In the Dago hills where restaurants and cafes are sprouting up like mushrooms, Bandung's fixation on coffee has manifested itself in a wooden retreat called Roemah Kopi. Literally translated as ‘coffee house', it is a good place to catch up with friends while grabbing a mug of dark brown delight.

       The Vibe
The sign on the door says “Our coffee hits the spot”, an indication that we are at the right address. Behind the door lies a small entrance that leads to a stairway with an overview of the original place. Since its opening, it has gained popularity and has been extended into the backyard to accommodate its growing crowd. Throughout the years, the owners, who coincidentally live on the upper level, have collected an eclectic mishmash of antiques that provide an authentic appearance. The owner tells about what started the concept of Roemah Kopi: “I saw all these coffee places being opened up in Malls being part of big branches and franchises and I thought I could do that too, but then in a different setting and with a different atmosphere.” She certainly succeeded. The three elevated open walled plateaus at the back provide ample room for another 50 or so guests and are decorated in the same retro ethnic style. The atmosphere is further enhanced by the fresh mountain breeze and the sounds and views of nature that surrounds it.

       The drinks
The name of the establishment is pretty self explanatory. Roemah Kopi features a menu based on the holy coffee bean. The bestseller is called Copacobana (Rp.17,000). It is a mix of chilled coffee, fresh milk, vanilla ice cream and vanilla flavouring. A true treat for those with a sweet tooth as it comes with a milkshakey consistency and soft vanilla nuances. For those who would like something similar but prefer their coffee hot, the Sunset Stream Capucinno (Rp. 16,000) might be the answer. Another catchy name and a daring combination is the Voice of Nature (Rp.15,000) which is chilled coffee, fresh avocado and vanilla. My doubts were blown away at the first sip of this fresh yet robust coffee flavoured mixture. Other than coffee, Roemah Kopi also serves small snacks and plate meals such as pastries (Rp.6000), lasagna (Rp.16,000) and nasi goreng with egg or sausage (Rp.12,000). All pretty reasonably priced if you take the lovely setting which allows for hours of lazy lounging into account.

       The Service
The employees are a forthcoming and helpful lot. They can be seen running up and down the stairs in an attempt to serve the customers promptly and in an orderly fashion. Roemah Kopi is opened daily from 11.00 till 23.00. A live band can be seen and heard playing your favourite pop covers twice a month on Saturdays until 24.00.

Adress:
Jalan Terusan Ranca Kendal No. 9
Dago Atas, Bandung
Tel. 022-2512613
http://www.roemahkopi.com