the songs or bring their own! Sip on signature drinks like Ichigo Matcha and Kopi Susu SOP while enjoying the unique, intimate atmosphere. Reservations are a must for this popular little hideaway.
For real, if my friend hadn't dragged me here, the moment I saw this unassuming Ruko (shophouse), realized I had to climb three flights of stairs, and saw that the ground floor was a barbershop[1], I would have 100% turned around and left. Since when did East Jakarta get so good at hiding places like this?
But the moment I pushed the door open, Anjay… the noise from outside was instantly shut out. The whole space isn't big, but it's super cozy, feeling like I had stumbled into some music enthusiast's private living room[2]. A whole wall of vinyl records, warm yellow lighting, and the air was filled with the aroma of coffee and that unique smell of old records.
The owner is super chill, he just handed me a catalog and let me pick any song. Watching the needle drop steadily and the music flow from the speakers, at that moment, I got it. This is a completely different experience from listening to Spotify with headphones, okay![3] This is what real Nongkrong is all about. The coffee and desserts didn't disappoint at all either. I ordered the Ichigo Matcha[4], and the sweet and sourness of the strawberry with the slight bitterness of the matcha, topped with a salty cheese foam, created an amazing layer of flavors. My friend's signature Kopi Susu SOP[5] was also mantap, the sweetness was just right, and the coffee flavor was strong enough. For dessert, you have to go for the Earl Grey Tea Cake[6]! The tea flavor is super rich and not cloying at all. We also shared a Lasagna[7], which was super cheesy, and they were very generous with the meat sauce.
But, to be fair, the portion size of their main courses, like the lasagna, might be a bit mini[8] for guys. The taste is good, but after finishing it, you might feel like you could eat another one. Also, while my matcha was delicious, if you're a no-sugar person, you might find it a bit on the sweet side[9], so remember to specify when you order.
Take Notes! Tips & Tricks Time 📝
- You must make a reservation! The place is really small with limited seating, especially on weekends, walking in directly might mean you've made a wasted trip[10]. Their WA admin replies pretty quickly.
- You'll need some stamina! It's on the third floor with no elevator, so you'll have to huff and puff your way up. Think twice if you're bringing elderly family members or for the girls wearing stilettos.
- Bring your own records! If you have any treasured vinyls, you can bring them over and ask the owner to play them for you, it totally amps up the experience!
- Introvert-friendly. The staff are all super nice, they'll proactively give you recommendations, so there's no need to feel awkward at all.
- Unassuming East Jakarta Ruko hides a super cozy music living room. Open the door: vinyl, coffee, outside noise gone! [1]
- Be a music enthusiast! Pick tracks, watch the needle drop for immersive Nongkrong via vinyl. Beats Spotify! [2]
- Layered Ichigo Matcha (strawberry, matcha, salty cheese foam) is a must! Plus, the rich, non-cloying Earl Grey Tea Cake! [3][4]
Similar Articles
@Carnivore This Middle Eastern hole-in-the-wall in Jakarta has lamb so tender it's a crime
Discover a hidden Middle Eastern gem in Jakarta's Condet area! This no-frills, hole-in-the-wall spot is a paradise for carnivores, serving lamb so tender it falls off the bone. While not a place for aesthetics, it delivers on authentic flavor with its aromatic Nasi Mandi and silky hummus. The main draw? Unbeatable value with massive portions that are perfect for sharing. Don't come for the decor, come for a truly satisfying and affordable feast.
This Live House in East Jakarta: Eat or Party, You Have to Choose One.
Discover Portable Kitchen & Lounge, a hidden gem in East Jakarta that feels more like a music festival than a restaurant. The live band is incredibly loud, creating an electrifying party atmosphere. While it’s not the place for conversation, the food is a surprising star, featuring a must-try rich Lasagna and crispy Sweet and Sour Dori. This spot is perfect for music lovers looking to party, but not for those seeking a quiet meal and a heart-to-heart chat.
Jakarta's "Santorini"? Don't just look at the pictures, hear me out
Spotted Jakarta's "Little Santorini" on your feed? Before you go, get the real story. This article uncovers the truth behind the photogenic blue-and-white spot. While it looks like a Greek paradise, you'll face mandatory spending for tiny, tasteless meals and frustratingly slow service. Learn why this viral location is more of a pricey photo-op than a chill cafe and decide if the pictures are truly worth the hassle.
Forever Waits, Live Bugs in Salad: Why Do People Still Queue for This Viral Jakarta Spot?
Why do people queue for this viral Jakarta spot? This 24/7 cafe offers a massive outdoor area and nightly live music, making it a hotspot for late-night hangouts. However, this review uncovers the shocking truth behind the hype: painfully slow service, hit-or-miss food, and serious hygiene concerns (like a live bug in a salad!). Find out if the electric atmosphere is enough to outweigh the major pitfalls before you decide to join the long wait.