A modern cafe with contemporary decor, Three Squares Cafe + Bar plays with both lighting and structure. There are circular tables adjacent to straight-back chairs, and a beautiful lunette window for you to gaze out of. Alongside the decor are hearty menu offerings too, including an indulgent truffle pasta with generous slices of jamon serrano, breakfast offerings, and tempting desserts. 

Unit C-11, 2/F The Alley at Karrivin Plaza, Chino Roces Ave. Ext, Makati City

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Fun, lively, and welcoming, Odd Cafe does things a little differently. They love to play with both colour and flavour and are best known for their amazing plant-based menu. They even welcome pets! It's a friendly space that's situated close to the central business district, making it a fun—and energising—getaway for many. 

7th Floor Finman Centre, Tordesillas Street, Makati

The Coffee Academics has truly been this year's breakout star. Though they've expanded quickly to include stalls in some of Manila's top malls, their branch in Legazpi village stands out as one of the best. A restaurant and cafe decorated with bold shades of green and gold, their Legazpi branch is often frequented and for good reason. Aside from their picturesque quality, they also have a takeout corner, an al fresco area, and a dedicated space for dine-in customers. 

109 Don Carlos Palanca, Legazpi Village, Makati

A mainstay in Salcedo village, Cartel Deli is a Makati favourite. Homey interiors with wood panelling are complemented by the sleek black decor—the perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee, a whoopie cookie, or breakfast before work. If you're lucky, you may get to snag a table outside and enjoy a relaxing morning of people-watching before heading to work. 

119 L.P. Leviste Street, Makati,

A cafe that also transforms into a cocktail space, Assembly Hall is as versatile as it gets. With vibrant colours, friendly baristas, and a menu of exciting treats, it's become the quintessential neighbourhood cafe we all know and love. Make sure to stay after the cafe is closed to see its metamorphosis into HereAfter, its bar counterpart. 

775 Dr Jose P. Rizal Ave, St, Makati

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With plenty of greenery and fresh open spaces, Papakape has become a favourite amongst those in the know. Their glass house is perhaps the cafe's most striking feature and makes for fantastic backdrops for Instagram posts. Of course, people frequent their menu offerings too, just to have a taste of signatures such as blue ginger salabat and choco mochaluya. 

5641 Ampere St, Makati

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