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Indulge in your mid-morning pick-me-up at these tried and tested establishments in Rockwell for comfort food, coffee, and daytime tipples
Brunch, these days, is a social event. It is far more than the late riser’s last resort—we take the time to plan it out with our chosen company, perhaps even dress for the occasion, and really scope out the local dining scene for what’s new and worth checking out. From cosy neighbourhood cafes to upscale bistros for a fancier sit-down, you are bound to find exactly what you’re looking for—whether your ideal feast comprises a classic French breakfast, a boozy cocktail, or an atmosphere that’s just as unique and enticing as the food.
Rockwell alone is peppered with a plethora of gems for your next brunch out. At this nexus for foodies and constantly moving city dwellers, there are spots on nearly every corner for a weekend wind-down with friends or a quick refuel amidst the weekday grind. Read further for a curated selection called the Rockwell Brunch Club, “an insider guide to all things brunch” by the lifestyle arbiter itself:
This list is in alphabetical order.
Brunch Bureau

Above Brunch Bureau (Photo: Courtesy of Rockwell)
Count on this swanky establishment at the Proscenium to recognise brunch as it is today: a movement. Partnered with Seven Seeds Coffee Roasters of Melbourne, where so-called “brunch culture” is strong and well, Brunch Bureau takes pride in its subtle yet exuberant tweaks on comforting favourites. On the all-day menu are scrumptious hits like spam and kimchi croquettes, pesto pasta with chicken and mangoes, as well as the staple Brunch Bureau Benedict. All of which are best paired with their delectable coffee and cocktail concoctions.
- Brunch Bureau is located at the 2/F of 1 Proscenium.
- Operating Hours: 7am - 10pm
- For reservations and inquiries: +63 917 810 6728
Read more: Designing Coffee: Inside the world’s most unique and beautiful cafés
Buttery & Co

Above Buttery & Co (Photo: Courtesy of Rockwell)
Brunch is sweet, savoury, and always indulgent at Buttery & Co’s recently opened branch in Rockwell. Tucked on a corner of the Edades building, this charming cafe is a dream pitstop for a satisfying meal in between meetings or one to kick-start your weekend. They offer a tempting selection of freshly baked pastries, from ube-flavoured delicacies to decadent cheese tarts, alongside savoury rice bowls, pasta, and steak.
- Buttery & Co is located at the G/F of Edades.
- Operating Hours: 7am - 9pm
- For reservations and inquiries: +63 915 333 3990
Cafe Mary Grace

Above Cafe Mary Grace (Photo: Courtesy of Rockwell)
This one barely needs any further introduction. While it is often touted as a staple hangout for the “Titas of Manila”, the homegrown bakeshop and cafe is without a doubt a crowd-pleaser—it is a failsafe choice among family and friends looking for long-familiar favourites in a cosy setting. Indeed, don’t we all just need a warm bite of Mary Grace’s ensaymada or cheese roll with a cup of hot chocolate to lift our spirits sometimes?
- Cafe Mary Grace is located at the LG/F of Power Plant Mall.
- Operating Hours: Mon - Thu 11am - 9pm; Fri 11am - 10pm; Sat 10am - 10pm; Sun 10am - 9pm
- For reservations and inquiries: +63 927 293 0238
See also: The Mary Grace Cafe origin story: Family run and proud
Deli by Chele

Above Deli by Chele (Photo: Courtesy of Rockwell)

Above Deli by Chele (Photo: Courtesy of Rockwell)
Whether in a sandwich, on a taco, or with fried rice and a sunny-side-up egg, there are various ways to savour Deli by Chele’s smokey, fork-tender pastrami when you head in for a mid-day treat. Enjoy this signature offering with the comfy atmosphere of their flagship store in Rockwell, where you can also purchase their artisanal preserves, house-cured meats, desserts, and more.
- Deli by Chele is located at the G/F of Power Plant Mall.
- Operating Hours: 7am - 9pm
- To order online, visit delibychele.com.
Joel’s Place

