MANILA -- There's a new cafe in downtown Pasig where diners can enjoy good coffee, quality food or simply hang out and catch up with friends and family. With its airy and modern interiors and delectable dishes, Yani Café is sure to attract coffee-lovers looking for a space to unwind.

Located on the second floor of Mariposa Arcade along the bustling A. Mabini street in Kapasigan, Yani Café is right next to a yoga studio and gym, above a grocery store, near banks and close to the old city hall. Its central location makes it an ideal hub for those who live or work in the neighborhood.

Yani Café serves mostly comfort food, creations of Richie Bernardo, who worked as a chef in Washington for 20 years before settling back in the country.

The menu boasts of affordable dishes such as Beef Panini (P125), Bolognese Pasta (P145), Chicken Curry Tarts (P45), and Sallee’s Salsa Nachos (P155). Those with a sweet tooth can try a slice of Carrot Cake or Cheesecake (P105 each), mini cupcakes (P45) or cookies (P45).

The café also serves a few vegetarian options including a Vegetarian Pasta (which can be made vegan by request), and a refreshingly cool and frothy vegan drink called Alisa.

Bestsellers for the coffee include Dolce Vita (P125), Hazelnut Latte (P135) and Ice Blended Mocha (P135). Aside from coffee, they also serve San Miguel draft beer and wine.

Part of Yani Cafe's advocacy is to foster a strong sense of community. A section of the café is devoted to a mini-marketplace featuring products by local entrepreneurs including stay-at-home moms, young entrepreneurs, budding chefs and creative artists to sell their products.

On the shelves during our visit were organic products from Coconut Amino, coconut and almond flour and chia seeds, Keto Lifestyle coffee products, mushroom chips from Balai Kabute farm in Bulacan and Dulche Chocolates, Benguet's first bean-to-bar chocolates with ingredients sourced from local cacao farms in Benguet.

Yani Café also has a small mini-library with books and a few board games. Patrons are encouraged to just grab a book or play with friends while dining.

The availability of sockets under the tables makes it a tempting choice for freelancers looking for a space to write or hold casual meetings.

Yani Cafe is located on the 2/F Mariposa Arcade, 9 A. Mabini Street, Kapasigan, Pasig City. It is open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. during weekdays and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekends.