Minimalist coffee shops in Metro Manila
Christmas gatherings this year will be limited to social distancing given the pandemic. But while large celebrations will have to take a backseat, we can still make the holiday season special with intimate places that exude the spirit of a white Christmas, such as minimalist coffee shops.
Here are 9 minimalist coffee shops in Metro Manila for quick catch-ups with your friends and families in the upcoming months.
– Bonifacio Global City –
1. Arabica 257 McKinley – surrounded by a transparent glass exterior
Image credit: @arabica.ph
Arabica Philippines’ branch at 257 McKinley will stun you even from afar. An ultra-minimalist establishment, the branch shines amidst a throng of shops in BGC, with its transparent glass exterior that blends reflections of the cafe’s interior with its surroundings.
Image credit: @arabica.ph
The coffee shop is anopen space painted with white, while a signature amphitheater seating style inspired by the Banaue Rice Terraces forms the dining area.
All these minimalistic elements make 257 McKinley indeed a must-visit for friends planning to celebrate the coming Christmas season with a quick coffee catch-up.
Image credit: @arabica.ph
Their espresso-based cafe latte (starts at P150, ~USD3.00) and mocha (P190, ~USD3.80) are must-try drinks, but if you’re looking for a more unique option, the matcha (starts at P150, ~USD3.00) latte is a good option as well.
Address: Shop G03-G04, Ground Floor 25/7 McKinley Building, 25th corner 7th Ave, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, 1630 Metro Manila
Telephone: 842 64029
Arabica’s website
2. Harlan + Holden Coffee – coffee shop of clothing brand Harlan + Holden
Image credit: @harlanholden.coffee
Featuring elegant minimalist elements that the clothing brand Harlan + Holden has been known for, the Harlan + Holden Coffee is about mixing muted tones of grey and peach to form a sleek, coffee haven where you can get your coffee fix with friends these -ber months.
The store is cashless, so orders should be made via their mobile app. But while you can just ask for your beverages to be delivered or ready for pick-up, you can also stay inside.
Image credit: @harlanholden.coffee
Many beverages are on offer, but if you’re new to their flavors, you can start with the Madagascar (starts at P145, ~USD2.90), their best-selling latte that comes with a lightly sweetened pure vanilla bean.
Image credit: @harlanholden.coffee
Address: G/F, One Bonifacio High Street Mall, 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, 1630 Metro Manila
Mobile: 0956 513 8877
Harlan + Holden Coffee’s Instagram
3. Frank & Dean – known for its salted cream latte & chicken jambalaya
Image credit: @frankdeancoffee, @frankdeancoffee
Frank & Dean Coffee BGC is an inviting space of clean, white walls and wooden accents. Aside from Arabica’s McKinley branch, this is one of the favorite hangout spots of folks living and working in the area.
Salted Cream Latte, Chicken Jambalaya
Image credit: @frankdeancoffee, Frank & Dean Coffee
They have teas, lattes, and espressos, but to begin with their beverages, many recommend their Salted Cream Latte (starts at P140, ~USD2.81), a creamy drink topped with cream cheese frosting balanced with salty and bitter notes that give enough jolt to get you going.
The Chicken Jambalaya, a unique rice bowl of grilled chicken dipped in green, creamy sauce, is also a favorite.
Address: Five/NEO, 31st Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, 1630 Metro Manila
Mobile: 0915 316 4247
Frank & Dean’s website
– Makati –
4. Toby’s Estate Salcedo – from the popular Australian coffee brand
Image credit: Toby’s Estate Cafe
Toby’s Estate Philippines branch in Salcedo Village is another spot those looking for a hangout spot with a light, refreshing ambience should visit. The coffee shop, established in Australia in 1998, has been in our country since 2014.
Image credit: @tobysestateph, @tobysestateph
Those starting out on Australian coffee must try their cup of flat white (P170, ~USD3.41), an espresso-based drink that’s a staple in many coffee houses Down Under.
To pair with your drink, their seasonal menu offers goodies from vegetable salads to burgers such as the Wagyu Burger, filled with cheese, patty, and sauce.
