Iloilo City is home to a thriving coffee culture, where specialty coffee shops are making their mark by serving top-tier brews crafted from high-quality beans. If you’re a coffee lover looking for an elevated experience beyond your usual cup, here are my picks for the top five specialty coffee shops in Iloilo that you must visit:
1. The Yield Specialty Coffee
Located in Jaro, The Yield Specialty Coffee has solidified its reputation as one of Iloilo’s finest specialty coffee destinations. Recently recognized as a member of the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), The Yield takes pride in offering meticulously brewed coffee from single-origin beans sourced worldwide. It also serves Iloilo’s best PCQC-graded Fine Robusta beans from Igbaras, delivering a unique local flavor in every cup.
Why Visit The Yield?
- SCA-Certified Excellence: Recognized for its commitment to high-quality coffee.
- Cup of Excellence Brews: Experience the finest specialty coffee selections.
- Prime Location: Nestled near Jaro’s historic landmarks like Jaro Cathedral and Casa Mariquit.
Must-Try: Pour-over using their ‘Cup of Excellence’ beans or their Signature Iced Caramel.
📍 Location: Lopez-Jaena St. corner Sta. Isabel Sts., Democracia, Jaro, Iloilo City
2. Iloilo Coffee House
Dubbed as the purveyor of specialty coffee in Iloilo, Iloilo Coffee House is known for its dedication to quality coffee and manual brewing techniques. It is a favorite among coffee purists who appreciate the craft of slow, intentional brewing.
Why Visit Iloilo Coffee House?
- Pioneer in Specialty Coffee: Known for elevating Iloilo’s coffee scene.
- Expertly Brewed Coffee: Offers manual brews that highlight the nuances of each bean.
- Community-Focused: A go-to hub for local coffee aficionados.
Must-Try: Their signature hand-brewed pour-over coffee.
📍 Location: 77 Quezon St., Dulonan, Arevalo, Iloilo City
3. Amore Coffee
Tucked in Westwoods Subdivision, Amore Coffee offers a serene ambiance with a strong focus on in-house roasted beans. Their commitment to quality ensures a cup that’s both fresh and flavorful, making it a favorite among those who seek a quiet coffee retreat.
Why Visit Amore Coffee?
- Freshly Roasted Beans: Roasts its own coffee for peak freshness.
- Diverse Menu: From specialty coffee to matcha drinks, there’s something for everyone.
- Cozy Atmosphere: A relaxing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Must-Try: Their Latte Bonbon or any of their matcha offerings.
📍 Location: J Cordon Building, Main Avenue, Westwoods Subdivision, Iloilo City
4. Sōl Coffee
A boutique specialty coffee shop, Sōl Coffee is known for its laid-back vibe and expertly brewed drinks. With its commitment to serving high-quality single-origin coffee, it has gained a strong following among coffee lovers in Iloilo.
Why Visit Sōl Coffee?
- Focus on Specialty Coffee: Offers well-crafted manual brews and espresso-based drinks.
- Relaxing Ambiance: A great place to enjoy coffee in a calm and inviting setting.
- Passionate Baristas: Ensuring each cup is crafted to perfection.
Must-Try: Their Vanilla Bean Latte.
📍 Location: Regina Road, Tabuc Suba, Jaro, Iloilo City
5. Neighbor Coffee
With multiple branches across Iloilo, Neighbor Coffee has become a staple for those who appreciate handcrafted specialty coffee. Known for its warm atmosphere and commitment to quality, it’s an ideal spot for coffee lovers who enjoy a well-balanced brew.
Why Visit Neighbor Coffee?
- Quality Manual Brews: A mix of classic and innovative coffee creations.
- Welcoming Space: Perfect for both work and relaxation.
Must-Try: Their Iced Horchata Latte.
📍 Locations: The Shops at Atria, San Rafael, Mandurriao
These five specialty coffee shops in Iloilo each bring something unique to the table, whether it’s globally recognized expertise, in-house roasted beans, or a cozy neighborhood vibe. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of specialty coffee, these cafes offer a taste of Iloilo’s thriving coffee culture.
Which one will you visit first? Let us know your go-to specialty coffee spot in the comments!
