Maka-TEA: Cafés in Makati That Serve Milk Tea
From hidden gems to cult favorites, these Makati cafés prove that milk tea isn’t just a coffee alternative—it’s a star in its own right
Words by Gabriel Padilla
March 4, 2025
Makati, the bustling business capital of the metro, is home to sleek office spaces, well-dressed professionals, and an endless selection of aesthetically pleasing coffee shops—each with its own unique charm. But what if you’re not a coffee drinker? You don’t have to miss out on café culture. Beyond the iced Americanos and salted caramel lattes, Makati’s café scene offers delightful milk tea options for those who prefer something sweeter and creamier.
Here are four cafés in Makati where you can enjoy a refreshing milk tea fix.
NomuCafe
134 Jupiter St., Barangay Bel-Air, Makati
NomuCafe started as a cult favorite in Diliman, where students from neighboring schools would gather to take a breather while enjoying fresh pastries, coffee, and, most notably, their signature milk tea. Their second branch in Makati brings the same comforting experience to professionals in the city. Don't miss their best-seller, Komu Nomu Milk Tea, a rich and creamy original milk tea topped with a decadent salted cream cheese layer.
Bolo Coffee Club
Unit 201, General Luna Building, Poblacion, Makati
Bringing Hong Kong’s café culture to Makati, Bolo Coffee Club offers an authentic HK Milk Tea experience. Located in Poblacion, this café seamlessly blends the edgy vibrance of Causeway Bay with Makati’s coffee and nightlife scene. By day, bask in its neon-lit ambiance and laid-back energy; by night, watch as it transforms into a lively bar. Their HK Milk Tea—a smooth, velvety blend of rich tea and creamy Black & White evaporated milk—delivers an authentic taste of Hong Kong in every sip.
BADCAFE
Ground Floor, Windsor Tower, 163 Legazpi Street, Makati
Don’t be fooled by its name—BADCAFE is anything but bad. Established in 2019 by coffee-loving couple Dianne and Brian, this minimalist, Asian-inspired café offers a cozy escape from Makati’s fast-paced lifestyle. While known for its handcrafted coffee and delectable desserts, they also serve Brown Sugar Milk Tea, a perfect balance of creamy, caramel, and nutty flavors. Pair it with one of their all-day breakfast plates, salad bowls, or pasta for the ultimate comfort meal.
KOH Café + Roasters
104 HRC Bldg., Rada St., San Lorenzo Village, Makati
Looking for a pet-friendly café where you can sip milk tea with your furry friend? KOH Café + Roasters is the spot for you. Founded by scuba divers who share a love for coffee and matcha, this vibrant café embodies island vibes, with warm orange interiors reminiscent of a tropical sunset. Their Thai Milk Tea—a bold and aromatic black tea sweetened with rich condensed milk—offers a creamy and indulgent take on this classic favorite.
Take a Sip in Maka-TEA
With countless cafés scattered across Makati’s fast-paced streets, these spots prove that milk tea can hold its own against any brew. Whether you’re looking for an indulgent, creamy treat or an authentic Asian tea experience, these cafés offer the perfect alternative for non-coffee drinkers. So unwind, de-stress, and go café-hopping—because in Makati, milk tea is just as iconic as coffee.