Image credit: Toby’s Estate Cafe
Address: V Corporate Center, Shop 6, 125 L.P. Leviste St., Salcedo Village, 1227 Makati City, Metro Manila
Telephone: 7507 6174
Toby’s Estate’s website
– Muntinlupa –
5. Group & Boiler Coffee Co. – laid-back coffee shop for Southies
Image credit: @groupandboiler
The Group & Boiler Coffee Co. is an inviting corner in Alabang. The space’s minimalism is balanced with bold brown and blue, and plants are scattered throughout, so visitors can feel homey inside a laid-back space that mixes modern with vintage decor.
Image credit: @groupandboiler
One of their unique beverages is the Group & Boiler Signature (P180, ~USD3.61). It’s balanced with taste and texture, a combination of espresso, apples, and spices capped with torched cinnamon and sugar.
Image credit: @groupandboiler
Address: Molito Complex, Madrigal Ave., Alabang, Muntinlupa City, 1781, Metro Manila
Group & Boiler Coffee Co.’s Facebook | Instagram
– San Juan –
6. Niseko Coffee – Japanese-inspired coffee shop
Image credit: @nisekocoffeeph
We may not be able to experience a literal white Christmas filled with snow, but Niseko Coffee is a small, compact Japanese-inspired coffee shop in Greenhills. The coffee shop’s details are a nod to everything Japanese – from its emphasis on zen interiors to its selections of beverages.
Niseko Signature Latte
Image credit: @nisekocoffeeph
The Niseko Signature Latte (P150, ~USD3.01) is one of their bestsellers and is perfect for those who prefer their latte strong and creamy.
Address: Greenhills Promenade 3, San Juan, 1502 Metro Manila
Niseko Coffee’s Facebook | Instagram
– Quezon City –
7. Prominent Manila – with a good Wi-Fi connection
Image credit: @prominentmnl
Located far away from business districts, Prominent Manila is your neighborhood cafe for whenever you and your friends crave a quieter space in the company of your favorite comfort food and drinks.
Besides, its industrial interiors with grey walls and wooden elements will also make for a spacious area to mingle with friends.
Image credit: Prominent Manila
The Butterball (P180, ~USD3.61) drink is a one-of-a-kind flavor with warm butterball-infused milk and iced coffee cubes.
Image credit: @prominentmnl
And when you’re meeting up with friends while working, Prominent has a fast and stable internet connection you can rely on.
Address: 49 Scout Alcaraz, Sta. Mesa Heights, Quezon City, 1114 Metro Manila
Mobile: 0945 630 6713
Prominent Manila’s website
8. Palpitate – new coffee shop in Batasan Hills
Image credit: Palpitate PH, @kissandcrave
The newly opened Palpitate amidst Batasan Hills stands among its neighborhood with its charming minimalist glass exterior accentuated with a touch of yellow.
Image credit: @_palpitateph
Living by the tagline “Coffee now, palpitate later,” the coffee shop brews various coffee beans sourced from many countries. Many love their signature Palpitate Latte (starts at P170, ~USD3.41), known for its sweet and salty taste.
Address: Corner Sinagtala Road, Batasan Hills, Quezon City, 1126 Metro Manila
Mobile: 0908 799 8786
Palpitate’s Facebook | Instagram
9. Common Folk Coffee Bar – serving creative sandwiches
Image credit: @commonfolkph, @commonfolkph
Situated amidst White Plains, Common Folk Coffee Bar is a small but laid-back coffee shop with minimalistic elements of whites, grays, and browns.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Image credit: @commonfolkph
They’re known for their innovative takes on sandwiches, which include Winner Winner Chicken Dinner (P280, ~USD5.62) with mushrooms, chicken, and basil.
But if you want a more classic alternative, try out their Grilled Cheese Sandwich (P280, ~USD5.62) partnered with chips and a tomato dip. When it comes to their beverages, their Iced Mocha (P160, ~USD3.21) has been a favorite.
Image credit: @commonfolkph
Address: 79 Katipunan Avenue, White Plains, Quezon City, 1110 Metro Manila
Common Folk Coffee Bar’s Facebook | Instagram
Minimalist coffee shops
Celebrations this Christmas season even when the pandemic is still going on can still be memorable, as small gatherings.
Minimalist coffee shops, adorned with elegant subdued tones, are some of the most accessible places around to gather with friends and loved ones.
Check out other cafes & restaurants around the metro:
- Metro Manila coffee shops brewing local coffee
- Wildheart flower shop + cafe
- Coffee delivery services in Metro Manila
Cover image adapted from: @arabica.ph, @arabica.ph