4.9 on Google for this rundown shop? Okay, Solo... I take it all back
qponx
2026-03-05
Don't let its humble exterior fool you! This Solo cafe hides a near-perfect 4.9 Google rating and a super cozy, vintage interior. While the shop is small and often has a queue, the reward is worth it. The main attractions are the incredible signature Palm Sugar Toast and the legendary Es Campur, praised by locals as the best they've ever had. Offering amazing value and a charming atmosphere, this spot is a true hidden gem for dessert lovers.
When I first arrived at the entrance of this shop in Solo, I was a bit baffled… A legendary place with 3200+ reviews and a 4.9 rating on Google, yet the storefront was so small I almost missed it, and you even have to queue for a table on weekends[1]. Honestly, if it weren't for the rich aroma of butter and caramel in the air, I might have just turned around and left.
But the moment you push the door open, you get it. The whole space isn't big, but it's super cozy[2]! Vintage decorations, old wooden tables and chairs, every corner is decorated with so much character, it feels like time has slowed down. It's perfect for coming with friends to Nongkrong for an afternoon, and it's just the best for gossiping.
Enough talk, bring on the food!
The food is what really matters! The menu prices are very reasonable, and the portions are generous too[3]. The value for money is maxed out.
🍞 Signature Palm Sugar Toast (Palm Sugar Toast): The MVP of the whole meal! They use authentic gula aren (palm sugar), not that cloyingly sweet industrial syrup, so the flavor is natural and sophisticated. The bread is toasted crispy on the outside and soft on the inside[4], with butter slowly melting on top—that aroma goes straight to your head, Mantap!
🍧 Mixed Ice (Es Campur): Let me tell you, this was recommended to me by a lokal foodie veteran, who said it was the "best Es Campur he's ever had in his life"[5]. I didn't believe him at first, but after one bite... okay, he wasn't lying. The flavor of the shaved ice and the mix of ingredients inside are perfectly balanced, perfect for beating the heat, Anjay!
🥞 French Toast (French Toast): We also ordered the Neapolitan style one, served with vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce[6]. The textures are super rich and layered—sweet tooths will absolutely love it.
Some real talk
Although the bread and ice desserts were close to perfect, to be honest, some of the drinks were a bit ordinary[7]. They didn't feel as amazing as the food and didn't quite live up to the vintage vibe. But the good definitely outweighs the bad!
Avoiding Pitfalls / Pro-tips
Finally, some key points for my girls who are planning to go:
- Parking is tight: There aren't many parking spots out front[8]. If you're driving, it's best to come early or just take a taxi.
- Expect a queue on weekends: If you want to be more chill, try to come on a weekday. But even if you have to queue, their service is super fast and friendly[9], so you won't be left waiting until you question your life choices.
- Must-order list: For your first visit, go straight for the Palm Sugar Toast and Es Campur. You absolutely can't go wrong
- A Solo legend (4.9 Google stars)! Tiny, missable spot, but the butter and caramel aroma pulls you right in [1].
- Palm Sugar Toast with real gula aren, not syrup! Toasted crispy-soft with melted butter. The aroma is just... Mantap! [2]
- Lokal foodies call it the best Es Campur ever. Perfectly balanced flavors & toppings. One bite and it's just... Anjay! [3]
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