Kopi Susu - Kuta

Your new favourite caffeine replenishment hangout is now in Kuta, Lombok. Kopi Susu, a brunch cafe that first made waves on Gili Air, has announced itself on the Kuta café scene with an impressive two-storey, lounge-style foodie venue. It brings the tropical Gili island aesthetic to downtown Kuta, along with a stylish contemporary mix of Indonesian-European vibes.

The Kopi Susu origin story dates back to friends living on Gili Air with a shared vision and mutual passion for food and design, who wanted to introduce European-style brunch culture to a small island. They created a tropical space that was welcoming to all and connected to its natural surroundings. At the time, there was no dedicated brunch destination on the island. The goal was to create something unique then, and this philosophy continues with the new expansive café in Kuta.

According to the founders, since first launching in the Gilis, Indonesian and international guests have embraced the Kopi Susu concept and often asked if a Kopi Susu location in Lombok was on the cards. They have now delivered. Their goal for Kuta wasn’t to create a replica of Gili Air, but to bring the same island vibe, service and thoughtful design that made the original such a favourite. The space evokes a tropical minimalism, offering a chic, breezy escape from the afternoon heat.

Expect classic earthy tones with natural timber finishes and smooth textures, complemented by indoor tropical greenery. There are rustic sofa benches, dark timber tables framed by timeless wall art, handcrafted light shades and high ceilings that welcome consistent cool breezes.

It’s an ideal sanctuary for lazy afternoons spent sipping and snacking, or for digital nomads looking to get productive between coffees. Spanning two levels, the interior has ingeniously incorporated cosy corners and lounge areas, giving guests a welcoming place to relax and stay awhile. It has been designed to evoke a spacious yet intimate social hangout.

The tropical atmosphere embraces Indonesian influences, while authentic Indonesian hospitality is what truly makes the venue stand out. Design-wise, Kopi Susu features locally crafted furniture, ceramics and artwork. The brand name, Kopi Susu, is also more nuanced than it first seems. Not only does it literally mean “coffee with milk”, but it is also an Indonesian colloquialism used to describe someone of mixed heritage. This perfectly represents what the business is all about – a truly international enterprise spanning a mix of different cultures. The founders bring together French, Swedish, Spanish, Indonesian and Australian backgrounds.

The concept is delightfully uncomplicated – fresh and approachable food in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Mornings kick off with the unmistakable aroma of freshly baked goods such as buttery brioche and pumpkin buns, highlighting a strong European influence. They serve up an extensive selection of all the coffee classics as well as matcha, artisan teas, juices and smoothies, all centred around their ‘build your own brunch’ concept. Guests can create their perfect brunch with favourites such as smashed avocado, eggs, fresh sourdough, panfried halloumi, salad, granola bowls, chia pudding and more. There are sweet treats too, with a surprisingly large array of cakes and desserts including banana bread, cupcakes, cheesecake, chocolate brownies and carrot cake.

Sourcing local ingredients is a major focus, the cafe collaborates with many local producers to bring together everything from coffee and kombucha to seasonal fruit and vegetables. Kopi Susu is also soon introducing dinner service, together with wine and cocktails to Kuta. The dinner menu will take the build your own board concept even further. Inspired by the sharing style of Spanish tapas, the dinner menu will feature dishes that blend European influences with Indonesian flavours and ingredients served up with the warm hospitality of Lombok – an expression of the cultural mix that has always been at the heart of Kopi Susu.

In short, Kopi Susu in Kuta aims to create a uniquely Indonesian sense of place through its design, ingredients and flavours, so that both travellers and the local community feel connected. The ultimate aim is to be more than just a place to eat and drink, but also a valued part of Kuta’s vibrant and increasingly cosmopolitan community.