In a line of neutral-colored, Instagram-worthy cafés, the only way to stand out is to serve seriously amazing coffee—ask Panco how they did it
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The pandesal-at-kape combination is one of the best things that ever came out of the creative minds of the food-loving Filipinos. Taking a bite of the soft, grainy texture of pandesal as it absorbs the flavor and aroma of freshly made coffee is an amazing way to start the morning—or mid-afternoon, after an equally fulfilling nap. Now, imagine combining this local, delightful experience with the culture of Melbourne, a place known as a haven for coffee lovers—and you’ve got a perfect match.
This is the concept behind Filipino-Australian place, Panco Cafe, the chain of quaint cafes that source their beans from the popular Market Lane in Melbourne. Founded in 2022, Panco, which is a combination of the words pandesal (bread roll) and kape (coffee), had a simple vision when they started: “to create a welcoming space where everyone can enjoy delicious Melbourne coffee and comfort food.” To make the perfect cup, Panco Cafe sources its beans from Market Lane Coffee, the popular specialty coffee roastery, cafe, and retailer in Melbourne.
While getting their day started, coffee lovers can pair their drinks with Filipino dishes—a favorite one among loyal customers is the Breakfast Brisket. A modern version of the local tapa, the Breakfast Brisket can be served Melbourne Style, placed in a pandesal sandwich, or Manila Style, with rice, of course. The meal comes with the classic, fluffy scrambled eggs, spread out inside the pandesal, or with pan-seared Pacific Salmon with roasted veggies.
The interior design is even a mood itself. With walls washed in mostly earth tones and neutral colors, the spaces are modern, bright, cozy, and are great for chilling out, working from “home,” or catching up with friends on a nice weekend.
Grab a cup of coffee and a piece (or three) of pandesal at the Panco Cafe branches at 110 Don Carlos Palanca St., Makati City, Podium Mall in Ortigas Center, and in their newly opened branch at One Ayala Mall in Makati City.
For more information, visit Panco Cafe’s Instagram account, @pancocafe.ph.
