Chill WFC upstairs, mosquito party downstairs? This Jaktim spot is a true love-hate affair
qponx
2026-01-24
Saturday Coffee in East Jakarta is a tale of two extremes. Head straight upstairs to discover a quiet, cool, and spacious non-smoking area—a true haven for working from a cafe. But beware of the first floor's infamous mosquito party and stuffy air. While the Es Kopi Kelapa and Silky Tofu Rice Bowl are surprisingly delicious, this review also gives a heads-up on the unstable WiFi and limited parking, so you know exactly what to expect from this love-hate spot.
Honestly, so many people have been recommending this Saturday Coffee[1] to me lately, which is super popular from Depok all the way to East Jakarta, saying it's a god-tier spot for WFC (Work From Cafe). I rushed over excitedly, but less than ten minutes after sitting down on the first floor, I got myself several new bites on my legs! Anjay! The mosquitoes are way too friendly here!
A Tale of Two Extremes
The first floor is a smoking area, a semi-open space, and it's definitely a bit gerah (stuffy) during the day. Besides the mosquitoes, there was also a faint, special smell left by cats in the air[2]… At that point, I honestly almost just went straight home.
Luckily, I didn't give up and climbed up to the second floor with a final glimmer of hope, and man, it was like stepping into another world! Upstairs is a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking area. It's quiet, cool, and super spacious. The decor has a great feel to it, and any corner is super photogenic, no wonder so many people post pictures of it on Instagram[3]. There are also plenty of power outlets, and the whole vibe is just"homey comfort" in capital letters, perfect for spending an afternoon with your laptop.
Coffee and Food, What to Order?
Once I settled in, I started ordering. You have to try their signature Kopi Susu Mantan[4], but it was a bit too sweet for me. Those with a sweet tooth will probably love it. Instead, the Es Kopi Kelapa[5] was a pleasant surprise. The refreshing sweetness of the coconut and the richness of the coffee blended together perfectly. It was so refreshing, Mantap!
I wasn't expecting much from the food at a coffee shop, but the Japanese Main Course[6] I ordered was surprisingly on point. I tried the Silky Tofu Rice Bowl; the tofu was silky smooth, the sauce was perfect with the rice, and the portion size was pretty generous too[7].
Let's Be Real (Real Talk Time)
Although the second-floor environment is impeccable, I have to get some complaints off my chest.
First, the WiFi signal is a bit unstable, especially when it's crowded. If you're here for serious work and need a stable connection, it's best to have a mobile hotspot ready[8].
Second, it's cashless only; they only accept non-cash payments, and when I tried to pay with my debit card, I was told there was a minimum spending requirement of 50k.
Lastly, I happened to glance at some of the operations behind the counter, emmm… let's just say I hope the shop pays more attention to the small details of hygiene[9], after all, this is the food and beverage industry.
Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls (Get Your Notebooks Ready!)
- Best Seat Choice: Don't hesitate, go straight to the second floor! The air-conditioned, non-smoking area is the real essence of this place[10].
- Getting Here: If you're driving, think twice. Parking is very limited[11]. It's much easier to come by motorcycle or ride-hailing.
- Mosquito Prep: If you absolutely must nongkrong in the outdoor area downstairs, make sure to wear long pants and use mosquito repellent, otherwise, you'll be a buffet for the mosquitoes.
- Ordering Mindset: After ordering via QR code during peak hours, please wait with a zen-like patience. The service speed might give you enough time to watch a few more short videos[12].
- 1F: mosquitoes & cat smell. 2F: AC, smoke-free WFC gem – quiet, cool, photo-ready![1][2]
- Signature Es Kopi Kelapa: sweet coconut-rich coffee blend. Refreshing, you'll shout Mantap![3]
- Food's a surprise hit! Japanese Main Course, especially the Silky Tofu Rice Bowl: silky tofu, sauce perfect for rice![4][5]
Similar Articles
From school to work, is a Jakartan's birthday complete without this shop's cake?
Discover Jessy Bread, a beloved, old-school Jakarta bakery that holds a special place in the hearts of locals. For generations, this spot has been the go-to for classic, affordable birthday cakes like Black Forest and Tiramisu, making it a staple for any celebration. Beyond the cakes, don't miss their incredibly soft and generously filled traditional breads for a daily treat. It's a no-frills carb paradise steeped in nostalgia and a true Jakarta institution.
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.
Don't Just Look at the Pictures! Think Twice About This Viral Pavilion Restaurant in Jakarta...
Tempted by that viral Jakarta pavilion restaurant with its stunning bamboo gazebos? Think twice before you go! While the countryside vibe is perfect for photos, this spot is a classic case of "Instagram vs. Reality." This review uncovers the frustrating truth behind the pretty pictures, from disastrously slow service and chaotic management to underwhelming food. It’s a must-read for anyone considering a visit, helping you decide if the scenery is worth the major disappointment.
East Jakarta Throwback! Is this classic cake shop still worth it?
Curious about the classic East Jakarta cake shop, formerly Yes Bakery, now LINDAYES? This spot is a nostalgic trip with some serious highs and lows. While the cakes, like their rich cheese flavor, are praised for premium ingredients and amazing taste, inconsistent quality control is a major issue. Some cakes have been found sour, and decorations aren't what they used to be. Discover if this old-school favorite is still worth the visit and get tips on what to buy.