Alabang’s New Café Has Coffee Cocktails to Keep You Up All Night

Group and Boiler
G/F Molito Lifestyle Center, Madrigal Avenue, Alabang, Muntinlupa City 
Open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

(SPOT.ph) Even with the proliferation of third-wave coffee shops in the Metro in recent years, there are many who can’t help but be intimidated by them, preferring to stick to their regular iced macchiato. Perhaps, they fear that these cafés are owned by hipster dudebros who think knowing how to roast beans is an acceptable substitute for a personality. (Understandable!)

But the people at Group & Boiler don’t fall into this extreme—thank goodness. Instead, they are here for even the newest of newbies, so they can feel at ease when it comes to their cuppa. This laid-back vibe resonates throughout the space, with its clean colors and minimal, semi-rustic decor. 

The brain behind this new Molito hangout is Hans Juan, who we’re now choosing to call the Grounds Guru—not because he already knows everything there is to know but because his goal is for everyone to find their perfect cup. Group & Boiler is, from the swoop of the counter to the last dregs of a roast, very much his baby.

There’s something for everyone here—Juan recommends the Butterscotch Latte (P160) to start you off with something simple. Not overly sweet and easy to drink, this drink conjures images of oversized sweaters and mildly rainy days. To up the Pinterest factor, the Banana Nut Overnight Oats (P180) makes a great partner for this cup. It’s comfortingly goopy, has exactly the right amount of peanut butter, and while you could probably make it yourself, well, why would you when this version’s pretty dang good?

A touch of adventure can be found in the Group & Boiler Signature (P180), with a subtle undertone of apples and a fun torched cinnamon-sugar topping. But if you want to dive in headfirst, get their Single Origin Pour Over (P150), which is served in a wine glass so you get the full aromatic hit. Though the drink is only as heady as a light rosé might be, it doesn’t leave you wanting when it comes to flavor.

Group & Boiler is launching a whole slew of coffee cocktails soon, too. They're perfect for all kinds of nights out: Sometimes you’re waiting out the traffic; other times you just don’t feel like going home yet. Once in a while, if you’re lucky, there’s someone interesting to talk to at the bar. For all of these scenarios, Group & Boiler has an answer. The Espresso Martini is a chic-lookin' lady, but like many old flames, she might keep you up at night—nevertheless, she’s full-bodied and strong in a way that drives home the hard-to-swallow pill that you 100% brought this on yourself.

The Insomnia could mess you up in ways you never knew could happen. Juan will tell you himself: “While developing cocktails like this one, I [eventually ended up] slumped over the back of a chair, basically asleep, but my right leg was moving by itself. I wouldn’t wish it on an enemy.” So, while this is beautiful and creamy and bittersweet on several levels, proceed with caution.

If the night is winding down, you can take one of two paths: the Espresso Old Fashioned, which we’re ready to say is an improvement on an already fantastic drink, or the Matcha Latte (P170), a milder take on the green delicacy from Japan. It’s not quite as earthy or rich as other matcha drinks you might have had in the past, but that’s precisely why it’s great for closing time.

But if you’re not a night owl, the rest of the all-day breakfast portion of the menu might interest you: we’re fans of the in-house Beef Pastrami (P320), the deep brine-y flavor of which is softened with white cheddar and mozzarella. The Paleo Egg Cups (P180), on the other hand, are a great way to sneak veggies into your meal without wincing—the onions and peppers make it a simple but hearty portion.

Whether you’re new to the coffee scene or a veteran of the bean, Group & Boiler just might have your new favorite version of rocket fuel waiting for you.

Photos by Majoy Siason