“Even the folks behind Kita wondered what they were thinking when they opened a nocturnal hotspot, but it’s paid off, writes dining reviewer WENDY JOHNSON. 

EVEN the folks behind Kita wondered what they were thinking when they opened a nocturnal hotspot. It was a risk that paid off. 

Kita is constantly busy, with travellers, students (free wi-fi!), hospitality staff, tradies and anyone who has been out on the social scene flowing in late at night and through the wee hours of the morning for fresh, tasty food and great coffee. 

Kita, at Narrabundah shops, is a family establishment with the mum bringing “Indonesian flair all the way from South Sumatra” to many dishes on the menu. The son is a barista at heart and a seasoned hospitality worker so the foundations for this “whacky” idea were quickly set. 

We went not long after Kita opened and were impressed. We decided on a second visit this year to see how the place was travelling. 

Even though there’s no alcohol at Kita (not even BYO), the crowds were packed in.

We shared the Indonesian corn fritters ($9.50) which were delicious and not greasy or heavy. The Perkedel Jagung arrived with a spicy house-made relish, which we eagerly dipped our fritters into.

The curry of the week (beef rendang $17.50) was the best we’ve had in Canberra in a long time. The combo of spices was impressive and the heat just right. The meat was so tender no knife was needed and it was a generous serve. What an impressive dish.

For something different I ordered the Indonesian-inspired burger – satay chicken, beef rendang or veggie patty ($19.50). The satay chicken was scrumptious. The chicken was incredibly moist and the peanut satay sauce perfect. The housemade chips were crispy and just the right serve.

Also on the night menu are other dishes Indonesia is famous for, including Gado gado ($17.50), Nasi Goreng ($18), Laksa ($16.50) and Bakso ($15.50). 

Kita staff are friendly and efficient but not pushy (always with a smile). The décor is also relaxed. Different dining zones include one up a couple of steps featuring large, burgundy leather furniture. Intriguing photos of Indonesian people and places hang on the walls. 

Staff tell us expanded outdoor seating is on the horizon and perhaps even extended hours. A breakfast menu has been operating with great success Saturdays and Sundays only.

Kita, Narrabundah shops. Eftpos only. No alcohol (including no BYO). Kita is open Wednesday and Thursday, 6pm-6am, and Friday, 6pm to noon Saturday, then Saturday, 6pm to noon Sunday.