I was almost smoked out, but one sip of coffee and I sat right back down.
qponx
2026-02-25
This South Jakarta cafe is a real mixed bag. While the amazing coffee—especially the Japanese Drip made with beans from their own estate—might just save your soul, a heads-up on the ambiance is needed. A heavy smell of secondhand smoke drifts down from the second floor, impacting the whole space. If you can brave the haze, the delicious panini and friendly staff make it a worthy stop. Otherwise, consider getting your fantastic coffee to-go.
Girls, I almost had to play the role of a "human air purifier" at a cafe in South Jakarta today. The moment I pushed the door open, a thick smell of secondhand smoke hit me right in the face, almost making me choke and stumble... I thought to myself, how am I supposed to chill here? I was ready to turn around and leave, but I saw the friendly eyes of the guy behind the counter and decided to tough it out and sit down.
The shop's design is quite interesting, minimalist style with a bit of a cat theme, and the lighting is pretty funky too. With a "since I'm already here" attitude, I took the barista's recommendation and ordered a Japanese Drip[1]. They said it's made with beans from their own estate in Cianjur[2], West Java.
And guess what! One sip, Anjay! That clear acidity and clean aftertaste instantly washed away all the smoky air from before. Seriously Mantap! I felt like my soul was saved by this cup of coffee. My friend who was with me ordered a Long Black[3] and also said the flavor was super balanced, with the perfect amount of sweetness, acidity, and bitterness. We also got a Panini smoke beef and cheese[4] to fill our stomachs, and it was surprisingly delicious. The cheese pull was amazing, highly recommended!
Okay, enough with the praise, let's get real. I have a real love-hate relationship with the ambiance here. The first floor is technically a non-smoking area, but you can't escape the smoke from the second-floor smoking area; it just drifts right down[5]. The ventilation system really needs a major overhaul. If you're super sensitive to the smell of smoke, I'd advise you to think twice, or at least be mentally prepared. Or just get it to-go.
Time to copy my notes! The Editor's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls ✍️
- For the coffee lovers: Don't hesitate, go straight for the pour-over! Especially the beans from their own estate. Be bold and ask the barista for a recommendation; the quality is definitely on point[6]. The service staff are also very nice[7].
- For the "veteran smokers": Congratulations, you've hit the jackpot. The second floor is your happy place, where you can puff away in peace.
- For those who drive: Heads up! There's very limited parking out front, maybe just two spots[8]! I suggest coming by motorcycle or ride-hailing. Motorcycle parking is quite convenient, though.
- For the WFC (Work From Cafe) digital nomads: The seating here isn't really suitable for working for long hours[9]. It's better for coming to Nongkrong and chat with friends, a quick in-and-out.
- For the non-smokers: Let me say it again! If you really want to try their coffee but have zero tolerance for the smell of smoke, the safest bet is to get it to-go
- The single estate Japanese Drip [1][2] is soul-saving! Its bright acidity and clean finish cut right through the smoke.
- The Long Black is friend-approved for its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and bitter notes.
- The Panini smoke beef and cheese is a surprise hit! The cheese pull is epic—a perfect coffee pairing [3].
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