The LIB: Imbibing the Katipunan vibe

POSTED BY: Lionell Go Macahilig
2018-07-07 08:16:00 PHT

Strategically surrounded by some of the country's most prestigious educational institutions, namely the Ateneo de Manila University, Miriam College, and the University of the Philippines, The LIB in Katipunan is a cafe obviously targeted toward the young, upscale demographic of the area.

Located along Esteban Abada Street, The LIB is part of restaurant brands under the Cravings Group, such as BNP, Casa Roces, Cravings, Epicurious, The Coffee Beanery, and Wicked. The Cravings Group is also the entity behind ASHA (Asian School of Hospitality Arts) and CCA (Center for Culinary Arts), as well as Seven Suites Hotel & Observatory.

Leveraging on the Group's extensive background in food business, The LIB brings to its patrons popular comfort dishes with new twists, fusing them with influences from other cultures. For example, the common tapsilog becomes Tapa Bulgogi with rice, toppings, sauce, and egg options. Mami's Ramen is The LIB's version of a hearty noodle bowl of Filipino, Chinese, and Japanese influences.

As what its name suggests, The LIB emulates the ambiance of a library, though it is cozier, making every visitor feel at home. Sitting at a corner is a shelf of books picked from the owners' personal collections. Interestingly, the spot where The LIB stands used to be the CCA Library. The two-floor establishment is not only ideal for students, but also for professionals who would want to treat the place like a coworking space or a meeting venue. 

That said, food items ideal while working, studying, or brainstorming are also served at The LIB. Nibbles like chips, garlic bread, sweet potato fries, and palabok-flavored popcorn chicken are served with different dip choices. If you want to go heavier but not as heavy as having a rice bowl or a noodle dish, bread-based items like sandwiches are also included in the menu.

Sweet desserts and caffeinated/non-caffeinated drinks are also available should you need to make yourself feel jacked up during boring hours. Of course, alcoholic beverages are not served here. To encourage every visitor to order, a drink gives one hour of free Internet access, whereas a dish extends it to two hours.

Interested parties may visit The LIB from Monday to Saturday, 10:00AM to 10:00PM. Follow thelib.mnl on Facebook and Instagram, or call 09167916422 for more information.