% Arabica Manila (Mitsukoshi BGC, Taguig City): The Cafe Chain from Kyoto (Japan) Finally Returns to the Philippines
Last year, the Kyoto (Japan) based cafe chain % Arabica abruptly left the Philippine market, leaving its loyal following confused. But last July 21, 2023, it made its return. And what better place to reopen than in the first Japanese mall in the country—Mitsukoshi Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig City?
% Arabica Mitsukoshi BGC
So I made a visit a few days after its reopening. Thankfully, the queue was surprisingly short.
The queue was short!
The newly opened branch has a futuristic, spaceship-like interior. It’s still minimalist, which is a feature of % Arabica stores.
% Arabica Equipment
At the storefront is an area where they roast and sell coffee beans. (I can’t remember if they sold coffee beans before.)
Buy your beans here
They also sell merch and it’s more than the last time they were here. There’s even a pair of white sneakers with an embossed % on it. Cool!
% Arabica Merch
I first tried Spanish Latte at % Arabica, and instantly fell in love with it. Up to this day, their version, which is made with % Arabica beans, is still my favorite. But on my visit, I opted to try their Kyoto Latte, which is made with single origin beans and is less sweeter than the Spanish Latte.
Iced Kyoto Latte (PHP250) and Matcha Soft Cream (PHP180)
I also love their Espresso Soft Cream, which I tried before. But this time, I ordered the Matcha flavor, which is a new release. It’s smooth and creamy, and has a hint of bitterness.
They have fewer pastries this time. Their yummy cookies are also missing. But I know where to buy them. LOL.
% Arabica Pastries
I’m just happy that % Arabica has made a comeback here. So if you’re a fan of the cafe chain or would like to have a good coffee, then visit its Mitsukoshi BGC visit soon!
Did you miss % Arabica? What would you order when you visit? Comment below!
Address: 2/F Mitsukoshi BGC, 8th Ave. cor. 36th St., BGC, Taguig City, Philippines | Operating Hours: Daily, 11AM-10PM | Facebook (International Account) | Instagram | Website