A cafe found 1,400+ meters above sea level among the cliffs and the clouds? Now that’s an interesting prospect to climb up a mountain. Mt Kalugong Kape-an in La Trinidad, Benguet is nestled among the limestone outcrops at the peak of Mt Kalugong. The cafe has a magnificent view of La Trinidad valley and offers third-wave quality coffee utilizing high-altitude grown Benguet Arabica. Now that’s worth climbing up a mountain for is it?
Mt Kalugong Kape-an
We just came up the long way to Mt Kalugong from Tawang Municipal Hall. That means we had to cross the limestone rocks to get to the cafe. It was quite an effort and such a relief when I finally saw the nondescript structure along the cliffs. Aside from its scenic backdrop, the outside looks ordinary. Inside was a different story.
A handsome espresso machine, a cake freezer and a slew of coffee making paraphernalia ornate the cafe among the Igorot themed interiors. How the hell they got it here? There’s an easier trail I was told. Oh this was no ordinary cafe on this side of Benguet. I do love the menu initially written in Ibaloi language.
Coffee and Smoothies
Whenever I’m new in a cafe or coffeeshop, I always try their black Americano first. If their base coffee is good, then the other blends follow. Ordered the Empetang Jen Kape (Hot Arabica) and can say that it’s quite good. The quality Benguet Arabica I’m familiar with and aptly priced at P75.
There were other drinks like the ice blended and tea lattes. But my friend JovialWanderer tried the Peach, Pear and Apricot Smoothie (P145)and thought that it is one of the tastiest smoothie I had. The fruit combination blended well and brings out their natural flavors.
Pancakes and Waffles
It’s a good idea for the cafe to offer limited food. I could understand the logistics in terms of food offering that’s why cakes, pancakes and waffles are ideal for such a place. If people want full meals, there’s a nearby restaurant inside the eco park.
I ordered the Waffles with Bacon & Egg (P135) and it was nicely plated, waffles just the right crisp and fluffiness. The bacon fried the way I like a bit crunchy. Tin’s Satkek Strawberry Pancake (P135) was probably the loveliest looking pancake I’ve seen. They really make an effort on the plating. Speaking of plates, oh those handmade and perfectly-imperfect plates looks so nice too.
Cafe up the clouds
I always enjoyed coffee up the mountains. Even bringing our own thermos to enjoy. So it felt just right to stay a few hours here to enjoy the ambiance. Owner Susan Pablo, a former OFW from London, sure did set-up something beautiful here. I learned that Mt Kalugong Kape-an has been here for 3 years already. Am sure glad it stayed strong and hoping it will for a time. One thing I wish they would add, selling coffee beans! I would surely want to take home some of the Benguet Arabica they use.
Mt Kalugong Kape-an
OF-012 Mount Kalugong Kape-an/Cafe
La Trinidad, Benguet
Contact: 0949 898 0328
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Facebook: /Mt.Kalugongcafe/
Instagram: @kalugongkapean
