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This new cafe in Manila houses the old and large bells of Manila Cathedral.


One new coffee shop that can be found at the Manila Cathedral is the Belfry Café. True to its name, you can find this in the part of the cathedral where they house the bells.

Entrance to Belfry from parking area

Aside from it being a favorite among churchgoers, the architecture of the building is certainly a sight to behold.

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ABOUT BELFRY CAFE

Belfry Café is the newest café in Intramuros that opened just last February 6, 2021. The name of the café comes from where the café is located: the ground belfry of the Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Concepcion (a.k.a. the ground bell tower of Manila Cathedral).

Inside Belfry Cafe

So, yes, you're dining right underneath the church's ginormous bells.



LOOKING FOR KITCHEN OR DINING NEEDS?

Here are the best options to shop for your kitchenware and dining essentials:

Shopee is my go-to app for things I needed like the ones above. If you'd like discounts and vouchers, you may get the best offers here:

Diners can sit directly below the bells so this is definitely an experience worth going to Intramuros for. Since the bells are actually used for special occasions, the cafe makes sure to clear the room and open its doors when the cathedral needs to ring it.


It is on the structure of The Ground Belfry of the Church. It houses the Seven Big Bells which were taken down from the adjacent Bell Tower Belfry to deload it of more then 17 tons weight as a safety measure.

Belfry Café

The Seven Big Bells were foundered by Friedrich Wilhelm Schillin, one of the best bell-founders in Germany after World War II.

The Largest of the Seven Big Bells was discovered recently to be even larger than the Pan-ay bell long considered as the biggest in the Philippines.

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BELFRY CAFE MENU

Aside from your usual hot and cold coffee drinks, the Belfry Café serves ice-blended drinks and a wide selection of tea. 






HOW TO GET TO BELFRY CAFE

Since Belfry Cafe is located in Manila Cathedral's corner, the church is your best landmark for directions. That makes it easier for those who are coming with private vehicles, taking a taxi ride, TNVS or if you are taking a walk tour around Intramuros.

By Public Commuting
If you’re taking public transportation, it’s best to ride LRT. From your stop, get off at Taft Station and then take another northbound train trip to Monumento. The LRT and the MRT are interlinked. Get off at Carriedo Station, then ride a jeepney in front of Santa Cruz Church bound to Pier and get off in front of Manila Cathedral.


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Belfry Café

Address: 1002 Sto. Tomas, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila
Opening Hours: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm from Tuesdays to Fridays, 8:00 am to 9:00 pm on weekends
You may also check my list of Instagrammable Cafes in Manila:

WHERE TO STAY IN MANILA

Here's a list of hotel accommodation you can book in Manila:


IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.

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BELFRY CAFE: Coffee Under The Bells in Intramuros, Manila (Hours & Menu)

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There's more to explore in Manila, especially if you are a coffee lover like me.


These days, more and more coffee shops are popping up in the area to better give people a space to relax and enjoy the scenery.

In this guide we list TEN IG-worthy coffee shops and cafes to visit in Manila.


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LOOKING FOR KITCHEN OR DINING NEEDS?

Here are the best options to shop for your kitchenware and dining essentials:

Shopee is my go-to app for things I needed like the ones above. If you'd like discounts and vouchers, you may get the best offers here:

1. Kapetolyo (by SGD Coffee)

Officially opened its doors to guests on International Coffee Day in 2021, Kapetolyo by SGD Coffee, located at the Kartilya ng Katipunan Park is a project of the Manila City Hall under Mayor Francisko 'Isko Moreno' Domagoso's leadership in collaboration with SGD Coffee, promoting and boosting local coffee farmers in the Philippines.


