SIDE QUEST #001: An Unplanned Coffee Stop at 88 Garden Cafe at Nonoc, Talisay
Not every trip out of the house needs a plan. Sometimes, a random stop along the way turns into an experience worth writing about. That's how I ended up at 88 Garden Cafe at Paseo Ricardo Commercial Center in Talisay City, Cebu.
It was a Monday afternoon, when I headed out to attend a mass at cemetery to remember loved ones who had passed away. For those who don't know, in Catholic, Mondays are commonly associated with remembering and offering prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory (following Sunday, which celebrates the Resurrection). And according to my mom, the best way to say a prayer for all departed love ones is to attend a mass at any cemetery. Many cemeteries hold Mass every Monday, but the schedule can vary, so it's best to check with the cemetery beforehand.
After the mass, I was planning to head straight home. But it started raining a little, and I was worried it might get heavier before I could get home. While I was already on a tricycle, I noticed a cafe on the ground floor of a commercial building. It was right in the middle, so it was hard to miss. Before we got too far, I quickly asked the driver to stop and drop me off there. I thought I might as well wait out the rain and have some coffee before heading home.
The building read, Paseo Ricardo Commercial Center. Not really familiar with the place and just noticed a cafe in the middle ground of the building. And so, my first Cebu Side Quest began with an unplanned coffee stop.
A Look Inside 88 Garden Cafe'
The cafe has a clean, modern look, with warm wooden accents, white walls, light-colored chairs, and round tables. The wooden slat wall featuring the Garden Cafe sign adds character to the space, while the plants give it a little warmth. Large glass panels also make the interior feel open and bright.
(Photo Credits: 88 Garden Cafe - Paseo Ricardo FB Page)
When I arrived, a few groups were already inside. Some were chatting with friends, while others seemed to be enjoying their conversations over drinks. It had that familiar cafe atmosphere where people gather to catch up, work, or simply spend time together.
(Photo Credits: 88 Garden Cafe - Paseo Ricardo FB Page)
I could see the place working well for casual meetups, business meetings, and small group discussions. There's also a more separate area that seems suitable for meetings, collaborations, or conversations that need a little more privacy.
If you're planning to explore more of the area, you can also check out our guide to places to visit in Talisay City for more ideas on where to go.
I was hoping to find somewhere quieter to write, so I decided to sit outside after placing my order. It was a humid afternoon, and while there was no air-conditioning, the heat was still manageable. The seat was surprisingly comfortable and cozy, making it a lovely spot to slow down and write.
A Thoughtful Welcome
While waiting for my order, the staff served me a glass of cold water without me having to ask.
It might seem like a small thing, but I appreciated it. Sitting outside on a humid afternoon, a cozy seat and a glass of cold water was especially refreshing before my hot drink arrived. It was a simple gesture that made me feel welcome, and it's one of those little details that can make a visit more memorable.
A Hot Hazelnut Latte and a Change of Scenery
I ordered a hot hazelnut latte, and it was really good. The hazelnut flavor made for a comforting cup, just what I wanted that afternoon.
I always love coffee, but I'm not someone who regularly visits cafes. I'm quite practical with money, so I usually make my coffee at home. It's more affordable, and I can enjoy a cup whenever I want without spending extra.
But every now and then, I think it's worth stepping away from the usual routine. That afternoon, I had my coffee, continued writing, and watched people go about their day. Being somewhere different helped me think more freely, and ideas came a little more naturally than they sometimes do when I'm sitting at home trying to get things done.
It reminded me that a change of scenery doesn't have to mean an expensive trip or a carefully planned day out. Sometimes, a few hours in a different place are enough.
What's on the Menu?
88 Garden Cafe offers more than coffee and pastries. Its menu includes specialty drinks, non-coffee options, main courses, and appetizers, making it an option for both quick coffee breaks and proper meals.
Based on the menu I saw, their 22 oz iced coffee drinks range from ₱158 for an Americano to ₱358 for Cinnamon Oat Toast Crunch. Cafe Latte is ₱178, Spanish Latte is ₱228, and Hazelnut Latte is ₱238. Non-coffee options include Iced Chocolate at ₱218, Strawberry Latte at ₱218, and Matcha Latte at ₱238.
If you're hungry, main courses include Pork Katsu and Roast Chicken at ₱298, Sisig at ₱358, and Bangus Plate at ₱388. For something more filling, their Signature Beef Tenderloin is ₱548, while Signature Pork Ribs costs ₱518.
They also serve appetizers such as Beef Nachos, Chicken Tenders, and Fries Overload. Good options for sharing with friends.
Another offering worth mentioning is their coffee cart service for events. Whether it's a birthday, wedding, or another gathering, they have packages for 30, 50, and 100 cups. The Lite package starts at ₱4,448 for 30 cups, making it an option for anyone who wants to serve coffee at an event without setting up their own coffee station. You may visit their FB page for more details.
Is It Worth the Price?
The prices at 88 Garden Cafe are comparable to what you'd expect from familiar coffee chains, especially for specialty drinks. For professionals who want a place to meet colleagues, friends catching up over a meal, or anyone looking for a comfortable spot to spend an afternoon, it may be worth considering.
However, I wouldn't call it an everyday option for everyone.
For students and minimum-wage earners, spending over ₱200 on a specialty drink can take a noticeable chunk out of a limited budget. If you're watching your expenses, a visit might be better treated as an occasional reward rather than a regular habit.
That's actually what I'm thinking of doing myself: starting a small savings jar for these little side quests. Nothing extravagant, just a bit of money set aside for the occasional coffee stop or new place to explore. That way, I can enjoy these experiences without feeling guilty about spending.
What I Liked and What to Consider
What stood out to me was the combination of a thoughtfully designed space, a good hazelnut latte, and the staff's simple gesture of serving cold water while waiting for my order.
I also like that the cafe offers different ways to use the space. You can stop by for a drink, have a full meal, meet colleagues, or arrange a group discussion. The separate meeting area is a plus for professionals looking for somewhere outside the office to talk or collaborate.
There are a few things to keep in mind, though. The menu may feel expensive if you're on a tight budget, and the atmosphere can get lively when several groups are chatting inside. If you need a quiet place to work, consider visiting at a less busy time. Outdoor seating is another option, but the heat and humidity may affect your comfort, especially in the afternoon.
These aren't necessarily deal-breakers. It just depends on what you're looking for and how you plan to spend your time there.
Where to Find 88 Garden Cafe
Location: Ground floor, Paseo Ricardo Commercial Center, Nonoc, Talisay City, Cebu.
You can use Tabunok Barangay Hall as a nearby landmark. Paseo Ricardo is along Rafael Rabaya Road, and the cafe is in the middle section of the ground floor, where you'll likely notice it when you enter the building.
Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM- Sunday: 10 AM–10 PM
Parking spaces are also available if you're coming by car. It's best to check the cafe's latest page or contact its staff for updated hours, prices, and seating availability before visiting.
A Little Detour Worth Taking
My visit to 88 Garden Cafe wasn't a big adventure. I didn't travel far or discover some hidden destination. I simply made an unplanned stop, enjoyed a hot hazelnut latte, and spent some time writing.
Still, I left wanting to do it again.
I tend to choose the practical option, and most days, making coffee at home makes perfect sense. But this little detour reminded me that it's also okay to make room for experiences that break up the routine.
Maybe that's what these Cebu Side Quests will be about. Not finding the best place in town every time, but discovering little things along the way and seeing where they take me.
And perhaps that savings jar isn't such a bad idea after all. One small side quest at a time.