You know how in almost every K-drama, the main characters love to frequent a particular coffee shop? They’re usually well-lit, Instagrammable, and serve delicious coffee beverages, juices, and desserts. (Are you picturing one of your fave K-drama cafes right now?) Well, here’s some good news: You can now enjoy a Korean drama-worthy cafe experience right here in Manila, because South Korea’s Hisbeans Coffee is now in Quezon City.
Also read: 10 Best Coffee Shops in Seoul for Serious Java Lovers
What’s the fuss about Hisbeans Coffee?
You might be wondering what’s so special about this cafe besides the fact that it serves premium coffee and hails from the Land of the Morning Calm. Hisbeans Coffee is actually known for empowering PWDs, particularly those with mental disabilities such as depression, PTSD, anxiety, schizophrenia, and more.
Also read: Mental Health Resources in the Philippines — Online and Free!
According to The Korea Herald, “the actual hiring rate for employees in service sectors such as restaurants and cafes are very limited — with only 33% applicants hired.” Hisbeans has been doing their part to try and change these numbers; in fact, 90% of their baristas and cashiers are persons with mental disabilities.
“I hope Hisbeans can provide a safe space for our baristas and customers to communicate with each other freely,” CEO Lee Min-bok told the South Korean publication. “By communicating, I believe we all can get words of encouragement and heal from each other.”
Hisbeans Coffee goes international
Since opening their first branch in 2009, the chain of cafes has since opened 20 branches in South Korea. After over a decade of operations, they’re ready to spread their mission outside of the country; their new branch in the Philippines is actually their first store outside of Korea!
Also read: 10 Coffee Shops in Quezon City That You Have to Visit
The cafe’s first store in the Philippines
Hisbeans continues to spread love through coffee, right here in Manila. The store, located along Timog Avenue in Quezon City, held its soft opening on 30 July 2021.
To the delight of the cafe’s customers, Hisbeans Philippines trains and employs PWDs just like in their branches in South Korea. Likewise, the cafe’s local store also boasts Instagrammable interiors, and serves A+ coffee made with speciality-grade Arabica beans.
See the Quezon City branch in photos below:
They’ve yet to launch their grand opening, and Hisbeans is already a crowd favourite among those who live and work close by. We can’t wait to try their full menu once they operate in full swing!
Address: 116, Timog Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City 1103 Metro Manila
For more information, visit Hisbeans Philippines’ official website, Facebook, or Instagram pages.
