Bandung Cafe is an Indonesian-inspired eatery situated along Parnell Road in Auckland, created to bring the warmth of mothers' kitchens and bustling street-side warungs of Bali and Java to New Zealand. Founded by a family whose roots trace deeply back to Bandung—often celebrated as the 'Paris of Java'—the cafe blends traditional Indonesian heritage recipes with seasonal local ingredients and distinctive historic Dutch influences.
From fresh street food snacks like sate and otak-otak to classic home-style feasts, Bandung offers a welcoming space complete with indoor seating and a dedicated outdoor area. Whether dropping by for breakfast, lunch, an evening gathering, or a family celebration, guests will find a relaxed oasis serving vibrant flavors alongside specialty drinks, cocktails, and wine.
Perched on Parnell Road, Bandung Cafe introduces Auckland to the rich culinary traditions and comforting tastes of West Java. Drawing its name from the vibrant city known as the 'Paris of Java,' the cafe was founded to recreate the sensory memories of extended family gatherings, bustling warungs in Bali and Java, and charcoal-grilled street food.
The story behind Bandung Cafe stretches back decades. When the family moved to New Zealand in the 1970s, finding authentic Indonesian ingredients in Auckland was a challenge—rice could only be sourced from Wah Lees on Hobson Street. Cooking required resourcefulness, blending family recipes with seasonal local Kiwi ingredients and influences from the local Dutch community. Today, Bandung Cafe continues that tradition of heritage cooking, making everything with care and staying true to time-honored roots.
The menu at Bandung reflects the staples found across Java's roadside stalls and family banquet tables. Dishes such as Sate Ayam grilled over charcoal, aromatic Rendang slow-cooked until meltingly tender, savory Gado-Gado salads, and leaf-wrapped Otak-Otak showcase the depth of Indonesian spices. For drinks, guests can explore traditional Jamu herbal tonics alongside an extensive list of wine, barista-made coffee, craft gin, and signature cocktails.
Bandung Cafe operates from early morning through dinner seven days a week, making it just as suitable for a morning brew as it is for an evening feast. With cozy indoor dining, an outdoor area, dedicated kids' options, and facilities for hosting private gatherings and birthday parties, Bandung serves as a welcoming community oasis in the heart of Parnell.