World Barista Champion Hidenori Izaki visits Manila for the Latte Art Throwdown

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World Barista Champion 2014 Hidenori Izaki recently visited the Philippines to judge the Latte Art Throwdown held at the Coffee Project in Macapagal Blvd, Pasay City. 

The Latte Art Throwdown Competition gathered baristas from all over the country showed their creativity and passion for coffee. The event was participated by different baristas from different coffee shops all over the country. This includes some baristas from Coffee Project, Starbucks, Figaro, Krispy Kreme, Toby's Estate and from others companies.

Hosted by TV personality and foodie Xandra Rocha,  and the panel of judges includes celebrity former MTV VJ and actress and now a food blogger Donita Rose, Chefs Jackie and Rolando Laudico and Silvester “Sly” Samonte and Hidenori Izaki will choose the winner in the final round. 

The winner for the Latte Art Throwdown is Andy Abergas Luyugoy of Toby's Estate Philippines bring home his very own Espresso machine and bunch of supplies from sponsors.

The Latte Art Throwdown was sponsored by Allegro Beverage, Victoria Arduino espresso machines, Jolly Cow Fresh Milk, Lotus Biscoff, and Coffee Project.

Before the competition started, the first ever Asian to win the premiere global barista competition from 60 countries, Hidenori shared his experiences and his journey how he became a barista! "I kept competing as I am completely obsessed with [barista] competitions and attracted to how beautiful the coffee community is,” he said.

Hidenori founded the ​Samurai Coffee Experience​, a global coffee consulting company where he travels more than 200 days a year all over the world to educate people about coffee, conduct consultancy, professional barista training, coffee roasting and product development. On top of that, he also serves as a technical consultant for an espresso machinery company.

As Hidenori started his coffee journey and honed his skills with Maruyama Coffee, a cafe chain and roasting company known worldwide for buying top auction lots of coffee, especially Cup of Excellence premium varieties. Maruyama is one of the most dominant coffee companies in the world, having won the Japanese Barista Championship for 5 straight years.

Before going into barista competitions, Hidenori had his fair share of ups and downs. He was in and out of school, he also studied in England when he finally realized that he would need a formal education to thrive. During his time abroad, he was able to learn the English language while interacting with people from different backgrounds. All his experiences both in Japan and abroad made him culturally-diverse, strong-willed and a passionate barista with an immeasurable thirst for coffee knowledge.

This made him confident to compete on the center stage of the barista world which requires not only coffee mastery but also great communication and rapport with the judges and the audience. “I was sure that I could communicate with people from different backgrounds and [it] helped me so much to get a more diverse point of view for who I am,” he shared while recounting how and why he decided to join the competition.

After two years of joining the said competition, he won and received the coveted World Barista Champion title in 2014 in Rimini, Italy.

“Hidenori opened the doors for many aspiring Asian baristas who compete in the global competitions. And that includes our very own Silvester Samonte who will compete later this year in Korea,” said Allegro Beverage Corporation president, Leo de Leon. Allegro is the preferred end-to-end coffee solutions provider in restaurants, hotel chains, and third wave coffee shops in the country. It is the exclusive distributor of world class espresso machines like the Victoria Arduino which is used during the World Barista Championships.

 Leo de Leon, Allegro Beverage Corporation president

In partnership with Nuova Simonelli, the leading manufacturer of espresso machines used in the competition, Fly Ace Corporation, the exclusive distributor of Lotus Biscoff biscuits and Jolly Cow Fresh Milk, and Coffee Project, the newest cozy coffee shop chain the country, Allegro put together this event to showcase the barista skills and passion of a true champion, facilitate and exchange of ideas, and educate the public about serving specialty coffee.

After all, de Leon said “Coffee is the nectar of the gods, the life blood of offices and a tonic drink for productivity.”

ALLEGRO BEVERAGE CORPORATION

Allegro Beverage Corporation (ABC) is the country’s leading provider of complete coffee solutions. It is the exclusive distributor of the finest espresso machines, brewers, coffee beans, syrups, sauces and teas from Italy, Switzerland, France, Germany, Spain, Sweden, the Netherlands, and the United States. Its products cater to hotels, casinos, culinary and educational institutions, restaurants, cafes, and franchise chains. www.allegrobeverage.com

FLY ACE CORPORATION

Fly Ace Corporation is one of the leading food and beverage consumer goods companies in the country today. Propelling limitless multiple-category growth by bringing the best of the world closer to Filipino consumers, Fly Ace Corporation’s portfolio of food and beverage products includes house brands and exclusively distributed brands.

