The Lib Katipunan: Work, Learn, Meet. (EAT!)

Where to Eat in Katipunan: The LIB

It’s been a solid 10 years since Karla and I graduated from The Ateneo. And one of my fondest memories in college is my ‘after-school’ sessions with friends and blockmates. We didn’t get to hangout in malls or watch in cinemas as I did in UA&P (Yup, I actually spent 1 year there then transferred). But we were always up for a coffee or foodtrip session. In the slew of Katipunan cafes and restaurants nonetheless. And a few weeks ago, I paid the area a visit and finally got to try this hip and much-talked about cafe-cum-workspace called The Lib Katipunan.

Work, Learn, Meet at The LIB Katipunan

Back when I was in college, there were only 2 places where I did all my out-of-classroom studying: Rizal Lib or at home. Since I wasn’t much of a group study person (hello short attention span hehe). So hearing about new study-slash-work space that offers good coffee and food is definitely a breath of fresh air. And to be honest, makes me a little envious and wished I also got to try it back when I was in college. So here’s their story.

The Lib Katipunan was originally meant to serve as a private library for CCA (Center for Culinary Arts) students. The place is owned and run by sisters Bea Trinidad and Pia Trinidad, daughters of CCA’s CEO Badjie G. Trinidad. With comfort and functionality in mind, Bea and Pia created the space with floor-to-ceiling glass windows and lots of natural light. There’s ample space to sit and work as well as an actual library filled with the owners’ personal book collection. So students, teachers, and workers alike can work, learn, meet, and eat conducively.

The kitchen, coffee bar, and ‘library’ are all in the first floor. While on the loft lies more work tables and even a rooftop deck for private events. The Lib can easily fit more than 50 customers in total. Later on this year, a co-working space will be available for start-ups and digital nomads.

And of course, no study/workspace is complete without a good internet connection. With one drink, one can already enjoy one hour at The Lib Katipunan with PLDT 5G Fibr WiFi connection. If you wish to stay longer, just purchase one dish and just add Php 50.00 every hour after. The Lib is open Mondays to Saturdays from 10 AM to 10 PM.

 

Best Eats at the Lib

After all that mind-grueling session, don’t you just look forward to a good drink or meal? Well, not to worry. Because The Lib Katipunan offers a wide selection of comfort dishes and drinks for you indulge on.

We ordered most of the items from their menu and we enjoyed our feast, to say the least. Which shouldn’t really come as a surprise because, well, it’s run by CCA. 🙂 Best part is everything is very affordable! Check out what to eat and drink at The Lib Katipunan:

Drinks at the Lib: Affogato (Php 150.00), Bulletproof (180.00), Chocnut Coffee Shake (180.00), Matcha Oreo Shake (180.00), and Strawberry Milkshake (Php 180.00) .

Study and work got you a little parched? Order a good cup of joe or get a cooler. Harvard, Raina, Miguel, Neil, and I ordered a drink each so we get to cover and try everything.

The most interesting ones were the Affogato and Bulletproof coffee. Riding on the Ketogenic wave, The Bulletproof is a combination of caffeine (coffee) and healthy fats (butter). It’s meant to give you energy to power through a productive day. I liked the concept but sadly the taste of butter just overwhelmed that of coffee.

Fortunately, the Affogato (gelato “drowned” in espresso) was pretty good! It was creamy, delicious, and packed a punch of caffeine that Affogato (I forgot-o) my name. Haha!I also enjoyed the crunchy texture of the Chocnut Coffee Shake.

 

Smoothie Bowls: Kale Lover and the Strawberry Beets (Php 180.00 each)

“This are the breakfast bowls that will make you feel amazing!” Perfect pick-me-uppers, the bowls are a mix of toasted muesli, fruits, nuts, and all the good things. And can I just add, they’re also very IG-worthy?

We had the best of both worlds with the Kale Lover and the Strawberry Beets. I eat both Kale and Beets raw but between the two bowls, we all enjoyed the Kale more.

It had a smoother, more refreshing taste and texture to it. But I have to admit beets are really an acquired taste since they have a weird/thick texture to begin with. You can also throw in extra Chia Seeds for just Php 20.00!

 

The Lib Nibbles: Jamon Potato Bombs (Php 90.00)

Love to munch on the side? Go for their yummy nibbles! We had the Jamon Potato Bombs with Salsa and Pesto. And they were delicious! You can choose three dips to pair it with too.

 

Sandwiches: Ultimate Grilled Cheese Jaffles (PHP 130.00) + Ham and Cheese Toastie (PHP 180.00) + Crispy Chicken Sandwich (PHP 180.00)

We love our bread so we ordered two! I loved the fact that they put a literal crunch to them by serving their sandwiches toasted on waffle griddles. Both were pretty good but the Ultimate Grilled Cheese Jaffles was a champ! It was gooey with the cheese and slightly spicy and tangy because of the tomatoes and herbs in it. Totally recommended!

Like your meat? Go for The Lib’s Crispy Chicken Sandwich! It was big, tasty, and juicy!

 

Mami’s Ramen Noodle (Php 220.00)

Ready for mains? Dive right in to Mami’s Ramen Noodle. It was a rainy day then so the warm, savory taste of the ramen gave us all a hug of warmth and comfort. A little salty for my taste but still very good and well thought of. Also available in Fried Chicken variant.

 

Rice Bowls at the Lib: Tapa Bulgogi (Php 200.00)

Ah, of course the penultimate #RiceIsLife entry! Still hungry? The Lib’s rice bowls can definitely fill you up. Generous servings at just Php 200.00, all come with organic atsara, bean sprouts, cabbage, and nori strips.

We went with the Tapa Bulgogi with Kimchi Rice. And it sure did not disappoint! All the ingredients were so good combined and tasted very authentic. One thing though is that I wish it had more rice to balance the savory flavor of the meat. The Lib also has Crispy Chicken, Thick Cut Bacon, Adobo Flakes, Spicy Sardines, Buddha Tofu, and Corned Beef Hash options.

 

The Lib Desserts: Naked Chocolate Caramel Cake (PHP 200.00)

Just one look and you know it’s going to be good! And good it was! There were 5 of us to share the slice but it was more than enough. It was huge, and was brimming with chocolate goodness and rich caramel in between. MUST TRY!

All in all, I had a very tasty food experience at The Lib Katipunan. Soothing interiors, filling food, and value-for-money options. I will definitely be back to try their other menu offerings, on my next coworking meet perhaps. Loved the fact that they offer Valet parking too. How convenient!

Been here? Comment down your favorites!

 

CONTACT

The LIB Katipunan

40 Esteban Abada Street, Loyola Heights, Quezon City (Back of CCA)

Contact: (+63) 916.791-6422

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