Google 4.9 stars, but a 1-hour wait for food? I'm trying out this Bandung retro cafe for you!
qponx
2026-02-01
Step into Kisah Manis Sunda, a Bandung cafe that transports you to an 80s Indonesian movie set. This spot boasts a fantastic retro vibe, unique Jamu drinks, and a must-try smoked beef rice. It's also a great work-from-cafe destination with a fun photobooth. But be warned: despite high ratings, the wait for food can be long and parking is tricky. Patience is key to fully enjoying this nostalgic gem, so consider visiting during off-peak hours.
Bandung always surprises me! Just came out of a cafe called Kisah Manis Sunda, and I felt like I'd traveled straight back to an 80s Indonesian movie set. Once inside, the space was incredibly huge, and my ears were filled with old Indonesian songs. The retro nostalgic vibe was absolutely perfect, so suitable for coming here to Nongkrong with friends[1]!
As a digital nomad, what I care about most are WiFi and power outlets, and they've got them all sorted out here, truly a WFC (Work From Cafe) paradise[2]. I sat down and didn't order coffee first; I went straight for their special Jamu series. I ordered a turmeric herbal drink, and the taste was super refreshing and unique, Anjay! I didn't expect traditional herbal medicine to be made so trendy[3].
For the main course, I blindly ordered the Nasi wangi sei sapi (smoked beef rice), which many people recommended. At 53k, the smoky flavor paired with the fragrant rice, one bite was truly Mantap[4]! However, I did hit a small snag; my friend's fried chicken cutlet was a bit dry and the portion was small, felt like it wasn't quite worth it[5]. Also, their signature Kopi Kisah Manis coffee was a bit too sweet for me, and the sweetness couldn't be adjusted. Girls who are afraid of sweetness should order with caution[6]!
But, let's talk about something practical…
The ambiance and most of the food were indeed impeccable, but I really have to complain about the service efficiency. I arrived around 2 PM that day, and it wasn't even peak crowd, yet a main dish took over an hour to arrive[7]... I was so hungry my stomach was growling. I suggest everyone either come during off-peak hours, or just bring a Chill mindset and wait patiently.
Heartfelt Tips, please take note!
Alright, that's all for today. Which place do you want me to explore next? Let me know in the comments! 👇
- Parking is a huge headache: Parking spots are extremely limited, so forget about it on weekends. I recommend just taking a taxi. Some friends mentioned being charged for valet parking without prior notice, so everyone keep an eye out[8].
- Best Time: If you want to work quietly or take photos, choose the midday hours; there will be far fewer people[9].
- Photo Ops: Don't forget to try their self-service photobooth; the pictures turn out great, and many people come specifically for it!
- Ordering Guide: For main courses, the smoked beef rice is the top choice! For drinks, be bold and try the Jamu series. If you don't like sweets, avoid the signature coffee with the same name.
- Step into an 80s Indonesian movie set [1]. Retro nostalgic vibes are spot on, perfect for Nongkrong!
- Must-try: their game-changing Jamu series! Turmeric herbal drink is refreshingly unique [2], proving traditional herbs are super cool, Anjay!
- Order the 53k Nasi wangi sei sapi (smoked beef rice) [3]! Rich smoky flavor, fragrant rice; one bite is Mantap, pure bliss!
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