Above Joel's Place (Photo: Courtesy of Rockwell)
Albeit a relatively new name on the block, Joel’s Place is quickly becoming the Rockwell community’s go-to for every culinary craving. Home to a bar and juicer, a bakery, and a deli, this “grocerant” concept from the Rustan’s Group allows you to shop for all your essentials and craft your ideal feast at home, or enjoy it in-store with their cook-to-order service, too. Did we mention you could get a prime cut of steak, perfectly seared to your liking, in the hands of their expert staff?
- Joel’s Place is located at the G/F of The Proscenium Retail Row at The Plaza.
- Store Hours: 9am - 9pm | Bakery Window: 7am - 9am
- For reservations and inquiries: 8899 7034
Refinery

Above Refinery (Photo: Courtesy of Rockwell)
Industrial-chic Refinery offers a haven for both the brunch aficionado and the weary soul. With bright, airy interiors that look out into its equally inviting al fresh area, this longstanding haunt is perfect for jumpstarting your day in the bustling district. Whether you’re nursing a hangover and craving comfort or simply seeking a fuss-free dining experience, Refinery’s classic fare and simple indulgences make it a reliable choice that never disappoints.
- Refinery is located at the G/F of Joya Lofts & Towers.
- Operating Hours: Sun - Wed 8am - 12mn; Thu - Sat 8am - 1pm
- For reservations and inquiries: +63 977 831 2879
The Perfect Pint

Above The Perfect Pint (Photo: Courtesy of Rockwell)
When enjoying a casual night out at this neighbourhood craft beer joint, it’s a comfort to know that they’ve got your early morning and hangover cravings covered, too. From a full English breakfast to your beloved silogs, the menu at The Perfect Pint merits a sumptuous feast every single time. For special occasions, be sure to snag the VIP table at the Rockwell branch. Bathed in photographer-worthy lighting, it’s the ideal spot to capture your delicious spread before digging in.
- The Perfect Pint is located at the G/F of The Proscenium Retail Row at The Plaza.
- Operating Hours: 8am - 12mn
- For reservations and inquiries: 83641907 / +63 917 122 7806
Sentro Artista

Above Sentro Artista (Photo: Courtesy of Rockwell)

Above Sentro Artista (Photo: Courtesy of Rockwell)
This art gallery slash cafe is what you might call a hidden gem. While the rotating exhibitions by local artists might not be the first thing you seek when you think of brunch, Sentro Artista provides the perfect ambience for a leisurely date with a side of culture. With its lovely selection of cakes and pastries, it is perfect for those who want to spend their day doing a bit of artistic exploration and sightseeing rather than solely focusing on a hearty meal.
- Sentro Artista is located at the UG/F of The Arton Strip by Rockwell.
- Operating Hours: 11am - 8pm
See also: Beyond Venice Biennale: 7 exhibitions to see if you are headed to the art showcase in Italy
Single Origin

Above Single Origin (Photo: Courtesy of Rockwell)
Among the pioneers of the country’s third-wave coffee movement, Single Origin basks in the warmth of discerning regulars and their glowing endorsements. It isn’t just a popular spot for speciality coffee and craft cocktails but a full-fledged dining destination for any time of the day. On your next visit, order the croffle: somewhere in between a croissant and a waffle, it’s crunchy on the outside, flaky, buttery, and chewy on the inside, and comes in six flavour options to satisfy whatever craving.
- Single Origin is located at the G/F of Edades.
- Operating Hours: 7am - 12mn
- For reservations and inquiries: +63 956 301 5267
Via Mare

Above Cafe Via Mare (Photo: Courtesy of Rockwell)
Dining at Via Mare, a household name for Filipino classics, certainly breathes nostalgia. You can always rely on their famed kakanin, with indisputable fan favourites like their pillowy puto bumbong and fluffy bibingka front and centre; then make it a meal with their delectable pancit luglog. Take the whole family to enjoy a well-rounded celebration of our local cuisine, while the sun shines or sets outside and paints the restaurant with inimitable warmth.
- Via Mare is located at the G/F of Power Plant Mall.
- Operating Hours: 11am - 9pm
- For reservations and inquiries: 88981306 / 88905772





