
Toko Merah Jakarta
A rare 1730 Dutch colonial house in Jakarta's Old Town, now a trendy cafe blending history with modern charm.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene ambiance

Toko Merah Jakarta
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene ambiance

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rare 1730 Dutch colonial house in Jakarta's Old Town, now a trendy cafe blending history with modern charm.
"A rare survivor of the Dutch colonial era, this 1730 house was home to the area's governor-general."

📸 Capture the Aesthetics
The building's architecture and interior design are incredibly photogenic. Don't miss the red brick facade and elegant interiors!
☕ Enjoy the Cafe Experience
Grab a coffee or a light meal at the cafe. The Kopi Susu Rode is a popular choice.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Colonial Architecture
Entire building
Marvel at the rare 1730 Dutch colonial house, a survivor with soaring ceilings and striking red brick.
Aesthetic Cafe Vibes
Second floor cafe
Enjoy coffee and light bites in a chic cafe that beautifully blends historical charm with modern comfort.
Kali Besar Views
Cafe windows
Savor mesmerizing views of the old buildings across Kali Besar, framed perfectly by the cafe's windows.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Blend of History and Modernity
Timing is Key for Ambiance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Aesthetics
The building's architecture and interior design are incredibly photogenic. Don't miss the red brick facade and elegant interiors!
☕ Enjoy the Cafe Experience
Grab a coffee or a light meal at the cafe. The Kopi Susu Rode is a popular choice.
🚶♀️ Explore Kota Tua First
Visit Toko Merah after strolling through Taman Fatahillah and other Kota Tua attractions.
🚧 Be Mindful of Renovations
Some areas are still under renovation. Respect any restricted zones and the guards' guidance.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Aesthetics
The building's architecture and interior design are incredibly photogenic. Don't miss the red brick facade and elegant interiors!
☕ Enjoy the Cafe Experience
Grab a coffee or a light meal at the cafe. The Kopi Susu Rode is a popular choice.
🚶♀️ Explore Kota Tua First
Visit Toko Merah after strolling through Taman Fatahillah and other Kota Tua attractions.
🚧 Be Mindful of Renovations
Some areas are still under renovation. Respect any restricted zones and the guards' guidance.
🪑 Limited Seating
The cafe has limited seating, so be prepared for a cozy atmosphere or consider visiting during off-peak hours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Toko Merah is lauded as a beautiful historical building in Jakarta's Old Town, offering a unique blend of Dutch colonial architecture and a trendy cafe. Visitors rave about the stunning aesthetics, the charming ambiance, and the delicious coffee, making it a perfect spot for photos and relaxation. Some minor drawbacks include ongoing renovations in certain areas and limited seating in the cafe.
"Who would have thought you could find a place like this in Jakarta's Old Town - both a historically grand building and a trendy cafe?! That's Toko Merah for you! 👍
The moment you step inside, you'll be amazed by the six to seven-meter high ceilings – it feels like it could host the most impressive wedding in a heartbeat! Sipping coffee here, you can feel the unique charm of old meets new. If you're looking for a cafe with a story and great aesthetics, or if you're searching for wedding venue inspiration, Toko Merah is definitely worth a visit!"
Littlebeasty9901 “Littlebeasty9901”
"A distinct heritage building with rich history by the Kali Besar / Grand Canal.
Now partially being adaptive reuse as a cafe.
Renov project still on going in some parts"
Next [in] Architecture
"A beautiful historical building with lovely interiors. It is rather unfortunate that it's still under major renovation and I have promised the very kind guard to not photograph those areas. I'm determined to return when it's all completed. We did have an excellent lunch served by truly lovely and kind and cheerful staff."
Dr Win Sutanto
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Toko Merah is conveniently located in Jakarta's Old Town (Kota Tua), right across from the Kali Besar bus stop. It's a short 5-minute walk from Taman Fatahillah. You can easily reach it by TransJakarta bus or ride-sharing services.
Parking in Kota Tua can be challenging. It's recommended to use public transport, ride-sharing apps, or park at designated lots in the Kota Tua area and walk.
Start your exploration at Taman Fatahillah, then wander through the surrounding historical buildings before heading to Toko Merah. Walking is the best way to soak in the atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the building itself is generally free, especially to admire the architecture. However, the cafe on the upper floor operates separately and you'll need to purchase food or drinks to enjoy the space and views.
The cafe typically follows standard cafe hours, usually opening in the morning and closing in the evening. It's best to check their social media or call ahead for the most current operating times, especially as renovations may affect access.
With its grand architecture and high ceilings, Toko Merah has been noted as a potential venue for impressive events like weddings. Inquiries about event bookings would need to be directed to the management.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire building is a photographer's dream! Focus on the striking red brick facade, the high ceilings inside, and the charming cafe interiors. The views of Kali Besar from the cafe windows are also spectacular.
While generally encouraged, be mindful of ongoing renovations. Some areas might be off-limits for photography. Always respect the guards' instructions and avoid photographing private areas.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light that enhances the historical ambiance. However, the interior shots are great at any time, especially with the natural light filtering through the windows.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Toko Merah features a cafe serving coffee, including popular options like Americano and Kopi Susu Rode (Aren). They also offer light meals and snacks.
Prices are generally in line with trendy cafes in Jakarta. While not budget-friendly, the unique ambiance and historical setting often justify the cost for visitors.
Yes, the cafe serves lunch and light meals. It's a great spot to relax and refuel after exploring Kota Tua.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Instagrammers & Photographers
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Dutch Colonial Jakarta
The building's most striking feature is its rare Dutch colonial architecture, characterized by its imposing red brick facade and soaring ceilings that create a sense of grandeur. Visitors often remark on the impressive height of the rooms, which evoke a feeling of stepping back in time. The adaptive reuse as a cafe allows people to experience this historical space in a contemporary context, blending the old with the new in a unique and engaging way.
While parts of the building are still undergoing renovation, the accessible areas offer a captivating experience. The historical charm is palpable, and the opportunity to sit within such a storied structure, sipping coffee and admiring the preserved details, is a highlight for many visitors. It's a place where history isn't just observed; it's felt.
The Toko Merah Cafe Experience
Visitors frequently praise the coffee quality, with specific mentions of the Americano and the Kopi Susu Rode (Aren) being particularly good. The cafe's atmosphere is described as silent, cold, yet comforting, complemented by music that doesn't overpower conversations. This makes it an ideal spot for quiet chats or simply enjoying a moment of reflection amidst the bustling city.
It's important to note that the cafe has limited seating, with only about 10 tables on the second floor and a few more on the ground floor. This limitation, however, is seen by many as a deliberate choice to maintain the serene and chill ambiance. The stunning views of Kali Besar from the cafe windows are another major draw, offering a picturesque backdrop to your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit