Finding Great Coffee in Indonesia

Indonesia is a paradise for coffee lovers, boasting some of the world’s most unique and flavorful brews. As one of the top coffee-producing countries, Indonesia offers an incredible variety of coffee experiences, from traditional markets to modern specialty cafes. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a true coffee enthusiast, here are some of the best places to explore and enjoy coffee in Indonesia.

1. Jakarta: The Capital’s Coffee Scene

Jakarta is home to a thriving coffee culture, with specialty cafes found in almost every neighborhood. Some top spots include:

  • Tanamera Coffee – A pioneer in Indonesia’s specialty coffee movement, offering locally sourced beans with rich flavors.
  • Anomali Coffee – Known for promoting Indonesian coffee beans from Sumatra, Java, and Bali.
  • Giyanti Coffee Roastery – A cozy, artisanal coffee shop with carefully curated single-origin brews.

2. Bali: The Island of Art and Coffee

Bali is not just about beaches and temples—it’s also a hub for amazing coffee experiences. Some must-visit coffee spots include:

  • Revolver Espresso – A stylish cafe in Seminyak known for its top-tier espresso and relaxed vibe.
  • Seniman Coffee Studio – Located in Ubud, this cafe roasts its own beans and serves unique brews in handcrafted cups.
  • Expat. Roasters – A specialty coffee shop focusing on high-quality beans and expert brewing techniques.

3. Bandung: Cool Climate, Hot Coffee

Bandung’s cool weather makes it a great place to enjoy a warm cup of coffee. The city has many excellent cafes, including:

  • Kopi Toko Djawa – A vintage-style coffee shop offering simple yet delicious local coffee.
  • Sejiwa Coffee – A trendy spot known for its modern design and expertly brewed coffee.
  • Two Hands Full – A specialty coffee house with a focus on sustainability and quality sourcing.

4. Yogyakarta: Coffee with Culture

Yogyakarta is famous for its arts and heritage, and its coffee culture is just as rich. Try these standout cafes:

  • Klinik Kopi – A unique, educational coffee experience where baristas share in-depth knowledge about Indonesian coffee.
  • Blackbone Coffee – A specialty coffee shop focusing on single-origin beans with intense flavors.
  • Warung Kopi Klotok – A traditional Javanese coffee shop serving local-style kopi tubruk (unfiltered coffee).

5. Sumatra: The Birthplace of Indonesian Coffee

Sumatra produces some of the most famous Indonesian coffee varieties, including Mandheling, Lintong, and Gayo. Some great places to enjoy Sumatran coffee include:

  • Medan’s Kopi Ong – A historic coffee shop that has been roasting beans since the early 1900s.
  • Takengon Coffee Farms – Visit coffee plantations in the Gayo Highlands to experience coffee production firsthand.
  • Kopi Atok – A family-run shop offering authentic Sumatran coffee with bold and earthy flavors.

6. Toraja: High-Altitude Coffee Excellence

Toraja, in South Sulawesi, is known for its high-quality arabica beans grown at high altitudes. Explore these top spots:

  • Toraja Coffee House – A local favorite offering traditional Toraja coffee with a smooth, full-bodied taste.
  • Perjalanan Coffee Roasters – A specialty roaster that focuses on organic and fair-trade coffee.
  • Buntu Burake Cafe – A scenic cafe with panoramic mountain views, perfect for sipping freshly brewed Toraja coffee.

Tips for Enjoying Coffee in Indonesia

  • Try kopi tubruk, a traditional unfiltered Indonesian coffee, often sweetened with palm sugar.
  • Explore local markets to buy freshly roasted beans directly from farmers.
  • Visit a coffee farm for a firsthand look at how Indonesia’s world-famous coffee is produced.
  • Experiment with different brewing methods, from siphon to pour-over, to experience the full range of Indonesian coffee flavors.

Indonesia’s coffee culture is as diverse as its islands, making it an ideal destination for coffee lovers. Whether you’re sipping espresso in a chic Jakarta café or enjoying a traditional brew in Sumatra, every cup tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and passion. Happy coffee hunting!