Caffeinated and Connected: A Community of Brew and Belonging
Southeast Asia’s thriving coffee scene is brimming with overflowing potential, driven by creative talents poised to shape its future
Building community through coffee
Nestled in the world’s coffee belt, Southeast Asia is known not only for its rich provenance but also for fostering a dynamic coffee community. The region buzzes with activity, from coffee brands securing venture capital, independent cafés championing causes, and of course, an endless stream of caffeine junkies who need a cup or two to power through the day. Its tight-knit network connects cultivators, connoisseurs, and consumers, showing that coffee is as much about people as it is about the product.
Ranked 33rd on Asia’s 50 Best Bars, The Curator in Makati, Philippines captures the region’s innovative coffee spirit. Co-founder Bernice Tiu attests to the community’s synergy, where barista collaborations, masterclasses, and international competitions abound, and where “friendly knowledge sharing and support are the norm.” As for their daily operations, Bernice complements their beverages with exceptional service. “We aim to care for everyone who walks in, whether they’re here for coffee or cocktails.”
Malaysia-based coffee educator, coach, and mentor Cheryl Lee builds up on this. “Many café owners, baristas, and even enthusiasts now understand that coffee is more than just serving a cup—it’s about mastering the craft and appreciating every element that contributes to a memorable coffee experience.” Cheryl, whose expertise has benefited baristas and entrepreneurs around Asia confirms that “the thirst for knowledge grows.”
A pivotal moment for Southeast Asian coffee was when Indonesian barista Mikael Jasin won the World Barista Championship this year. “This is an incredible achievement for Southeast Asia and a reflection of how far our region has come,” Lee adds.
Global impact
Homegrown coffee brands are expanding beyond national borders. VC backing has allowed chains like Malaysia’s Zus Coffee and Singapore’s Common Man to grow across Asia to operate alongside giants like Starbucks and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Ros Juan, chief extractor of coffee at pioneering third-wave roaster Commune, notes, “It’s great to see Southeast Asian coffee brands [growing rapidly]. We bring our own flair and a lot of hospitality to everything we do, and it’s exciting to share that with the world.”
Headquartered in Makati’s energetic Poblacion district, Commune places a strong emphasis on customer education. Ros is passionate in helping customers gain a deeper appreciation for coffee, explaining that what may seem like a simple beverage is, in reality, quite multifaceted. She founded Commune Coffee University, which offers classes and cuppings that explore coffee’s finer points. “Coffee can be as simple or as complex as you want, but it’s always fascinating!”
The region’s coffee culture thrives in newer independent shops like Hometown Cafe in Subic Bay, Philippines. “The coffee market is huge, and there’s enough room for everyone,” says co-founder RG Medestomas. Collaboration and education are likewise integral to their ethos, with bar takeovers in Manila and in-store workshops helping consumers appreciate the bean beyond its beverage format. “Luckily, we’re a coffee-producing country,” he adds, emphasizing how this direct link to local farms deepens the appreciation for locally sourced beans.
Richelle Labrusca of Manila’s Deuces Coffee, known for being a safe space for the queer community, shares a similar appreciation for local sourcing. “It’s challenging to talk about sustainability when so much coffee travels by sea from South America and Africa to Asia and Australia,” Richelle notes. “Supporting local producers helps minimize that impact.” Among their trusted suppliers are respected names like Kalsada Coffee and Dream Coffee.
Teeming with creative talent and abundant in potential, Southeast Asia demonstrates that coffee is more than just the brew. The region’s innovators are pushing boundaries and crafting a new narrative that intertwines hospitality, sustainability, and community. It’s clear that the coffee community in this part of the belt and the culture it espouses are as rich and nuanced as the prized beans themselves.
This culture story appears in the pages of VMAN SEA 01: now available for purchase!
Photography Shane Swart and Pabys Creative Events
