HSCO: The Perfect Morning Coffee Spot in Yogyakarta’s Heritage Zone

HSCO, or Hasko, is more than just a coffee shop. It's a unique coffee experience nestled in an old heritage building next to the puppetry museum Sonobudoyo, right in front of the northern square of the Royal Palace. Its prime location is just the beginning - the real attraction is its exceptional coffee, a statement in itself.

The coffee shop is open from 6 AM to 10PM and is perfect for a morning pick-me-up. They also have this special Ngopi Pagi, which basically is their promotional discount if you drink their coffee from 6-9 AM.

HSCO's unparalleled hospitality truly sets it apart, reflecting Yogyakarta's local wisdom. The baristas and staff not only serve coffee but also embody the spirit of the area, making every visit a memorable experience. This unique charm distinguishes HSCO from other coffee shops in the area.

HSCO is a hidden gem, often overlooked by locals. Yet, it exudes a magical, idyllic atmosphere rarely found elsewhere. It's a spot where you can sit, stare at the street, and feel like you've stepped into a different time, experiencing Yogyakarta's 'slow living'.

At HSCO, the coffee selections are a testament to their dedication to quality. While the menu has seen a few improvements, the delicious drip coffee remains a standout, a rarity in the area.

And if you're feeling adventurous, their strawberry coffee and cinnamon rolls are a must-try.

The strawberry latte is made of crushed strawberries topped with espresso. It's the real deal compared to what I was making at home, where I used strawberry milk. This one uses actual strawberries in its mixture, which tastes even more heavenly. For latte lovers, this is a combo that one must try at least once in a lifetime.

Their cinnamon rolls are humble, but they pair well with the sweetness of the latte. They could be better in bakery/patisseries grade, but they're okay for a coffee shop.

Don't let the prime location and the menu quality fool you -HSCO is surprisingly affordable. Their prices are a breath of fresh air compared to most modern coffee shops in the area, making it great value for money.

I went there in the morning, and it was such a great experience. I chit-chatted with the barista and told the barista it was my third time visiting the place. I praised the place for being outstanding, and it should be more well-known, considering its service and coffee.

My tip is to visit the place in the morning, as they run this promotion that offers discounted coffee and a serene ambiance. It is the perfect time to get some energy before exploring all the heritage spots that are available in this area. If you're like me and can't function before coffee, this makes this place a great place to be. If you bring a motorbike or car, they also provide spacious parking areas.

If you're a timer in the area and enjoy coffee, their drip is a must, but if you're a non-coffee drinker, their Tambi tea is the best. It's a tea from a nearby plantation with a refreshing fragrant smell. You'll have one of your best mornings in Yogyakarta with the idyllic heritage setting that HSCO proudly offers.

These are some of my shots from inside the place, which is a must-visit if you visit the northern square of the Royal Palace.

Fun fact: In the past, visitors were free to stroll through the square but for the last two years, the Sultanate opted to close it to the public. This measure is done to protect its cultural significance, as the square is considered as a sacred site. It is a symbol of the Sultanate and the divine beings in the region.

See you in my next coffee adventure!