It’s a shame that apart from being the second largest city in Indonesia and known for the popular Mayor Tri Rismaharini, not much else is known about Surabaya. First-timer here would be surprised to learn that the “Kota Pahlawan” (City of Heroes) is a clean, verdant city that houses a new crop of independent lifestyle establishments. If you’re here for business, then there are plenty of coffee shops where you can catch up with your pals in between meetings. But if you’re here for a short break, then its rich culinary scene will keep you occupied throughout the day.
Redback
If one were to form an opinion of the locals based on its coffee shops, then Redback would suggest that the Surabayans really know how to live it up. Sitting comfortably within an upscale residential neighbourhood, Redback offers not only coffee and their popular croissants but also a composed view of golf course and equally upscale apartments that decorate the horizon.
If you’re in a hurry then Redback is clearly the wrong pick. Here, learning how to take it easy is the top priority. A group of expat wives chatting up a storm while digging in warm croissants and cakes in various flavours, a couple enjoying hearty breakfast and a gang of teenagers playing online mobile games in silence over iced coffee.
With its location that’s removed from the city, Redback induced a mood of a permanent holiday on every visit. Of course, since you’re a visitor from out of town, that’s exactly what you’ll be here for too.
Jl. Raya Darmo Permai Selatan No.3, Surabaya, Jawa Timur 60226
Mon-Sun 6am-10pm
Völks
As one of the pioneers in Surabaya, Völks is that coffee shop that both local and visitor can easily count on. The mixture of the crowd here, from art students working on their water painting, a lone man enjoying a solitary moment at the counter to a group of ladies engrossed in their tête-à-tête, it’s a telling sign that the coffee shop knows how to keep their patrons relax.
If that’s not enough, the friendly baristas help too when it comes to recommending coffee selections and sweet treats to go with it. Outside, the compact yet cosy outdoor area with generous sunlight offers the ideal spot to while the lazy afternoon away.
It’s good to know that Völks sits in a prime location. The coffee shop is within walking distance from Artotel and also a stone’s throw away from the independent boutique store slash restaurant Carpentier Kitchen and vintage shop Newton Vintage Store.
Jl. Tamrin No.34, Surabaya, Jawa Timur 60264
Every day 8.30am-8pm
Titik Koma
Don’t be mad if you failed to spot Titik Koma. Chances are you’re not the only one. The front of Titik Koma is so unassuming that you might not even notice that it’s actually a coffee shop.
The modest and compact interior of Titik Koma gives off the feeling of a hideout. It’s no wonder that the crowd, who mainly consists of young adults , more often than not conversing over coffee before continuing the chat at the outdoor area for a quick cigarette break.
Jl. Juwono No.25, Surabaya, Jawa Timur 60241
Mon-Sat 8am-9pm
Sun 11am-9pm
Caturra Espresso
For some strange reasons, coffee shops in Surabaya prefer to be either unassuming or hidden or even both. And Caturra is one of them. Don’t be surprised if you can’t locate Caturra from the main road, because it’s entrance is located on the side of a shophouse that resembles a garage.
Once you slide open the sizeable entrance, what greets you is a spacious and airy space that is showered with a generous amount of sunlight. For even more dose of heat to accompany your coffee, just head outdoor. When you’ve just arrived in Surabaya and looking for coffee and breakfast to kickstart the day, then Caturra is a wise option.
Though there are two branches of Caturra in the city, the one in Anjasmoro Street is recommended exactly for all the reasons above.
Jl. Anjasmoro No.32, Surabaya, Jawa Timur 60251
Mon-Sun 10am-10pm
Timoer Kopi
Timoer is that coffee shop which is so secluded that it makes you wonder if Google Maps are leading you to the right place. Lodged in a far corner of a complex, Timoer resembles the lounge area of a boutique hotel. And thanks to its secluded location, you can easily enjoy your coffee in peace.
Don’t worry if all that laid-back vibe is going to get you feeling snoozy. The bold profile of the coffee in Timoer is sure to give you the kick you need. Plus, their playlist that comprises of lively Indonesian tunes helps to get you into a spirited mood.
Even though Timoer might be quite a distance away from the city centre, the plus side is you’ll get to take the view of the surroundings, especially if it’s your first time in Surabaya.
145-A, Este Square D2-D3, Jl. Mulyorejo Utara, Surabaya, Jawa Timur 60115
Through this collaboration with Booking.com, we are delighted to share this link: https://www.booking.com/s/infl0m51 that entitles you an IDR 415,000 reward (terms and conditions apply) when you book an accommodation through Booking.com. Within the 30 days after check out and Booking.com has confirmed your stay with the lodging, you will receive IDR 415,000 reward in your credit card. Now you can use this deal to ease your travel budget when planning for a short trip out of town. This offer is sponsored by Booking.com and available only for the first 500 bookings.
