[Review] Zarcreme Coffee: Iloilo’s Hidden Sanctuary for Quiet Indulgence

Tucked away in a quiet stretch of the coastal road leading to Leganes, Zarcreme Coffee is what I’d call a lucky find - unassuming at first glance, yet quietly remarkable once discovered. It’s not just another café, it’s a sanctuary for those seeking a moment of calm, a cup of excellent coffee, and a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

At first, you might not even realize there’s a café here since it’s discreetly located behind a gasoline station, almost hidden in plain sight. The building itself is a creative repurposing of two stacked container vans, transformed into a charming two-story structure. On the ground floor, you’ll find the counter and limited seating options: a plush sofa on one end and a small table for two on the other. A staircase at the back leads to the second level, which opens up into a fully air-conditioned space with wide windows that frame the view.

From upstairs, you can catch glimpses of the ocean beyond the rooftops of the surrounding community and the forecourt of the gas station. Step out onto the open-air balcony at the back, and you’re greeted by a tranquil panorama of rice fields. Visit around dusk, and you’ll be treated to a quiet spectacle - the sky slowly shifting hues as you sip your coffee in contemplative silence.

Perhaps the only downside (or a hidden advantage, depending on your perspective) is its relative inaccessibility. Public transportation is scarce along this coastal road, save for the occasional provincial bus. It’s not on a major thoroughfare, and most who pass through are either bypassing the choke points or heading to one of the seaside resorts and restaurants nearby. In a way, this isolation adds to Zarcreme’s charm; it’s a destination you choose with intention.

Zarcreme’s coffee is solid. While I can’t speak for their flavored or pre-mixed selections, I always go for the iced latte, and I can confidently say their base espresso shots are well-extracted and satisfying. It’s the kind of coffee that holds its own.

The pastry selection varies, so it’s worth asking the friendly baristas what’s available. I’ve tried their bicho - a Filipino-style fried doughnut sprinkled with sugar, and the cafe makes it special with drizzled salted caramel. Simple, yes, but elevated in presentation and flavor. I’ve also sampled their carrot cake. While I'm not a fan since I personally prefer less-sweet icing, don’t let that stop you from giving it a try.

What truly makes Zarcreme special is its atmosphere. It’s cozy, inviting, and quietly inspiring. Bring a good book, an e-reader, or your laptop. Write your journal, draft your next novel, or plan your week ahead. Soft music hums in the background, conversations are gentle and intimate, and the overall vibe encourages reflection.

Whether you're working remotely, catching up on thoughts, or simply savoring a slow afternoon, Zarcreme offers a kind of peace that’s increasingly rare. Zarcreme Coffee isn’t just a café, it’s a vibe. In a city that’s constantly evolving, it remains a steady haven for those who appreciate good coffee, warm service, and the luxury of quiet moments. Open Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 A.M. to 7 P.M. and is located at Coastal Rd, Brgy. Camangay, Leganes, Iloilo City, Philippines.