If you’ve noticed café menus getting longer and more creative lately—you’re not imagining it.
From creamy lattes to colorful fruit teas, cafés are constantly rolling out new drinks that look good on social media and promise something different from your usual order. And let’s be honest, minsan oorder ka talaga dahil ang ganda sa picture 😅
Here are some of the trending café drinks Filipinos are ordering right now, plus my honest thoughts on whether they’re worth trying or just hype.
☕ Trending Café Drinks Right Now
1. Spanish Latte (Hot or Iced)
This drink refuses to go out of style.
Creamy, slightly sweet, and comforting—Spanish lattes remain a favorite for those who want coffee without too much bitterness. Iced versions are especially popular in our weather.
Worth it?
✔ Yes, especially if you like milky coffee. And here’s my Iced Spanish Latte recipe.
2. Dirty Matcha
Matcha meets espresso—and surprisingly, it works.
Earthy matcha layered with coffee gives you a strong caffeine kick without tasting too sharp. It’s one of those drinks people order “for curiosity” and end up loving.
Worth it?
✔ Worth trying at least once.
3. Brown Sugar Oat Latte
A dairy-free option that still feels indulgent.
Oat milk adds natural creaminess, while brown sugar gives depth without being overly sweet. This one is very popular among those cutting back on dairy.
Worth it?
✔ Yes, especially if you want something comforting but lighter.
4. Fruit Tea with Jelly or Popping Pearls
Light, refreshing, and very Instagrammable.
These drinks are popular among non-coffee drinkers and those looking for something less heavy. Best enjoyed iced.
Worth it?
✔ Yes—but best ordered with less sugar.
5. Sea Salt Cream Coffee
Sweet, salty, and creamy all at once.
The salted cream balances the bitterness of coffee and adds a dessert-like finish. It’s rich but surprisingly addictive.
Worth it?
✔ Yes, if you like dessert-style drinks.
6. Ube Latte
A local favorite that keeps coming back.
Nutty, slightly sweet, and very Filipino. This one feels comforting and familiar, especially when served hot.
Worth it?
✔ Yes—great alternative to chocolate drinks.
7. Matcha Strawberry Latte
Matcha layered with strawberry syrup or puree.
This drink is as pretty as it is popular. Flavor-wise, it leans more dessert than coffee.
Worth it?
✔ Worth it if you like sweet drinks.
8. Cold Brew with Cream or Foam
Smooth, less acidic, and easy to drink.
Cold brew has gained a loyal following because it doesn’t have that sharp aftertaste some coffees have.
Worth it?
✔ Yes, especially for coffee purists.
9. Chocolate-Based “Dessert Drinks”
Think chocolate cheesecake drinks, brownie frappes, or cocoa with toppings.
These are indulgent and filling—sometimes more dessert than drink.
Worth it?
✔ Occasionally. Best shared.
10. Signature House Blends
Every café seems to have one.
These drinks usually combine house syrups, unique milk choices, or special brewing methods.
Worth it?
✔ Yes—this is where cafés usually shine.
Café drinks are treats, not daily habits—and that’s okay.
Some days you want something strong and simple.
Some days you want something creamy and sweet.
What matters is enjoying it mindfully, not feeling guilty about it.
How I Choose What to Order
When faced with a long café menu, I usually:
- look for house specialties
- ask for less sugar
- choose iced drinks (pang-ma-init talaga)
- skip add-ons unless I really want them
It keeps the experience enjoyable without feeling overwhelming.
