Philippine Coffee at BLISS Siargao: The Bold Essence of Barako

Hello, coffee lovers and BLISS enthusiasts! This is Chef Winnie, and today, I want to take you on a fascinating journey through the heart of Philippine coffee culture. And not just any coffee, I’m talking about Barako, the pride and joy of Philippine coffee.

Let’s talk about the name “Barako,” which in Filipino means masculine or potent. And that’s exactly what this coffee is — strong, full-bodied, and rich. This coffee comes from the Liberica bean, predominantly found in Southeast Asia. Liberica boasts the title of the world’s strongest coffee bean, and it’s native to various parts of Africa but has made its home in Southeast Asia as well.

The Basics: What is Barako Coffee?

Barako is a variety of coffee grown primarily in the Philippines, particularly in Batangas and Cavite. Made from Liberica beans, Barako coffee is unique. Liberica’s beans have a distinct shape; they’re asymmetric, with one side shorter than the other. It’s a bit like the coffee world’s version of a fingerprint!

Barako: More than just Coffee

The word “Barako” is synonymous with masculinity and potency in Philippine languages. The name reflects its strong flavor and aroma, reminiscent of aniseed. The term isn’t merely a reference to the coffee but is deeply woven into the fabric of Philippine culture.

The Barako Tree

Liberica coffee trees are majestic, rising up to a height of 20 meters. The sheer size of the leaves, cherries, and beans makes them stand out among other coffee species. The coffee is so robust that it survived the global coffee rust pandemic in the late 19th century longer than Arabica and Robusta did in the Philippines.

A Journey Through History

Barako has a historical significance that adds depth to its rich flavor. The coffee was introduced in the Philippines in the 1740s by Spanish friars and was initially planted in Lipa, Batangas. Batangas became known for its coffee locally, and Barako was exported to San Francisco and parts of Europe, fetching prices up to five times those of other Asian coffee beans.

This adds another layer of specialty to our Barako. Not only are you savoring a cup of coffee, but you’re also partaking in a sip of Philippine history and culture.

Why is Barako Special?

Its uniqueness doesn’t end with its beans or history. The caffeine concentration in Liberica beans is the lowest among commercial coffee beans. However, its flavor is said to be superior to Robusta, making it a favorite among Philippine coffee drinkers.

Brewing the Perfect Cup

At BLISS Restaurant, we offer classic Barako blends like Americano, Cappuccino, and Latte Macchiato. Whether you want it strong or mild, we’ve got you covered.

The Experience at BLISS

We offer all the classics—Americano, Cappuccino, Latte Macchiato—but it’s the Barako that steals the show. What’s unique about the Liberica bean is its distinct shape. It’s asymmetric, almost as if it’s giving you a wink. And the taste? Distinctly superior to your everyday Robusta, it has a fascinating aniseed aroma that charms your senses.

Beyond the Cup: Sustainability and the Future

Barako is listed in the Ark of Taste international catalogue of endangered heritage foods by the Slow Food movement. The difficulty in cultivating these tall trees contributes to its endangered status and its scarcity makes it even more special.

Concluding Thoughts

Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or someone looking for something new, our Barako coffee at BLISS is a journey you’ll want to embark upon. You’ll discover why this brew has stood the test of time and will leave you wanting more. And hey, if you’re at BLISS, why not pair it with our breakfast special? Trust me, the flavors will dance in harmony.

Until next time, stay caffeinated!

Chef Winnie