(SPOT.ph) These days, it takes more than just an impressive menu to attract customers. Picture-perfect interiors and a cozy ambience are now part of the equation, and it seems like The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf’s newest branch in the Metro knows this game well.
Located at Solaire Resort & Casino in Parañaque City, the new branch designed by Space Encounters is inspired by posh Art Deco style with hints of mid-century modern—high ceiling, lush leather seats with metallic details, wall sconces and sleek drop lights, and bold geometric patterns. The design goes perfectly with its location, and it also stays true to The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (CBTL)’s roots in Southern California.
Gelo Cruz, senior interior designer of Space Encounters, took inspiration from the many Art Deco buildings in SoCal, like the Bullocks Wilshire, the Los Angeles Public Library, and Griffith Observatory, among others. “Actually, the main challenge is how to change the design while still retaining what is essentially CBTL,” shares Thor Balanon, Space Encounters’ vice president for marketing and interior branding. In order to remain faithful to the brand, certain elements were kept. “The dominant colors remain organic and true to CBTL’s palette; the different surfaces and textures of the materials—granite, brass, wood, and leather—become the highlights,” adds Giane Santos, design and project development manager of CBTL.
It’s pretty difficult to choose a favorite spot because every corner is well thought-out. Gelo recommends nabbing the corner near the counter, as it gives you a sweeping view of the entire area. If you want to get some work done on your laptop, grab a seat at the long table across the cashier. And in case you want to stay away from the crowd, get either of the spots that are flushed against the wall by the entrance. There are enough seats, whether you want to spend time alone or hang out with a big group.
While the look and feel of this store is more elevated compared to the typical Coffee Bean, the space is still inviting, and still feels very much like CBTL. Your favorite coffee blends and teas are all here, as well as familiar food items frequent visitors of the coffee chain have come to love. “We try to champion our gourmet products, like we have pasta dishes, sandwiches, salads, and the cakes and pastries of course,” says Kim Cruz, associate brand manager.
Start your day with good coffee and a filling serving of Eggs Ben
Sardine and Garlic Linguine is an old CBTL favorite
The newest addition on CBTL's menu: Pastrami
You can expect to find a lot of CBTL staples here, like the Greek Salad (P255), Eggs Ben (P295), or Sardine and Garlic Linguine (P245); or you can try the newest addition to their menu, the Pastrami Sandwich (P295), with generous servings of pastrami, fresh tomatoes, and cheese.
The summer blends are also still available: Mocha Coconut (P185 regular/P205 large for Ice Blended) and Caramel Coconut (P185 regular/P205 large for Ice Blended). “They’re available as Ice Blended drinks, latte, and iced latte,” says Kim. “Mocha Coconut and Caramel Coconut use our base flavors, which are mocha and caramel, with coconut powder and toasted coconut on top of the whipped cream.”
Dessert lovers are in for quite a snack. Don’t miss out on the White Chocolate Berry Cheesecake (P155), a white chocolate-based cheesecake mixed with raspberry syrup and blueberries on top of an Oreo crust. There’s also the Mango Tres Leches (P145), a sweet treat made of three kinds of milk mixed with mango puree and drizzled with desiccated coconut. They also have the Chocolate Crinkle (P60), a new addition to their popular cookie offerings. These goodies are by Classic Confections, and will be available until July.
You may look forward to more community-based activities under CBTL’s Caring Cup program, a platform that enables customers to lend a helping hand to those in need through monthly outreach events. There are free workshops held regularly. “Our Solaire store can be an avenue for these kinds of purposeful events where we bring together the community and inspire, one cup at a time,” says community and engagement manager Nella Lomotan.
With this kind of environment, this coffee shop goes beyond inspiring people through its interior design. So whether you want to check out the space's aesthetic in real life or join in a community that focuses on giving back—this brand-new space gives you plenty of reasons to drop by.
The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf is located at G/F The Shoppes at Solaire Resort & Casino, 1 Aseana Ave, Parañaque. For more information, visit The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf's Facebook page.
Photos by Michael Angelo Chua