Bringing the Amazing Coffee of the Philippines to Your Door, Every Month
What Makes Philippine Coffee Special?
Philippine coffee is special because of its unique flavors, distinct varieties, and rich history. The country grows all four major varieties of coffee – Robusta, Excelsa, Arabica, and Liberica – each of which has its own distinct flavor. Liberica, in particular, is known for its bold flavor and sharp aroma, and is often compared to aniseed.
The coffee culture in the Philippines dates back to 1740, when a Spanish Franciscan monk introduced the first coffee tree in the town of Lipa, Batangas. This area is now known as the “coffee capital of the Philippines,” and is home to the rare Coffea liberica coffee variety.
Unfortunately, the specialty coffee industry has yet to gain a foothold in the Philippines, as low-quality Robusta still dominates. This is largely due to the fact that imported coffee is usually cheaper, more reliable, and tastier than local coffee. In addition, the lack of infrastructure and limited access to education about improving procedures has stunted the growth of the coffee industry as a whole.
Despite these challenges, there is hope that this cycle won’t continue forever. The Philippine government and NGOs are working to improve quality through better farmer support, and there is cause for optimism. With its unique flavors, distinct varieties, and rich history, Philippine coffee is truly something special.
Get coffee from a different region every month
Philippine coffee is typically grown in the regions of Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Sultan Kudarat, Bataan, Bohol, Cebu, Compostela Valley, Palawan, Batangas, Cordillera Mountain Range, Benguet, Sagada, Kalinga, Sulu Archipelago, Sultan Kudarat, Bukidnon, Davao, and the Mount Matatum and Mount Apo regions.
With so many types of coffee grown in so many regions, you can enjoy a new coffee experience every month
The Best Coffee Roasters in the Philippines
1. Bukidnon Tribal Arabica Coffee
The Tribal Arabica Coffee from Bukidnon is considered the best coffee roaster in the Philippines because of its unique and delicious flavor profile. The coffee is grown at higher elevations in the mountains of Kitanglad, and is handled with extreme precision by the Daraghuyan people. This creates a single-origin coffee that is out of the ordinary with a floral aroma, bright acidity, and sweet caramel flavor at every sip. The coffee is 100% organic and is harvested and processed in small batches.
The robusta blend is grown at a lower elevation and has a bolder, less acidic flavor. It has a light and floral aroma, followed by notes of dark chocolate. This coffee became even more popular in 2017 when it won the first ever Philippine Cupping Competition held by Kape Pilipino. Since then, coffee farmers have become more empowered to diligently plant and harvest their crops, and the province of Bukidnon is now a popular source for both arabica and robusta coffee.
All of these factors make the Tribal Arabica Coffee from Bukidnon the best roaster in the Philippines. Its unique flavor profile and meticulous harvesting and processing conditions make it a must-try for all coffee lovers.
2. Batangas Best Premium Barako Coffee
Batangas Best Premium Barako Coffee is widely regarded as one of the highest quality coffee varietals in the Philippines. It has a bold, powerful flavor with notes of anise and dark chocolate, and is particularly famed for its sizable coffee tree, cherry, and beans. The high elevation, climate, and soil of the Cavite Highlands region make the beans from this area even more desirable due to their enhanced taste and body.
Batangas Best Premium Barako Coffee is also a rare species due to its low output, making it difficult to acquire. However, the few producers who still grow this varietal strive to maintain its quality and authenticity by using traditional methods of cultivation and roasting. Cafe de Lipa, in particular, has been actively upholding the legacy of this coffee in the province.
Ultimately, Batangas Best Premium Barako Coffee is known for its intense flavor and aroma, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a unique experience. It’s an ideal coffee for those looking for a bolder cup of coffee, as it’s strong enough to be enjoyed as an after-dinner treat.
3. Kapeng Barako or Batangas Coffee
Kapeng Barako or Batangas Coffee is a unique variety of Liberica coffee, which is grown in the regions of Batangas and Cavite, Philippines. It is considered to be the best coffee roaster in the country because of its strong, bold body and powerful spicy flavor. It is characterized by an anise-like aroma, dark chocolatey taste, and a full-bodied taste that makes it a beloved variety among Filipinos.