Address: Kartilya ng Katipunan Park, Cecilia Muñoz Palma Drive, Ermita, Manila, Metro Manila
Business Hours: 10AM–9PM Weekdays, 8AM–9PM Weekends
Social Media: Facebook / Instagram


2. Belfry Café

Recently opened in Intramuros, Belfry Café is a unique coffee shop that is standing at one corner of Manila Cathedral. True to its name, you can find this in the part of the cathedral where they house the bells. Yes, the cafe's name came from where the it is located: the ground belfry the church. So, yes, you're dining right underneath the church's ginormous bells. 

Inside Belfry Cafe

Address: 1002 Sto. Tomas, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila
Opening Hours: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm from Tuesdays to Fridays, 8:00 am to 9:00 pm on weekends
Social Media: Facebook


3. La Cathedral Café

Also in Intramuros, La Cathedral Café gives you a European rooftop dining vibe with a stunning view of the Manila Cathedral's dome. The cafe, which is located at the 3rd level, is decorated with capiz lanterns and touches of greenery, which make for an idyllic ambience especially at night. It's the perfect setting for a date with your special someone or a casual get-together with your friends.


Address: 636 Cabildo St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila
Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday 8AM–9PM; Sunday 8AM–10PM
Social Media: Facebook


4. Barbara's Café

Another IG-worthy place not to miss in Intramuros is the Barbara's, which is a well-known Filipino heritage restaurant located inside the Walled City of Intramuros. The Barbara's boasts the classic architecture popular in the 18th century when the Spanish colonized the Philippines.

Barbara's Cafe

Address: Plaza San Luis Complex, Real St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila
Operating Hours: 8 AM to 9 PM daily

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5. 1919 Grand Café

Deemed as one of the oldest buildings in Juan Luna Street, Binondo, the HSBC building was renovated into a modern restaurant named the Grand Cafe 1919. The cafe takes pride in its diverse menu. The dining space offers Western and Filipino breakfast, sandwiches, burgers, main course, and seafood dishes. Plus, freshen up with their wide variety of cooling smoothies!

1919 Grand Cafe

Address: 117 Juan Luna St, Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila
Hours: 7AM-9PM daily


6. The Den

The Den, located in the historic Escolta Street in Manila, is a space where Philippine coffee and contemporary culture intersect through programming that explores art, design, music, lifestyle, emerging communities, and new ideas. Imagine having your favorite drink in a museum, The Den really gives you a special coffee experience.

The Den / Image: iwandered.net

Address: HUB Make Lab, First United Building, 413 Escolta St, Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila
Hours: 10AM-6PM dialy
Social Media: Facebook / Instagram



7. Hidden Garden Café

Literally hiding in a recently renovated garden in Ermita, Manila, Hidden Garden Cafe is a perfect place for a coffee or two. Friendly, gracious people welcome you, ready to serve you a drink with your favorite Filipino comfort food. Relax and achieve the HGC experience. Hidden Garden Cafe offers local coffee, drinks and comfort snacks.

Hidden Garden Café

Address: Hidden Garden (formerly Plaza Lawton), Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila
Hours: 8AM-9PM daily
Social Media: Facebook


8. Starbucks Coffee (Puerta de Isabel-II)

You might be wondering why this largely known coffee shop company in the world belongs to this list. Well, for sure, Starbucks Coffee is very common to all of us. But this one located near the northern walls of Intramuros will definitely bring you back to the Spanish era of the Philippines. The café’s ceilings and walls were of adobe, curving from the floor to ceiling and back to floor again. A unique SB experience indeed.

Starbucks Coffee (Puerta de Isabel-II) 

Address: Muralla St. cor Magallanes Dr., Intramuros, City of Manila
Hours: 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM Monday-Saturday


ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA 

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9. Cafe Aquatica

Binondo is not all about Chinese food. This cafe near Binondo Church does not only offer good food but fishes for sale. Yes, Café Aquatica is a unique concept café that doubles as a fish shop. The whole place is surrounded with aquariums with live fishes, something worth sharing on your IG-feed!

