COCONUTS HOT SPOT—Antiteasis Books and Brews is but one of many small cafés and eateries that line Quezon City’s exciting Maginhawa Street. The signage is hard to spot from the street, as its understated white signage with thin black lettering can be overshadowed by the bolder and louder logos of nearby restaurants.
THE LOOK
It may appear like another coffee and tea place, but Antiteasis is totally different. One gets the feeling that it is alright to linger: indoor seating can accommodate eight guests, while the al fresco area can comfortably seat 10 people. Instead of packing the shop with as many seats as possible, Antiteasis has throw pillows and low tables (repurposed wooden chests) so customers can sit on the floor and lounge comfortably. Some even take quick naps. Instead of wanting to move customers in and out of the shop for faster transacions, this joint invites people to read and take their time while sipping their favorite brew. There are two big bookshelves which displays books of different genres, from fiction to self-help, history, and coffeetable books. These shelves also form a narrow corridor which leads to the restroom behind it. The place is artsy and one gets a sense that a girl most probably designed it.
THE GRUB
Is there any other café that offers French press coffee (good for two cups) at P65? Surely, this is a steal. Customers are advised to wait three minutes before pressing down to ensure better coffee-to-hot water dilution. We had cream cheese bagels with our coffee, and even if its not the best one I’ve tried, it was good and freshly toasted. Antiteasis also serves mini-donuts and savory bagels. Inside the café, it seems as if time does not exist. Everything is so simple and relaxed. Like the coffee and bagels, time can also be savored. I don’t know what its name stands for, but for me it is the “anti-thesis” to the commercial coffee shop.
OUR NOTES
Cost: Php245 for two people. (Coffee and bagels for two)
Cleanliness: Can be improved.
Service: Good, minimal staff is needed for the small place.
Sound level: Soft. They were playing old Filipino love songs. Since the place is intimate, most can hear conversations of other people. I don’t mind this.
Lighting: Just right, I was here mid- afternoon. Maybe it’s better at night
Antiteasis: Books and Brews, Unit C 154 Maginhawa St, Sikatuna Village, Quezon City; www.facebook.com/antiteasis; +63 906 3424599. Tue-Sun 1:30pm-10:30pm.
Photo from Antiteasis Facebook Page
Coconuts Manila paid for its own meal and died anonymously at this establishment.
