KBRN, Pontianak: The culinary scene in Pontianak, West Kalimantan, has gained a new landmark with the opening of Indigo Brew & Cake, a café that blends creative gastronomy with community spirit. More than just a dining spot, its presence is expected to strengthen the city’s creative economy and provide a gathering place for diverse groups.

The café, located in the heart of Pontianak, was officially inaugurated on Sunday evening, December 28, 2025, by West Kalimantan Governor Ria Norsan. The ceremony, marked by lively celebrations, was attended by prominent figures including the Mayor of Pontianak, the Deputy Regent of Kubu Raya, community leaders, and academics.

Governor Norsan praised the courage of Indigo’s owners in investing in the creative economy. He emphasized that ventures like this bring fresh energy to the region’s economic growth. One highlight that caught his attention was the café’s signature dish: Sambas-style Lapis Legit.

“As someone from Singkawang-Sambas, I know very well that the taste of Sambas Lapis Legit is unmatched. I heard this one uses 40 eggs; that’s extraordinary. This is part of preserving our culinary heritage,” he said, as quoted by InfoPublik, drawing applause from the audience.

Beyond culinary appreciation, the governor delivered a firm yet humane message regarding worker welfare. “My message to the management: please pay attention to employee wages. We have just issued a regulation raising the minimum wage by 6 to 7 percent. I hope no one pays below that standard,” he stressed.

He also expressed hope that Indigo would serve not only as a business venture but also as a social hub. “Hopefully this place becomes a gathering spot for creative young people, a fun coffee hangout, and a place to strengthen our bonds of brotherhood,” he added.

The café’s owner, Ade Hariyadi, shared the personal story behind the name. While “Indigo” is often associated with mystical abilities, he clarified that it was inspired by his wife’s childhood nickname, Indi. 

“Actually, this is dedicated to my wife. Her nickname is Indi, and we combined it into Indigo so she doesn’t ‘go’ too far,” he joked, drawing laughter from guests.

Indigo Brew & Cake was born from collaboration among friends and occupies a location previously known for other culinary ventures such as Milopi and 9911. Ade hopes Indigo will bring new color to Pontianak’s food landscape, especially for local residents and students.

Alongside strong-flavored coffee, the café introduced another specialty: Lapis Legit Khatulistiwa, developed by the wife of Hariyadi’s colleague, who hails from Sambas, a region renowned for its mastery of this layered cake.  

Strategically situated near the IAIN campus and within easy reach of UNTAN and Widya Dharma universities, Indigo aims to become a meeting point for students and academics to relax or exchange ideas.

Ade concluded with a vision for the café’s role in the community. “Hopefully, with Indigo’s opening, Pontianak gains another culinary identity and a place where we can all come together,” he said.

With its launch, Indigo Brew & Cake is expected to add vibrancy to Pontianak’s culinary tourism sector while creating more opportunities for local employment. ***