No Juan Is An Island

For the longest time, Brent Road was a place of quiet reflection and literary escape. Visitors would make their pilgrimage to the Pink Sisters Convent to drop off prayer requests or lose themselves in the floor-to-ceiling shelves of the iconic Mt. Cloud Bookshop. But walk down this pine-fringed street today, and you’ll notice a new aroma competing with the scent of damp earth and needles: the rich, complex scent of roasting coffee.
Brent Road is no longer just a pass-through; it has quietly transformed into Baguio’s most sophisticated cafe-hopping hub. Here are four spots that are defining this new era.

1. Xtremely Xpresso
If you’re looking for the “anchor” of the street’s dining scene, look no further than Xtremely Xpresso. Known for its generous American-style servings, this cafe is where you go when you’ve worked up a mountain-sized appetite.
While their coffee is a staple, they are legendary for their Big Ben Pizza—a massive 16-inch masterpiece that can feed a whole family—and their fall-off-the-bone Spicy Baby Back Ribs. It’s a bustling, high-energy spot that balances the quietude of Brent Road with the hearty comfort of a classic bistro.
2. Man-apsol
A relative newcomer that has quickly captured the hearts of locals is Man-apsol. The name itself hints at its roots (derived from a local term for “to heal” or “to comfort”), and the menu reflects a beautiful fusion of Baguio tradition and modern flair.

They have gained a massive following for their Dirty Dokto Fries, a savory mix of camote (sweet potato), cheese, and pinuneg (Igorot blood sausage). For those who prefer tea over coffee, their Cloud Matcha—a refreshing blend of ceremonial matcha and coconut water—is a revelation. It’s a space that feels deeply rooted in the Cordilleras while looking forward to the future of fusion cuisine.
3. HotCat (Specialty Coffee)
Tucked away in the same compound as Mt. Cloud, HotCat is the purist’s playground. If you take your caffeine seriously, this is your sanctuary. They specialize in third-wave coffee, sourcing beans from local roasters and offering precise pour-overs that highlight the unique notes of Benguet coffee.

The vibe here is “cool academic”—minimalist, quiet, and filled with cat-themed decor. Their Spanish Latte is widely considered one of the best in the city, but don’t leave without trying their Morning Bun, a flaky, orange-zested pastry that pairs perfectly with the foggy Baguio afternoons.
4. Buddy One (B1) at the Brenthouse
Located at the Brenthouse, Buddy One (B1) offers a more intimate, “hidden gem” feel. It’s the kind of place where you can escape the crowds of Session Road and enjoy a slow morning.
B1 is known for its budget-friendly yet aesthetic eats, particularly its creamy pasta dishes and signature Matcha Strawberry drink. The interior leans into a rustic, camp-inspired aesthetic that makes it a favorite for “study-grammers” and digital nomads looking for a quiet corner and a reliable Wi-Fi connection.

Whether you’re a bookworm looking for a brew to match your new novel or a foodie searching for the next big flavor, Brent Road now offers a complete sensory journey. The next time you visit the Pink Sisters, keep walking—your new favorite cup of coffee is just a few steps away.