Cafe Aquatica

Address: 1016 Norberto Ty St, Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila
Hours: 10AM-8PM daily
Social Media: Facebook / Instagram


10. Café Mezzanine

Last but not least, Cafe Mezzanine, which is owned by famous Chinese delicacy brand Eng Bee Tin is located at guess what? The mezzanine of the building. The Café Mezzanine has dedicated itself to supporting the Binondo Paco Fire Search and Rescue Brigade to continue its volunteerism and valuable service to the community. Cafe Mezzanine promises to serve gastronomic specialties that will make you truly love Chinese cuisine. 

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Inside Cafe Mezzanine

Address: 650 Ongpin St, Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila
Business Hours: 8AM–9PM daily

Lady's and gentlemen, this sums up my list of cafes and coffee shops in Manila:
  • Kapetolyo (by SGD Coffee)
  • Belfry Cafe
  • La Cathedral Café
  • Barbara's
  • 1919 Grand Café
  • The Den
  • Hidden Garden Café
  • Starbucks Coffee (Muralla St., Intramuros)
  • Cafe Aquatica
  • Café Mezzanine

I hope this list helps you decide where to go next on your coffee date in Manila. If I am missing something, let me know in the comments below.


ACTIVITIES AND TOURS IN MANILA


OTHER CAFES TO VISIT...



WHERE TO STAY IN MANILA

Here's a list of hotel accommodation you can book in Manila:



ALSO IN MANILA



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.

WHERE TO STAY IN MANILA
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INSTAGRAMMABLE CAFES: 10 Unique Places to Have Coffee in Manila


Siquijor Church, officially known as the St. Francis of Assisi Parish Church, is urrounded by waving palms and set against the backdrop of the coast, the church felt like the island’s gentle greeting—quiet, welcoming, and full of soul.

It’s not just a religious building. It’s a historic landmark that silently tells stories of Spanish rule, Filipino resilience, and the enduring faith of the people of Siquijor - Siquijodnons.



Fun Facts


The church is located near the welcome signage of Siquijor.

The freestanding bell tower across the road offers a picturesque frame for photos and a reminder of the island’s coastal defenses during Spanish rule.

Its location makes it a peaceful stop as you begin or end your Siquijor trip.

The church is often used for town events, religious processions, and festivals, especially during St. Francis of Assisi's feast day every October 4.


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A Brief History and Cultural Importance


Built: Originally in 1795 by secular clergy, then expanded by the Augustinian Recollects

Patron Saint: St. Francis of Assisi, known for his humility and love for nature

Architecture: Typical Spanish colonial design made from coral stones and hardwood, with a detached bell tower (belfry) nearby

Belfry: Used historically as a watchtower against pirates—now a symbol of the town

Declared as: One of the oldest churches in Siquijor, and a cultural landmark in the province


This church has withstood earthquakes, storms, and time itself. Its thick coral walls, exposed wooden beams, and antique altars preserve centuries of religious and community life on the island.

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How to Get There

Located just a few steps from the Siquijor Port, the church is hard to miss.


From Siquijor Port: Less than 5 minutes by foot

From Larena: ~14 km or 20–30 minutes by tricycle/scooter

From San Juan: ~17 km or 30–40 minutes

By Tricycle: ₱300–₱500 round trip, depending on origin

By Scooter: ₱300–₱400/day

Perfect for your first or last stop on the island, especially if you’re arriving or departing via Siquijor Town.

For hassle-free experience, you can book a full-day tour on Klook. Get up to 5% discount when you use JUANKLOOK on your next booking!


Mass Schedule


Sundays: 6:00 AM, 8:00 AM, and 5:00 PM

(Check locally or on signage for updated schedules)



Best Time to Visit


Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Best Time:

  • Early morning or before sunset for peaceful ambiance and beautiful lighting

  • Try to time your visit with a Mass to experience the local community


What to Bring and What to Wear


Water (shops nearby for snacks or refreshments)

Camera or phone (but be respectful during Mass)

A shawl or wrap if entering during service hours

Modest, respectful attire

Light clothes and comfy footwear (stone paths can be uneven)



Visiting Tips


Take a moment to sit inside and absorb the silence—it’s wonderfully meditative.

