5 F&B Concepts Strengthening Community Spirit
These homegrown joints are taking it upon themselves to boost and fortify budding communities.
Setting up shop in and out of the metro, meet five spots that make the case for collective solidarity. Such spots have since accumulated a following through their active endeavors, which were done in an effort to reassure community spirit.
The Den
Nestled in the historical street of Escolta, the Den thrives as a paradox of its own location, proclaiming itself as the intersection between specialty coffee and contemporary culture. The coffee shop and creative hub often takes to Instagram to spotlight a fellow creative simply by letting them talk about their inspirations and artistic practice.
Clean Beach
A stroll through San Juan’s main coast will lead to a visit to Clean Beach, one of La Union’s more laidback outposts. The space was designed with an ideal beach in mind, with the coffee shop and its loyal guests advocating for the same efforts embodied through its name. Customers are encouraged to borrow a beach basket and help in collecting litter along the beach coast, which entitles them to a free coffee or iced tea.
Futur:st
Previously operating exclusively as a bar, Futur:st has since reconditioned its space as a sanctuary for the arts and the culture left vulnerable by the ongoing pandemic. Today, Futur:st provides a space for creatives by holding exhibitions and utilizing their online platform to support fresh talent.
blocleaf cafe
Often attracting the growing biking community in the metro, blocleaf cafe is a favored spot for quick stops and brief pick-me-ups. The Malate-based cafe advocates for a stronger cycling culture, even establishing a Sunday City Cycle Club, where bike arrivals are entitled to 30% off on first drinks.
Soul Kitchen
Based in Lio Beach, El Nido – Soul Kitchen is an eatery serving delectable vegan and vegetarian cuisine. Purchasing a meal from the kitchen automatically reserves a separate meal for a local. The initiative is affiliated with Kalye Artisano, the Lio-based cultural hub by PIOPIO, which champions the production of homegrown arts and crafts.
