Coffee can be enjoyed alone but is also an experience meant to be shared with a community. The owners of a new café in Kapitolyo, Pasig City called Stay Up Espresso Bar believe this. Which is why instead of simply offering a line of tasty brews—and pastries to pair them with—they decided to add another feature that will really spark a gathering: drag shows.
The owners of the café come from different backgrounds and they continue to hold corporate jobs spanning skillsets in creatives, marketing, sales, and events. In charge of the daily operations is Matt Tandiama and his fiancé who is the chief marketing officer.
The idea for Stay Up is really about “simply coming together,” say the owners. They want to promote inclusivity, hence their idea to do events that would cater to different customer segments. Meanwhile, their two other branches in Katipunan and Las Piñas operate like traditional coffee shops.
In the coming days, the Kapitolyo branch, which can seat 30 (40 at standing room), will hold exciting themed events thrice a week ranging from an 80s night to a stand-up comedy night to quiz nights and evenings that feature tarot reading. Event schedules will vary depending on the artists and the theme. Drag performances though will be in the afternoon. Keep posted by checking their Instagram and Facebook accounts.
For PHP1,500.00, one gets to enjoy themed events and their F&B offerings. Among their best sellers are their No Sleep Spanish Latte, Psycho Flip Breve Drink, Blueberry Cheesecake, and Revel Bar. The owners highly recommend their Pain Au Chocolat, croissants, cookies, brownies, and Brazo de Mercedes.
Stay Up Espresso Bar is located at 16 United Street, Kapitolyo, Pasig City. It’s open from Tuesday to Sunday, 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.