Do you believe in chances? This morning, I was looking for a place for breakfast while waiting for a doctor appointment. Chance brought me to my new favorite corner in Gandaria, Jakarta Selatan: Cartea Book & Bistro.
“Cartea” means book in an old Romance language. True to its name, Cartea Book & Bistro combines a cozy bistro, a library, and a bookstore all in one place. I immediately fell in love with it.
A Library in the City
The room is flooded with warm light pouring in through wide glass doors and arched windows. Smooth tiled floors stretch past clean wooden dining tables set with minimalist gray placemats.
Clean, grand white arches seamlessly lead your eye into cozy inner reading nooks. Tucked under illuminated shelving, intimate woven rattan armchairs invite you to sink in for hours.
A tall built-in bookshelf features a grand central arch that doubles as a window. Carefully displayed books, geodes, and decorative globes frame the inviting lounge beyond.
The warm wooden furniture and natural rattan textures blend effortlessly with the soft, ambient lighting. It creates a bright yet remarkably grounding atmosphere to lose yourself in a book.
After placing my order, I took time to explore the illuminated, custom-built wooden wall shelving. Warm LED lights softly glow along its sweeping, futuristic curved frame.
The collection spans popular non-fiction titles, personal growth, and self-help reads. Thoughtfully placed geodes, mineral stones, and decorative art pieces accent the neatly organized rows.
In one corner, you will also find used books and National Geographic magazines. Opposite the shelves, plush cream couches and woven rattan armchairs offer a serene spot to read.
Literary Breakfast
A title caught my eye: Cheers for a Good Life by Indonesian writer Kirana Sidin. I read a few pages while sipping my Hot Americano, making a mental note to check out her blog later.
When my food arrived, I set the book aside. I ordered the Fish & Hummus with an extra side of omelet. It was my first time trying hummus paired with fish. On the first bite, the hummus felt a bit dry for my usual preference.
Thankfully, the coffee at Cartea was fantastic. It was full-bodied with a rounded taste—ideal for a peaceful morning reading session or an afternoon unwind.
Final Verdict: A Return Visit is a Must
Cartea Book and Bistro is more than a bookstore cafe; it is a true sanctuary. Stepping inside feels like escaping the urban chaos for a quiet slow morning in Bali.
With a heavy heart, I made my move. I almost bought the book I was reading. Instead, I decided I would rather return to Cartea to finish it over another cup of coffee.