JOLLY COW

The milk loved by the whole family for its deliciously creamy taste, is also a proud supporter of the coffee making industry in the country. JOLLY COW FRESH MILK is the official milk partner of the 2017 Philippine Barista Championships and 2017 Philippine National Latte Art Championship. Jolly Cow actively participates in latte art competitions in third wave coffee shops. Thick, creamy, and comes from the free-ranged “happy cows” of Europe, Jolly Cow Fresh Milk produces milk froth that is silky white and microfoam froth and it gives your coffee natural sweetness so that you can enjoy your coffee even without adding sugar that makes it highly recommended by every professional baristas in the country. Jolly Cow is exclusively distributed by Fly Ace Corporation in the Philippines. Follow Jolly Cow PH on Facebook for more information.​

LOTUS BISCOFF

The Lotus Biscoff coffee has been a favorite since 1932 among Europeans as the perfect coffee companion. The brand name itself “Biscoff” represents the marriage of biscuit and coffee. The unique caramelized taste of a Lotus Biscoff is formed during the baking process, resulting to typical aroma components, some of which are similar to the aroma components formed when roasting coffee. What is even more important than simply resembling each other is that together, Lotus Biscoff and coffee are complimentary. A Lotus Biscoff cookie creates an extra flavour experience that is in complete balance with coffee. The magic is that neither product ever tries to dominant the other, and that their individual character is maintained. Lotus Biscoff is exclusively distributed by Fly Ace Corporation in the Philippines. Follow Lotus Biscoff PH Official on Facebook for more information.

COFFEE PROJECT

Coffee Project aims to provide excellent coffee and gracious service creating memorable experience for people by serving good quality concoctions of espresso based drinks and mouth-watering food, and exceptional interior design. Every coffee outlet of Coffee Project is filled with flowers and greens to create a happy and vibrant mood among costumers. With this extraordinary concept, their valued customers consider Coffee Project as the Most Instagram-worthy coffee shop. To date, Coffee Project already has fourteen branches in Luzon and is planning to further expand to more locations in the coming months.

Sweet Cups Inspired by Nostalgia - Lily’s by Conlins

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There are different ways to make coffee. But when it comes to coffee, taste matters.

If you make your own coffee in the morning, chances are you’re only making the same kind everyday. When I am outside and passing through places with coffee shops, one of the most popular espresso drinks I order is the cappuccino. I have always read it how to do cappuccino, done right should be equal parts espresso, steamed milk and foamed milk. But I never tried it before, but during an event held at Coffee Lab, BGC, I have make my own cappuccino. 

 

Recently, an invitation to see how to make coffee, enthusiastic and passionate I said yes. I think this is to make an end to the cynical habit and turn you into an instant coffee connoisseur.

And more, not just an educational event, gladly to meet someone who shared how to make ordinary moments extraordinary.

Eric Lim

LILY’S BY CONLINS: SWEET CUPS OF NOSTALGIA

Whether it’s preparing for the day ahead or serving a cup to a friend or loved one, a great brew helps to set the mood, slow down the pace, and create a sense of warmth.

For many, drinking coffee is not an empty act, but part of a beautiful ritual wherein you can savor the fullness of flavour and reflect in the goodness of the moment. 

Eric Lim, the COO of Conlins Coffee Company and licensed coffee Q grader, is driven to create this same experience with every cup he brews and every product he creates:

“For me, great coffee is an everyday indulgence, and it helps to make ordinary moments extraordinary.” 

Just in time for the Christmas season, Conlins proudly launches its newest line of premium instant coffee made from special micro-ground roasts - Lily’s by Conlins.

Inspired by nostalgia, Lily’s by Conlins comes in three distinct flavours that brim with warmth and sweetness. 

The Royal Latte offers a rich heavenly brew that’s tempered with a fresh hint of honey. Whether for breakfast or for your afternoon coffee break, this latte instantly helps to perk up your senses.

For those who enjoy the delicateness of this Italian favorite, Lily’s Luxury Cappuccino serves a smooth experience with the same creamy lightness of milk. The final sprinkle of cinnamon on top makes for the perfect relaxing cup. 

Lily’s Luxury Cocoa, on the other hand, is the ultimate temptation for adults who never outgrew their penchant for hot chocolate. An elevated version of the sweet treat, Lily’s Luxury Cocoa is a dark indulgent cup that beautifully melds the rich aromas and flavors of premium roast coffee. It offers a delightful balance of richness and sweetness that everyone will love.

“Lily’s by Conlins is actually a tribute to my late mother. When I was a child, I would excitedly make breakfast and whip up a cup of coffee for her. Of course, it was just instant coffee. But the special, simple act of mixing the coffee with milk and sugar felt like such a grown up thing. Until today, I remember those moments with fondness. Coffee became an opportunity for us to bond,” shares Lim.

With every cup by Lily’s by Conlins, feel free to indulge. Treat yourself and the people you love with a distinct brew that marries the convenience of instant coffee with the luxury of premium coffee blends. 

