Exploring Jakarta for the first time is akin to finding a serendipitous read on the shelf. You never know what to expect—and it’s a joyous ride finding out. Its streets are lively; its people, sanguine. Luxuriously decked-out malls boast a shopping scene worthy of envy. Its arts scene is no less, with more than a few galleries to pass through. While some are a showcase of the capital’s rich, historical heritage, other quieter art enclaves have swiftly turned into destinations for the avid collector.
Yet discovering a foreign city anew also comes with its own necessary rite of passage: taking a swig of the local coffee. One which might be deemed necessary for nearly every city-dweller as you traipse through its concrete pavements to glean a better understanding of its urban life. Where Jakarta’s cuppas are concerned, there’s no question that the Indonesian capital has birthed a specialty coffee scene that it can be proud to call its own—testament to the nation’s coffee exports, as the fourth-largest cultivator in the world.
Scattered throughout the vibrant city, a growing number of local breweries seems to guarantee that a solid pour is always well within reach. Some chime with an old, rustic charm—marked by quaint architecture, cosy interiors and hole-in-the-wall concepts. Then there are the up-and-coming spots in town, which undeniably speak to the creatives at heart. Not only do they offer superior cups of coffee, but their thoughtfully-curated spaces present unique design touch points and chic aesthetics that please and soothe the soul.
Below, Vogue Singapore’s shortlist of the best cafes in Jakarta that are certifying the capital’s station as a soon-to-be coffee empire.
1 / 5
1/15 Coffee
It’s not hard to find yourself in a 1/15 Coffee outlet in Jakarta—with their growing number of locations in the city. Our favourite however, just might be their latest one, set up in the bustling sports club, Quantis Club. As every snap of its clean, contemporary interior feels like a different locale completely, there’s a spot in its expanse for just about everyone, be it the friend group enjoying brunch time, or the solo aficionado simply in need of a dependable fix. A must-try would be the Rojali, a signature lime-juice infused coffee that makes for an interesting swirl in the mouth.
Jl. Majorie Ave No.1, Kabupaten Tangerang, Banten 15339, Indonesia
2 / 5
Giyanti Coffee Roastery
A telling sign that Giyanti is good vibes all around? Its fun, colour-infused space located just across an antique market on Jalan Surabaya. Whilst the eclectic, paraphernalia-filled aesthetic is no doubt every maximalist’s dream, the house blend sizes up well too—that first sip better paired with some of its warm bakes and pastries.
Jl. Surabaya No.20, RW.5, Menteng, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10310, Indonesia
3 / 5
St ALi
A locus of energy, much like its Melbourne counterpart. Whilst a well-balanced cuppa is guaranteed at its outpost in Jakarta, what we adore most about Jakarta’s St ALi’s just might be its rustic brick facade that’s equal parts inviting and telling of the store’s fuss-free appeal. Good coffee and delectable brunch fare (think huge portions of avocado toast) aside, ST ALi also discovers itself in the heart of the city’s business district with a thorough number of notable restaurants nearby that you can pop into come evening hour.
Setiabudi Building 2 Lt. Dasar No.103A Jalan Haji R. Rasuna, Indonesia
4 / 5
Lima
Perfect for those looking to spend their hours here looming over a screen, Lima is the go-to spot for both locals and expats alike—where industrial-style interiors always make for an ideal backdrop for a Zoom meeting, a standard pour can be counted on and your choice of grub will prove to be a hearty fill.
5 / 5
Bakoel Koffie
For a slice of heritage, this is where you can expect to be transported through a time capsule—right back into the 1870s. Exuding an effortlessly vintage air with its colonial-style architecture and Dutch-style art deco, Bakoel Koffie is one of the oldest coffee shops in Jakarta. As you enjoy its dark, atmospheric embrace, make sure to sip on a brew of its traditional Javanese coffee and team with it some of its light snacks.
Jl. Cikini Raya No.25, RW.1, Cikini, Kec. Menteng, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10330, Indonesia
