My New Go-To Café: Why Common Grounds Stole My Heart

Last weekend, three of my friends and I decided to meet up at a café in the Menteng area.

And guess what? It has quickly become my favorite café find of the year so far! 

This place—this unexpected gem—is called Common Grounds. We actually ended up there by accident since our first café choice (just a few doors away) was full. But honestly, that worked out perfectly for us! Common Grounds is spacious, minimalistic, and cozy. Even the toilet felt like one in a 3-star hotel—complete with body wash and lotion!

I still can’t figure out why it wasn’t as packed as the other café, but from the first few steps inside, I could already see myself coming back often. 

Here’s what we ordered: 

Truffle Mushroom Pasta (IDR 95,000 + tax)

For dinner, I went with this chef-recommended pasta (or at least that’s what I assumed, judging by the little heart symbol on the menu). The pasta could have used just a bit more boiling time, but the seasoning was mamma mia good. 

P.S. The portion was huuuge! If you want to try other dishes too, consider ordering the half portion. 

Margherita Classico Pizza (IDR 105,000 + tax)

Made with sourdough, this was one of the highlights of the night! I’m usually not a Margherita girl, but this one? I would definitely order it again. 

Mocha Jadul Cake (IDR 60,000 + tax)

Or “mocha vintage cake” in English.

The four of us shared this for dessert, and we absolutely loved it. 

Iced Lychee Tea (IDR 45,000 + tax)

Perfect. I usually avoid lychee (blame the canned ones I ate as a kid), but this drink was as refreshing as it was sweet. 

Although the food is on the pricier side, I think it’s totally worth it—for the taste, service, and—ultimately—the ambience. Plus, we stayed there for almost five hours, so our money was definitely well spent. 

Must go back soon!

If you like this post, you might also enjoy Tiny but Charming: A Breakfast Morning at Aneka 57 and Why Pison, Thamrin Should be on Your Foodie Radar.