Best Cafes Near Kuching Waterfront — Sunset Views, Budget Brews & Wi-Fi Spots

Black Bean Coffee Kuching

There’s something magical about the Kuching Waterfront. The moment you step onto the riverside promenade, the air feels alive—humid yet refreshing, with the faint aroma of roasted coffee drifting from nearby cafés. Street vendors call out, boats glide across the Sarawak River, and children’s laughter echoes against the evening sky.

In the middle of this vibrant scene, most travelers (myself included) are usually after three simple things: a cozy seat, a good cup of coffee, and a view worth remembering.

This isn’t just another list of coffee shops. It’s a story about the best spots to sip, chill, and soak in the city’s riverside vibe. From budget-friendly brews for backpackers, to cafés with the perfect sunset view, and even Wi-Fi havens for digital nomads—these are the places that make Kuching feel like home, even just for a few hours.

Quick Facts Box — 5 Fast Picks

Top 5 Cafes Near Kuching Waterfront

1. Black Bean Coffee & Tea — legendary local beans with a strong Sarawak flavor.
2. Indah House Kuching — artsy vibes and the best sunset balcony.
3. The Coffee Garden — reliable Wi-Fi and plenty of power outlets.
4. Commons Cafe — colonial-style interior and desserts to fall in love with.
5. Borneo 744 Café — budget-friendly, with meals under RM20.

(Tip: Search the café on Google Maps and hit “Directions” from Kuching Waterfront—it’s all within walking distance.)

1. Black Bean Coffee & Tea — A Taste of Sarawak in a Cup

If there’s one café almost every traveler in Kuching talks about, it’s Black Bean Coffee & Tea. From the outside, it looks unassuming, almost easy to miss. But once you step in, the rich aroma of freshly roasted beans wraps around you like a warm hug.

This is where many people get their first sip of Sarawak coffee. The baristas are friendly and often recommend their local liberica or robusta blends—bold, earthy, with a lingering aftertaste that feels distinctly Borneo. A cup here costs around RM5–RM8, making it perfect for backpackers who want quality without blowing the budget.

The vibe inside is rustic, with wooden shelves stacked high with coffee beans from across the region. It’s the kind of place where conversations flow easily—you might find yourself chatting with travelers from Japan or Europe, all drawn here by the same aroma.

Quick Info:

📍 Location: Jalan Ewe Hai (5-minute walk from the Waterfront)

🕐 Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

💸 Price: RM5–RM12 per cup

💡 Tip: Grab a window seat for the best people-watching spot while sipping your brew.

Must Read: Exploring Kuching Waterfront: 7 Must-Visit Spots Within Walking Distance

Indah House Kuching

2. Indah House Kuching — Sunset, Art, and Cozy Vibes

The name says it all: Indah House feels less like a café and more like stepping into an artist’s living room. Local paintings hang on the walls, batik fabrics add a splash of color, and the bohemian décor instantly makes you feel at ease.

But the real magic here happens at sunset. From the outdoor balcony, you can watch the sun dip behind the iconic Darul Hana Bridge, the Sarawak River glowing gold and orange as you sip your iced latte. It’s one of those moments that sticks with you long after the trip is over.

Hungry? Their menu is a mix of comfort food and local twists—vegetarian nasi lemak, traditional kuih, or a simple pasta dish. Prices range between RM10–RM25, still backpacker-friendly. Many digital nomads also love working here thanks to the stable Wi-Fi and chill background music.

Quick Info:

📍 Location: Carpenter Street (about 7–8 minutes walk from the Waterfront)

🕐 Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

💸 Price: RM10–RM25

🌟 Tip: Arrive around 5:30 PM, claim a balcony seat, and you’ll catch golden hour at its best.

Must Read: Best Budget Hotels in Kuching: Affordable Stays for Every Traveler

3. The Coffee Garden — Your “Remote Office” by the River

Not every café is built for digital nomads, but The Coffee Garden gets it right. Tucked just a short walk from the Waterfront, this spot is shaded with greenery, a small fountain at the entrance, and plenty of tables that feel made for settling in with a laptop.

The first time I came here, I ended up staying way longer than planned. Why? Strong Wi-Fi, reliable power outlets, and coffee that keeps you going. Their iced americano (RM8) is simple but refreshing in Kuching’s tropical heat. If you’re hungry, try their chicken chop or nasi lemak—good portions for under RM20.

The vibe is peaceful, with birds chirping from the garden outside. Unlike busier tourist cafés, here you can actually hear yourself think. Perfect for catching up on work, writing a blog, or just journaling your trip.

Quick Info:

📍 Location: Jalan Song Thian Cheok (10 minutes from the Waterfront)

🕐 Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

💸 Price: RM8–RM20

🌟 Tip: Best seats are by the window facing the small courtyard—natural light without the heat.

Must Read: Discover the Best Kuching Tourism Places: A Complete Beginner’s Guide

Commons Cafe Kuching

4. Commons Café — Colonial Charm & Sweet Treats

If Kuching’s Waterfront had a “classic postcard café,” Commons Café would be it. Located inside the Old Courthouse, the building itself feels like stepping back into colonial times—whitewashed walls, wooden shutters, and high ceilings that echo with history.

Inside, it’s a blend of modern chic and heritage. Their menu is Western-leaning but with a Sarawak touch. I went for their signature laksa pasta (yes, they turned the famous Sarawak laksa into a creamy pasta dish), and it was surprisingly good. Pair that with their homemade cakes—the cheesecake here deserves its own fan club.

