Filipino Classics
Unique local creations like calamansi pie and ensaymada representing authentic Philippine dessert traditions
International Expertise
French patisserie mastery and Japanese baking precision from artisanal bakeries with professional craftsmanship
Neighborhood Favorites
Casual dessert cafes offering quality pastries and all-day options at approachable prices
Bad Cafe
Bad Cafe is legendary in Manila's dessert circles, primarily for one showstopping creation: the Calamansi Pie (₱200). This Filipino-inspired tart features a distinctive calamansi filling with a pinch of salt and cayenne pepper, reminiscent of a lemon meringue pie but with that uniquely Filipino citrus punch. The bright, tangy-sweet flavor makes it an unexpected but addictive dessert that perfectly captures local tastes. Beyond the famous pie, Bad Cafe offers an impressive menu of other desserts, pastries, and savory items -- making it equally beloved for lunch and coffee breaks. The minimalist cafe aesthetic in Windsor Tower's Legazpi Village location provides a calm workspace perfect for studying or working, with reliable WiFi and a professional atmosphere. Open 8 AM-9 PM weekdays (extended to 10 PM weekends), Bad Cafe strikes the perfect balance between specialty dessert destination and work-friendly cafe.
Kumori Japanese Bakery & Cafe
Kumori brings authentic Japanese baking expertise to Manila with a carefully curated selection of fresh pastries and desserts. Their signature Hanjuku Cheesecake (half-baked style) is creamy perfection -- baked to order with a molten center that flows when you cut into it. The soft and fluffy apple buns showcase Japanese precision in texture and sweetness balance. Kumori's cream puffs and custard-filled pastries (krone pastries) are crispy outside with smooth, rich centers. Each item is baked with quality Japanese ingredients, and the bakery maintains high standards for freshness -- items are often sold out by late afternoon, a testament to their popularity. The Katipunan Avenue location in Diliman places it near UP, making it a favorite among students and professionals. Kumori's multiple branches throughout Metro Manila (malls, commercial centers) mean there's always a location nearby, but the flagship Katipunan branch offers the full range and quickest access to fresh items.
Bizu Patisserie & Cafe
Bizu Patisserie represents high-end French pastry craftsmanship in Manila, with each creation reflecting technical skill and quality ingredients. Their signature Salted Caramel Cake is an elegant balance of sweetness and salt, with layers of delicate genoise and silky caramel. The Ube Basque Burnt Cheesecake innovatively merges Filipino favorite ube with Basque burnt cheesecake trends, creating a unique Manila-inspired luxury dessert. Bizu's macaron selection showcases precision baking -- perfectly peaked shells with creamy, flavorful ganaches in classic and seasonal flavors. Beyond cakes, they offer petit fours, tarts, and pastries suitable for gifting or indulgent personal enjoyment. The Robinsons Magnolia location provides an upscale shopping experience -- you can pick up a dessert, enjoy it at the cafe, or bring it home. Bizu caters to special occasions, corporate gifts, and dessert lovers seeking professional-quality pastries and sophisticated flavors.
Hizon's Cakes & Pastries
Hizon's Cakes & Pastries is a Manila institution since 1946, with multi-generational reputation for consistent quality and signature recipes. Their legendary Mocha Chiffon Cake remains the flagship item -- light, fluffy, with refined mocha flavor that appeals to traditionalists. The ensaymada (Filipino pastry) is spiraled perfection, buttery and slightly sweet. Beyond these classics, Hizon's offers an impressive selection of cakes, pastries, and desserts using time-tested recipes and fresh ingredients. The Jorge Bocobo location in Ermita puts it near major landmarks and cultural institutions, making it convenient for picking up desserts before attending events or gatherings. Hizon's has expanded to multiple branches, including mall locations, but the flagship Ermita store maintains the original charm and full range. Their commitment to quality over trendy innovations means Hizon's continues to satisfy generations of Manila families seeking reliable, delicious cakes and pastries.
Pro Pastry Shopping Tip
Popular items at Japanese bakeries like Kumori and premium patisseries like Bizu often sell out by late afternoon, especially on weekends. Arrive early (before 2 PM) or call ahead to reserve your favorites. Fresh-baked items throughout the day means visiting at different times gives you variety.
Good Pastry Cafe
Good Pastry Cafe is a beloved neighborhood destination in Greenhills known for all-day breakfast items that transition seamlessly into dessert territory. Their croissants are buttery and flaky, perfectly baked to golden perfection. Egg tarts feature creamy custard filling with crispy pastry shells. The cheesecake selection includes both baked and no-bake varieties, catering to different texture preferences. Good Pastry's strength lies in consistent quality and approachable pricing -- premium pastries without premium prices. The cafe atmosphere encourages lingering over coffee and dessert, with comfortable seating and friendly service. Located in Greenhills' Fox Square commercial building, it's easily accessible from the upscale neighborhood and surrounding areas. The all-day breakfast menu means you can enjoy croissants or egg tarts any time of day, making it perfect for unexpected cravings. Good Pastry Cafe proves that neighborhood dessert cafes can deliver quality comparable to fancy patisseries.