The beans of Batangas coffee are large and robust, however, due to its susceptibility to coffee rust, it is harder to dry, roast, and store. It is a rare species that is preferred by many local drinkers over robusta and some even over arabica. Furthermore, it is a symbol of pride and glory that has brought a collective identity to the province of Batangas.
It is also gaining popularity worldwide, with cafes offering special blends of the coffee. For example, Cafe de Lipa in Batangas offers their signature brew Barako Joe, sourced from all over the country. Its distinct flavor makes it a must-try cup of coffee for coffee lovers who want to experience a unique blend.
Apart from its delicious taste, Kapeng Barako is also an important part of Filipino identity and culture. It has been an integral part of the local history, and its revival is a reminder of the resilience of the Filipino people and their culture.
4. The Excelsa Coffee of Quezon and Batangas
Excelsa coffee, found in both Quezon and Batangas, is a variety of coffee with very shiny, bronze-like leaves. It has a thinner and rounder leaf shape compared to Liberica. It has a bearing age of 4-5 years, and an annual yield of approximately 1,000kg per hectare. Due to its characteristic, it is drought-tolerant and able to survive in dry soil without much rainfall. Excelsa coffee is also known for its unique and distinct taste, having a sweet and nutty flavor with a hint of chocolate. It has a medium body, low acidity, and mild aroma.
5. Civet Coffee of Davao and Cavite
Civet coffee from Davao and Cavite is a unique coffee with a special flavor profile. It has a balanced sweetness, so it’s not too bitter, and the flavor is bold and rich. It also contains antioxidants, which are beneficial to your health. Mount Apo Civet Coffee beans are pure Arabica and grown with chemical-free volcanic soil, in the Philippines’ highest mountain, making it a rare coffee. This coffee has a fruity taste, with a rich, chocolatey aroma that lowers its bitterness. Lastly, Excelsa coffee, which is grown primarily in Southeast Asia, makes up 7% of the world’s coffee.
6. EDSA BDG - The Curator
The Curator is an award-winning coffee shop and bar created by David Ong in 2013. It is renowned for its creative coffee creations, innovative bar drinks, and unique ambience. It has since become a popular destination for coffee and bar enthusiasts in the Philippines. The Curator’s success has inspired Ong to launch the EDSA Beverage Design Group, an R&D-driven concept that offers espresso beans, filter beans, cold brew, and fermented coffee kombucha for home-brewing. EDSA BDG’s “liquid cuisine” is the result of Ong’s experience and knowledge from The Curator, allowing him to offer coffee products that are of the same quality and taste as those served in his bar.
7. The Dream Coffee
What makes The Dream Coffee a remarkable coffee roaster in the Philippines is its commitment to honouring the indigenous T’boli tribe, which has a heritage of weaving sacred fabric inspired by their dreams. Their coffee is 100 per cent Single Estate, Single Origin Philippine Arabica that’s grown and harvested by coffee farmers from T’Boli, South Cotabato and is organically produced and roasted medium in small batches. This ensures that the coffee has a consistent, dream-like taste with chocolate and caramel notes. Furthermore, The Dream Coffee is available in beans or grounds for customers to enjoy preparing their favourite brewing method at home. All in all, The Dream Coffee is a unique coffee experience that pays homage to the culture of the T’boli tribe, making it an exceptional coffee roaster in the Philippines.
8. Cafe Seventy Six
Café Seventy Six is a great coffee roaster in the Philippines for several reasons. Firstly, the café offers an impressive variety of coffees, from the typical latte to banoffee, cubano, and matcha espresso. The range of flavours is sure to keep any caffeine-drinker’s ritual fun and exciting. Secondly, Café Seventy Six has an online store where customers can purchase coffee beans, mugs, and other merchandise which are perfect for gifting. Finally, the café has a commitment to quality and uses only high-grade coffee beans which are sourced directly from farmers in the Philippines. This guarantees a fresh and delicious cup of coffee every time. Altogether, Café Seventy Six is a great coffee roaster in the Philippines for its impressive selection of coffees, quality merchandise, and commitment to locally sourced beans.
