If you’re a coffee lover visiting Baguio, you’re in for a treat! The city is filled with cozy cafes serving up delicious brews, from locally sourced blends to international favorites. This guide will help you discover some of the best coffee shops in Baguio, where you can relax, enjoy a great cup of coffee, and soak in the city’s unique atmosphere.
Hill Station: A Taste of History and Coffee
Hill Station is more than just a coffee shop; it’s an experience. Housed in a beautifully restored building that once served as a radio station, this place offers a unique ambiance. They’re known for their great coffee, but many also enjoy their food menu. It’s a popular spot, so be prepared to wait during peak hours. The blend they use is well-regarded within the community, making it a strong choice for those new to Baguio coffee culture.
Chocolate de Batirol: A Traditional Treat
While not strictly only a coffee shop, Chocolate de Batirol is a Baguio institution that deserves a place on this list. Their batirol, a thick, rich hot chocolate made with cacao beans and stirred with a wooden beater (the batirol), is a must-try. They also have coffee, usually served with traditional Filipino snacks. The outdoor seating area, surrounded by lush greenery, makes it a perfect place to enjoy a relaxing afternoon. The traditional preparation of drinks is part of the experience, emphasizing the local culture.
Arca’s Yard: Coffee with a View
Arca’s Yard is an experience that goes beyond just coffee. Located slightly outside the city center, it boasts fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. The interior is filled with art and antiques, creating a cozy and unique atmosphere. Their coffee is good, but the main draw is the ambiance and the stunning scenery. It is truly an ‘instagramable’ location for those that enjoy photography. It is worth noting that the trip up can be quite an experience in of itself due to the roads heading up to the location. Consider this if you are not comfortable with driving on steep winding roads.
Beans Talk Cafe: A Cozy and Casual Spot
Beans Talk Cafe is a popular choice for students and young professionals. They offer a wide variety of coffee drinks, as well as affordable meals and snacks. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, making it a great place to study, work, or just hang out with friends. They often have events and promotions, so be sure to check their social media pages for updates. The location is perfect for those looking for a reliable location to meet without having to travel to too far out of the city proper. They often feature different flavors of coffee beans, to cater to the preferences of frequenting customers.
Patch Cafe: A Hidden Gem
Patch Cafe, also known locally for its baked goods, is a great stop for a quiet afternoon. If you are fond of trying various baked goods, then you will enjoy the selection here. Located on Yangco Street, this hidden gem is known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious coffee. They also serve pastries, cakes, and other treats. It’s a popular spot with locals, and a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Many find that their low-key vibe helps them to get work done here. The smell of fresh pastries and coffee wafts around the premises to deliver a relaxing experience.
Vizco’s Restaurant and Cake Shop: Sweet Treats and Coffee
While Vizco’s is primarily known for their Strawberry Shortcake, they also offer decent coffee. If you’re craving something sweet, this is the place to go. They have several locations around Baguio, making it easy to find a spot to satisfy your sweet tooth. Keep in mind that this place is very popular, especially the branch along Session Road, and lines can get long. However, many find the quality to be worth the wait. If you do not have time to fall in line, then you might want to try another sweets place that can satisfy the same craving. Some locals might be able to recommend similar locations.
Hot Cat Specialty Coffee and Goods: Artisanal Coffee Experience
For those seeking a more specialty or niche coffee experience, consider Hot Cat Specialty Coffee and Goods. This shop, located on General Luna Road, is known for its emphasis on high quality coffee. They focus on single-origin beans and offer different brewing methods. The baristas are passionate about coffee and are happy to share their knowledge with customers. It’s an excellent place for coffee enthusiasts looking to explore different flavors and brewing techniques. They also offer a select goods range for sale as a souvenir to remind patrons about the shop as they leave.
Rumours Coffee and Bar: A Local Favorite with Nightly Tunes
Rumours Coffee and Bar can be found along Session Road, and this makes it a very convenient location to visit. It has a relaxed and youthful feeling about it, and they have built themselves a reputation of having a great place to just chill out. Aside from drinks, the place also offers a selection of food that caters to visitors seeking either a snack or a full meal. For the visitors that are planning to be out at night, this location can transition nicely into the evening as they have bands that play. Just remember to plan your transportation to the establishment and back if you plan to stay late.
Ililikha Artist Village: Coffee Amidst Art
Offering a range of craft stores, restaurants, and art areas, the village is located on Assumption road. Finding the establishments inside can feel like a maze, but that adds to the charm. While you enjoy the art, you can find a coffee shop and have a quick coffee drink. This is a great option for tourists that do not want to go out of their way to get coffee, as this is an area that tourists will already want to visit. The village offers a blend of creativity and sustenance, catering perfectly to the artistic soul’s need for caffeine.
Choosing the Right Coffee Shop for You
With so many great coffee shops in Baguio, it can be hard to choose! Consider what you’re looking for in a coffee experience. Are you looking for a quiet place to work? A cozy spot to relax? Great views? Or a taste of local culture? Once you know what you want, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect coffee shop for you.
