KL Cafe Guide
Menu
Book a table

Curio Dark Cafe @ Jalan Ampang

Updated 2026-09-29 · 3,131 reviewed · 738 listed · Scored from 205 Google reviews · How we rank ›

4.8(205) 86 composite score See reviews on Google ✓ Google-verified
CafeSpecialty CoffeeStudy & Work-Friendly CafesPet-Friendly CafesCoffee ShopDessert & Bakery CafesTea Houses & Matcha
Curio Dark Cafe @ Jalan Ampang
Location
Kampung Datuk Keramat, Kuala Lumpur
Services
Cafe, Specialty Coffee, Study & Work-Friendly Cafes
Reviews
205
Ranking
#99 in Cafe
Best for
Coffee enthusiasts seeking knowledge-driven brewing conversations in an intimate setting.

Core details are sourced from this business's Google Business Profile (checked 2026-09-29). Website-sourced details were fetched 2026-09-29.

What do recent reviews say?

The basement cafe draws repeat visits for expertly roasted beans and baristas who obsess over pour-overs and milk temperature. Staff take time to explain origins and recommend based on preference, making coffee feel like an event rather than a transaction.

The moody, subterranean setting suits coffee lovers over remote workers. Seating is stool-only, WiFi is absent, and pastries can sell out. Food divides opinion: some praise cakes and pies, others call them overpriced or suspect reheating. Regulars prize the quiet intensity; others find the intentionally cramped layout off-putting.

Praised for
  • specialty coffee and bean knowledge
  • barista craftsmanship and care
  • moody, intimate basement ambience
  • hidden gem location and aesthetic
Watch-outs
  • food quality inconsistent, sometimes microwaved or small portions
  • uncomfortable seating for longer visits
great-coffeegood-ambiencefriendly-staffcozyinstagrammable
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts seeking knowledge-driven brewing conversations in an intimate setting.
Think twice if: No WiFi, stool seating, and small footprint mean short visits beat long work sessions.

What are they good at?

  • house-roasted single-origin beans with transparent sourcing
  • baristas trained in precision steaming and pour-over craft
  • moody subterranean location designed for immersion
  • roast-your-own-beans experience offered

Worth knowing

  • Staff member Dahpne praised for coffee passion and craft
  • Baristas measure milk temperature during steaming
  • Pour-over, espresso, and coffee omakase services available
  • House roasting on-site; customers can roast their own beans
  • Basement location (in refurbished old mall); no toilets in-cafe
  • Outside seating available but humid weather drives mosquitos

What reviews say by service

Specialty Coffee
Baristas pull shots with precision and excel at pour-overs; bean selection and sourcing knowledge rival specialty sommeliers.
Study & Work-Friendly Cafes
No WiFi, stool seating without backs, and compact space unsuitable for laptop work or extended stays.
Dessert & Bakery Cafes
Cakes and pastries praised for taste but criticised as small-portioned and pricey; stock sells out on busy days.
Tea Houses & Matcha
Matcha served with expertise; one reviewer noted excellent quality.
Pet-Friendly Cafes
No evidence in reviews; category cannot be graded.

How it compares

  • Rated 4.8 against a 4.38 average across the 708 cafe businesses listed here.
  • Has more Google reviews than 46% of the businesses in this directory.

How we scored this

Scoring Method
Star rating 84
Review volume 100
Review recency 100
Review sentiment 64
Profile completeness 100
Verification 30

Rating breakdown

5
174
4
20
3
6
2
3
1
2

FAQ

Can I work or study here for a few hours?
No. There's no WiFi, and seating is stool-only with no back support, designed for brief visits. The space is intentionally compact.
Are there toilets inside the cafe?
No. Toilets are in the mall adjacent to the cafe.
Can I roast my own coffee beans there?
Yes. Their website lists 'roast your own beans' as a service offered at the cafe.
Request a quote

Similar cafes nearby

Fox Paradox Cafe @ Ampang
84

Fox Paradox Cafe @ Ampang

4.7(3514)✓ Google-verifiedPublishes prices

Fox Paradox draws crowds for its cozy, Instagram-ready space and reliably good coffee and brownies. The pasta, especially their chilli oil versions, gets particular praise. Staff are attentive, parking is ample, and the Ampang location feels accessible. Recent visits consistently hit the mark on food quality and presentation, though a few diners flag the prices as steeper than expected for what lands on the plate. The cafe has built its name over six years around specialty coffee, house-made brownies, and sourdough, which their website also highlights. They offer halal-certified meals, pancakes, and French toast alongside pasta, plus online brownie delivery to KL and Selangor. The vibe works equally well for a solo coffee session or group hangouts, and reviewers note the space suits work and catching up too.

Brunch & All-Day CafesStudy & Work-Friendly CafesPet-Friendly Cafes
View profile
Kenny Hills Bakers @ Ampang
75

Kenny Hills Bakers @ Ampang

4.3(3902)✓ Google-verifiedPublishes prices

Strong appeal for pastries, cakes, and coffee in a welcoming atmosphere with friendly service. Main drawback is persistent toilet and bathroom cleanliness complaints spanning recent visits, plus occasional reports of slow service and uneven food quality at the higher prices charged.

Dessert & Bakery CafesCafeBrunch & All-Day Cafes
View profile
TFW Bakehouse Cafe (by the flour whisperer)
92

TFW Bakehouse Cafe (by the flour whisperer)

4.9(198)✓ Google-verifiedPublishes prices

Every recent review rates the cafe five stars. Visitors praise the London cake, resoles, nasi lemak, and specialty coffees like the golden salty latte. Staff-particularly barista Iman-earn consistent mention for warmth and attentiveness. The tucked-away Taman U Thant location offers a quiet escape where both regulars and first-timers feel welcome, from breakfast diners to solo hangout seekers.

Dessert & Bakery CafesStudy & Work-Friendly CafesCafe
View profile

Own this business? Get featured

Own or market a business here? Ask about featured placement and advertising on this directory. Your message goes straight to the directory team.

Last updated 2026-09-29