Philstar.com
October 28, 2025 | 9:40am
MANILA, Philippines — The homegrown third-wave pioneer celebrates eight years of growth with a refreshed brand, four exclusive drinks and a renewed vision for Filipino coffee culture.
After eight years of brewing conversations, Candid Coffee is entering a new era—marked by its ninth branch opening at SM Mall of Asia and a subtle yet meaningful brand refresh that celebrates growth, community, and creativity.
What began as a small Sunday market coffee cart has evolved into a full-fledged café and roastery. Founder Lorenzo “Lanz” Castillo started Candid by pushing a cart at dawn, brewing cup after cup with one goal in mind—to make great coffee accessible, inclusive and delightfully human.
The Mall of Asia branch is more than just a new café—it’s a milestone that mirrors Candid’s internal transformation. Along with the new space comes a refreshed look and a renewed sense of purpose, symbolized by the brand’s “Candid Code,” a simple but powerful acronym: SHARED—Smiles, Hospitality, Authenticity, Relatability, Energy and Daldalan.
Signature flavors and a fresh perspective
Each Candid branch has its own personality, and the Mall of Asia store takes inspiration from green and melon—colors that symbolize renewal, balance and subtle sophistication.
This idea comes alive in four MOA-exclusive drinks that reinterpret Candid’s hallmark creativity and freshness:
- Honey Dew Honey Dew – Melon-infused espresso with sea salt foam and tuile, inspired by the soft sweetness of honeydew.
- Melon Matcha – First-harvest matcha paired with a melon cold foam for a fruit-forward, refreshing twist.
- Cucumber Melon Aerocano – Espresso blended with cucumber, melon cordial, and jasmine air for a bright, crisp finish.
- Orange Creamsicle – A nostalgic nod to summer with orange and vanilla flavors layered over espresso.
Brewing the future of Filipino coffee culture
To mark the occasion, the team also introduced a limited-edition Candid candle—a sensory piece blending notes of melon, vanilla and musk to capture that “Candid kind of morning.”
Housed in a real Candid espresso cup, it’s a nod to slow rituals and the brand’s belief that coffee isn’t just a drink, it’s a feeling.
As it enters this new chapter, Candid continues to evolve its systems, team culture and customer experience—all while holding onto the same spirit that fueled its beginnings.
“Our goal has always been to share something special with the world,” Lanz says. “By living out the Candid Code, we believe the rest will follow.”
Experience Candid’s newest chapter at L2, North Entertainment Mall, Mall of Asia, and discover a space that feels both fresh and familiar.
Follow @candidcoffeeph on Instagram and TikTok for more stories brewed daily.
Editor’s Note: This press release from Candid Coffee is published by the Advertising Content Team that is independent from our Editorial Newsroom.
