With the growing demands of everyday life, art comes as a way to pause and relax. It’s therapeutic, stress-relieving, and is able to soothe your worries, as shown in a research study from the Royal College of Physicians. However, taking a breather is seldom an easy thing, especially in this fast-paced world. Sometimes, the best way to do it is to escape your usual routine, physically, and venture into a revitalizing getaway.
You don’t have to go too far, though! Just an hour drive away from the metro is a quaint spot for all things artsy and rejuvenating—Crescent Moon Cafe and Studio Pottery! Located in Antipolo, the cafe has been a favorite among visitors since its establishment in 1997, refreshing the soul with all the essentials: art, nature, and good food!
To say that creativity is the theme of this place is an understatement. Just with its dining area, you’ll be graced with the sight of colorful chairs, vibrant draperies, and quirky art pieces. It’s an absolute sight to inspire the inner artist in you, and it’s definitely worth taking some shots to post on the ‘gram!
There’s even a corner where you can purchase unique ceramic objects to take home, ranging from coffee mugs, dainty plates, and other decorative materials. These pieces were made by owner and artist Lanelle Abueva-Fernando in her very own studio, also situated in the cafe’s area.
And the resourcefulness doesn’t stop with the cafe’s interior! Much of its recipes were crafted by Lanelle’s late husband, Bey Fernando, as mentioned in the establishment’s website.
Bursting with vibrant artistry, their menu offers Southeast Asian-inspired food, providing a gastronomical venture that will surely appeal to your senses. They have dishes like Beef Rendang (P460 as entree, P370 as rice meal), Lemongrass Pork Belly (P460 as entree, P370 as rice meal), and Fragrant Peanut Chicken (P430). Before the pandemic, the restaurant actually served a buffet during the weekends, but with current events, this was put on hold. For now, their best dishes remain, served a la carte.
The cafe’s culinary artistry is also what charms their visitors. Their signature appetizer, Alagao (P400), is actually a reinterpretation of a Thai street food and snack called miang kham. With its one-of-a-kind dynamic, it makes for a scrumptious meal that’s well-loved by guests.
If you’re craving something sweet, try their Suman at Mangga (P170), a beloved dish among visitors. It's made of two pieces of suman, partnered with sweet mango. This kind of pairing brings something new and delectable to the classic Filipino dessert. It’s a great treat to gift yourself with, especially when you’re taking a break from your daily grind. You deserve it, after all!
While you can enjoy these dishes in the main restaurant, Crescent Moon also has an al fresco dining area called The Sunken Garden. Here, you can enjoy a view of the place’s beautiful landscape, composed of lush greenery and charming plants and flowers
Did we mention there’s also a breathtaking koi pond, accompanied by its man-made waterfall? Here, you’ll be surrounded by a serene and relaxing ambiance so different from the urban bustle you might be used to. Plus, it’s an ideal background for those head-to-toe shots to show your stylish OOTDs!
In fact, such a spot is rooted in artistry, too! At first, according to the establishment, the space was a bomb crater from World War II, until an idea came about to transform it into a beautiful pond.
If you’re seeking to enhance your creative passions, the cafe actually hosts pottery workshops and other crafty affairs from time to time. Most of these events happen at the cafe’s The Glass Bar. The building serves as a “watering hole and creative space.” With its glass walls that allow people to enjoy calming nature views, it’s clear why the structure is a place for bringing imaginative ideas to life. The trees near the space are also decorated with hanging colored bottles, making for a quirky landscape.
While the establishment remains open for all who seek a relaxing and imaginative getaway, it also makes sure to practice COVID-19 protocols. So the place doesn't get crowded, they encourage you to book a reservation first. Visitors must also present a COVID-19 vaccination card upon entry.
Crescent Moon Cafe and Studio Pottery is located in Sapang Buho Rd. Brgy Dalig, Antipolo City. It is open from Wednesdays to Sundays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For their menu, reservations, and other information, you may visit their Facebook, Instagram, or their website.
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