I am a self-proclaimed coffee enthusiast. Who would not love coffee? Though I know few people who do not drink coffee and I feel sorry for them, because for me coffee is the key to my everyday life. Does it sound so exaggerated?

One of the misconceptions of going to coffee shops is that it costs too much. Yes, there are coffee shops that are questionably overpriced and the quality of their coffee does not fit well with the money you have spent. It sucks, right? That is why I never tried the expensive ones. I always opt for the nearest and cheapest coffee shops and luckily they offer the best cappuccinos.

5. Starbucks Coffee

I am not really a fan of Starbucks; for me, it is so overrated, but who am I not to give it a second chance? I have to say that Starbucks is my last choice when it comes to “where are we going to get our coffee?” That one coffee shop I will run to whenever I need a buzz because let’s admit it, Starbucks can be found anywhere, right? SB’s cappuccino is very strong that is why I always add two packets of brown sugar to get my preferred taste—bitter, sweet, and hot.

Fact: Best paired with their New York Cheesecake.

4. Ella And The Blackbird

Strongest coffee I ever tasted, but I freaking love everything about this coffee shop; the ambiance of the place (very aesthetically good), the food, and the coffee of course. Ron and I visited the place one late afternoon and I was glad that the place is so spacious and there are only like five customers. The place is just so lovely that I fell in love with their metal grid frame with lots of pictures displayed on their wall. I instantly planned on doing it for my room, too (I’m actually done doing it!). I’m starting to love exploring second to third wave coffee shops and I think Ella and the Blackbird is one of it. Their coffee is just too good for my life! Just do not forget to ask for additional creamer and sugar, because again, it is a strong coffee.

Fact: A little bit pricey, but best paired with their all-day breakfast plate.

Know more about Ella and The Blackbird on their Facebook and Instagram.

3. Coffee Project

I discovered this coffee shop on Instagram because their interior is A++. I decided to pay a visit when they opened a store branch near my place and my darling; the place is just so awesome. My heart pounds as I enter because it is really beautiful; rustic-themed interior is really one of my weaknesses. No corner of the store left plain and boring. Every corner, even the tables, pastries area, and comfort room (!!!) are full of designs. I love it so much! I feel like a kid roaming around the store, good thing the place is not crowded the time we visited so it is fine to just walk around and snap tons of photos. As usual, I ordered their cappuccino and paired it with a red velvet cupcake. Their coffee tastes like Artisque’s, but in a stronger taste. Ron ordered their chocolate drink because he’s craving for Bo’s Coffee’s Artisanal Chocolate and according to him, he was not satisfied – he even gave the store a low rating (we usually do that every time we try something new places). Nevertheless, I am satisfied when it comes to their interior design.

Fact: A little bit pricey, too.

Know more about Coffee Project on their Facebook and Instagram.

2. Artisque Boutique and Café

A not-so-newly-opened boutique and coffee shop in Lilac St. My best friend introduced this place to me when it is still in soft opening. I tried their cappuccino and at first their latte art was not that good, maybe because they are still new so I thought that they could still improve on that one. When I came back a week after, I noticed that their latte art looks more appealing compared the last time. The taste also improved. I like my cappuccino a little bit strong and they got the right blend for me. I also like the cup – looks bigger than my face. The place was not that big; I assume that it can only accommodate up to 15 customers. However, they also have tables outside the store that is good for coffee drinkers who needs some fresh air. I just love the fact that it is not the type of coffee shop that is crowded with so many people, so this is a perfect place for me to enjoy my quality time reading a book with a cup of cappuccino.

Fact: They also have pastries for your sweet tooth.

Know more about Artisque Boutique & Café on their Facebook and Instagram.

1. Bo’s Coffee

Bo’s Coffee is one hella pride for Philippine coffee industry. I was able to discover this coffee shop because of my brother who is working in a different store branch. I cannot remember the first time I visited and tried, but I really love the way they make my cappuccino – so strong that you can literally smell the cinnamon. One of the few things that I admire about Bo’s Coffee is that they use fresh homegrown brew. It means they use different coffee beans from different places like Sagada, Benguet, Mt. Kitanglad, Mt. Apo, and Mt. Matutum. Talking about love for the country and patronizing our own products, right?

Fact: You can also try their non-coffee drink; Artisanal Chocolate. Best chocolate drink ever, I kid you not. You cannot find it elsewhere.

Know more about Bo’s Coffee on their website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

So that’s it! If ever you are looking for me, you can find me anywhere from those coffee shops or somewhere else, trying new found places that feed my caffeine-dependent body. Go visit them and please share your coffee shop experiences! 🙂