Walk around the area; you’ll find welcome signage, coastal views, and souvenir shops.

Pair your visit with a meal in one of the local eateries near the port before heading to or from your next adventure.


Siquijor Church is more than a religious site—it’s the heartbeat of the town. It stands quietly as a spiritual guardian to those coming ashore and a steady reminder of the island’s faith, culture, and deep connection to its history.


Compare Prices on Other Travel Apps

To make sure you are getting the best deals, always compare prices with other booking apps. Here are some of the top travel apps that I use frequently:

Explore Siquijor!

This is part of my exploration in Siquijor Island in 2014. Here are the places I visited in the Isla del Fuego:
North Haven Lodge in Larena

Where to Stay in Siquijor

Here are some recommended accommodations:

  • Coco Grove Beach Resort – A luxurious beachfront resort in San Juan.

  • White Villas Resort – A mid-range resort with excellent amenities.

  • U Story Guesthouse – A charming, budget-friendly option with a relaxing vibe.

  • Infinity Heights Resort – Offers stunning hilltop views.

  • North Haven Lodge – Affordable lodging near Larena Port.

SIQUIJOR CHURCH: Guide to St. Francis of Assisi Parish (History and Mass Schedule)


All you need to know about this historic church in Binondo, Manila.

Whenever I visit Binondo for a food trip, I always make sure to pass this church in front of Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz. Binondo Church's facade always make me in awe every time I see it. The church is one of the most picturesque places in Manila.



Binondo Church, formally known as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz - Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary (Spanish: Basílica Menor de San Lorenzo Ruiz y Parroquia de Nuestra Señora del Santísimo Rosario), is located in the District of Binondo, Manila fronting Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz, in the Philippines.


This church was founded by Dominican priests in 1596 to serve their Chinese converts to Christianity.


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Saint Lorenzo Ruiz
The original building was destroyed in 1762 by British bombardment. A new granite church was completed on the same site in 1852 however it was greatly damaged during the Second World War, with only the western façade and the octagonal belfry surviving.

Saint Lorenzo Ruiz, who was born of a Chinese father and a Filipino mother, trained in this church and afterwards went as a missionary to Japan, where he and his companions were martyred for refusing to renounce Christianity.

Lorenzo is the Philippines' first saint, and was canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1987. A large statue of the saint stands in front of the church.

Interior of Binondo Church


Binondo Church in Details

  • Names: Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz, Basílica Menor y Santuario Nacional de San Lorenzo Ruiz
  • Location: Binondo, Manila, Philippines
  • Country: Philippines
  • Denomination: Catholic
  • Website: rcam.org/minorbasilicaofsanlorenzoruiz
  • Status: Minor basilica
  • Founded: 1596
  • Founders: Dominican priests
  • Architectural type: Minor basilica
  • Completed: 1852
  • Number of domes: 1
  • Materials: Granite
  • Archdiocese: Manila



Even before the arrival of the Spanish to the Philippines there was already a community of Chinese traders living in Manila. The population of Chinese traders increased with the advent of Spanish colonization of the Philippines, due to increased trade between the islands.

Parish church of the barrio of Binondo in 1868

The upsurge in their population prompted the Catholic Missionaries to manage the conversion of the Chinese population to the Christian faith.

In 1596, Dominican priests founded Binondo church to serve their Chinese converts to Christianity as well as to the native Filipinos.

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Binondo Church Architecture

Binondo Church was built by the Dominicans. Founded in 1596, a church had been constructed before 1614. When transferred to its present site in the 18th century, a new church was built to accommodate new churchgoers. In 1778, the roof was replaced with nipa as the wood was destroyed by termites. In 1863, the church was slightly damaged by earthquake.

