The cool kids will love the idea that UK’s #1 coffeeshop chain is now in Manila!

Last June 29, Costa Coffee opened to the public its first branch in Eastwood Citywalk. For added thrill to coffee lovers, Costa Coffee gave away free coffee on its opening day, from 2-4pm. Free coffee comes with 1 condition though. Coffee must be ordered with a British accent. Haha! I’m sure talented pinoys found that easy.

Costa Coffee was founded by Italian immigrant brothers Bruno and Sergio Costa in 1971. From its humble beginnings, opening its 1st retail store in Vauxhall Bridge Road, London in 1978, the 2nd largest coffeeshop chain has now more than 3,000 stores worldwide. Now, we can enjoy London style Costa Coffee in our own country. Thanks to Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. for bringing this European coffee brand to the Philippines.

As a newbie in Costa Coffee, I wasn’t sure of what to treat my thirsty self. I asked the barista and I entertained his suggestion, a favorite of the majority, which is Flat White. This full-flavored coffee with a velvety smooth texture comes in 1 size only. There was no bitter taste that irritated, an effect of using Cortissimo (short espresso.) This is where Flat White’s sweetness and fullness of flavor comes from. To tickle your tastebuds with the right cup, you’ll find Flat White necessary to order when you’re in Costa Coffee.

After an hour, I had my second cup of coffee, Cappuccino this time. A stronger espresso-based coffee with steamed, frothy milk and chocolate dusting. Nowadays, my mind dictates me to order cappuccino whenever I stop by at a coffee shop to sit and work. For the stencil art, you can pick among 3 designs – UK flag, London bus or coffee beans.

Frostino (ice blended cream) beverages received the attention during Costa Coffee’s opening. Iced cold beverages impressed Filipinos’ sweet tooth, especially non-coffee drinkers who opt for coffee shops as their hangout place.

Coffee shops cannot survive without pastries on the side. Sweet or savory, men and women will long for some snacks to partner with their chosen London style beverages.

You won’t stop ordering Costa’s croissants once you pair it with your Flat White. Locally-made croissants are assured to be freshly baked everyday.

Creamy Matcha Green Tea Tiramisu stayed on the mild section of my matcha tolerance. With my strong palate for matcha, I always end up approving matcha desserts that are less sweetened as much as possible. This version screams a fair and decent matcha dessert anyone could easily appreciate.

Calamansicle showcased a moist cake texture with a gentle sour touch of calamansi.

The perky and trendy London Cheesecake completes the London style stopover at Costa Coffee.

Take a peek at the cookie jar and you might find something eye-catching. I almost checked out the counter and suddenly went back for the cookies – Salted Caramel Chip (Php 70) and Oatmeal Raisin.

Like any other busy coffee shop, the 1st floor barista counter gives a straightforward menu of what type of coffee or beverage you’d want to consume. Don’t be embarrassed to ask the baristas what recommendations they could give you. Just ask. 😉

Buying yourself a drink is not enough to experience London style Costa Coffee. Plan to stay for a while at the coffee shop, climb up the stairs and choose to hang around on the 2nd floor. You’ll be welcomed by homey London inspired pieces of furniture and art. At the time I visited, the air-condition was colder than the usual. Or should I say, I was freezing! Wait, is this how they bring London to the Manila?!

If Eastwood is miles away from you, watch out for more branches opening this 2015! Robinson’s Ermita, Tera Towers, Bonifacio Global City, and Robinson’s Antipolo are coming soon!

What do you think of Costa Coffee?

Share with me your thoughts! 🙂

Cheers,

Location: Eastwood Citywalk 1, Libis, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines

Operating Hours: 7:00AM-10:00PM

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CostaCoffeePH

Budget: PHP150++

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