No AC, no WiFi, and full of smoke. How has this old Samarinda shop been a hit for half a century?
qponx
2026-03-05
Step back in time at Warung Kopi Pelabuhan, a legendary Samarinda spot thriving since 1970. Forget AC and WiFi; this smoky, bustling shop is the city's unofficial living room. Its charm lies in the authentic atmosphere, rich charcoal-roasted Kopi Susu, and perfectly crisp Roti Bakar Srikaya. It’s a raw and nostalgic experience, offering a true taste of local life for those who don't mind the old-school, no-frills environment.
Gotta be honest, the moment I stepped into Warung Kopi Pelabuhan, I almost choked on the smell of smoke. The air was thick with secondhand smoke, there was no AC, just a few ancient fans creaking overhead[1], and the place was incredibly noisy.
For a second, I seriously wanted to turn around and leave, thinking, what is this, some kind of anti-influencer spot?
But once you sit down, something magical happens. The place is filled exclusively with local uncles—some well-dressed, others looking like workers who just got off their shift. Everyone is chatting loudly and playing cards, as if time has stood still here[2]. This isn't just a coffee shop; it's practically Samarinda's "city living room," a legend that started back in 1970[3].
I ordered their most classic Kopi Susu[4], and Anjay! The flavor was the real deal! The first sip hits you with a rich, uniquely charcoal-roasted coffee aroma[5]—the owner said some beans are still roasted over firewood. Mixed with sweet condensed milk, one sip feels like it washes all your fatigue away. Paired with a freshly toasted Roti Bakar Srikaya[6], the homemade kaya jam is sweet but not cloying, and the toast is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It's a perfect match, Mantap!
But fair warning, this place really isn't for everyone. The space is small and gets packed during peak hours. It's also a paradise for heavy smokers, so if you're sensitive to smoke, just steer clear. Street parking is also super tight[7], so you'll need some luck to find a spot if you're driving.
Editor's Biased Guide 📝
- Shop Name: Warung Kopi Pelabuhan (You can also find it by searching for Koh A Bun)
- Address: Jl. Pelabuhan No.27, Samarinda, Kalimantan Timur
- Must-order combo: Kopi Susu [8] + Roti Bakar Srikaya [9]. Don't overthink it, just order what the locals are having and you can't go wrong.
- Price Reference: A cup of coffee is about 15k-25k Indonesian Rupiah, a true Lokal price.
- Honest TIPS:
- 1. This is a Warkop, not a Co-working Space! When it's crowded, don't just go and share a table without asking. It'll block people's way and comes off as really rude[10].
- 2. Want to experience the vibe but afraid of the crowds? Then avoid going during the busiest times in the morning and at noon.
- 3. Don't be fooled by the "wild" environment; the owner and staff are super warm and friendly[11]. There's no need to be reserved, just go ahead and Nongkrong
- The thick smoke means you've found Samarinda's "City Living Room", a legendary local spot since 1970 [1][2].
- You have to get the Kopi Susu[3]. Its rich charcoal coffee & sweet condensed milk is the perfect pick-me-up [4].
- Pair it with Roti Bakar Srikaya[5]—crispy-fluffy toast with sweet homemade kaya jam. As the locals say, "Mantap!"
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