Kemang, Jakarta, often referred to as the “little Bali,” exudes a relaxed and laid-back vibe. Whether you visit on a bustling weekend or a quiet weekday, the area remains pleasantly uncrowded, offering a stark contrast to the chaotic and noisy atmosphere of the rest of Jakarta.

However, I must caution that there isn’t much to see here! The neighborhood is predominantly filled with coffee shops, with just a handful of home decor stores. Among them, only one stands out: dia.lo.gue. The rest are rather forgettable.

After more than a year, I’m still struck by the lack of cultural and intellectual life in Jakarta. Behind the charming and refined facade, the content often feels hollow and uninspiring.

Coffee and Dining

**dia.lo.gue** – A multi-functional space that seamlessly blends art, exhibitions, and dining. The exhibitions are regularly updated, and on my visit, it was an architecture-themed showcase. It’s definitely worth revisiting.
**Amy and Cake** – While visually appealing, the coffee is average, and the restaurant itself is small and somewhat outdated.

**LCC** – Billed as a gathering spot for the young, it’s really just a few coffee and snack shops. I can’t help but wonder, why gather here? [Facepalm]
**La Moringa** – They feature dishes with a local Indonesian herb, though I couldn’t quite taste it. The food quality is also average.
There are a few other coffee shops and restaurants, like 1/15 and TUKU, but they didn’t leave a lasting impression.

Small Goods

**Chic Mart** – The only store I found that sells handicrafts, but nothing particularly caught my eye.
**The Palilion** – I’m still not sure what this store is all about…
The rest of the stores in the area are mostly furniture shops, and I didn’t venture into any, so I can’t offer a detailed review.
Once again, dia.lo.gue also has an art store. Though the selection is limited, the items are more appealing. If you’re planning a trip to Kemang, dia.lo.gue is a must-visit.

I’ve been meaning to check out Kemang for a while now, and this guide makes it sound like the perfect escape from Jakarta’s chaos. I’m definitely going to hit up that standout store, dia.lo.gue—it sounds right up my alley!