To most outsiders, Bandung (pron.: bahn-doong), home to no less than 8.5 million dwellers in its metropolitan area, is one of the Southeast Asia’s least known major cities. Perched on a mountainous plateau in West Java, it’s known for its pleasant cool climate, and being only a three-hour drive from the notoriously traffic-clogged capital, many well-to-do Jakartans escape here for a soothing weekend at their second home. As of late, the latter have found a new social playground with a plush setting that’s reminiscent of many alluring establishments in their hometown. We’re talking Sudut Pandang, a café and multimedia event space which shamelessly capitalises on the scenic beauty of the mountain landscape north of Bandung. Designed by Jakarta-based architecture and interior design practice Hadivincent Architects, it sits high up in the mountains at Sarae Hills, a popular leisure destination of locals and out-of-towners known for its dining venues, trekking trails, and of course, an abundance of photogenic spots. Set across a sloped 15-acre terrain, Sudut Pandang occupies a newly built structure on top of a former car parking building and features two levels. Upon entering the premises, by way of a walking bridge, guests find themselves in a voluminous light-filled lobby with large rattan pendant lights dangling from the ceiling. A seemingly suspended staircase lead towards the café and terraces on two levels overlooking Punclut valley and Bandung‘s urban sprawl. The first level features a roofed section with booths and elongated sofas, and three circular booths which jut into a pond in the open air. One floor up, a larger outdoor terrace with a garden setting is readily available and features two elevated cupolas, in addition to a second roofed indoor section for dining. The menu at Sudut Pandang features both Indonesian and Western fare, and given the huge popularity of the terraces, a hefty spending minimum per table is required.