This aesthetic spot in Blok M: My advice? Don't get your hopes up for the food.
qponx
2026-01-25
Discover a photogenic new spot in Blok M with an incredibly aesthetic, Insta-worthy vibe perfect for an afternoon hangout. While the friendly service gets high praise, this review warns that the food might not live up to the hype. The signature "Gabin" snack is described as oily and underwhelming. This is a place where the cozy ambiance and picture-perfect setting are the main attractions, so it's best to visit for the vibes, not the bites.
Honestly, if it weren't for this so-called"upgraded" version of a traditional Indonesian snack, I probably wouldn't have been wandering around in circles in that old mall in Blok M. Google Maps led me completely astray[1], and in the end, I only found the place by spotting"bungkushin z" across from it.
The shop isn't big, but they really put effort into the decor; it's that kind of aesthetic vibe that makes you want to pull out your phone and take pictures the moment you see it[2]. The seating is a bit tight, but the shop thoughtfully provides rattan baskets for you to put your bags in, and I have to give them props for that. The overall vibe is very cozy, perfect for coming with your besties to nongkrong for an afternoon.
As for the taste… it's hard to describe
I came specifically for their signature Gabin[3], which is a type of deep-fried sandwich cracker. Sounds sinful and satisfying, right? I ordered a few different flavors to see what the difference was.
The result… Anjay… how should I put it, it had that fried aroma, but the oily taste was a bit too strong. Plus, the cheese and taro flavors I ordered didn't taste very different from each other; they were both overpowered by the taste of the fried cracker[4]. The filling was just lukewarm, without the burst-in-your-mouth joy I was expecting. The concept is good, giving a creative twist to a traditional snack, but the execution needs improvement, my friend!
The matcha latte I ordered on the side was also quite watery; the matcha flavor was so faint it was like a fleeting visitor[5]. It felt like I was drinking nothing.
So, is it worth a visit?
To be fair, the service is genuinely good. The staff, both the guys and girls, are super nice. They're also very friendly to customers with children and even provide crayons and paper[6]. This definitely scored them a lot of points back.
Price-wise, it's not cheap for a snack like Gabin[7], but if you think of it as a dessert at a cafe, then the price is pretty standard. They also sell small flower bouquets for 25k, which is quite cute.
A guide to avoid pitfalls, take it, you're welcome
Overall, it's a shop with very clear pros and cons. It's suitable for friends who prioritize ambiance over taste, or for those just looking for a place to chill in Blok M. The Mantap service attitude is worthy of praise, but as for the taste, well... you know. 😉
- If you're all about the photos: Go! The ambiance is definitely photogenic; any casual snap will have that Insta-worthy look.
- If you're a foodie: Don't get your hopes up too high. Think of it as a place to experience an innovative lokal snack, just to try something new.
- Tips for finding the place: Don't trust the map! Navigate directly to Pasar Raya Blok M, then look for the shop"bungkushin z"; it's right across from it.
- Takeaway rule: If you want to take away, you have to buy a minimum of 5 pieces[8].
- Tucked in an old Blok M mall, this spot's Ins-style aesthetic decor is instantly photo-worthy! [1]
- It's cozy for bestie afternoon tea, staff are super nice, even offering kids drawing supplies! Service is 💯! [2][3]
- You *have* to try their "upgraded" Indonesian traditional fried sandwich cookie Gabin – sinfully satisfying, it'll redefine Lokal snacks! [4]
Similar Articles
Forget Singapore! This Bak Kut Teh in Jakarta has a broth more addictive than the meat
Craving a comforting meal in Jakarta? This Bak Kut Teh spot might be your new favorite. The article raves about its incredibly addictive peppery broth, which is even better than the tender, fall-off-the-bone pork ribs. The best part? The soup has unlimited refills! Discover other must-try dishes like crispy cakwe and a surprisingly delicious spicy pork belly. It's the perfect warm-up for a rainy day, offering a truly satisfying and flavorful experience worth checking out.
Driving from Kemang to North Jakarta for the city's one-and-only Thai dessert
Craving authentic Thai desserts? A tiny, unassuming shop in North Jakarta serves flavors so real, you'll feel like you've teleported to Bangkok. This spot specializes in uncommon treats you won't find elsewhere, like their incredible Durian Sticky Rice and chewy Bua Loy dumplings in warm coconut milk. It's a small space best for a quick visit, but the authentic, perfectly balanced sweetness makes the journey across the city absolutely worth it for a blissful escape.
The GPS almost led me into a ditch! This 'hidden' Jakarta dessert shop is SO hard to find
Discover Rodin Patisserie, a hidden dessert haven in Jakarta that’s notoriously hard to find. Tucked away above Sushi Masa, this spot reveals a stunningly quiet and chic interior, perfect for a chill hangout. The main attraction is its exquisite Japanese-style desserts, featuring six different intensity levels of matcha ice cream, a unique sake flavor, and decadent cakes. While on the pricier side, the high-quality ingredients and unique offerings make this secret spot a worthwhile discovery for any dessert lover.
Italian Chef, but onions in the Carbonara? I'm starting this fight for you
Expatriate in Kelapa Gading serves up a cozy Italian vibe with some surprising twists. While the Pistachio Cream Fettuccine is hailed as an unforgettable, must-try dish, the Carbonara might shock purists with its inclusion of onions. This review breaks down the hits and misses, from inconsistent pizza to a very loud weekend live band. Discover tips on when to visit for a quiet chat and how to snag the best value with their Omakase sets.