"What’s in Candon City?" I wondered. I’ve passed through this city in Ilocos Sur countless times on my way further up north, yet I'd never stopped to explore. But recently, a photography tour brought me to Candon. On our last day, with some free time, I decided to wander. A quick search led me to Cafe Bossa Candon, just a short walk from where I was staying.
Food, Heritage, and Atmosphere
I wasn’t expecting much as I walked to Cafe Bossa—just a comfortable spot to relax, grab a coffee, and reflect on my past few days in the city. But what I found was an inviting old Spanish-era house with an unexpected charm. Its lower floor is painted in a soft rose pink, adorned with intriguing murals and pro-Leni artwork. In a region strongly associated with the Marcos family, this bold stance stood out, and I found it both refreshing and thought-provoking.
Trippy Ambiance
Stepping inside felt like entering a carefully curated, eclectic universe. The interior is an engaging mix of vintage decor, as if plucked from a well-traveled individual’s personal collection. The walls—classic old brick—are filled with band posters, paintings, stickers, Moroccan and Persian lanterns, and photographs, all surrounding Spanish tile flooring. The ambiance is hard to pin down, yet it's invitingly unique, with world music subtly adding to the experience. It felt like stepping into someone’s vibrant, collected world.
Ilocano Fusion Food
The menu is simple when it comes to beverages, offering hot or iced coffee. I opted for the hot brew, which came in a French Press and was served with a charming, gold-gilded cup—perfect for two servings of rich Arabica. The food menu, on the other hand, surprised me with its fusion of Ilocano flavors. Being vegetarian, my options were limited, so I went with their Vegetarian Indian pizza. In about 15–20 minutes, a 12-inch thin-crust pizza arrived, topped with eggplant, tomatoes, onions, and a hint of spice from their house-made labuyo chili sauce. The smoky flavor and crispy crust made each bite enjoyable, though I ended up taking half of it home to share.
A Quirky Gem in Ilocos Province
My brief visit to Cafe Bossa Candon left a memorable impression. It’s rare to find a place with such character in the Ilocos Region. If I find myself driving through again, I’d make a point to stop here for a coffee or meal. Cafe Bossa doubles as a bed and breakfast, making it an appealing option for those exploring the region. I learned from one of the friendly staff that they’ve been around for 25 years—a testament to their enduring charm and appeal. I’m glad I stumbled upon this unique spot in Candon.
Cafe Bossa Candon
Address: San Juan Street, Candon, Philippines
Contact: +63917.629.8246
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 11AM - 9PM
Facebook: /BossaCandon
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