Iloilo City has always charmed visitors with its heritage architecture, delicious local cuisine, and laid-back lifestyle. In recent years, however, a new culture has been brewing — literally. The city’s café scene has flourished with modern coffee shops, cozy art spaces, and classic institutions serving locally roasted blends.
If you’re visiting soon or just exploring around town, here are five must-visit cafés in Iloilo City that perfectly blend great coffee, ambiance, and Instagram-worthy interiors.
1. Madge Café
A true Iloilo institution, Madge Café has been serving coffee since the 1940s. Once a humble stall inside La Paz Public Market, it’s now a beloved local icon with a newer branch at The Shops at Atria in Mandurriao.
Expect traditional coffee brewing methods, vintage cups, and a warm Ilonggo vibe that makes you feel at home.
☕ Try this: their signature native brew or “puro tab-ang” if you like it strong.
Photo idea: Snap a flat-lay of your coffee and saucer on a wooden table, with the café’s warm tones as backdrop.
2. Book Latté Café, Library & Art Space
Part café, part library, part art gallery — Book Latté Café is a creative haven for readers, students, and artists. The space blends cozy lighting with shelves of books and rotating art exhibits.
It’s located at Festive Walk Parade, Megaworld Iloilo Business Park, making it a convenient and stylish stop during your café hop.
☕ Try this: their signature Book Latté paired with a slice of cheesecake.
📸 Photo tip: shoot from the mezzanine to capture the art space and coffee bar below.
3. Bluejay Coffee & Company
Known as one of Iloilo’s original homegrown coffee brands, Bluejay Coffee & Company has branches in SM City Iloilo and Ayala Technohub. The interiors are warm and inviting — perfect for casual meetings or solo work sessions.
They serve freshly brewed coffee, hearty breakfasts, and comfort food favorites.
☕ Try this: their Iced Caramel Macchiato or classic Bluejay Breakfast.
📸 Photo tip: natural light near the windows gives the best tones for your feed.
4. Xin Café
Located along Valeria Street, Xin Café combines homey charm with a minimalist design. It’s a peaceful escape from the city bustle, offering a mix of coffee, pasta, and light meals.
The café’s interiors feature warm lights and cozy seating — ideal for late-afternoon coffee breaks.
☕ Try this: Matcha Latte or Hazelnut Cappuccino.
📸 Photo tip: focus on the latte art with the soft lighting behind you for a cozy aesthetic.
5. 60:40 by Beans & Grind
For specialty coffee lovers, 60:40 by Beans & Grind is a must-visit. It’s known for its minimalist interiors, single-origin beans, and modern brewing techniques. Every corner feels clean, airy, and designed for aesthetic photos.
☕ Try this: their pour-over or cold brew made with local beans.
📸 Photo tip: capture the barista in action or your pour-over setup for a natural, lifestyle shot.
Wrap-Up
Whether you’re a serious coffee lover or just want new backdrops for your next Instagram post, Iloilo City’s café scene won’t disappoint.
☕ Café-hop tip:
Start your day at Madge Café for a nostalgic breakfast brew, then head to Book Latté for quiet reading. Grab lunch or dessert at Bluejay, unwind at Xin in the afternoon, and finish your day with specialty coffee at 60:40.
Best photo time:
Late morning to mid-afternoon offers the best natural light for indoor café shots.
