Cafe
Yardstick Coffee
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Yardstick Coffee is a haven for coffee enthusiasts in the bustling Makati business district. Housed in the Universal LMS Building along Esteban Street, the cafe exudes a clean, modern vibe with white walls, wooden accents, and an open brew bar where baristas meticulously prepare each cup. The menu focuses on single-origin beans sourced from local Philippine farms and international growers, roasted in-house to highlight unique flavor profiles. Popular brewing methods include pour-over, Aeropress, and espresso, all executed with precision. Beyond coffee, Yardstick offers a small selection of pastries and light bites, such as ensaymada and croissants, which pair well with the drinks. The space is compact but welcoming, with a few communal tables and counter seats that encourage conversation or solitary work. The staff is passionate and happy to discuss the origins and tasting notes of each coffee, making it an educational as well as sensory experience.
Don't miss
- Order a pour-over of a single-origin Philippine coffee, like from Sagada or Benguet
- Watch baristas at the brew bar, ask them about their technique
- Try the seasonal cold brew or nitrogen-infused coffee
- Pair your coffee with a freshly baked ensaymada
- Buy a bag of beans to take home, roasted on-site
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Yardstick Coffee
You can visit on your own (No entry fee; pay for your order. Prices are moderate for specialty coffee). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inManila Food Tour: Introduction to Philippine Street Food5★ · 500 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$51 per personSee dates →
Best full dayImmerse in Culture: Villa Escudero Coconut Plantation Experience5★ · 63 travelers8-10 hoursFrom$170 per personSee dates →Getting there
Know before you go
- If you're new to specialty coffee, ask the barista for a tasting flight to sample different origins.
- Free Wi-Fi is available, but seating is limited, come early if you plan to work.
- They accept credit cards and mobile payments like GCash.
- Yardstick occasionally hosts coffee workshops; check their social media for schedules.
A bit of history
Yardstick Coffee was founded in 2014 by a group of coffee professionals aiming to elevate Manila's specialty coffee scene. It has since become a benchmark for quality in the Philippines.
Common questions
Do they serve non-coffee drinks?
Yes, they have matcha lattes, hot chocolate, and teas, but coffee is the star.
Is there a loyalty program?
Yes, they offer a punch card, buy 10 drinks, get one free.
Can I buy whole beans?
Absolutely, they sell a variety of single-origin beans in retail bags.
Is the cafe pet-friendly?
Only service animals are allowed inside due to space constraints.
Do they have food options for lunch?
The food menu is limited to pastries and light snacks; not a full meal.
What's the best coffee for beginners?
The barista can recommend a mild, balanced single-origin like a Colombian or a local blend.
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