When it comes to coffee shops in Southeast Asia, Jakarta is a city that should be on your radar. As the undisputed coffee capital of Indonesia, Jakarta is home to a rich coffee culture that’s hard to match. In this article, we’ll explore the best coffee shops in Jakarta, from cosy boutique cafes to speciality coffee shops that offer unique flavours and brewing methods.
The Rich Coffee Culture in Jakarta
The coffee culture in Jakarta is deeply ingrained in the city’s history and traditions. Indonesia is the fourth largest coffee producer in the world, and Jakarta is at the heart of the country’s coffee industry. The city’s love for coffee can be traced back to the early Dutch colonial era in the 17th century when coffee was introduced to Indonesia by the Dutch East India Company.
A Brief History of Coffee in Jakarta
The Dutch were the first to cultivate coffee in Indonesia on the island of Java, and by the early 18th century, coffee had become one of the country’s main exports. Today, Jakarta is a melting pot of different coffee cultures, from traditional Indonesian kopi tubruk to specialty coffee shops that cater to international tastes.
The Influence of Local and International Coffee Trends
Jakarta’s coffee scene has been heavily influenced by both local and international trends. Indonesian coffee has gained worldwide recognition in recent years, and Jakarta is home to some of the best local coffee roasters in the country. Alongside the growing popularity of local coffee, international coffee trends have also made their mark in Jakarta, with speciality coffee shops offering unique flavours and brewing methods that cater to a diverse range of tastes.
Top Coffee Shops in Jakarta
When it comes to finding the best coffee shops in Jakarta, there’s no shortage of options. Whether you’re looking for a cosy spot to work, a unique coffee beverage, or simply a great cup of coffee, Jakarta’s coffee shops have something for everyone.
Tanamera Coffee
Jakarta’s speciality coffee scene is thriving, and there are plenty of cafes that specialize in unique coffee flavours and brewing methods. One of the best places to start your coffee journey is Tanamera Coffee, a speciality coffee shop that offers a wide range of single-origin coffee and unique brewing methods like siphon and Chemex.
Giyanti Coffee Roastery
Another great option is Giyanti Coffee Roastery, a small and cosy spot that serves some of the best espresso-based drinks in the city.
Kedai Kopi Kulo
If you’re looking for a more unique coffee experience, Jakarta has plenty of amazing coffee shops with cosy and quirky atmospheres. Kedai Kopi Kulo is one of the best options, with its vintage decor and rooftop terrace that offers stunning views of the city.
1/15 Coffee
1/15 Coffee is another great choice, with its minimalist interior and a great selection of coffee roasts.
Djournal House
If you’re in need of a productive work environment, Jakarta’s coffee shops have you covered. Djournal House is one of the best places to work and drink coffee, with its elegant interior and comfortable seating.
Trafique Coffee
Trafique Coffee is another great spot for work, with its spacious layout and outdoor seating area.
Exploring Different Coffee Roasts and Flavors
One of the great things about Jakarta’s coffee scene is the variety of coffee roasts and flavours available. Whether you’re a fan of light or dark roasts, Indonesian coffee or international blends, Jakarta’s coffee shops have something for every taste.
Local Beans and Roasting Techniques
Indonesia is known for its unique coffee roasting techniques, which often involve roasting the beans over an open flame. Coffee shops like Kopi Kalyan and Filosofi Kopi use these traditional roasting methods to create unique and flavorful coffee blends that are a must-try for any coffee lover.
International Coffee Offerings
If you’re in the mood for something different, Jakarta’s coffee shops also offer a range of international coffee blends and flavours. Coffee chains like Starbucks and Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf have a strong presence in Jakarta, and there are also plenty of speciality coffee shops that offer international roasts and blends, such as Lucky Cat Coffee & Kitchen.
Unique Coffee Beverages to Try
Jakarta’s coffee shops are also known for their unique and creative coffee beverages. One of the most popular drinks is es kopi susu, a sweet and creamy iced coffee that’s a favourite among locals. Other must-try beverages include the Kopi Luwak, a rare and expensive coffee made from beans that have been digested and excreted by civet cats, and the Bajigur, a traditional Indonesian coffee drink made with coconut milk and palm sugar.
The Art of Coffee Making in Jakarta
The art of coffee making is taken very seriously in Jakarta, and the city is home to some of the best baristas and coffee brewing equipment in the world.
Barista Skills and Competitions
Jakarta’s baristas take pride in their skills, and many coffee shops host barista competitions and workshops throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the Indonesia Barista Championship, which brings together the best baristas in the country to showcase their skills and compete for the top prize.
Coffee Brewing Methods and Equipment
Jakarta’s coffee shops are also known for their state-of-the-art coffee brewing equipment, from high-end espresso machines to manual brewing methods. Coffee enthusiasts can attend workshops and classes to learn more about different brewing techniques, such as the pour-over method and the Aeropress.
Coffee Tasting and Appreciation
Coffee tasting and appreciation is a serious business in Jakarta, and many coffee shops offer tasting events and workshops where attendees can learn about different coffee roasts and flavours. If you’re a coffee lover, these events are a great way to expand your knowledge and appreciation for the art of coffee making.
Summing It Up
Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or simply looking for a cosy spot to work or relax, Jakarta’s coffee shops have something for everyone. From traditional kopi tubruk to speciality coffee blends and unique brewing methods, Jakarta’s coffee scene is a must-visit for anyone with a love for coffee. So next time you’re in Jakarta, be sure to explore the city’s coffee culture and discover some of the best coffee shops the city has to offer.
