BY: VANESSA BUGTONG

A café in Barangay Lourdes is drawing attention for its unique way of brewing coffee—not over fire, but in hot sand.

Just a short five- to ten-minute drive from Baguio’s central business district, the café has become a must-visit destination, alongside the famous Lourdes Grotto.

Customers are particularly fascinated by its authentic Turkish coffee, which is prepared using a traditional sand-brewing method.

“What makes it unique and authentic is that it really aligns with the taste of Middle Eastern coffee,” said Ranier Catindig, a customer who has spent years working in the Middle East.

According to Christian Anthony Rulloda, the café’s general manager, the idea came from the owner, Paul, a long-time coffee enthusiast with extensive experience in the industry.

Inspired by his love for Turkish coffee, Paul decided to introduce the method to Baguio.

The coffee beans and ingredients are imported directly from Turkey to maintain authenticity.

The sand-brewing technique allows for precise temperature control, enhancing the coffee’s rich flavor.

Aside from coffee, the café also serves traditional Turkish dishes like shawarma, which has also gained a following among customers who appreciate its authentic taste.

“The authenticity of the Turkish coffee and shawarma is what keeps people coming back, especially those who have lived in the Middle East,” Rulloda added.

Since its opening in March, the café has already attracted a steady stream of visitors eager to try the sand-brewed coffee for the first time.

For an added experience, customers can also enjoy a tarot reading through a mobile app after finishing their cup.

With its quiet ambiance and distinct coffee-making process, the café has quickly become a favorite among coffee lovers in Baguio City.