Remember the time of the yogurts? How about the height of milk teas? While some of these establishments are still doing well despite its niche segment, I think the food & beverage industry has slowly welcomed the brewing of well-curated, hand crafted coffee which is the next best thing here in the Philippines, particularly in Metro Manila. The rise of different coffee shops whether homegrown or not is something that I really don’t mind. As a coffee lover, I’m ecstatic to try different blends and have promised myself to try all, if not, those promising ones that have emerged above the rest- such one is Toby’s Estate.
Meet Toby.
Toby is a roaster, barista, and coffee artisan intent on sharing his passion and knowledge with coffee lovers. After long stints on coffee plantations in Brazil and Guatemala honing his cupping and trading skills, an inspired Toby started roasting beans in his mom’s garage.
Four friends Marco Antonio, Chut Cuerva, Marcelo Crespo and Manny Del Rosario brought the coffee shop here in the Philippine shores and opened the first Toby’s Estate in Leviste St. in Makati. Although I’ve never visited the store, I’ve alway been whining to Mr. GJG that I wanna try their coffee. Thankfully, they opened one in the newest mall in Makati, Century City Mall and finally, we were able to try it.
It was during the holidays that we finally tried Toby’s Estate. It’s merely one fourth (or less?) the size of their Leviste St. store but they offer the same hand crafted coffee.
The excitement I feel every time I try a new coffee shop comes with a burden of being overwhelmed with the menu. With Toby’s Estate, I just felt excitement as their menu is uncomplicated. If you’re as indecisive as I am, ask their barista about their specialities. I’m sure they’ll offer most of their coffees as each one is well-crafted.
They have Bocaditos Baked by Anita! OMG. The Wild Mushroom & Spanish Chorizo are da bomb!
An assortment of cookies and…
…Buckies goodies too!
Love the illustration of Toby’s Estate Journey of The Bean. It makes me appreciate a good cup of coffee even more.
My first official kiss under the mistletoe for 2014. 🙂
I ordered Flat White because I like my coffee with a hint of milk (like a cappuccino or a latte).
Toby’s Estate Flat White is something I enjoyed and I’m glad I made the right choice. I love that the espresso wasn’t too strong yet it gave just the right flavor.
Shared this Buckies Original with lil’ Ms. GJG as we both have a sweet tooth. Moist and fluffy, Bucky’s not a brownie. It’s a flour less chocolate cake and fudge brownie.
You know it’s good coffee when you don’t need to add cream/milk, not even sugar. I can’t quite find the words to describe what it tastes like, (this is why I have high respect for food bloggers) for all I know is that it’s a coffee that I would come back for even if it means I’d have to give up collecting stickers to get a planner . 😉
Somebody got first dibs and ate her portion. 😉
Just like that both Toby’s Estate Flat White and Buckies Original were gone after a few minutes of sips and bites.
Toby’s Estate is another coffee shop to rave about. I hope I can visit your SM Aura branch soon to try your food offerings naman. Good job on opening more stores. I hope you open one in my neighbourhood soon! Oh and please offer your workshop na for I shall sign up! 😀
3rd Floor, Century City Mall, Kalayaan Ave. Makati City
click HERE for their other branches.
Matromao says
I’m very appreciative of the growing coffee culture here in the Philippines. A wide selection of good coffee is not that hard to find. My friends are raving about Toby’s Estate, but I have yet to try. Looks promising, though. 🙂
Jackie Go says
Hi Matromao, so true! I think Toby’s Estate is really worth the hype as they offer good coffee.