December 4, 1997, the Philippines had its first taste of the Starbucks Experience with its very first branch at the 6750 Ayala Building in Makati City. Starbucks has since won the hearts of the Filipinos, with over 200 branches and growing in Metro Manila alone, it's safe to say that they're here to stay. So what's next for Starbucks? Starbucks Reserve! Their premium line of stores that has been operating in the Philippines since early 2014.
This branch marks the 7th Starbucks Reserve in Manila, located within a still developing mall in Circuit Makati, formerly the Santa Ana Race Track. So what's the difference with a regular Starbucks and the "Starbucks Reserve" store? The looks and interior are obviously upgraded. Premium materials and a better build to portray a more solid and refined look. They added elements that expound on their commitment to coffee and craft. They also differ from the normal stores by offering limited runs of certain items. Today we sampled their Mocha Ribbon Chip with Cookie Straw (185/195/205 PHP) a chocolatey drink with a fun way of drinking it through an edible straw, sadly they stopped offering it today. We also had their purple yam cheese cake a mild sweet cake that's just a smooth treat. read more