Cheeecakes by Guy - A Break From Starbucks

Everybody knows that I frequent coffee shops like Starbucks and Coffeebean when I get bored at home and need to get some work done. I do like to try out new places once in a while (especially if I need a little peace and quiet - it's like a party at Starbucks all the time), and that's how I chanced upon Cheesecakes by Guy.

First impression? Not a very creative name (cool logo design though). I know how it feels like to choose a name for an establishment, and it can get frustrating. I would probably settle with "Sam's" so I totally get it. Simple and direct to the point. But again, not creative lol.

But who cares, right? I went in for the coffee and dessert, so that's what I should be focusing on. Like every other "anti-Starbucks"coffee shops, C by G has its own appeal. It feels cozier and intimate with the long wooden tables and simplistic layout. The counter is minimalistic and the menu not too complicated. They serve the basics - Coffee, tea, dessert, salad, pasta and sandwiches. Good enough for someone who needs a place to disappear for a couple of hours.

I got a cup of cappuccino and it was a breath of fresh air, so to speak. The froth designs on top always makes me smile no matter how simple the design is (the more complicated ones mesmerize me, and make it sooo difficult for me to take the first sip). Aisa got a tall glass of cold tea (forgot the name, not even sure it was tea - I just assumed) and says it was really good, too. I also went here for hot tea before, and they were served in small/cute pots. No paper cups here!

Now for the cheesecake. I got the Raspberry Swirl (Php120) as recommended by the barista. Hans got the Ube Cheesecake, while Aisa got the New York Style Cheesecake. We tried it all out and were delighted with flavors! Special mention goes to the Ube flavored cake - it was delicious but we made fun of it for a bit. "Ube Cheesecake, you taste like Halaya. I think you're not really a cheesecake - why pretend to be one?" Guy, you make some mean cheesecake! Not too sweet, just right!

Overall, the experience was nice. I got some work done, I was able to catch up with my friends, and I got to eat some yummy cake. The staff (I think there was only one guy behind the counter?) was nice and was able to attend to everyone in the shop (not a lot of people there). They also gave me a loyalty card - and by the looks of it, I'm already entitled to a free cup of coffee. Wooohooo!

The only downside? It felt like a Pokemon Go dead spot in there - I wasn't getting as much activity as I was in other parts of the mall.