The ultimate WFC spot in Jakarta, ruined by the staff? Monarki Coffee, should I praise it or diss it…
qponx
2026-01-24
Discover Monarki Coffee, a hidden industrial-style gem in Tanah Abang perfect for working or chilling. This spot wins with its amazing ambiance, rooftop views, and delicious, budget-friendly food. However, there's a catch: the experience is often soured by unfriendly staff and overly sweet drinks. Is the vibe and value worth the trade-off? This review breaks down the love-hate relationship with this WFC hotspot, giving you all the tips you need before you visit.
Honestly, if I wasn't looking for a place to get some work done, I probably would have walked out right at the cashier. This cafe, hidden in an alley in Tanah Abang, has an ambiance and food that I'd give a perfect score, but the staff's attitude... Anjay, it's hard to even describe! 🙄
Perfect Ambiance, But The Waitress Acted Like I Owed Her Money
As soon as I walked in, I was truly amazed by this three-story industrial-style space. The indoor area on the ground floor is quiet and has plenty of power outlets, definitely a god-tier spot for WFC (Work From Cafe)[1]. Upstairs, there's also an outdoor and a Rooftop area, which opens after 4 PM. Coming here in the evening to Nongkrong, feel the breeze, and watch the sunset is just so Chill～
I ordered their much-hyped Matcha[2], and it was truly Mantap! The texture was super smooth, not bitter at all, and very milky. For my main course, I got the Mushroom Dory Rice Bowl[3]; the fish fillet was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the sauce was perfect with the rice. I also added a Snack Platter[4] on the side, and the Risol (fried spring rolls) and Samosa (curry puffs) inside were top-notch, definitely not the half-assed frozen kind. And the price was so cheap it didn't feel like I was in downtown Jakarta—super high value for money[5]!
Hold Your Praise, Here Come the Complaints!
OK, enough with the praise, it's time to rant!
First, the service! The Mba (lady) at the cashier had a sour face the whole time, not a single smile. Ordering felt like an interrogation, which instantly ruined my mood. I checked the reviews and found out it wasn't just my bad luck; it's a common issue[6]. Hey boss, if you don't train your staff, you're really going to drive a lot of people away!
Second, all the drinks are sickeningly sweet! My matcha was considered one of the better ones; my friend's Kopi Susu was like drinking straight sugar water. Later I found out you can ask for 'less sugar', but some staff members will just tell you it can't be adjusted[7]. My advice is: when you order, make sure to say loudly, “Kurang Manis, ya!” (Less sugar!)
Finally, some minor issues: the AC isn't very strong, the second floor leaks when it rains heavily[8], the music can be a bit loud during peak hours, and neat freaks might find it a bit maddening.
A Guide to Avoiding the Pitfalls, You're Welcome!
Although there are a ton of things to complain about, for the sake of the ambiance and value for money, it's still worth a visit. Before you go, make sure you have this guide handy:
- 1. Parking Warning 🅿️: Do NOT come by car! The parking spots are pitifully few, only four or five[9]. Riding a motorbike or taking a taxi is the only right way to get here.
- 2. Ordering Mantra 🗣️: For all drinks, say “Less Sugar” first to save your life! Otherwise, it'll be so sweet you'll question your existence.
- 3. Best Seats 🌇: If you want a view, head straight to the Rooftop after 4 PM. If you want to work in peace, stick to the indoor area on the first floor.
- 4. Surprise Bonus Point ✨: The Mushola (prayer room) on the second floor is the best I've ever seen in a cafe! It's clean, has AC, and is fully equipped. This deserves a huge thumbs up[10]!
- 5. Mental Prep 🙏: Please automatically ignore the staff's"Resting Bitch Face," and silently repeat to yourself three times, “I'm here to eat and work.” As long as the food and ambiance are on point, everything else is just a fleeting cloud.
- Gorgeous 3-story industrial space; rooftop perfect for evening Nongkrong, breeze, and sunset [1]
- Hyped Matcha: silky, creamy, no bitterness. Snack platter's fresh (not frozen!) Risol & Samosa are amazing value [2][3][4]
- Despite cold service, it's worth it for the vibe & insane value. Plus, best air-conditioned prayer room in a cafe! [5][6][7]
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