Off beaten path to get the best brews

Cafés have become indispensable oases for many of us, whether you’re looking for a quiet place to get some work done, eyeing to take a breather with a refreshing brew, or just waiting for the rush hour traffic to pass.

If you don’t have plans for the coming Holy Week (or even this weekend), you may want to check out these six cafés that you’ve probably already seen while on the way to work or home, or on your social media feed—and which we think deserve a second look. One bonus is that these are also all out of the way of the usual traffic-clogged routes to the south, with fantastic scenery around most to boot.

GUEV BREAD + MORE

Cainta, Rizal

Located just past the sign demarcating the boundary between Metro Manila and Rizal, Guev Bread + More is ideal for getting the focus needed to put away a mountain of work while simultaneously being calmed and relaxed as well. The interiors are equipped with comfortable and ergonomic wooden furniture and soft upholstery which are decked in bright yellows and earthy greens, contrasting well with the dim and warm lighting to generate a homey, introverted vibe. One could easily fall into a flow state for hours in this place—ideally with a croissant and coffee on the side.

CRESCENT MOON CAFE

Antipolo, Rizal

Just one right turn from the road leading to the Manila East Road from Antipolo is Crescent Moon Café. Nestled in a sizable and dense tropical garden with a large pond lined with a rock in the middle, the establishment consists of a structure with a prominent roof and walls made of aluminium mesh, which allows the cool air afforded by the surroundings to flow inside. Its cuisine is perfect for those who have an appetite for adventurous dining experiences, healthy food, and Southeast Asian flavors.

THE 1498 CAFE

Binangonan, Rizal

On the trek south along the eastern side of Laguna de Bay is this unassuming café right beside the road. Ideal for a quick stopover, 1498 offers Thai food and drinks that are both excellent and have good value for money. Patrons swear by their pad thai and milk tea in particular, while their Hoy Tod, or thai mussel pancake, is a truly unexpected treat especially given the location.

FLUFF KOPPI CAFE

Mabitac, Laguna

Scenic views, fresh air, and winding roads give way to the welcoming sight of Fluff Koppi Café, located near the Pililla Wind Farm and the boundary between Rizal and Laguna. The experience of approaching its white-washed walls and distinctive thatched roof after going through seemingly endless vegetation matches well with the minimalist interiors that contrast with the natural views outside via the large glass window in front. Iced coffee and affordable breakfast meals–and pizza–are also very welcome after the arduous drive. This spot is frequented equally by motorcycle riders as well as drivers out on leisure trips, which gives an additional layer of thrill should one be in the mood for socialization.

WILDBREADS

Los Baños, Laguna

One of the success stories of the pandemic years is Wildbreads, located near the Raymundo Gate of UP Los Banos. It offers high quality breads and pastries that are at par with the best that Metro Manila can offer–their croissants and pizzas are of particular note. They also have a variety of excellent hot and cold drinks that go well with their baked goods. All of this high-calorie goodness is easily offset by an extended walk in the university grounds. But for those who plan to make the long drive south to get a taste of their products, be wary as their stocks run out within a matter of hours so it is best to make a reservation in advance.