New to Batam? Buy These Snacks on Your First Midnight Circle K Run
Photo Source : @UiHua Cheah
Once you’ve checked into your hotel, one of the first things you’ll probably ask is: “Got convenience store nearby ah?”
In Malaysia, we’re used to popping into 7-Eleven or KK Mart. In Batam, that role is filled by Circle K, Indomaret, and Alfamart - reliable, mostly 24-hour pit stops that somehow always end up being your last stop before heading back to the hotel for the night.
Officially, you’re just popping in for a few bottles of water or maybe some coffee for the next morning. Unofficially, it’s the perfect excuse to browse the snack aisles… just in case you get hungry later.
The only problem? If it’s your first time in Batam, you’ll probably spend half your visit staring at shelves full of snacks you’ve never seen before, wondering which ones are actually worth trying.
Consider this your cheat sheet. Here are some Indonesian convenience store favourites that deserve the honour of becoming your first midnight snack in Batam.
1. Qtela Kripik Singkong – Better than potato chips
Photo source: Qtela via Youtube
Qtela takes thinly sliced cassava and turns it into light, crispy chips with a satisfying crunch that’s different from your usual potato crisps. They’re slightly airier, with a texture that’s almost impossible to stop eating once you’ve opened the bag.
The best part? The flavours.
Aside from the usual barbecue and seaweed, look out for Indonesian favourites like Balado and Ayam Geprek.
Our warning: Every potato chip might feel like a disappointment after this.
2. BonCabe Makaroni Krispi – Yes, it’s literally spicy, crispy macaroni
Photo source: BonCabe
Originally famous for its chilli flakes, the brand has since expanded into its own range of crunchy snacks, including crispy macaroni and crispy tempeh.
What makes them stand out is the spice level. And, if this is your first time in Batam, the concept of deep-fried macaroni covered in seasoning.
BonCabe Makaroni Krispi comes with numbered heat ratings like Level 10 or even Level 15. The shape of the macaroni, with its hollow centre and bend, catches enough of the seasoning to deliver a spicy, crunchy kick every time.
Pair either one with an ice-cold Pucuk Harum or Teh Botol, and you’ve got the perfect late-night snack after a long day exploring Batam.
3. SilverQueen Chocolate Bar – The king of Indonesian chocolate bars
Photo source: CNBC Indonesia
SilverQueen is a homegrown chocolate bar brand that outsells all other big-name international brands in Indonesia.
The reason? Their signature cashewnut bar is known for packing generous amounts of whole roasted cashews into smooth milk chocolate, while still keeping the price reasonable.
While you can find SilverQueen bars in Malaysia, it’s only in Indonesia where you get the full range of flavours, from matcha to berry yoghurt; and varieties such as Chunky.
If you usually reach for Cadbury or KitKat, give SilverQueen a try… you might just be tempted to switch sides.
4. ABC Kacang Hijau – Bubur kacang hijau… in a drink box?
Photo source: Instagram
ABC Kacang Hijau is made from mung beans, coconut milk, and ginger, all packed into a handy drink carton. It’s also one of those drinks you’ll see in convenience stores and go “....why?”
For Malaysians, it feels strangely familiar yet familiarly strange.
After all, we’re used to enjoying bubur kacang hijau as a warm dessert served in a bowl. Drinking a chilled version straight from a carton feels like rediscovering an old favourite in an entirely new form.
It’s slightly creamy, mildly sweet, and the hint of ginger gives it a refreshing finish that works surprisingly well in Batam’s sunny heat.
5. Sari Roti – So good you can even eat it on-the-go
Photo source: Sari Roti
Walk into any convenience store in Indonesia and you’ll probably spot shelves stacked with Sari Roti, one of the country’s most recognisable bread brands - similar to Gardenia in Malaysia.
Once you’re done giggling over sandwich bread being called Roti Tawar in Indonesia, it’s time to be impressed by the sheer variety of breads, from flavoured roti tawar to Roti Sobek (pull-apart bread) and cream-filled varieties.
But for travellers, the star of the show are their sandwich series - crustless soft bread filled with jams and creams like kaya, chocolate, and cream cheese.
Protip: Snacks make great last-minute souvenirs!
Photo source: Circle K via X.com
Don’t just stop at this list… Once you’ve tried the classics, start exploring the shelves. You might discover other favourites like Coco Latte coconut coffee, Malkist crackers, bottled teas, and instant noodles that end up becoming your own Batam convenience store go-tos.
Better yet, many of these snacks make surprisingly good last-minute souvenirs. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and often much friendlier on the wallet than picking up gifts at the ferry terminal gift shop before heading home.
- Need more unique souvenir ideas? Here’s a list of grocery items that make memorable gifts!
- Get to Batam the easiest and most convenient way - Daily ferry schedule from Berjaya Waterfront here.