Saturday, March 21, 2026
Eggs Benedict or Eggs Benny as I lovingly call it, has always been my ultimate breakfast indulgence. Back in the day, I would make my own at home—carefully poaching eggs until the yolks turned perfectly runny, layering them over toasted English muffins with ham or bacon, and finishing everything with a luscious, lemon-kissed Hollandaise sauce. A sprinkle of parsley and a light dusting of paprika, and just like that, brunch was complete.
It’s the kind of dish that feels both comforting and a little luxurious—something I don’t come across often in Iloilo’s café scene. So when I heard that the newly opened branch of Born in Bread along Commission Civil in Jaro was serving Eggs Benedict, I knew I had to go.
After wrapping up a few early morning errands, I made my way to the bakery café, craving something familiar yet special. From the moment I stepped in, the space felt warm and inviting—cozy interiors, thoughtfully designed, and the comforting aroma of coffee lingering in the air.
What stood out immediately was their brunch menu. Instead of the usual tapsilog-style offerings, they present a more curated selection of continental breakfast dishes—refined yet approachable, and perfectly paired with their impressive lineup of croissants, both sweet and savory.
I ordered the Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict, along with an iced mocha, and couldn’t resist taking a cream puff to go. The dish arrived beautifully plated, and more importantly, it delivered. The serving was generous, the smoked salmon added a delicate richness, and the Hollandaise sauce struck just the right balance of creamy and citrusy. The egg could have been softer though. A lettuce salad with bright and tangy vinaigrette dressing balanced the dish. Every bite felt indulgent without being overwhelming.
It’s rare to find a place that gets Eggs Benedict just right, but this one certainly did.
I’m already planning my next visit—to try their other Eggs Benedict variations and explore more of their croissant creations, especially the Bacon Jalapeño and Banoffee Croissant. And next time, I’ll be sure to linger a little longer, coffee in hand, soaking in the café’s cozy atmosphere.
Because honestly, Born in Bread? It feels more like Born for Bread—and definitely born for brunch.
Tuesday, January 6, 2026
After a long workday, there’s nothing quite like finding a place that invites you to slow down, breathe, and simply enjoy the moment. The Boat Club Iloilo, tucked away in Brgy. Progreso, Lapuz and conveniently accessible via Drilon Bridge, offers exactly that kind of escape—calm, scenic, and refreshingly unhurried.
As the sun begins to dip, the riverside transforms into a front-row seat to golden skies reflected on the Iloilo River. Whether you’re settling in for dinner, enjoying a leisurely river cruise, or simply watching the day fade into night, the atmosphere here feels effortlessly soothing—perfect for unwinding after work or catching up with friends.
Food lovers will appreciate a stop at Sabya Kitchen, where progressive Ilonggo cuisine takes center stage. Familiar Filipino flavors are reimagined with modern techniques and thoughtful presentations, resulting in dishes that feel both comforting and exciting. Pair your meal with one of their signature cocktails or refreshing mocktails, best enjoyed while soaking in the tranquil riverside views.
To cap off the evening, take a relaxed after-dinner walk along the Iloilo City Esplanade. With the gentle breeze from the river and the softly lit skyline of Iloilo City as your backdrop, it’s a reminder of how beautifully the city continues to grow—without losing its charm.
If you’re looking for a place where good food, scenic views, and slow evenings come together, The Boat Club Iloilo is a quiet gem worth lingering in.
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
One of the coziest outdoor café experiences I’ve had lately was at Banglid Café, the little roadside coffee nook of Banglid Dos, a homey vacation rental in Brgy. Aningalan, San Remigio, Antique. Its name comes from the Hiligaynon word banglid, meaning slope or incline—quite fitting for a café perched on a mountainside with views that instantly calm the soul. From its vantage point, you can sip your coffee while watching low-lying clouds quietly glide over the lush landscape below.
The café’s warm, cabin-style interior makes you feel welcome the moment you step in. Whether you choose a seat outdoors with the fresh mountain breeze or settle into the cozy indoor space, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and truly be present. With every cup, nature seems to whisper,
I chose a comforting matcha drink and sat watching the light fade into dusk. As the clouds turned into silhouettes against the darkening sky, I felt a peaceful stillness come over me. No mobile signal. No rush. Just me, the mountains, and my thoughts—my little moment of matcha meditation.
