Hollys Coffee is finally here in Manila

Hollys Coffee is an international coffee chain with 251 branches in Korea.  It also has branches in the United States, Malaysia and Peru.  Now, its here in Manila with its first branch in Taft.

Hollys Coffee has a classy and cozy ambiance.  As we passed by and peaked through its clear glass window, we couldn't resist the temptation to try it out.   According to my little sister Hollys Coffee is already popular among her classmates in school.

calorie count posted by the counter

Their menu has a lot of choices.  But I felt the need for caffeine so I chose the Espresso Hollycino (150 php regular).  We also ordered Sweet Potato Macchiato (150 php regular) , Iced Raspberry Caffe Mocha (135 php regular), Matcha Latte (150 php regular) and Mint Chocolate Hollycino (150 php regular).

They also offered pastries and cakes but we just had an eat-all-you can dinner so we were all too full to order any.  Perhaps, we will try some on our next visit.  They sold merchandises such as packed coffee, cups and mugs.   

We were given this FREE Hollys Coffee Mug which you can avail when you purchase at least 400 php worth.  But I'm not sure how long their promo will be offered.

We were surprised that the usual coffee shop routine of name-taking was not done here.  Instead, we were given this buzzer with a digital number.  It vibrates when its your turn to claim the your orders at their counter.  I was so curious I even checked its back.  It was run by battery. =p

While waiting, I went up.  The second floor was full of students hanging out despite the fact that its was already late and its was a weekend.  They all looked cozy and comfortable.  I could see why with the nice interiors and soft seats.

I got down and choose a table on the first floor.   They had a computer nook by the entrance.  The computers still look brand new and unused though.  

I was observing the posters around the store.  I suddenly regretted ordering an ordinary beverage when they offered something unique like "Fresh Yuza".  At least, I know what to order next.=)

Soon, the object vibrated and we claimed our drinks.  The Espresso Hollycino, Mint Chocolate Hollycino and Matcha Latte was good but nothing extraordinary.  The Iced Raspberry Caffe Mocha was sweet but it was okay.  The Sweet Potato Macchiato stood out above the rest.  It was so delicious!  It was fragrant and had a unique taste and texture.  It had almond bits in it.  I never would have imagined a sweet potato drink nor would it taste as good as this!  We will probably order this again. 

Espresso Hollycino

Sweet Potato Macchiato

Overall, everyone was happy with their orders.  We'd love to come back and order other beverages.  In fact, we came back again so eager to order their drinks but it was already closed.  We begged for the guard to let us in but he said the equipment were already washed. =(  Nevertheless, we shall return again when we have the chance.  Hope you guys try it out too!  Maybe you can suggest what we can order next.=)

Hollys Coffee
Taft Avenue corner Castro Street 
Manila, Philippines

Bo's Coffee Espresso Crumble ~ Ice Cold and Chunky

A few weeks ago, I mentioned that about Bo's Coffee offering their P15 brewed coffee and P50 froccino promo.  (see separate entry)  Hope you all availed of it because I did.=)

I was so happy when Kurt brought this home.  Too bad though,  he said we weren't issued a receipt so we missed out our raffle opportunity.  Weird though, some branches were sweeter than others.  I'm not sure if I didn't mix it enough or its naturally that way.  Nevertheless, it was a great promo!  Drank as much I wanted!=p

CBTL's Espresso & Cream Ice Blended ~ My Kind of Coffee!

A few days ago, I wrote about CBTL's Espresso & Cream Ice Blended Open House (see separate entry).  The promo was from 10 a.m to 12 n.n.  We arrived at CBTL Robinsons Place at around 11:50 a.m.  There is a poster of the CBTL's Espresso & Cream Ice Blended Open House outside and beside the counter.  

There were no lines when we came in.  (Unlike the last month's blockbuster line during the 50% Starbucks promo which we gave up on=p) The cashier asked us for our order and then I told her we were for the open house.  She asked how many and if we'd like it with whip cream or coffee jelly (add 30 php).  I said with whip cream only.  With all smiles, she asked for my name and issued our receipt.  I actually thought that there is a charge for the whip cream but it turns out its free too.=)

We sat while waiting for our order.  We noticed that despite having an open house and FREE coffee, there were many vacant tables.  I browsed the crowd and only found a few availing it.  There were empty ones left at vacant tables.

After around 5 minutes, my name was called and we got our order and left.  I noticed that people may differ in the way they enjoy their ice coffee with whipped cream.  For me, I sip the coffee first before mixing it with whip cream to appreciate its full flavor.  

While sipping, I had a random thought.  Cold drinks are more difficult to formulate than hot drinks because if its hot, the drinker can just add more cream or sugar as much as he pleases.  But with cold drink, you can't adjust it once it has been served.  With each person, having their own taste preferences, it may not please everybody.

This coffee with or without whipped cream is my type of coffee!  This is what I expect from an espresso.  The coffee is aromatic, thick and strong.  One sip will bring you bitter sweet goodness that lingers for a few minutes.   My family and Kurt loved it too!  Do you love this coffee too?

Drank till the last drop

I love CBTL's hot drinks especially their teas.  They have a wide variety of them.  Now I have something to order cold too.  They also offer good incentives for CBTL Swirl Rewards Card Holders.  Aside from the points you earn which can be used for purchase you can also use their WiFi for FREE.  It's also an ideal hang out because seats are often available.  How about you have you tried CBTL?  Share us your experience.=)



Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
2/F Midtown Wing, Robinson's Place Manila
Pedro Gil cor. Adriatico St. Ermita
Manila, Metro Manila
(02) 567-2004