9. Exchange Alley Coffee House
Exchange Alley Coffee House is considered a great coffee roaster in the Philippines due to their dedication to showcasing craftsmanship, sourcing locally grown beans, and providing delicious and unique coffee drinks. The El Paraiso Rosa Té beans that they specialize in come from a family-run farm in Colombia, which celebrates the craft of coffee expert Diego Samuel Bermudez. In addition, they offer bottled cold brews in a variety of flavors including black, milk, and chocolate.
Apart from Exchange Alley Coffee House, Bukidnon Brew Cafe is a great option for coffee connoisseurs in the Metro’s South. They are known for their traditional Monk’s Blend coffee, which is grown and produced by Benedictine Monks in the area. Additionally, they offer a selection of pastries to complement their coffee drinks. Finally, Cardinal Coffea in Cebu City offers a wide range of hot drinks, espresso blends, and iced variants.
For those looking for a unique coffee experience, Angkan Coffee Company and Datu’s Brew are both worth checking out. Angkan Coffee Company pays homage to the Filipino flag’s sun with its own logo and features locally sourced beans, while Datu’s Brew is the first Bangsamoro-conceptualized fair trade coffee shop in the Philippines, proudly displaying fine handicrafts of Maguindanao alongside their locally-sourced 100% Arabica beans.
Overall, Exchange Alley Coffee House, Bukidnon Brew Cafe, Cardinal Coffea, Angkan Coffee Company, and Datu’s Brew are all great choices for coffee connoisseurs in the Philippines. With their dedication to craftsmanship, locally sourced beans, and delicious coffee drinks, these coffee roasters are sure to impress.
10. Yardstick
Yardstick is a specialty coffee roastery and bar based in Manila, Philippines. Founded in 2017, Yardstick has quickly become one of the best and most respected coffee roasters in the country. They have earned this reputation by sourcing and roasting only the finest beans, offering a wide selection of coffee drinks, and providing superior customer service.
Yardstick’s commitment to quality starts with the way they source their beans. They only purchase green coffee beans from farms that use sustainable, ethical practices and have traceable origins. This commitment to quality and ethical sourcing has earned them a solid reputation among coffee enthusiasts.
Yardstick also makes sure to roast their beans to perfection. Their team of experienced roasters uses precise temperature controls to ensure that each batch of coffee is roasted evenly and consistently. This process allows them to bring out the unique flavors and aromas of each coffee bean and make sure that the end product is of the highest quality.
In addition to their commitment to coffee quality, Yardstick also provides superior customer service. They offer great prices on their coffee beans and are always willing to go the extra mile to make sure their customers are satisfied. Their friendly and knowledgeable baristas are always happy to answer questions and provide tips on how to get the most out of each coffee.
Overall, Yardstick is a coffee roaster that is committed to quality, ethical sourcing, and superior customer service. They truly stand out among coffee roasters in the Philippines, and their commitment to quality and excellence has earned them a solid reputation among coffee enthusiasts.
11. El Union Coffee
El Union Coffee is a noteworthy coffee roaster in the Philippines due to the quality of their coffee, the unique experience they provide and their commitment to sustainability. Their coffee is sourced from local farmers in the Cordilleras, Benguet, Davao, and Bukidnon and is renowned for its signature Dirty Horchata – made of farm-fresh milk with a shot of espresso. Additionally, it is a special experience to visit their cafe in the surf town of La Union and enjoy the smell of coffee and sea breeze. Furthermore, El Union Coffee has a commitment to sustainability with their refillable glass bottle for their cold brew concentrate and their goal of celebrating Filipino craftsmanship. All in all, these factors make El Union Coffee an excellent coffee roaster in the Philippines.
12. Angkan Coffee Company
Angkan Coffee Company stands out from other coffee roasters in the Philippines due to its commitment to celebrating Filipino craftsmanship. Not only do they source their beans locally, but they also offer local pastries, and their logo even pays homage to the sun in the Filipino flag. Beyond that, Angkan also provides a unique take on the classic Filipino Robusta coffee, as made famous by Kalinga Brew in the village of Buscalan. The coffee is prepared in the traditional manner of “cooking” the grounds in boiling water with brown sugar, providing a unique taste that is both comforting and familiar to locals. For those looking to experience something different and support local businesses, Angkan Coffee Company is the perfect choice.
