Cafe Breaks #01: Akasya Cafe

Heyah Hivers!

So where’s my go-to cafe break?

This minimalist cafe is located in Sangi, Talisay City, in the southern part of Cebu. Just a block away from Gaisano Tabunok. Going there, you’ll notice a big tree near the cafe- maybe that’s the reason why it’s called Akasya Cafe (Acacia, commonly known as the wattles or acacias, is a large genus of shrubs). I forgot to ask the baristas when we were there, there’s only two of them and both were very occupied with work. I first discovered this place because of my friend who lived nearby the cafe. What first caught my eye is the interiors of the cafe. Others would say it’s very instagrammable but as an architect myself, a place should be more than that. I’d always consider the accessibility, a space layout having a strong concept, product presentation, service, the food/drinks (of course lol), and the toilet (yep, you heard it right). I don’t usually go out just to eat, I only do it if I have other stuff to do. That’s why those things I’ve mentioned are a must for me, so I can focus on what I’m doing like doing design projects, juggling my side hustles, or catching up with a dear friend. And before I forgot this cafe is open Monday-Sunday 11 am-9 pm. Isn't it amazing?

So what do I like about the cafe?

1. Delectable drink

I haven’t tried their desserts because I am not so into sweets (maybe next time). I’m always a fan of rice meals and unfortunately, this cafe only has drinks and desserts available. I hope they’d consider adding a rice menu in the future just like other cafes.

2.Maximized space

The cafe itself is not that big. It’s just approximately 18 square meters including the inner kitchen/order area and a capacity of 12 pax only. But you don't have to worry because there are plenty of chairs you can dine in outside the building. The shade of the tree and the plants surrounding the cafe makes the place relaxing.

I appreciate the layout of the cafe and how its furniture arrangement maximizes the space. There are two tables on the left side near the glass wall, which makes it feel so spacious. The other side of the cafe, they used a continuous and attached chair in the wall with two tables making it flexible if you will dine with a group of friends just by combining adjacent tables. On the end corner of the cafe, opposite the order area, a high chair and table facing the road make the overall furniture set-up not too compressed with one another.

The only problem I’ve observed is the comfort room, it is located outside the cafe, and it is a communal restroom with the adjacent retail store. But it’s clean and well maintained anyway, so it’s good.

3. Minimalist interior

Another key in making the area spacious is by making it as simple as possible, getting rid of unnecessary accessories but cannot be deemed as plain or boring. Well that’s the point of minimalism, isn’t it? Not attempting to represent something else. You just savor what’s in front of you and the peace it brings.

This cafe made its minimalist concept so on point. It has the right amount of balance with the colors of walls, ceiling, floors, furniture, lighting, and accessories. The warm ambiance of the cafe made my stay relaxing. I wanna highlight their wooden chairs and tables, and the rattan accent of the high chair. It is so lovely!

I guess I’ve put so much detail here haha, the designer in me just notices even the slightest and simplest things in a space or room. But overall, I had a great cafe break and I totally recommend this one.

How about you? Do you have a go-to cafe whenever you want to take a break?

That’s all for now, see you on my next #arkicarlsCafeBreaks here Hivers!
Annyeong!