Lily’s by Conlins are available in 250 grams tins for Php 350 at Greenbelt 5, Coffee Lab (beside ALESSI) in Bonifacio Global City, and The Coffee Laboratory in Ayala Center Cebu 3rd Level .

For more information, visitwww.conlinscoffee.com, follow them on Instagram: @coffeelabph, or call 0917-8671720; Alessi Cebu 0917-3143942; and Conlins Elements Greenbelt 5, 0917-8671720 or you may email alessibgc@yahoo.com

Starbucks: A Sweet And Chocolatey Frappuccino Treat

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Mocha Ribbon Chip Frappuccino Blended Beverage with Cookie Straw – Our signature Coffee Frappuccino is made more exciting with java chips for a chocolatey crunch. We then line the cup with Mocha sauce before pouring the Coffee Frappuccino for a sweet balancing flavor. 

The beverage is then finished with Chocolate whipped cream, aromatic Turkish coffee grind and a cookie straw. Available only from July 4 – 10.

Frappuccino Cookie Straw – Instead of sipping your Frappuccino with a green straw, why not use a rolled sweet wafer biscuit lined with rich chocolate ganache? The cookie straw is light and crispy with a slightly toasted, sweet wafer and chocolate flavor.

Available for purchase separately starting July 11.

How Great Taste Coffee brand endorser John Lloyd Cruz choose to be great

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A celebration of everyday greatness, Great Taste held a "Choose to Be Great" media event as they introduced one of the Philippines' greatest young actors John Lloyd Cruz as its newest brand endorser.

John Lloyd is featuring in the new Great Taste campaign wherein it captures the respect and admiration that he and the brand have for Pinoy’s greatness. 

Like Great Taste Coffee, brand endorser John Lloyd is a staunch admirer of the Filipinos’ everyday greatness. 

During the coffee shop-themed event held at the Crowne Plaza Ortigas, media guests were treated to various activities that showcased Great Taste’s celebration of the Filipino’s everyday greatness.

Greatness is within every Filipino. It can come out in many forms, in any situation, at no particular place or time. From game-changing choices to simple, unplanned acts of kindness, greatness can thrive every day. 

Believing in the remarkable traits of Filipinos is Great Taste Coffee. Through the years, constant innovation has allowed the brand to constantly introduce new and better ways to enjoy a cup of coffee. As it continues to help bring out the greatness in every Filipino, Great Taste Coffee introduces a new endorser to join its journey of serving even greater experiences to its loyal consumers. 

“We are very pleased to have John Lloyd Cruz as the latest addition to the Great Taste family. As our endorser, we believe he will reinforce our values and philosophy with the same kind of passion and greatness that he has exemplified in his life,” said Universal Robina Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer Lance Gokongwei.

Like Great Taste Coffee and John Lloyd Cruz, Filipinos can achieve greatness—from small triumphs, to great milestones.

Choose to be great with Great Taste Coffee, available at all leading supermarkets, convenience stores, and sari-sari stores nationwide.

Proudly local and always innovating, Great Taste Coffee consistently empowers Filipinos to make every day great.

Experience a perfect brew at Dipdenza Coffee

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Enjoying the wonderful world with - coffee at Dipdenza. 

Dipdenza Coffee, just-opened coffee shop at the Fort Strip promises to grow your love for coffee with exciting new experiences. The search for that elusive perfect cup of joe can be a long and challenging one, as every coffee lover knows. But thankfully, with the opening of new international coffee shop Dipdenza Coffee at the Fort Strip, Bonifacio Global City, one need not look far anymore to get his coffee fix.

“Dipdenza” is a play on the Italian word “dipendenza,” which means “addiction,” according to Angeli Albaña, Dipdenza Coffee  owner.

“We want to help create a stronger coffee culture in the Philippines by encouraging a deeper appreciation of it,” she shares. The inspiration? European coffee drinkers. “They’ve made coffee a crucial part of their lifestyle, so much so that their passion for it goes beyond downing a single cup each morning. They have become very particular about quality, and will even drink multiple cups a day so long as that quality is met.” 

This, Albaña adds, is where Dipdenza Coffee comes in—by offering Filipinos premium blends and well-matched food items at relatively affordable prices.

Angeli Albaña

“We bring together the best of second-wave—established coffee blends that you’ll find in popular coffee shops—and third-wave coffee, which features more specialized mixes.”

At the Dipdenza Coffee, the ambience is quiet, you’ll immediately feel at ease in its warm, earthy interiors.

Experience the soothing aroma and delectable taste of their premium coffee selection, with the wonderful smell of freshly-ground beans inviting you to take your pick of coffee for your stay.

