Java the hunt

MANILA, Philippines - There’s a strong argument brewing against the rise of third wave coffee. Characterized by high-quality beans, lighter roasts, and that damn Instagrammable latte art, it indeed sounds like a lot of work for a drink that is primarily taken to perk you up for those ghoulish 8 a.m. meetings.

One, however, would likely cease to see coffee as nothing but a legal upper after a visit to the newly opened EDSA Beverage Design Group. Comfortably located in a nondescript office building that betrays its aesthetic charms, EDSA is gradually becoming the go-to place for excellent artisanal coffee blends.

Don’t expect those run-of-the-mill macchiatos on the menu, though; knowledgeable baristas offer unique takes on drinks both cold and hot, in flavors that go beyond the local coffee drinker’s fare. Even an unassuming cup of brewed Ethiopian coffee could be a surprising delight, awash with floral notes with very little bitterness. 

Of course, EDSA isn’t just for those looking to expand their coffee know-how. In the evenings, cocktails like whiskey sours are also served over the bar, and visitors can enjoy their drinks in any of EDSA’s comfortable lounge areas. (There’s even a pinball machine for anyone in for a little throwback.) With open air spaces complementing the metal and wood interiors and a sweet view of the road it was named after, EDSA just goes to show that their good taste isn’t just limited to their coffee. If that doesn’t perk you up, we don’t know what will. — Margarita Buenaventura                                       

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EDSA Beverage Design Group is located at CLMC building, Greenhills-Mandaluyong, EDSA southbound. Opening hours are from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. They are also offering a special food menu starting this week.