Restaurant Love: Café Adriatico

Malate is known for its bustling night life. And with the craziness ending till wee hours in the morning, I'd imagine its breakfast scene to be close to a ghost town. But I was wrong when I dropped by the iconic Café Adriatico. 

Hello, Café Adriatico. 

Café Adriatico is undoubtedly one of the gems of Manila. Established in 1979, this small cafe was the start of the successful LJC Group of Restaurants. 

Popular as a breakfast joint, I was not expecting it to be packed when I dropped by around 8:30 a.m.. Filled with hungry patrons, this café seemed to be a busy spot for morning chats and meetings. 

I couldn't recall the last time I've visited Café Adriatico but it was definitely more than five years ago. Yet I could not forget its dark and thick hot tablea that I had to get one again when I visited a few weeks ago. 

Apparently, this divine drink was said to be what started the café culture in Manila. 

Made with tablea sourced from Pampanga, hometown of LJC's founder Larry J. Cruz, expect nothing but rich and bold flavor from Chocolate Eh! (PHP99). Its thick texture might be a bit intimidating at first as it looks extremely sweet. But its dark flavor would make you finish a cup in one sitting. Its antique looking cup added a bit of nostalgic vibe to the drink.

This is best paired with one of Café Adriatico's pastries to kick start your morning or with one of its savory dishes. And I did just that when one of the friendly servers recommended its Salpicao Rice (PHP550).

Despite the crowd, service was fast as my meal was served within 10 minutes. And it was a beaut!

Though pricey at PHP550, this plate of tender beef cubes and garlic rice will leave anyone who orders this full and satisfied. Succulent and oozing with flavor, I think I just discovered a new salpicao favorite. And the crispy fried garlic was an excellent touch.

I'm a bit bummed that this homey café is quite far from me. I guess I have to settle without the blast from the past ambiance and go with its other branches in the metro. But I'm definitely dropping by again if I find myself around Malate. 

Café Adriatico is located at 1790 Adriatico Street, Remedios Circle, Malate, Manila.