The Maginhawa Coffee Trail: A Guide to Quezon City's Coziest Cafes
Maginhawa Street, along with its neighbor Mayaman Street, is more than just a road in Teacher’s Village, Quezon City—it’s a dynamic, ever-evolving food and art hub.
But for many, especially the students, creatives, and remote workers who populate the surrounding UP Diliman area, this stretch is synonymous with one thing: coffee.
The cafe scene here is a rich blend of dedicated specialty roasters, quirky themed concepts, and cozy, work-friendly havens.
Whether you’re hunting for the perfect dark roast, a quiet spot to finish a deadline, or just an aesthetic backdrop for your next photo, the Maginhawa coffee trail has a stop for you.
I. For the Specialty Coffee Aficionado (The Serious Brews)
If you treat coffee less like a simple beverage and more like a craft, these spots are where you’ll want to spend your time.
1. Chapter Coffee Roastery and Cafe
This cafe is consistently hailed by coffee enthusiasts in the area. Being a roastery means they control the quality of their beans from start to finish, offering a truly fresh and curated cup.
They focus on third-wave specialty coffee, which means a wide selection of brewing methods (pour-over, espresso, etc.) and ethically sourced single-origin beans.
Vibe: Professional, clean, and dedicated to the craft. A great place to actually learn about coffee.
Must-Try: Any of their single-origin pour-overs and their signature coffee drinks. They also offer a hidden bar called The Backdoor where you can listen to vinyl records.
2. X Wave Specialty Coffee
Known for its minimalist aesthetic and commitment to high-quality beans, X Wave is a newer favorite that has quickly earned a loyal following.
The clean, uncluttered space makes the focus entirely on the quality of the brew.
Vibe: Minimalist, serene, and modern. Great for those who enjoy a quiet, focused environment.
Noteworthy: They are also known for their beautiful latte art, making even a simple latte a visual treat.
3. Daily Habit
While it serves a full menu, Daily Habit takes its coffee seriously. It’s a reliable, spacious option situated right on Maginhawa Street, perfect for that mid-day coffee run or an extended working session.
Vibe: Bright, modern, and work-friendly. It’s also known for being a bike-friendly cafe with secure parking for cyclists.
II. For the Work, Study, and Productivity Crowd (The Co-Working Cafes)
These are the places that understand the need for strong Wi-Fi, ample sockets, and a non-judgmental atmosphere for anyone hunched over a laptop.
4. Street Kohi (Mayaman Street Gem)
Located on the quieter, parallel road of Mayaman Street, Street Kohi is a strong contender for the most work-friendly cafe in the area.
It offers a cozy space with a unique charm—sometimes featuring a Studio Ghibli-themed aesthetic.
Vibe: Cozy, student/worker-friendly. Plenty of sockets and good internet connectivity.
Must-Try: Their signature drinks often feature interesting combinations, and they are praised for their welcoming staff.
5. De'Ja Brew
Tucked away near the main roads, De'Ja Brew is known for its extended operating hours and its quirky, memorabilia-filled interior.
It's an excellent late-night option when most other shops have closed.
Vibe: Geeky, comfortable, and a dedicated workspace. It’s one of the best for late-night study sessions.
Unique Feature: Ask about their creative and unusual coffee flavors, which sometimes include surprisingly savory notes.
6. Cool Beans Library Cafe
A true institution in the Maginhawa area. As the name suggests, this is QC’s original library cafe, encouraging patrons to read, study, and relax among the shelves of books.
Vibe: Quiet, cozy, and academic. A beloved spot for the UP and Ateneo student crowd.
Bonus: Their coffee is often sourced from local areas like Sagada and Kalinga, promoting local Filipino growers.
III. For the Vibe and Unique Experience (The Aesthetic Stops)
Sometimes, the setting is just as important as the brew. These cafes offer an atmosphere that makes them destinations in their own right.
7. Talisay: The Garden Cafe
If you need a break from the busy street and concrete walls, Talisay offers a beautiful, homey, garden setting.
It feels like stepping into a peaceful, rustic home, making it perfect for a relaxed chat or a brunch date.
Vibe: Provincial, serene, and picturesque.
Menu Highlight: Known not just for coffee, but also for its delicious desserts and brunch fare.
8. Kohi Maginhawa
With its minimalist, Japanese-inspired design, Kohi Maginhawa appeals to those who appreciate simplicity and clean lines. Its focus on efficiency and good-quality coffee makes it a popular stop.
Vibe: Japanese minimalist, often attracts the cycling community.
Bonus: Also offers Japanese-style hotdogs and rice bowls, giving you more than just a quick caffeine fix.
9. Cộng Cà Phê
While part of a larger chain, this Maginhawa branch offers an authentic taste of Vietnamese coffee culture.
Known for its robust and sweet Robusta brews, especially its famous coconut coffee.
Vibe: Rustic, Vietnamese-inspired, and often has a unique, nostalgic atmosphere.
Must-Try: The Coconut Coffee (Cà Phê Cốt Dừa) is a non-negotiable must-have.
Coffee Shop Details
| Coffee Shop | Address | Operating Hours (Subject to Change) | Notes |
| Chapter Coffee Roastery & Cafe | 143 Maginhawa Street, Sikatuna Village, Quezon City | Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM | A well-known spot for specialty coffee and a variety of all-day meals. Check their social media for any slight variations in weekend hours (some sources indicate 7:00 AM start on weekends). |
| Cool Beans Library Cafe | 67A, Maginhawa Street, UP Village, Quezon City, 1101 | Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | The original library cafe. Note the earlier closing time compared to other cafes. Closed on Saturday and Sunday. |
| Street Kohi | 24 Mayaman St., Teacher's Village, Quezon City | Specific hours were not immediately available in recent search results. | It is located on Mayaman Street, the parallel street to Maginhawa. Highly recommended to check their official social media or call ahead for the exact operating schedule as it is a local, independent cafe. |
Important Note on Operating Hours
Please be aware that operating hours, especially for independent cafes like Street Kohi, can sometimes vary based on staff availability or unforeseen circumstances.
It is always a good practice to check their social media page (Instagram or Facebook) or a maps application right before heading out!
Coffee Hopping Tips for Maginhawa
Start Early: Many local cafes open as early as 7 AM or 8 AM (like Daily Habit and Coffee Nook), making it a perfect pre-work destination.
Explore the Side Streets: The real hidden gems are often found on the smaller, parallel streets like Mayaman, Matimtiman, and Magiting. Don't be afraid to wander!
Mind the Crowd: Given its proximity to major universities, the cafes here can get crowded, especially on weekday afternoons and Saturdays. If you're looking for a quiet work session, try visiting early in the morning or later in the evening.
Maginhawa and Mayaman Streets truly encapsulate the vibrant and innovative spirit of Quezon City’s coffee scene.
Grab your keys, lace up your shoes, and start brewing your own adventure!