Unplanned adventures are the best. It’s not just about the location but also the journey in between. Including, of course, the people you are with. Truly, time spent together, wherever the destination, is what makes unplanned adventures better than planned ones.
A recent trip with my fellow adventure seekers brought us to the streets of Mintal, Davao City. Dubbed as the Little Tokyo of pre-war Philippines, Mintal is slowly becoming a destination for people who opt to go beyond the streets of downtown Davao. A community of possibilities, Mintal is rich in culture, history, scenic spots and of course, destinations. One of which is Cafe Hikaru — a modern rustic cafe that will instantly take your breath away.
Tucked away from the main highway, Cafe Hikaru is still a secret of a gem to consider. Not that it’s a bad thing, personally, I prefer it that way. From the outside, it looks like a typical cafe. A templated coffee shop design, if you may. However, Cafe Hikaru will definitely surprise you — the interior deserves a full on page on Architectural Magazine that will ignite the artist in you.
Decked heavily in wood furnishings, Cafe Hikaru has that modern yet vintage feel that’s very reminiscent of the countryside. The mismatched seating, Victorian decors and uneven tables complement the eccentric feel of the cafe.
Personally, I appreciate the grandeur, more so, the unorthodox arrangement. And yet, despite the mix and match, I feel belonged.
Destined as the next go-to foodie destination in Mintal, this café is more than just its beautiful interiors. Café Hikaru also has a menu that will not only make you hungry but also allow you to have a fantastic time away from the city. Their menu is a mini book of flavours – from cafe staples to comfort snacks, Cafe Hikaru has them all.
No one can say no to pasta, correct? A must try is their beef stroganoff that’s very straightforward and savoury. It’s creamy yet not overpowering; it is beefy without that meaty aftertaste. Best eaten hot, the slice of bread on the side makes for a best plate cleaner on any given day.
Like the beef stroganoff, their plate of mac’n’cheese is one conversation piece that’s packed with cheese and more cheese for everyone to enjoy. The simplicity of this dish is what makes this one for the books.
Also on their repertoire of flavours is their meaty Hikaru burger and clubhouse sandwich. The burger patty is more than meaty, it is a medley of absolute savoury flavours that will have you craving after every bite. An indulgent if you may. On the other hand, the clubhouse sandwich is fresh, delicate and light on the taste buds. Despite such, each slice is filling and packed.
What’s another best thing at Cafe Hikaru? Their selection of shakes. Extensive selection of flavoured shakes, if you may. From plain to mixed, nothing beats a tall glass of shake to cool the body down. Personally, I love the abundance of fruit flavoured shakes they have on the menu — only proves how blessed the city is of fruits all year round. For the chocoholics, they also have a bevy of chocolate shakes. So be ready to indulge!
Cafe Hikaru is named after Yen’s only son, Hikaru. With her knack for grandeur and everything beautiful, you’d truly be in awe at how she transformed the place into a hub that’s more than just its plentiful menu but one that will ignite the traveller in you.
Cafe Hiraku is located at 53- A Purok 6 San Francisco St. Brgy Mintal Davao City