Friday, October 31, 2025
Drop by at around 3 PM, when the clouds begin to roll in and wrap the garden in a pearly mist. Clouds in your coffee?Absolutely — and it’s magical.
The café offers a simple menu of hot and iced coffee creations, along with a small selection of pastries. But truly, coffee in hand while the cool mountain breeze gently kisses your face is the kind of core memory you’ll treasure long after returning to the city.
I can’t wait to return and catch the sunset here when strawberry season blooms again in February. Until then, I’ll keep my head in the clouds.
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Every girl has probably dreamed of stepping into a space that feels like a page out of Pinterest — part flower shop, part library, part gift shop, and part café. In Iloilo City, that fantasy has just turned into reality with the opening of Books & Blooms Café along E. Lopez Street in Jaro district.
True to its name, Books & Blooms is a cozy hideaway where literature, handmade blooms, and coffee meet. Visitors can lose themselves in a romance novel while sipping on specialty coffee or indulge in a slice of cake between quiet conversations. The café also doubles as a flower and gift shop, offering charming dried-flower arrangements perfect for sprucing up your space or gifting to loved ones.
For those who come with bigger appetites, the café serves affordable all-day breakfast plates that are simple yet satisfying. The menu may be straightforward, but it delivers comfort — whether you’re dropping by for brunch or a light lunch. Still, it’s the pastries that truly shine here, making every visit worth repeating.
Located just across Robinsons Place Jaro, Books & Blooms is easily accessible by public transport, making it a convenient stop after errands or grocery runs. With its inviting atmosphere and delightful mix of books, blooms, and brews, this café is set to become a favorite nook for Iloilo’s bookworms, romantics, and coffee lovers alike.
Books and Blooms Café
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
I recently stumbled upon Cafe Maya on 33 Cuartero Street in Jaro, Iloilo City—thanks to a foodie reel on TikTok—and what a delightful discovery it was! With its thatched roof, upcycled wooden interiors, and rustic yet relaxed vibe, the place instantly reminded me of the cozy cafés of Siargao.
Just a 10–15 minute walk (or a 5-minute tricycle ride) from the entrance of Cuartero Street along El 98 Road, Cafe Maya feels like a little sanctuary tucked away from the bustle of the neighborhood. It’s the kind of spot perfect for alone time, casual coffee dates, or study sessions.
The name Maya carries layers of meaning. In the Philippines, the maya is a beloved passerine bird, often celebrated in folk tales, poems, and stories. Beyond that, “maya” also refers to the concept of illusion in philosophy, as well as the name of an ancient Mexican civilization. Curious about its origin, I asked the barista why the cafe was named after the bird. He shared that the inspiration came from Matthew 6:26:
“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”
That insight, combined with the warm, nature-inspired interiors, made me feel that the cafe was lovingly designed by people who are either bird enthusiasts, nature lovers—or perhaps both. And on a rainy afternoon, sipping a steaming vanilla bean latte while watching the world go by felt like a small slice of heaven.
The first thing that greets you upon entering is a striking mural: a Maya bird perched gracefully on a berry-laden branch of a Coffea tree. It’s a stunning focal point, and honestly, worth the visit on its own.
Beyond the art, Cafe Maya offers a cozy spot for brunch or all-day breakfast. I tried their Hungarian sausage and eggs set, hearty and satisfying. Since it was late afternoon, I skipped the usual coffee and ordered their Maya Signature Matcha, topped with frothy dalgona cream. I had completely forgotten how much caffeine matcha carries—so yes, I was wide awake that night—but its bright, grassy flavor paired perfectly with the satiny caramel-glazed Biscoff cheesecake I also indulged in. Sweet, decadent, and just what I was craving.
The cafe’s menu also caters to both classic coffee lovers and adventurous sippers: Spanish latte, salted caramel, mocha, butterscotch, and cold brew creations are all on offer, along with non-coffee drinks, teas, and chilled juices. For savory cravings, they serve comfort food staples like pasta, pizza, and finger snacks.
Next time, I’m eyeing their Moby Latte (a caramel popcorn-flavored brew!) and maybe a slice of pizza. Until then, I’ll be waiting for the call of the Maya bird.
CAFE MAYA
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