Pricey per person, AC seats are a scramble, yet why do Surabaya youth still flock there?
qponx
2026-02-01
Discover the hype behind Kedai Ciamso, Surabaya's bustling 24-hour retro Chinese kopitiam. While it’s known for being pricey with very few AC seats, the youth still flock here. The secret? An incredibly photogenic vintage atmosphere and must-try signature items. This guide reveals how to have the best experience: skip the main courses and go straight for the divine Butter Coffee and Szechuan Wontons to see what makes this late-night spot so popular.
This Chinese retro trend in Surabaya has really been blowing strong lately[1]. This Kedai Ciamso, how popular is it? I arrived at 10 PM, and there was actually still a queue for parking outside[2], Anjay! Once inside, it was even more bustling with people, it felt like all the young people in Surabaya weren't sleeping at night, and all came here to Nongkrong.
The ambiance is indeed Mantap, great for photos. That old colonial-era architectural framework, paired with Chinese antique items and posters, truly creates an immersive atmosphere. Under the dim yellow lights, three or five friends gathered around a table, it really had that vibe. Coming for the signature item, I ordered a cup of Butter Coffee (Kopi Butter)[3]. It was smooth on the palate, and the salty-sweet butter aroma surprisingly harmonized with the coffee's bitterness and richness. I give this cup a high score! The snacks were also better than expected. The Kaya Toast[4] was toasted until crispy and fragrant, and served quite quickly. My friend's Szechuan Wonton[5] was actually the best of the whole meal; that chili oil aroma was absolutely divine! 🌶️
But! The main courses were a bit disappointing. My bowl of noodles was really... just... very ordinary, nothing memorable[6]. My friend's Nasi Lemak also tasted mediocre, which was a bit of a shame given the ambiance.
Honestly, this isn't a place where you can comfortably 'Chill' for an afternoon. Firstly, the prices are on the higher side for a Kopitiam, and the portions aren't large[7], so guys might not feel full. Secondly, be prepared to wait; our main course took almost 30 minutes to be served[8]. The worst part is, the air-conditioned area is pitifully small and basically first-come, first-served. Most of it is semi-open smoking areas[9], so coming during the day will truly make you melt. 🥵
Editor's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls 📝
- 1. Best Time: Don't come in broad daylight! Coming at night or midnight offers the best experience, after all, they are open 24 hours[10], a blessing for night owls.
- 2. Ordering Strategy: Skip the main courses! Go straight for the drinks and snacks. Butter Coffee, Teh Tarik[11], Wontons/Dumplings are safe bets, you can't go wrong.
- 3. Attention to those sensitive to heat/smoke: There are only a few spots in the air-conditioned non-smoking area[12], so come early or rely on luck if you want a seat. For families with children, I advise you to think twice.
- 4. Payment Methods: Only QRIS and debit cards are accepted, no credit cards! Also, payment must be made before dining, no tab allowed[13].
- 5. Transportation: Parking spaces are extremely hard to find during peak hours[14], so it's recommended to take a taxi for peace of mind.
- Butter Coffee [1] is a revelation! Salty-sweet butter aroma melds with coffee. One sip, pure bliss!
- Sichuan Wontons [2] are a must-try! Potent chili oil aroma, a hidden gem and the menu's star.
- Queuing for parking [3] at 10 PM! Surabaya youth Nongkrong. 24-hour [4] retro vibe is off the charts [5] – a late-night paradise!
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