God-tier Coffee & Desserts, but Awful Mains? My Love-Hate Affair with this Banjar Baru Cafe.
qponx
2026-03-05
Discover a Banjar Baru cafe with a split personality! While the main courses might disappoint, the coffee and desserts are absolutely divine. With its own roastery, the coffee is top-tier, and the Korean Garlic Bread is a must-try. Enjoy the cool industrial atmosphere and unique bicycle shop connection. Just a heads-up: service is slow and the mains are inconsistent. Stick to the amazing coffee and sweets for a perfect afternoon hangout with friends.
I finally came to check out this super popular spot in Banjar Baru with a 4.6 Google rating. The place is seriously huge. As soon as I walked in, I was struck by the rich aroma of roasting coffee; it felt like the whole space was filled with a "we're professionals" vibe. Huge floor-to-ceiling windows, greenery everywhere, an industrial style with a touch of retro—the atmosphere was maxed out.
But after sitting down and ordering, I realized things weren't that simple...
A Rollercoaster of Flavors
Let's start with the good stuff: the coffee and desserts at this place are absolutely king-level, worth making a special trip for!
As a shop with its own roastery, the coffee is truly impeccable. The pour-over has a rich complexity of flavors, definitely top-tier in Banjar Baru. After drinking it, all I wanted to say was Mantap![1] The desserts were an even bigger surprise. You have to order the Korean Garlic Bread[2]; it's crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and the aroma of garlic and butter just hits you right in the soul! Also, the Strawberry Pancake[3] my friend ordered was huge, more than enough for two people to share.
The coolest part is, it's surprisingly connected to a bicycle parts shop next door, with all sorts of cool frames and parts hanging up. A lot of cycling enthusiasts come here to Nongkrong, and this crossover concept is pretty interesting[4].
Rant Time: Some Flaws Must Be Mentioned
Alright, enough with the praise, let's get real. If you're coming for a full meal, you might want to lower your expectations. The dish I ordered was... hard to describe. The potatoes that came with my friend's fish fillet weren't even fully cooked[5], and the quality is very inconsistent. Compared to its mid-to-high pricing, the value for money is... emmm, you get it[6].
Although the environment is chill, the staff can sometimes be a bit loud laughing and joking at the bar, which breaks the quiet atmosphere[7].
Editor's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls (Quick, take notes! 📝)
Finally, let me highlight a few key points for those who want to go:
So, just come here to focus on drinking coffee, eating dessert, and chatting with friends! Don't have high expectations for anything else, and you'll have a perfect afternoon. 😉
- Impatient people beware! Definitely don't come if you're in a hurry! The food service is so slow you could play a round of a game while waiting. I waited for almost an hour that day[8], Anjay!
- Not suitable for work: If you're thinking of WFC (Working From Cafe) here, forget about it. Power outlets are pitifully scarce[9], so your laptop won't last long.
- Restroom is hit-or-miss: This is a long-standing complaint. The toilet's flushing system is unreliable[10], so it's best to be mentally prepared before you go.
- Outdoor area has a requirement: If you want to sit in the outdoor area, you might be asked to pay a deposit of 200k Indonesian Rupiah[11].
- Banjar Baru's best coffee! In-house roasts mean pour-overs have richly layered flavors that rival pro cafes [1].
- Don't sleep on the desserts! The Korean Garlic Bread is a must: crispy out, soft in, with an addictive garlic-butter aroma [2].
- A bicycle parts shop is next door! Packed with cool frames & parts, it's a hub for cyclists to Nongkrong. Such a cool mashup [3]!
Similar Articles
Calling all WFC Crew! This Banjar Baru cafe has so many power outlets, I cried tears of joy
Discover Banjar Baru's popular Aikawa Coffee Kawan 3, a true paradise for the WFC crew! This spot is famous for its abundance of power outlets and a chill, green outdoor setting perfect for an afternoon hangout. While the coffee is excellent and the food portions are generous, be prepared for crowds and tricky parking. For the best experience, visit during off-peak hours—and maybe leave the car at home.
Spice Lovers Assemble! How did this hidden Manado spot in Banjarbaru get a 4.9 Google rating?
Discover Lisbeth Kitchen, a hidden Manado spot in Banjarbaru boasting a near-perfect 4.9 Google rating. This review explores if the hype is real, highlighting the must-try Rahang Tuna Bakar (Grilled Tuna Jaw) with its incredible smoky aroma and tender meat. While some dishes can be a hit-or-miss, the article also offers smart tips on the best time to visit and how to order like a pro, ensuring a fantastic and spicy dining experience for all food lovers.
This Banjarbaru spot: Gorgeous enough to join, slow enough to block
Discover CALMA Coffee, a Banjarbaru spot with a stunning Bali-style courtyard and pool that’s perfect for photos. While the French Toast and refreshing mocktails are definite hits, the beautiful vibe can be spoiled by painfully slow service and inconsistent food during peak hours. This review offers essential tips on the best times to visit and what to order, helping you enjoy the gorgeous atmosphere without the frustrating wait at this beautiful but flawed cafe.
This grilled fish is heavenly, but dare you step on the landmines?
Discover a hidden Manadonese gem known for its epic grilled tuna jaw—a massive, tender "tuna tomahawk" that's worth the long drive. While the food is heavenly, the journey isn't without its pitfalls. This review gives you the full scoop on the must-try dishes and the serious "landmines" to avoid, from a cramped space to critical safety warnings. Get the essential tips you need to decide if this culinary adventure is for you.