Whether you’re a Green Archer or simply visiting Taft, these are the student-approved places you should check out.
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Taft Avenue is usually known for the Lasallian universities that reside there. But more than just a busy street that houses major schools, it’s also become a place where students can chill. With so many new spots opening almost all the time, there is definitely a place that you’ll fall in love with. As a Lasallian myself, I’m obsessed with exploring the area to find hidden gems. Honestly speaking, this is one of my favorite parts about college life in finding new discoveries around campus that go beyond the typical spots you’d find most students at. If you’re beginning your college journey in Taft Avenue or simply find yourself in the area, here are a few places you should check out.
LA ELOTES
Hungry while in Taft? La Elotes in UPad Taft is one of the best places to satisfy your cravings. I can definitely vouch for this place, as I’ve gone for taco runs here and left with a smile on my face. Their menu offers various Mexican dishes such as Tacos, Burritos, and of course, Elote. The colorful interiors make for a fun spot for you and your barkada to chill and munch on good food. La Elotes is also known for hosting events, especially their drag nights! If you’re looking for good food (and a good time), this is the place for you.
La Elotes is located in UPad Taft, 912 P. Ocampo St., Malate Manila
THE ARCHIVES VINTAGE
Are you the fashion-obsessed type? Then The Archives Vintage is going to be your new favorite store. Filled with curated thrifted goods, this is heaven for the clothing collectors among Lasallians and beyond. And with the store’s immaculate vibes and cool decor, it makes for a cool place to take those ‘fit pics that go hard. If you’re not looking to get clothes, no worries though. They also carry our favorite collectibles and anik-aniks. If you’re ready to up your wardrobe for the semester, The Archives Vintage is the place to be.
The Archives Vintage is located in 2F One Archers’ Place, 2311 Taft Avenue
ELSEWHERE CAFÉ
@coffeearchitect #NewCafeAlert in Taft — this cafe featuring a retro interior, vintage photobooth, and art market combines nostalgia and creativity, offering a unique space to enjoy and explore. ☕️📺 ⌂ Elsewhere ⚲ 3/F 2510 Taft Ave, Manila (same building of Tokyo Tokyo and Domino's beside DLS-CSB) ⏰ 12nn soft opening 🛜 Free WIFI (soon) 🔌outlets available 🚻 restroom w/in the building 🅿️ customer parking #Elsewhere #coffeearchitect #fyp #cafe #coffee #cafeph #coffeetiktok #coffeetok #manilacoffeeshops #cafesglobally #cafefindsph ♬ Infrunami – bella ★
Many of us love a good cafe, but what makes Elsewhere Café special is that there is so much to do. You might have seen Lasallians post pictures in front of the iconic wavy green mirror that’s inside the establishment, but it’s so much more than that. This place has become a favorite because of their mid-century modern interiors, drinks, and food. Elsewhere even has an elevator photobooth, along with a sticker store. We love a a multi-purpose destination.
Elsewhere Café is located in 3/F 2510 Taft Avenue, Manila
LOÓB COFFEE
Do you have dreams of being that one friend who knows all the hidden gems? Then check out Loob Coffee. Located inside Doon Thai and Asian Fusion Cuisine (hence the name Loob, hehe), this coffee shop has become a favorite for college coffee lovers. Their drink menu carries classics such as Long Black and Flat Whites, but they also have signature drinks that will definitely become new favorites. For those who want a sweet treat, they also carry pastries that you will enjoy munching on. With the cozy interiors, this spot makes for a great spot to relax, do some homework, or just chill with your friends after class.
Loób Coffee is located in 936 Dolores, Malate, Manila (inside Doon Thai and Asian Fusion Cuisine)
THE DIRECTOR’S CAFÉ
@thedirectorscafe Cool, unique, hangout place in MANILA! 1 MOVIE PASS is good for 1 MOVIE FOR 1 PAX 🙂 💕 #fypシ #chill #hangoutplace #chillplace #hangoutbarkada #barkada #barkadagoals #hangoutspot #hangoutideas #fun #coffeetiktok #coffeeandmovies #coffeetime #coffeeaddict #coffeetok #coffeelover #tambayan ♬ original sound – allen
This one is for the cinephiles. True to its name, The Director’s Café has built a reputation among students for its movie-coded vibes and offerings. This café has a theatre inside, making it a perfect place to watch all your favorite films with your friends. If you have a specific flick in mind, they also take reservations for private screenings so you can watch any movie your heart desires. Get your Letterboxd account ready, because you’ll be glued to your seats watching every movie possible while enjoying their drinks, snacks, and meals.
The Director’s Café is located in Unit C, 1059 Estrada St, San Andres Bukid, Manila
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