Sometimes, the best coffee experience is not just about the coffee itself, but also about the location and atmosphere. Baguio City itself is a tourist destination, so the experience of walking to a coffee shop and partaking in the urban environment should also be considered when making a selection. Do you prefer a quiet and secluded location away from the crowds or do you want somewhere more accessible and in the heart of Baguio?
Cost is another consideration, as prices may vary across all establishments. Specialty coffee, for example, tends to be much more expensive than the coffee being sold at mass market places. Also, do you only want coffee, or do you also wish to pair the caffeinated beverage with pastries or a full meal? This is highly relevant when choosing the type of establishment to visit. A casual cafe and a full-service restaurant should be considered separate visits depending on your needs.
Beyond the Usual Suspects: Exploring Local Finds
While the highly rated and frequently visited shops offer guaranteed satisfaction, there are also many small, independent coffee shops hidden throughout Baguio. These smaller shops are more likely to be on the outskirts with less foot traffic. This means it can be a far more quiet experience. Take some time to explore the side streets and discover your own hidden gems. You might be surprised at what you find! These places often offer a more authentic and localized experience, offering unique blends and flavors that you won’t find anywhere else. Ask locals for their recommendations – they often know the best-kept secrets!
The Coffee Bean Culture of Baguio
Baguio and the surrounding Cordillera region are known for producing high-quality Arabica coffee beans. The cool climate and high altitude are ideal for growing coffee. Supporting local coffee growers is a great way to contribute to the local economy and enjoy some of the freshest, most flavorful coffee in the Philippines. Many café owners source their beans locally, so ask about the origin of the coffee when you visit a coffee shop. Learning about the local coffee industry and supporting local growers adds depth to your coffee experience. Knowing that your cup of coffee is part of a sustainable and community-driven effort makes it even more enjoyable.
Adapting to the “Baguio Weather”
Baguio is known for having colder weather than the rest of the Philippines, and this is something that travellers need to be aware of. When ordering your coffee drink, make sure that it fits the occasion. Some establishments do not have airconditioning, so it might be more appropriate to have a caffeinated drink that is not hot. However, if you visit during the rainy months—or in the colder evenings—then the hot drink will feel much better. Do not rely so much on summer habits while in Baguio, as you may end up ordering incorrectly.
Tips for a Great Coffee Experience in Baguio
Before you go, check the opening hours of the coffee shop. Many shops have different hours on weekdays and weekends. Consider transportation options. Some shops are located outside the city center and may require a taxi or jeepney ride to get there. Be patient! Baguio is a popular tourist destination, and some coffee shops can get crowded. Be prepared to wait in line, especially during peak hours. Support local businesses by buying locally sourced coffee beans or other products. Most importantly, relax, enjoy your coffee, and soak in the unique atmosphere of Baguio!
While most establishments already have WiFi, it is best to make your own arrangements. Sometimes, the WiFi can be unreliable, so preparing your own internet sources, such as data, will help increase your uptime. Also, while most establishments do not mind, be polite when using these establishments as a remote office. Order from time to time so that the business can benefit from your usage. This is especially true if you stay for a longer period. Common courtesy is appreciated by owners.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about coffee shops in Baguio.
What is the average price of a cup of coffee in Baguio?
The average price of a cup of coffee in Baguio varies depending on the type of coffee shop and the type of coffee you order. Expect to pay anywhere from PHP 80 to PHP 200 for a regular cup. Fancier specialty coffee shops may charge more.
Are there any coffee shops in Baguio that offer free Wi-Fi?
Yes, most coffee shops in Baguio offer free Wi-Fi to their customers. However, the quality of the Wi-Fi can vary depending on the shop.
What are some popular coffee drinks in Baguio?
Popular coffee drinks in Baguio include classic favorites like lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos. You’ll also find local specialties like kapeng barako (strong Filipino coffee) and tsokolate de batirol.
Are there any coffee shops in Baguio that roast their own beans?
Yes, there are a few coffee shops in Baguio that roast their own beans, or source locally roasted coffee. These shops tend to focus on high-quality, specialty coffee.
Are there any coffee shops in Baguio that are open late?
Yes, you can find coffee shops that are open late in Baguio, especially around Session Road. Some bars and restaurants also serve coffee until late at night.
Is there Drip Coffee available in most coffee shops?
Given the rise of espresso machines, you might also have a hard time finding coffee shops that offer the cheaper drip coffee. Some places have completely removed drip coffee from the menu, and only offer the expensive espresso-based drinks. If you are the type that just wants a big cup of hot drip coffee, then you might want to call them first to confirm.
References
Cordillera Coffee. (n.d.). Cordillera Coffee.
Philippine Statistics Authority. (2023). Philippine Economy.
Ready to embark on your caffeine-fueled adventure in Baguio? Don’t wait any longer! Grab your friends, plan your itinerary, and explore the best coffee shops this city has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or just looking for a cozy spot to relax, Baguio has something for everyone. Go ahead, try a new coffee shop today. You might just discover your new favorite spot!
