Students are slowly returning to campus to attend face-to-face classes, and some might have schedules that will give them hours of breaks in between classes. During such times, Ateneans may head to the library and Matteo Ricci Study Hall to catch up on readings or the usual coffee shops in front of campus like Starbucks or Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf. But if you want a space where you can hang out with your new college barkada, you may want to check out these restaurants and cafes:

Tyler’s Cafe

Where: 317 Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City
What to try: Gibraltar, Hojicha Latte, Tyler’s Burgers, Eggs Benedict

If you need a quick caffeine fix before, in between, or even after your classes, you can drop by Tyler’s Cafe for a cup of their specialty coffee drinks. You can also indulge in a quick meal with their breakfast dishes, sandwiches, and pastries. They also sit right beside Gino’s, so you can order a brick-oven pizza to go with your coffee if you’re hanging out as a barkada at the cafe.

Almusal Cafe

Where: The Pop Up, 273 Katipunan Avenue
What to try: Lamb Adobo, Classic Carbonara with Parmesan Tuile, Malagos Chocolate Shake, Pandan Tiramisu Cake

Hidden amid the many eateries in the Pop Up is this cozy brunch space that can satisfy your breakfast cravings all day long. Almusal Cafe is perfect for long studying hours since you can get a heart filling meal and several cups of coffee in one place. At night, you can enjoy a drink or two from their cocktails offerings.

Scout’s Honor

Where: U.P. Town Center, Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City
What to try: Chili Garlic Seafood Linguine, Cookie Nibbles, Champorado Cookie

On top of their gooey chewy cookies paired with creamy milk drinks, Scout’s Honor also offers sumptuous main dishes that can fill your tummy in between classes. You can even order some cookies for take out to bring to your class!

The Fat Seed Cafe + Roastery

Where: Ground Floor Phase 2, U.P. Town Center, Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City
What to try: Military Matcha, Mestiza Cold Brew, The Fat Seed Sliders, Buttermilk Fried Chicken & Ube Waffles

During the day, you can hang out with your classmates here to study for a test or prepare for your oral exam while enjoying a juicy burger or indulging in a cup of coffee. At night, you can grab a table and order from their wide selection of cocktails and other boozy drinks to celebrate finishing a semester or just the end of a school week.

Xocolat

Where: 88 Esteban Abada St, Quezon City
What to try: Xocolat Chicken Pasta, The Ultimate Xocolat Burger, Old Fashioned Drink, Bittersweet Drink

Xocolat has been a staple Katipunan restaurant for many years. As its name suggests, its menu is filled with chocolate-inspired dishes — yes, even the savory dishes. So if you’re a fan of anything chocolate, this is the place to be during breaks! Even the cozy, homey vibe of the cafe’s interiors would make you want to stay there for hours on end.

Tetsuo

Where: 88 Esteban Abada St., Loyola Heights, Quezon City
What to try: Karaage + Soba, Pork Bun, Katsudon, Ice Cream Bun

Love Japanese cuisine? Head over to Tetsuo so you and your blockmates can enjoy Japanese dishes at an affordable price. The place is a bit small for long periods of studying, but it’s perfect if you and your friends are craving a good meal after a long day in classes.

Chubby Chicken

Where: 41 Esteban Abada St., Loyola Heights, Quezon City
What to try: Chubby Chicken, Chubby Tacos, Chubby Oreos, Chubby Twinkies

For a quick yet filling meal, you and your friends can try Chubby Chicken. This go-to chicken spot offers simple yet flavorful fried chicken paired with rice or other dishes such as pasta, sandwiches, and tacos.

Blake’s Wings & Steaks

Where: 186 Katipunan Ave., Blue Ridge A, Quezon City
What to try: Pork Ribs, Original Porterhouse Steak, Spaghetti with Dried Tuyo in Olive Oil, BBQ Chicken Wings

If you and your friends are ready to splurge a bit more than usual, you can head to Blake’s for a sumptuous and filling meal. It’s the perfect spot to indulge in some wings, steaks, nachos, and more after finals!

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