Hello dear
La Cathedral Cafe, nestled at 636 Cabildo St in Intramuros, Manila, offers a delightful retreat with stunning views of the iconic Manila Cathedral. The ambiance exudes charm, enhanced by the gentle chime of cathedral bells. Guests rave about the cozy, well-maintained space that’s perfect for relaxing coffee breaks. The menu features a variety of options, including standout dishes like rich carbonara and savory Korean BBQ. While some reviews mention inconsistency in food offerings, the attentive service and enchanting setting make each visit memorable. This cafe is a must-visit for anyone seeking a serene dining experience steeped in local culture.
About
Nestled within the historic Intramuros district of Manila, La Cathedral Cafe stands as a delightful oasis, harmoniously blending culinary delights with breathtaking views. Perched on the third floor of a charming building at 636 Cabildo St, this café offers patrons a unique dining experience that is as memorable as the stunning architecture of the nearby Manila Cathedral.
As you step into La Cathedral Cafe, you're immediately enveloped by a warm ambiance that invites you to unwind. The open-air setup enhances the charm, allowing guests to bask in the soothing sounds of cathedral bells while enjoying their meals. The café's aesthetic appeal is undeniable, making it an ideal choice for romantic dates, casual hangouts, or simply a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The menu at La Cathedral Cafe features a range of options to satisfy varying palates. Customers have praised their iced lattes and delectable banana muffins, both of which embody the café’s commitment to quality ingredients and delightful presentation. The carbonara has received accolades for its rich and creamy texture, balanced perfectly to leave diners impressed. Meanwhile, those craving something savory may find the tender and flavorful Korean BBQ a standout choice. For those who enjoy sharing, the nachos are generously topped and come highly recommended — perfect for enjoying either solo or with friends.
Although feedback on the food can vary, with some dishes evoking memories that linger and others drawing more measured responses, the consistent highlight remains the café's atmosphere. The matcha frappe emerges as a refreshing drink option, adding a delightful touch of sweetness to complement any meal. Yet, some guests have pointed out that not all listed items may be readily available, hinting at a minor hiccup in menu execution.
What truly sets La Cathedral Cafe apart is its exceptional service. The staff is noted for being warm and attentive, creating an inviting environment that encourages guests to return. Their personalized approach to hospitality transforms an ordinary visit into an extraordinary experience.
In summary, La Cathedral Cafe is more than just a dining spot; it's a place where the magnificent view meets a cozy ambiance, inviting all to savor a cup of coffee or a light meal in the heart of Manila. While the culinary offerings may vary, the overall experience of good company, friendly service, and that gorgeous cathedral view will undoubtedly make your time here truly special.
Whether you're looking to escape the everyday or seeking a picturesque location to unwind, make sure La Cathedral Cafe finds its way onto your Manila itinerary. It promises an experience that, while occasionally spiced with room for improvement, is consistently wrapped in warmth and charm.
“ The cafe is located at the third floor of the building. I did not ask but I don’t think they have an alternate way that is accessible for wheelchair. The place has a nice ambiance. Dining is alfresco with the view of the belfry of the Basilica. They have electric fans if you want to cool down if the weather’s too hot for you since it’s at the rooftop. I was craving for pasta but it wasn’t available at 10 in the morning and the only available food are the Breakfast meals. I hope pasta should be available anytime. Please man The menu is accessible online via QR code (see pics). Food price range is ₱250 at the minimum. I ordered Beef Tapa with includes garlic fried rice, sunny side up egg, and atsara (pickled papaya) for ₱360. Foods were served fast probably because there were only 4 of us customers there. Online payment is also available and the service charge is 8% of the bill. I also like that they have several types of coffee which are not available in many coffee shops such as the Cortado and Flat White. I would love to come here again and experience dining maybe in the late afternoon, and then wait for sunset. ”
“ The cafe is quite popular because of the cathedral next to the cafe which makes it aesthetic. We ordered chicken Alfredo but there were no chicken in it. Just a small little piece. Not worth it according to price. Also we tried ordering cakes but only 2-3 cakes were available so didn’t get the cake we wanted. What’s the point of putting it on menu if you are not going to serve it. ”
“ I ordered an iced latte and a banana muffin, and both were really good. The place is cozy, well-maintained, and has a charming atmosphere. The best part is the beautiful view of Manila Cathedral, which makes the experience even more special. Highly recommended for a relaxing coffee break in a lovely setting. ”
“ La Cathedral Café definitely wins when it comes to ambiance. The view of the Manila Cathedral, and the open-air setup, is absolutely charming. It’s a great spot for dates, casual hangouts, or even just some quiet time with a nice view. As for the food, it was okay, nothing particularly memorable, but not bad either. The presentation was nice, but the flavors didn’t quite match the vibe the place gives off. You’ll enjoy the experience more for the setting than the menu. Overall, it’s worth visiting at least once for the aesthetic and atmosphere. Just manage your expectations with the food, and you’ll still leave feeling like it was a lovely time. ”
“ Tucked just behind the cathedral, Le Cathedral Café is a place that truly combines a memorable dining experience with a stunning view. The moment you step in, you’re greeted not just by the welcoming ambiance but also by the majestic sight of the cathedral itself. Dining here feels unique and serene — especially when you can hear the gentle ringing of the cathedral bells in the background. It creates such a charming and calming atmosphere that makes every visit feel special. The café offers a great selection of food and drinks, with something for everyone to enjoy. I’ve had the chance to try several items, and each one left me impressed. Their carbonara is rich and creamy with just the right balance of flavors, while the Korean BBQ was savory, satisfying, and cooked perfectly. Their nachos are also a must-try — crispy, flavorful, and generously topped, they’re perfect for sharing (or enjoying all by yourself!). On the drinks side, I highly recommend their matcha frappe, which is refreshing, smooth, and has just the right touch of sweetness — perfect whether you’re pairing it with a meal or sipping it on its own. One of the biggest reasons I keep coming back is their service. The staff are consistently excellent — warm, attentive, and very professional. What really stands out is how personalized the service feels; they pay close attention to details and make sure guests are comfortable and satisfied throughout the visit. It’s that kind of hospitality that makes you feel valued as a customer and encourages you to return again and again. Overall, Le Cathedral Café is more than just a place to eat — it’s an experience. The combination of a beautiful view, the soothing sound of cathedral bells, delicious food, superb nachos, refreshing drinks, and top-notch service makes it one of my favorite spots. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking for a place to keep coming back to, this café never disappoints. ”