Finding a good cafe to work from in Jakarta isn’t as easy as it sounds. Many places are too loud, too cold, or too crowded to get anything done. After trying dozens of spots in the SCBD and Mega Kuningan area, here are 3 cafes that consistently work well for getting things done.
Quick Comparison
| Cafe | Area | Vibe | Price (coffee) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Koi Mega Kuningan | CoHive 101 | Spacious & relaxed | ~IDR 40-60K | Long work sessions |
| Common Grounds Ground Zero | ASHTA District 8 | Stylish & cozy | ~IDR 45-65K | Coffee lovers |
| Paris Baguette | ASHTA District 8 | Quiet & comfortable | ~IDR 38-50K | Quiet focused work |
1. Koi Mega Kuningan
Location: CoHive 101, Mega Kuningan
This is our go-to spot. The ceiling is high, the space is wide open, and it never feels crowded — even on weekends, only about 30% of seats are taken. The AC is set just right (not freezing like many Jakarta cafes), so you can actually stay for hours without needing a jacket.
The food is solid too. The egg benedict here is genuinely good — worth ordering even if you’re not hungry.
Good for: Long sessions without worrying about finding a seat.
2. Common Grounds Ground Zero
Location: ASHTA District 8, Ground Floor
Common Grounds is a well-known specialty coffee chain in Jakarta, and this branch has a beautiful Japandi-style interior — warm tones, marble, rattan furniture. It feels like a proper cafe, not a mall food court.
They have a good selection of single-origin beans and espresso drinks. The space has both indoor and outdoor seating, and it’s designed for people who want to linger.
Hours: 10:00–21:00 daily
Good for: Afternoon work sessions with great coffee.
3. Paris Baguette – ASHTA District 8
Location: ASHTA District 8, Ground Floor
Paris Baguette is a Korean bakery chain, and this ASHTA branch is notably quieter than the other cafes in the building. If you want a low-noise environment, this is your best bet in the area.
The pastries and bread are excellent (the croissants are a highlight), and they have a full meal menu if you’re staying through lunch. With 50+ seats and long hours, it’s a reliable option.
Hours: 08:00–22:00 daily
Good for: Early starts and quiet, focused work.
Tips for Working from Cafes in Jakarta
- Wi-Fi: All three have Wi-Fi, but speeds vary. Bring a mobile hotspot as backup (Telkomsel or XL have good coverage in SCBD).
- Power outlets: Not always available at every seat. Grab a spot near the wall and bring a short extension cord just in case.
- Etiquette: Order something every couple of hours if you’re staying long. Jakarta cafe culture is relaxed about laptop workers, but don’t camp out on one Americano for 6 hours.
- Getting there: The SCBD area is walkable from MRT Istora station (~10 min). Grab/Gojek rides from most central Jakarta areas cost IDR 15-30K.