Who says cheap can't be good? This 10k cafe in Banjarmasin made me a believer
qponx
2026-03-05
Discover Cerita Kopi, a hidden gem tucked away in a Banjarmasin alley. This unpretentious cafe offers a cozy, backyard-like atmosphere perfect for long chats with friends. The main attraction is its surprisingly delicious Es Cafe Latte, which costs an unbelievable 10,000 IDR. With no Wi-Fi to distract you, it’s the ideal spot to disconnect and enjoy good company. This budget-friendly sanctuary is a must-visit for a truly relaxing and affordable hangout session.
Honestly, before coming to Banjarmasin, I didn't have high expectations for the cafes here. Turns out… I was completely blown away!😂
Turning into a super inconspicuous little alley, I thought my GPS was acting up again, but right at the end, I saw this small courtyard called “Cerita Kopi”. It's not one of those trendy industrial-style places; it feels more like stumbling into a friend's backyard, filled with a 'bersahaja' (unpretentious) and homey vibe. I fell in love with it instantly.
Nongkrong like you're at home, so Chill!
The atmosphere here is absolutely amazing, super cozy and warm, with both indoor and outdoor areas. Since it's not on a main road, it's exceptionally quiet[1]. You can totally just lounge in a chair and chat with friends all afternoon, and no one will bother you. The owner's philosophy is to have you come here to “Cerita” (Indonesian: story/chat) and share your stories with each other.
I ordered their signature Es Cafe Latte[2], which is a total lifesaver in Banjarmasin's scorching heat! The first sip was just, Mantap! The taste is totally on par with those big chain brands that charge tens of thousands per cup[3]. When I paid the bill, my jaw almost dropped. A cup this big is only 10,000 Indonesian Rupiah[4]?! OMG!
What's even more Anjay is, they give you free fried peanuts[5] with your coffee! Sipping coffee while snacking on peanuts, now that's the right way to do an Indonesian holiday!
But hold on, let me get these complaints off my chest first
Of course, no place is perfect. The biggest "drawback" of this place is—there's absolutely no Wi-Fi[6]! So for all you girls who want to come here and grind on your laptops, you can forget about it. This place is only suitable for pure chatting and zoning out.
Another tricky part is parking. For friends who are driving, it seems they don't allow cars to park in the courtyard[7]. I suggest finding a parking spot outside in advance, otherwise you might get "asked" to leave by the owner (just kidding, but you should really pay attention to this!).
Editor's Cheat Sheet | Take it, you're welcome
- Who it's for: Students on a budget, friends looking for a place just to Nongkrong. This place is a sanctuary for both your wallet and your soul.
- When to go: It's very quiet during the day, perfect for enjoying some peaceful time. But I heard it gets livelier the later it gets, especially around midnight when the atmosphere is at its peak[8]. So if you like a bustling vibe, you can time your visit.
- Must-order: Es Cafe Latte[9], cheap and a large portion, the taste is on point, you can't go wrong ordering it.
- In a nutshell: Put down your phone, bring your best friend, spend 10k here, and chat for an entire afternoon. It's definitely more healing than scrolling through short videos all day. 👍
- This rustic little courtyard feels like a friend's backyard—super cozy and perfect for chilling & chatting all afternoon.
- For only 10k IDR, the Es Cafe Latte[1] rivals pricey chains[2] and is a lifesaver in the Banjarmasin heat!
- Get free fried peanuts[3] with your coffee! Sipping coffee while snacking on peanuts—the perfect Indonesian holiday vibe.
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