13. Man On The Moon
Man On The Moon is an exceptional coffee roaster in the Philippines due to their creative and one-of-a-kind coffee drink concoctions. A great example of this is The Armstrong, which blends their signature cold brew coffee with salted chocolate protein powder from Wheyl Nutrition Co., giving you an extra 14g of protein with every bottle. Their coffee is perfect for those looking to get their caffeine fix while still leading a healthy lifestyle. Furthermore, they make ordering a breeze, allowing you to place orders via messaging them on Instagram or signing up for a coffee subscription through their form. Man On The Moon is a great choice for coffee connoisseurs and health-conscious individuals alike.
About the Philippine Coffee Company
The goal of the Philippine Coffee Company is to share amazing coffee from the Philippines with the world. To achieve this goal, we will curate unique and flavorful roasts and blends from various regions of the country. Once enough interest has been shown in this concept, we will send a monthly roast to our subscribers.
Sign up to our interest list now. The more interest that we have, the sooner we’ll be able to start shipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Philippine Coffee?
Philippine coffee is a type of coffee produced in the Philippines from all four major varieties of coffee beans: Robusta, Excelsa, Arabica, and Liberica. It is known for its bold flavor, sharp aroma, and unique characteristics. The coffee industry in the Philippines has yet to gain a foothold within specialty coffee, as low-quality Robusta still dominates due to cheaper imports. However, the Philippine government and NGOs are working to improve quality through better farmer support. Philippine coffee is typically enjoyed with breakfast or as a dessert accompaniment. Its popularity continues to increase, especially amongst U.S. coffee enthusiasts.
How is Philippine Coffee different from other coffee?
Philippine coffee is unique in that it is one of the few countries in the world that grows all four major varieties of coffee, namely Robusta, Excelsa, Arabica, and Liberica. This allows for a wider selection of coffee blends, as each bean has its own distinct flavor and aroma. Additionally, local coffee production from cultivation to roasting is strictly regulated, ensuring that all the flavors are retained in each cup of coffee.
In contrast, other countries may only have access to one or two coffee varieties, limiting the range of flavors available. Moreover, some countries have less oversight when it comes to production and quality control, meaning that the flavor of the coffee may not be as consistent or as rich.
Overall, Philippine coffee stands out due to its unique flavor combinations and high-quality production standards, making it a great way to explore different coffee flavors from around the world.
What are some of the best Philippine Coffee brands?
If you’re looking for a new coffee to try, you should definitely check out some of the best Philippine brands. From Kapé Coffee to Kalsada Coffee to Mostra Coffee and Bo’s Coffee, there’s a variety of flavors and types to choose from. Each of these brands offer unique blends of Arabica and Liberica coffees, including dark chocolatey Sagada and choco-berry Maramag. Additionally, they have single-origin coffees sourced from various regions in the Philippines, like Mt. Apo.
Other Philippine coffee brands worth trying are Stout Coffee PH, Caffeine Brothers, Go Brew, KapeTayo Coffee, and Coffeellera. Each of these brands roast their own beans and offer a variety of blends and flavors. So, whether you’re looking for a light, medium or dark roast, or a coffee with notes of citrus or chocolate, there’s something for everyone.
Lastly, make sure to also check out coffee shops like Tagaytay, Antipolo, and Manila, where you can sample coffees from local Filipino coffee roasteries. With the many options available, you can experiment, find your favorite flavor and make the perfect cup of coffee.
What kind of beans are used for Philippine Coffee?
The four main varieties of Philippine coffee are Robusta, Excelsa, Arabica, and Liberica. Robusta is the most widely used, comprising about 85% of production, while Arabica and Excelsa make up 7% and 5%, respectively. Liberica is the least common, and is known as Kapeng Barako or simply Barako, meaning “stud” or “rooster” in the local language. It has a bold flavor and sharp aroma, making it popular among locals. Most of the specialty coffees are made from Arabica and Excelsa beans, while Robusta is mostly used for instant coffee.
What type of roast is used for Philippine Coffee?
Philippine coffee is typically roasted to a medium-dark level to bring out the bold flavors and intense aroma. This is due to the fact that the most common type of coffee grown in the Philippines is Robusta, which is known for its strong flavor and sharp aroma. This roast level enhances its natural flavor and creates a pleasant sipper for any time of day. Additionally, it allows the subtle notes of cocoa and earthiness to shine through and balances the intensity of the flavor.
