This Hidden Café in Cavite is an Instagrammable Hot Spot

Step inside Café 10/23 in Cavite, where even the coffee comes with a side of family history and Instagram-worthy vibes

Words Mika Reyes
Photos courtesy of Café 10/23
October 22, 2024

There's a café quietly making waves in the local community and beyond in the heart of Imus, Cavite. Café 10/23, a homegrown coffee shop, may seem unassuming from the outside, but it holds a charm that makes it one of Cavite’s best-kept secrets. Nestled away from the bustling streets, this cozy spot has quickly become a favorite hangout for coffee lovers, foodies, and Instagram aficionados alike. And, as it celebrates its first anniversary, it’s clear that Café 10/23 is much more than just another coffee shop—it’s a tribute to family, heritage, and the deep-rooted love for Cavite.

A Love Letter to Cavite

Founded by Laurice Annelle "LA" Gonzaga Cantimbuhan and her family, Café 10/23 is a heartfelt love letter to their hometown. The café’s name carries personal significance, marking the birthdays of two cherished family members—Imus City Board Member Ony Cantimbuhan and their late grandmother, Rosalinda Gonzaga. For the Gonzaga-Cantimbuhan family, Café 10/23 isn’t just a business venture; it’s a celebration of their roots, values, and community.

Stepping into Café 10/23 feels like being welcomed into a family home. The café’s aesthetic, thoughtfully curated by the family, features vintage touches like a restored chair from their grandmother’s house, blending nostalgia with modern design. Even the centerpiece of the café—a beautifully crafted jeep—nods to the family’s history in crafting passenger jeeps, a tribute to their grandmother’s legacy and Ony Cantimbuhan’s early ventures as a student.

But Café 10/23’s love for Cavite goes beyond family ties. The café is committed to supporting local artisans and artists, with much of the furniture crafted by local hands and the walls adorned with works by Imus-based artist Christian Tamondong. Every corner of Café 10/23 tells a story, one that resonates deeply with Caviteños who visit.

The Café That Keeps on Growing

From its humble beginnings with just 120 seats, Café 10/23 has expanded to accommodate 300 guests in a span of one year, serving over 1,000 patrons on weekends. To celebrate their first anniversary, Café 10/23 hosted an intimate gathering that not only marked this milestone but also unveiled exciting future plans. Founder LA announced the opening of a bigger commissary for their bakehouse and kitchen, an expanded indoor dining area that can double as an events hall, and the highly anticipated launch of two new branches in Cavite by 2025.

But that’s not all—the anniversary also saw the launch of exclusive collaborations, including a minimalist apparel line with the streetwear label Secret Fresh and a limited-edition jewelry collection with Trinkets. These stylish pieces, ranging from Café 10/23-themed necklaces to dainty bracelets, are perfect for anyone looking to carry a piece of this charming café with them.

A Menu That Makes the Journey Worthwhile

While the café’s heartwarming story and Instagrammable interiors draw people in, it’s the food and drinks that make them stay. Café 10/23 boasts an impressive selection of house-baked pastries, including the standout Ube Leche Flan Danish and their buttery, flaky croissants. Every pastry is baked with care, a testament to the family’s dedication to delivering only the best.

The café’s coffee menu is equally impressive, featuring premium blends sourced from Makati’s renowned Deuces Coffee Beans. Whether you’re in the mood for a decadent Tiramisu Latte or a more adventurous Sea Salt Spanish Latte, every cup is brewed to perfection. For non-coffee drinkers, the café offers an array of refreshing options, from Butterfly Pea Lemonade to the tangy Yuzu Soda, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

And when hunger strikes, Café 10/23 doesn’t disappoint. Their menu is a delightful mix of comfort food with a twist, showcasing local favorites like the Imus Longganisa and Truffle Cream Pasta. Whether you’re popping in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Café 10/23 delivers a dining experience that’s both satisfying and memorable.

More Than Just a Café

What truly sets Café 10/23 apart is its ability to create a sense of community. It’s not just a place to grab coffee or take photos; it’s a space where locals and visitors alike can come together, share stories, and make lasting memories. With its upcoming expansions and collaborations, Café 10/23 is poised to cement itself as a beloved institution in Cavite, a place where the past and present blend seamlessly.

As it enters its second year, Café 10/23 remains committed to its mission of bringing high-quality food, coffee, and service to Caviteños—no trip to Metro Manila needed. So, if you’re looking for a hidden gem that’s equal parts cozy, chic, and community-focused, Café 10/23 should be at the top of your list. Trust us, your Instagram feed (and taste buds) will thank you.

Café 10/23 is located at Imus Blvd., Malagasang II-C, Imus Cavite, and is open every weekday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., and on weekends from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.