ALONG Aguirre Avenue in BF Homes Parañaque is Carpe Diem—a coffee shop that has become a favorite hangout among students.

It’s the ultimate after-school sanctuary, thanks to its calm setting and reasonably priced offerings.

“I’ve spent many afternoons just hanging out here,” says college student Jasmine Nulla. “The atmosphere’s pretty chill, plus the coffee’s great and affordable, too.”

Another student, Van Vinze Bernales, admits: “You can count me in as a regular. The combo of Caramel Macchiato with the Bananutella Sandwich is absolutely a killer!”

At a glance, the café (said to be inspired by the Korean cafés in Seoul) is every bit like a typical hole in the wall. It’s quite easy to miss if you’re driving down the road; it’s tucked in between two other establishments. Moving past its simple, wooden framed façade is an equally minimalist yet quirky interior, with comfy couches. The result is a very cozy ambiance, the kind that’s perfect for any type of weather and for any reason, be it for casual hangouts or even a place to work.

On the menu are regular coffeeshop attractions, as well as unique items; its creamy cappuccinos and café lattes need no introduction to aficionados. On the sweeter side, there’s the Caramel Macchiato and Carpe Diem’s White Mocha—where the battle between sweet and flavorful is at a stalemate.

And just like any 21st-century café, Carpe Diem’s coffee comes adorned with cutesy latte art with varying designs that often complement the holiday. Sometimes, when the barista is feeling extra playful, you might even be lucky enough to enjoy 3D art. Now that’s definitely something Instagram-worthy.

Carpe Diem is at 122 Aguirre Ave., BF Homes, Parañaque; tel. 0949-4729115.