These delicious matcha drinks cost only Php 39 at Don Macchiatos.
What can you get for Php 39?
Much to the delight of students and young professionals, they can enjoy their favorite iced coffee at Don Macchiatos for only Php 39.
As major cafes drastically increase their prices, cheap coffee places have become a refuge for many. We would definitely not be able to experience this if it wasn’t for Don Macchiatos.
This Cebuano-owned coffee shop was the pioneer of the Php 39 coffee trend. They started their business in 2022 as a streetside kiosk near one of the major universities in Cebu City.
What was once a simple coffee shop has now become one of the most ubiquitous names on the island, with dozens of branches around the city.
It has opened franchises outside Cebu, particularly in places like Palawan and Bohol just to name a few. It even spawned dozens of similar coffee shops, creating an influx of affordable coffee options.
Catering primarily to students, it aims to bring a more affordable coffee option, especially with their bestselling Iced Caramel Macchiato.
Despite their humble beginnings, they have grown to be a pillar in the local food scene as the go-to budget-friendly coffee shop in Cebu City.
AFFORDABILITY AND INCLUSIVITY
Don Macchiatos takes inspiration from one of its co-owners, Nickie San Juan, during her days as a college student. As a coffee lover, she struggled to find cheap but decent coffee drinks fit for a student’s budget.
Nickie understands the importance of coffee to many people, saying in an interview with Sunstar Cebu that it is “a part of our everyday life.” (2024) Her experiences led her to pursue a business where her drinks were accessible to many.
Nickie and her partner opened the first Don Macchiatos in Sambag 2, near Southwestern University. It was flocked by dozens of students, workers, and nearby residents interested in their surprisingly affordable coffee products.
It gained more popularity as Cebuanos flocked to the tiny kiosk to see what the fuss was all about. Several social media posts were met with massive virality, with users sharing their own opinions about the budget-friendly drinks.
It became a huge phenomenon despite a few concerns and criticisms, with a Don Macchiatos franchise seemingly opening near every major school, as well as in business parks and various public spots.
They even opened physical stores like the one located near Sto. Rosario in downtown Cebu, gaining sponsorships from Filipino celebrities and influencers like Daniel Padilla and Joseph Sabello.
Its success brought about the first Php 39 frozen yogurt with Kuku, wherein they serve their famous matcha-flavored froyo.
Despite the criticisms, no one can deny that the affordability of these drinks and treats is a game-changer. Even today, it’s not uncommon to see someone enjoying a delicious iced coffee from Don Macchiatos.
BESTSELLERS
Their original bestselling Php 39 Caramel Macchiato has remained unchanged, with its generous serving of full cream milk, original coffee blend, and caramel drizzle. Although a bit on the sweeter side, it is definitely full of flavor.
A highlight of Don Macchiatos is their efficient service, where drinks are served in mere seconds. Their brewed coffee is stored in big dispensers to do away with the tedious coffee-making process.
While their main offering is their Caramel Macchiato, the coffee shop has released specialty flavors, with their take on the Iced Matcha Latte becoming one of their most popular drinks, and their Spanish Latte being one of their newest.
They also have Don Darko, which is a mix of coffee and dark chocolate milk, and Donya Berry, which is a combination of syrup made from real strawberries and full cream milk.
They recently started offering hot drinks as well, namely the Don Barako, Hot Caramel, and Hot Darko, all at the same price point.
They sell Mom’s Pizza too, a popular local pizza shop known for their homemade pizzas sold at affordable prices.
IS DON MACCHIATOS WORTH IT?
As mentioned, Don Macchiatos garnered a lot of mixed reactions when it first opened in Cebu because of its unbelievable price. Some swear by it and consider it a safe haven, while others have questioned its authenticity.
While you can’t expect premium cafe quality drinks at this price point, Don Mac proves this kind of business can be lucrative. It serves as a budget-friendly alternative for those who can’t afford their favorite coffee shops.
The budget-friendly coffee market is at an all time high as well, with new coffee shops turning into a trendy status symbol.
At the end of the day, there’s nothing wrong with an affordable cup of coffee, especially if it’s as tasty as the ones at Don Macchiatos.
REFERENCES:
Pancho, Ana Moule. 2024. “Don Macchiatos: Redefining the coffee industry nationwide.” Sunstar Cebu.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/don-macchiatos-redefining-the-coffee-industry-nationwide.