Prices are mid-range (RM15–RM35), so not the cheapest, but you’re really paying for the atmosphere. It’s also a nice spot to bring friends, or even just to treat yourself after days of budget meals.

Quick Info:

📍 Location: The Old Courthouse, Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg

🕐 Hours: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM

💸 Price: RM15–RM35

🌟 Tip: Sit outdoors in the courtyard for a breezy, open-air experience.

Must Read: Discovering Kuching's Culinary Treasures: A Flavorful Journey Through Sarawak’s Capital

5. Borneo 744 Café — Budget-Friendly & Local Flavors

Backpackers, this one’s for you. Borneo 744 Café is a little further out but worth mentioning for its budget-friendly meals and laid-back atmosphere. It’s part of a creative hub that hosts events and pop-ups, so you’ll often find art exhibitions or small performances happening around.

Food here is simple but hearty—think fried rice, noodles, and local snacks, most under RM20. Coffee isn’t their strongest game (go for iced milk tea instead), but the charm lies in the community vibe. You might share a table with local students, artists, or even fellow travelers who wandered in.

It feels less polished than other cafés, but sometimes that’s exactly what you need—a place to eat cheap, chat with locals, and feel part of Kuching’s grassroots scene.

Quick Info:

📍 Location: Jalan Semangat (10–15 min by Grab from Waterfront)

🕐 Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

💸 Price: RM8–RM20

🌟 Tip: Check their Facebook before going—they sometimes have live music nights.

Hidden Gem

1. Zinc Restaurant & Bar

Okay, technically more of a restaurant-bar, but many travelers love coming here just for the coffee or cocktails at sunset. It’s a short walk from the Waterfront, and the open-air seating makes it a dreamy spot to watch the evening unfold.

If you want to level up from backpacker casual to something a little fancier without breaking the bank, this is it.

2. ChinaHouse at The Old CourtHouse

You might have heard of ChinaHouse in Penang—well, Kuching has its very own. This place is an art gallery, café, and performance space rolled into one. The cakes are legendary, the art exhibitions keep things fresh, and the vibe is effortlessly cool.

For travelers who like culture mixed with coffee, this is the spot.

Walking Route: Café-Hopping Along Kuching Waterfront

One of the best parts about Kuching is how walkable the city is, especially around the Waterfront. You don’t need a car to enjoy most of these cafés—just comfortable shoes and a little time.

Here’s a simple walking route to maximize your café-hopping:

1. Start at Black Bean Coffee & Tea (fuel up with Sarawak coffee).
2. Stroll through Carpenter Street, stop at Indah House Kuching for art vibes and an early lunch.
3. Cross towards the Old Courthouse to enjoy cakes at Commons Café.
4. If you’re in “work mode,” detour to The Coffee Garden for Wi-Fi and productivity.
5. Wrap up with a sunset drink at Zinc Bar or sweet treats at ChinaHouse.

If you want to squeeze in Borneo 744 Café, grab a quick GrabCar—it’s about 10–15 minutes out, perfect for a casual evening dinner after your Waterfront stroll.

Traveler Tips for Café-Hopping in Kuching

• Cash & E-wallets: Many smaller cafés still prefer cash, but bigger spots accept Touch ‘n Go or credit cards.
• Timing: Mornings are calm, afternoons get hot, and evenings are perfect for sunset views.
• Wi-Fi culture: Most cafés are cool with digital nomads, but it’s polite to order at least one drink every couple of hours.
• Local drinks: Don’t just stick to coffee—try Teh C Peng Special (three-layer tea) or iced Milo.
• Budget hack: Average coffee costs RM6–RM12, meals RM12–RM25. Perfect for backpackers stretching the ringgit.

FAQ — Best Cafés Near Kuching Waterfront

Q: What’s the best café for sunset near the Waterfront?

A: Indah House Kuching wins hands down—its balcony view over the Darul Hana Bridge is unforgettable.

Q: Which café is most budget-friendly for backpackers?

A: Borneo 744 Café offers full meals under RM20, though it’s a short Grab ride away.

Q: Any café good for working or studying?

A: The Coffee Garden is a digital nomad favorite with strong Wi-Fi and plenty of outlets.

Q: Where can I taste authentic Sarawak coffee?

A: Go straight to Black Bean Coffee & Tea—it’s practically a rite of passage.

Q: What if I want desserts and cake?

A: Head to Commons Café or ChinaHouse—both are known for their sweet selections.

Coffee Shop

Where Coffee Meets the River

Café-hopping around Kuching Waterfront isn’t just about drinking coffee—it’s about experiencing the city’s rhythm. In the mornings, locals sip kopi-O before work. By afternoon, travelers are typing away on laptops, chasing deadlines with iced lattes. And as the sun sets, everyone slows down to watch the Sarawak River glow with golden light.

Each café here tells a different story. Black Bean Coffee & Tea celebrates tradition. Indah House blends art with sunsets. The Coffee Garden welcomes remote workers. Commons Café connects history with modern flavors. And places like Borneo 744, Zinc, and ChinaHouse show how Kuching’s café scene is as diverse as the city itself.

So whether you’re a backpacker on a budget, a digital nomad seeking Wi-Fi, or simply someone chasing the perfect sunset view, Kuching Waterfront has a café waiting for you. Grab your cup, take a seat, and let the river remind you why slow travel is the best travel.