(SPOT.ph) The first flagship store of MUJI finally opens its doors today, April 25, at Glorietta in Makati. It's the eighth and largest store in the country to date, with three whole floors of the cult-fave Japanese brand's essentials, which we'll be walking you through soon. For now, we're focusing on one thing. The most unique feature that this store introduces is the MUJI Bakery. Yup, you read that right—this Makati outpost has the brand's first-ever baked goods section (with PH-exclusive treats!) in the Philippines next to a massive dining area and, of course, a coffee counter.
Also read: FIRST LOOK: MUJI Opens Largest PH Store in the North
The MUJI flagship store in Glorietta has a bakery + the biggest Coffee Counter.
The MUJI Bakery is located on the first floor of the store, nestled between the Coffee Counter (which we will get to in a bit) and MUJI's selection of curry blends in different spice levels. If you start from the ground floor, you would be able to see it as soon as you enter—just go past the sections for kitchenware and diningware, and voila! You'll be able to see (or smell) the baked goodies, grab them, and head over to where the tables and seats are.
There are escalators to get you to and from the floors should you ever start on the second or third, so don't worry about having an unexpected leg day exercise.
The dining space takes up most of the first floor. They have round communal tables for big groups of maybe seven or eight, and an elevated bar table overlooking the streets. There are lots and lots of power outlets. Imagine sipping your coffee and having a bite of your sweet treat while looking at cars passing by. It's a vibe.
Speaking of sweet treats, the MUJI flagship store serves freshly baked bread from its in-house bakery. As you approach, a sign reminds you how to better preserve the quality and texture of the bread you choose to purchase. You'll have to look out for the reminders, whether it's good to reheat or consume ASAP. There are trays and tongs available as you queue up, almost inviting you to grab your selection.
Among the selection of croissants, buns, and other breads inspired by Japanese and Filipino faves (about 15 types) are two familiar breads that you don't want to miss. Yup, these are the Philippine- and flagship store-exclusive treats: the soft and buttery, sweet and salty Plain Ensaymada (P95), Ube Ensaymada (P115), as well as the Ube Pandesal (P35) and Plain Pandesal (P10).
The Bacon and Egg Croissant (P195), Sausage Bun (P135), and Smashed Ham & Cheese Croissant (P85) are bound to leave your mouth watering. For those with a sweet tooth, the Chocolate Croissant (P155) is the one you should make a beeline for.
You can wash it all down with MUJI's signature brews and refreshments at the Coffee Counter. Finally, there's a big Coffee Counter in the area. In fact, the Coffee Counter in MUJI Glorietta is now the biggest one to date.
The menu includes new breads, as well as the Curry Rice Meals (like the Butter Chicken Curry Rice, Chicken Masak Lemak Curry Rice, and Green Curry Rice), hot and cold beverages, and Soft Serve Ice Cream (starts at P175) made with premium Hokkaido milk. MUJI has been in collaboration with Filipino farmers and local suppliers, like for the Benguet coffee beans.
The MUJI flagship store also offers an exclusive Choco Tablea drinks series with the Hot Tablea and Hot Ichigo Tablea, which have a deep and earthy chocolate flavor that can soothe you after all that shopping.
Aside from the flagship-exclusive drinks, there are MUJI staples included in the menu like the Cafe Latte (P100/small, P120/large for hot and P125/small, P135/large for iced), Ichigo Cafe Mocha (P125/small, P140/large), and the Kiwi-Strawberry Tea (P120/small and P135/large). Get your fill of matcha with the Matcha Latte (P110/small, P130/large for hot and P130/small, P145/large for iced), Ichigo Matcha Latte (P120/small, P140/large for hot and P140/small and P155/large for iced), and, of course, the Soft Serve Matcha (P195).
Where to find MUJI's flagship store in the Philippines?
The MUJI Flagship Store is located on Levels 1, 2, and 3 of Glorietta Ayala Center, Makati. Doors are open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday to Thursday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday to Sunday.
The MUJI Bakery is at the MUJI Flagship Store, Ayala Center, Courtyard Drive, Makati City. For more information, check out MUJI Philippines' Facebook page.
Also read:
MUJI's New Coffee Counter Serves Curry From All Over
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