The absence of coffee in one's life is a rare case. Whether it's a typical morning cuppa or a dependable companion for a task-filled workday, drinking coffee has become a staple activity. Caffeine-powered individuals are a usual sight, especially in busy central business districts, so it's no surprise that homegrown coffee shops have sprouted almost everywhere.
Known for its laid-back and comforting vibe, even the South area has served as a home to up-and-coming cafés that will certainly capture the hearts of coffee lovers out there. Where to find them, you ask? Here, we hunted down some homegrown coffee shops in the South to satisfy your regular coffee fix.
Picked Cafe & Gallery
Address: Km 30 National Road, Tunasan, Muntinlupa City
Located in a cozy space down south, Picked Cafe & Gallery isn't easy to miss. With its unique facade amid a commercialized area in Barangay Tunasan, this café is known for not only serving coffee and quick grubs but also hosting events and workshops that feature and support local artists. Think local zine makers, indie music, with sweet treats on the side. This spot has been home to passionate creatives.
Aside from serving their usual lineup of coffee blends (try their Shaken Espresso for the surge of energy you need!), milkshakes, and cold zingers, they also offer light snacks like sandwiches, burgers, and pasta dishes. Patrons are raving about their S'mores too! This place is ideal for artsy peeps as the overall vibe of the place can get your creative juices flowing. The café also serves as a showroom of the shop's specialty coffee and tea so make sure to check out these offerings which you can take home.
Magnum Opus Fine Coffees
Address: 115 Aguirre Avenue, BF Homes, Parañaque City
Since it sported its refurbished look early last year, Magnum Opus Fine Coffees has continued to serve old-timers and newcomers alike. With its modern and funky interiors, customers are enticed to spend a good time of their day in the café. Coffee, conversations, and a charming space—what more can one ask for?
This hidden gem in BF Homes Parañaque is worth the trip. Next time you’re in the area, drop by and get your dose of their eight-hour Cold Drip Coffee, a refreshing super blend to boost your day, or their Pumpkin Spice Heartbreak, their take on the ever-favorite holiday drink. If you’re in it for the usual, you can never go wrong with a cup of Belgian Heartbreak, a rich mocha blend that has instantly become a crowd favorite. If you’re looking to level up your breakfast game, this café won’t disappoint.
Need Coffee
Address: 252B Aguirre Avenue, BF Homes, Parañaque City
What started as a hobby for Daniel Roque, the headman of the place, turned out to be an award-winning business venture. This quaint café is recognized not only for its sophisticated coffee profiles but also for its friendly staff and chill vibe. When asked about their relationships with their customers, Dan notes that genuine intentions and connections are important: “Our customers become our regulars, and our regulars become our friends. From there, they just keep on coming.”
With the mantra, Everyone deserves a better cup at its core, Need Coffee is inspired by its vision to provide responsibly sourced and freshly roasted coffee beans. Grab a cup or two of their classic coffees or hop on the trend and get yourself a Matcha Latte, any of which is best paired with their Half & Half Cookies. Their variety of Single Origin Beans came from Benguet, Mt. Apo, Panama, and Kenya—each carrying a distinct flavor from light and fruity to bold and chocolatey.
Another Story
Address: Evia Mall, Daang Hari, Alabang, Muntinlupa City
Another Story came straight out of a storybook. With its elaborate interiors and classy ambiance, coming into the café isn’t just a tasteful journey but a whimsical multi-sensory experience. Inspired by its sister café Cafe Voi La in Crosswinds Tagaytay, Another Story was brought to a more accessible location in the South to satisfy its patrons’ cravings for comfort food and a homey vibe.
Extending warmth to their customers is not just about their coffee concoctions, although they do take pride in their specialty drinks like Taro Affogato and Iced Mud, a house special iced coffee garnished with crushed cookies and chocolate syrup. Another Story puts the spotlight on dining which families and friends can enjoy. They serve fine pasta dishes, steak, seafood, and desserts. For one, their cheesecake variants (Ube, Salted Caramel, and Nutella) remain to be the bestsellers of the house, catering to all ages and tastes.
Exchange Alley Coffee House
Address: Unit 3, Molito Lifestyle Bldg., Madrigal cor. Commerce Ave, Alabang, Muntinlupa City
Ever dreamt of an English breakfast? Inspired by the British brekky, Exchange Alley Coffee House boasts of high-quality and freshly made offerings. This coffee shop in Molito Complex Alabang stands alongside equally-dainty cafés and restos; however, its charm never fails to make loyal customers. Open to satiate the cravings of brunch-lovers, the café offers a delightful menu from their Avo Toast to their first-rate EACH Breakfast (jam-packed with eggs, toast, bacon, sausage, beans, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and greens).
With an appreciation for better coffee, they serve both the usual and specialty blends that are meticulously concocted. They have perfected their Flat White, a traditional after-meal staple that’s a constant in the house. They also have a diverse roster of single-origin coffees such as the Guji Ye Genet and Chi’re from Ethiopia, smooth fruity and floral notes that you will enjoy!
Bean & Yolk
Address: Westgate Hub, Filinvest, Alabang, Muntinlupa City
Coffee and eggs make just the right combo for a fulfilling morning meal. But what sets Bean & Yolk apart from its competition is their healthy alternatives for the usual brunch meals and coffees. In this all-day brunch café, they use free-range eggs, fresh veggies, nitrate-free meat, and assorted dairy options like almond, soy, and oat milk. Fresh, healthy, and foolproof servings are the stars of the show.
This warm spot in the heart of Alabang is a great place to slow down or get filled. Aside from their usual iced and coffee blends, their best cup is the BY Mocha, a deep fusion of 70% South Cotabato chocolate, espresso, and milk. Another unique brew is their Almond Turmeric Latte, best-served piping hot. For the uninitiated, their warm plates are also top-notch, ranging from their healthy BY Tapa Bowl to breakfast items like their honey-infused grilled cheese called Cara’s Fave.
Competing with commercial coffee shops is a tall order. However, the demand for specialty coffee and personalized dining experiences remains to cultivate a new culture for the F&B industry. More than just avid drinkers, we have turned into cultured coffee enthusiasts who crave for the next best cup. With these options in mind, you’ll never run out of coffee and all the good things it comes with!
