As Indonesia continues to progress thanks to its ever-expanding infrastructure and the connectivity of its people, it has never been easier for the coffee shop owner to bring his or her brand of brewing to surrounding cities. Hailing from Jakarta, Simetri Coffee Roasters Jogja is a fine example of a caffeine-dealing business that has successfully carved out a home in another corner of the country – and the locals have deemed that it is here to stay.

Far from the congested streets of the capital, although still with the occasional car horn in the background, this rendition of the brand speaks to its mostly student demographic, colonial architecture, and overall more laidback feel of the city. Housed in an old designated protected Dutch house, the layout of the cafe almost makes one feel as though someone had simply moved commercial furniture into someone’s home – the foyer could easily be a living room, the serving area a dining room and kitchen, and the smaller rooms bedrooms. This creates a palpable homey atmosphere, with each “room” dotted with a combination of sofa-lined tables for convivial meetups, solitary two-seaters, and communal tables for study groups.

Of course, meetups and study sessions would not be complete without a cup of the cafe’s thoughtfully-made coffee, and the friendly folks helming the barista’s bar are more than happy to walk you through their selection. As stated in the ‘Pledge of Simetri’ written on one of their walls, the shop pays careful of attention to what goes into their brews and roasts. We, of course, stuck to our tried-and-true beverage orders and cake, but hear that their croque madam is heavenly.

Thesis writing and get-togethers aside, note that Simetri is also a great place to celebrate a 70th birthday. Not mine, obviously.