Their bestseller, the Caramel Cappuccino, is a delightfully suave concoction of sweet, strong, and bitter, while classic blends such as your basic Brewed Coffee, Café Americano, Café Mocha, and Late Macchiato, spell great ways to give you an energy boost at the start or middle of the day, or a much-needed nightcap after work.

The Flavored Lattes are also fun ways to customize your coffee experience—choose from hazelnut, caramel, butter pecan, irish cream, French vanilla, peanut butter, pumpkin spice, green apple, kiwi, peach, blueberry, raspberry, lemon, strawberry, passion fruit, and lychee. 

While these are your traditional coffee bets, Dipdenza steps up the coffee game a notch higher than the usual with a slightly stronger roast, challenging you to really savor the beans’ unique flavors and notes. For those who prefer to take their caffeine in one big and bold jolt, they can opt to go Espresso—whether as a pure shot, con panna (with cream), or as a macchiato (with some milk).

Now this is one shop that knows and chooses its coffee well, as Dipdenza Coffee uses a wide variety of beans to allow coffee drinkers to explore and broaden their palette.

There’s the creamy Brazil Fazenda Dutra, with notes of caramel sweetness and hints of milk chocolate, punctuated by a taste of vanilla at the end; the “Bourbon”-like Guatemala Fancy Antigua Santo Domingo, which features fascinating hints of lemon and lemon peel; the tea-like Ethiopian Sidamo, with herbal aromatics and the flavors of jackfruit and lemon juice; and the delightful Kenya Aa Asali, with its enticing cocoa and blackcurrant fragrance, strong cocoa flavors, subtle winey and fruity characters, and vanilla and caramel finish, among many other varieties.

As you watch the baristas create the perfect cup, you’ll immediately notice this coffee jaunt’s particular penchant for quality.

“You’ll always get freshly-ground coffee using beans that are roasted locally, Albaña stresses. We use 3 different kinds of blends that are of Grade 1 quality, which means that these are the best of the best coffee farmed all around the world. All our baristas underwent specialty training and are experts in what they do. They’ll be able to give you recommendations based on your taste.”

Now, those who are looking for non-coffee-based beverages needn’t look elsewhere either, as Dipdenza offers more than just its signature brews.

The indulgent Premium Peanut Butter Frappuccino is a bestseller guaranteed to make the sweet-toothed starry-eyed, while tea drinkers will love the creamy but bold Green Matcha. Other frappe flavors to try—and to put in your bucket list!—include Cookies ‘n Cream, Mocha Raspberry, and Chai Latte.

And of course, the best way to experience these drinks is by pairing them with great food, and Dipdenza doesn’t cease to impress with their repertoire of mouthwatering must-tries.

Dig into Dipdenza’s take on a classic pasta dish with its Spanish Sardines Aglio Olio, a simple yet tasty recipe bursting with the fresh flavors of Spanish sardines, garlic, capers, basil, and mushroom, punctuated by the smooth and clean finish of extra virgin olive oil.

Sumptuous and filling sandwiches also abound—don’t miss out on their bestselling Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich, a heavenly mash-up of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, green peppers, and jalapeño encased in a warm baguette. Other winning options include the Beef and Cheese Wraps, Smoked Turkey Sandwich, and the Ciabatta Tuna Sandwich.

Of course, desserts!

Dipdenza keeps it fresh and exciting by rotating its dessert menu each week with different sweet and savory meal enders to keep you on the lookout for something new to enjoy with your drink. But here’s an insider tip: one of their bestsellers is the signature Choco Lava Cake, a dangerously delicious eruption of gooey melted chocolate hidden within warm and moist chocolate cake. Needless to say, it combines excellently with your preferred cup of coffee.

Best of all, the promise of affordability is consistent in this coffee shop’s menu. Drinks (coffee or otherwise) range from Php100-Php170; and the food won’t break your budget either, costing around Php150-Php235, with some desserts even being offered for as low as Php55 per order—making it a friendly place for students, working professionals, families, and friends to come in and hang out.

For a city that’s ready to take coffee drinking to the next level, Metro Manila has certainly found its answer in Dipdenza. A new treasure in this busy and congested metro, this coffee shop has the makings of becoming the favorite go-to spot of anyone wanting to enjoy a really good cup of high-quality coffee—and go back and have more of it.

Your perfect brew is waiting for you at Dipdenza Coffee.

Dipdenza Coffee is located at The Fort Strip, 28th Street, Bonifacio Global City, and is open from 8am-12mn on Sunday to Monday, and 8am-2am on Fridays and Satrurdays.

Visit their website at www.dipdenzacoffee.com and follow Dipdenza’s social media accounts on Facebook (Dipdenza) and Twitter (@DipdenzaCoffee). For inquiries, call 834-6420.