Since its first arrival in Jakarta almost a year ago, Kyoto-hailed specialty coffee chain Kurasu has been finding ways to immerse itself into the city’s rhythm and communities while remaining rooted in its penchant for quality beans and the hand-pouring method synonymous with the Japanese coffee culture. Its newly opened third home on Latuharhary Street is no different.
Drawing from railside cafés that are ubiquitous in Japan, some might say this location is the most romantic Kurasu yet. The intimate indoor space, carpeted in deep red and adorned with a tasteful mix of designer chairs, offers a charming framed view of the passing commuter train, inviting you to slow down and watch as the scene unfolds.
Over at the bar, the baristas still make familiar Kurasu classics such as their signature drip coffee with beans transported from their Nishijin roastery in Kyoto. But for something new, Maru is a good way to go. It’s a twist on Kurasu’s best-selling dirty matcha, where the tea blend is presented in a layer of sweet foam over espresso.
To accompany the drink, try the light bites currently exclusive to the Menteng outlet, like the Cheese Terrine, Kurasu’s take on cheesecake that is at once soft, light and creamy on the palate, packaged in a clean and minimalist presentation. There’s also the Matcha Financier, for which the small French almond cake is generously doused with matcha sauce to give it a grassy and subtly sweet layer of flavour.
They say that the third time’s the charm, and the adage seems to work out well for Kurasu Menteng. Granted, its romantic appeal isn’t always pronounced with the ceaseless flow of oncoming customers. But if anything, that’s a clear mark of an enthusiastic welcome from the neighbourhood residents.
A morning visit sees a group of elegantly dressed women catching up over sandwiches, office workers grabbing a quick cuppa before heading to work, to youths in stylish sportswear basking in the sun at the semi-outdoor space after their workout. Menteng might not be Kurasu’s last station in the grand scheme of things, but it has certainly found a comfortable spot there, quickly weaving itself into the fabric of life in the neighbourhood.