What is the caffeine content of Philippine Coffee?
The caffeine content of Philippine coffee varies depending on the type of bean used. Robusta beans, which are the most commonly used beans in the Philippines, have the highest caffeine content – up to 2.7% – compared with Arabica beans, Excelsa beans, and Liberica beans. The caffeine content of Arabica beans is generally around 1.3%, while Excelsa and Liberica beans have around 1.0%. According to the Philippine National Barista Championship, the Philippine specialty coffee industry has yet to gain a foothold because of the lower quality of local Robusta beans. However, there is a steady push for Philippine specialty coffee, as the 2020 championship winner was the first to use local coffee. With the help of this push, the Philippines could potentially re-emerge on the global coffee stage and bring more attention to its great coffee.
How is Philippine Coffee different from other coffee?
Philippine coffee is unique in that it is one of the few countries in the world that grows all four major varieties of coffee, namely Robusta, Excelsa, Arabica, and Liberica. This allows for a wider selection of coffee blends, as each bean has its own distinct flavor and aroma. Additionally, local coffee production from cultivation to roasting is strictly regulated, ensuring that all the flavors are retained in each cup of coffee.
In contrast, other countries may only have access to one or two coffee varieties, limiting the range of flavors available. Moreover, some countries have less oversight when it comes to production and quality control, meaning that the flavor of the coffee may not be as consistent or as rich.
Overall, Philippine coffee stands out due to its unique flavor combinations and high-quality production standards, making it a great way to explore different coffee flavors from around the world.
What is the flavor profile of Philippine Coffee?
Philippine coffee is known for its unique flavor profile, which can vary depending on the variety. The most popular type is Liberica, which has a bold flavor with a strong aniseed aroma. It is also known for its earthy tones and a slight cocoa finish. Arabica and Robusta beans are also grown in the Philippines, although their flavor profiles differ significantly. Robusta has a strong, bitter taste, while Arabica is more mellow and nutty. Sumatran coffee offers similar flavor profiles to Liberica, while Sulawesi coffee offers mellow and sweet flavorings.
Where is Philippine Coffee typically grown?
Philippine coffee is typically grown in the regions of Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Sultan Kudarat, Bataan, Bohol, Cebu, Compostela Valley, Palawan, Batangas, Cordillera Mountain Range, Benguet, Sagada, Kalinga, Sulu Archipelago, Sultan Kudarat, Bukidnon, Davao, and the Mount Matatum and Mount Apo regions. The largest coffee plantation is located near the town of Alcoy, south of Cebu City, and is approximately 700 meters above sea level.
What are the benefits of drinking Philippine Coffee?
The benefits of drinking Philippine coffee are numerous. Firstly, it can provide an energy boost due to the stimulant found in the coffee, caffeine. This can help reduce drowsiness and improve your daily productivity. Secondly, it may reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes and cognitive loss. Thirdly, it has been associated with reduced risk of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other diseases. Fourthly, research shows that drinking two to three cups of coffee a day is good for your heart. Finally, drinking Philippine coffee will give you the opportunity to explore different coffee flavors due to the country’s diverse geography and rich soil conditions.
What is the process of making Philippine Coffee?
To make Philippine coffee, you’ll need to start with quality beans. The Philippines is home to a variety of coffee varieties, including Robusta, Excelsa, Arabica, and Liberica. For the best flavor, look for freshly roasted beans.
Once you have your beans, the traditional way to make Philippine coffee is to boil and dry the green beans before processing. Boiling the beans brings out more flavor and can introduce new earthy notes. This step is especially important if the beans arrived wet for processing.
After boiling and drying the beans, the next step is grinding. Use a burr grinder for the best results – this will ensure consistency in the grind size and the most flavor from your beans.
Once the beans are ground, it’s time to brew. The traditional method of brewing Filipino coffee is to use a cloth strainer. This strainer is used to filter out any grounds that may have been missed during the grinding process.
Finally, enjoy your freshly brewed cup of Philippine coffee. Traditional black coffee is often referred to as “Kapé” and is served hot or cold. For a unique twist, try making coffee jelly – a chilled treat made with coffee, condensed milk, whipping cream, sugar, and gelatin.