The original structure has sustained damages during wars and various natural disasters. Domingo Cruz y Gonzales supervised the construction of the dome in 1781.



The current granite church was completed on the same site in 1852 and features an octagonal pagoda-like bell tower which suggests the Chinese culture of the parishioners. The church was burned during the British invasion of 1762. Another one was quickly built following the occupation. Improvements were made in the 18th century but the edifice was again destroyed in the 1863 earthquake.

It was rebuilt in the grandeur the remains on which we see today. Before the war, it was considered as one of the most beautiful churches in the country. Its bell tower was composed of five stories, octagonal in shape. At its top was a mirador (viewing window). This roof was destroyed during the 1863 earthquake.


The present church and convent was renovated between 1946 and 1971.


OTHER CHURCHES TO VISIT IN MANILA



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Binondo Church Fun Facts

Here are some trivia about Binondo Church:

  • The current main altar of the church is loosely modeled after the façade of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City.
  • The basilica has been reconstructed many times due to natural calamities and only the belfry is what remains of the original 16th century structure.
  • Andrés Bonifacio and his second wife, Gregoria de Jesús were wed in Catholic rites in the church in March 1893 or 1894. The couple had also undergone a marriage ceremony under the Katipunan, the secret society that Bonifacio headed as part of the Philippine Revolution against the Spanish Empire.


How to Get to Binondo Church

Going to Binondo, Manila is made easy because of Metro Manila's transport system - where you can ride any of the following mode of transportation:

Via Train

If you are coming from North (Caloocan City) and from the South (Paranaque/Pasay), you can take LRT1 and drop off Carriedo station. Turn left at Rizal Avenue, and walk past Sta. Cruz Church towards Bustos. Turn left at Bustos, and walk about 1 block until you get to Ongpin. Chinatown begins there, right behind Sta. Cruz Church.

Nearest Train Station: LRT1-Carriedo

Via Bus

If you are coming from North (Quezon City), you can take a bus ride en route to Sta. Cruz, Manila or if you are from the South (Muntinlupa), you can take a bus ride en route to Lawton, then a jeepney ride to Sta. Cruz. Then take a short walk as previously suggested above.

Via UV Express

UV express is another option going to Binondo. Here are the available UV Express Routes: Divisoria-Roxas Blvd./Baclaran; Divisoria-Taft/Buendia/Baclaran

Via Jeepney

Here are the following jeepney routes you can take going to Binondo: Cubao-Divisoria; Divisoria-Roxas Blvd./Baclaran; Divisoria-Taft/Buendia/Baclaran; Espana-Divisoria; Morayta-Divisoria; North Avenue-Sta. Cruz; San Juan-Divisoria; Sta. Cruz-Binondo/Divisoria; Sta. Cruz-Taft/Buendia/Baclaran


ACTIVITIES AND TOURS IN MANILA


Binondo Church

Address: Plaza de San Lorenzo Ruiz, Binondo, Manila
Phone Number: (02) 8242-4850
Telefax: (02) 8242-4041
Email Address: binondochurch1596@gmail.com


Binondo Church Mass Schedule & Other Services


Church Mass
  • Monday-Saturday: 12:15nn | 5:00pm
  • Sunday: 8:30am | 10:00am | 12:15nn | 5:00pm

Baptism
  • Monday-Saturday: 10:30am
  • Sunday: 11:00am (Communal)

Wedding & Funeral Mass
  • By Appointment

Confession
  • Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 11:00am-12:00nn
  • Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday: 3:00-4:30pm

Sick call & Anointing
  • By Appointment


WHERE TO NEXT?



WHERE TO STAY NEAR BINONDO

Pearl Manila Hotel

Here's a list of hotel accommodation you can book in Manila:



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.


BINONDO CHURCH: Guide to Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz (History & Mass Schedule)

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