Key Coffee in Mitsukoshi Mall, BGC - Is it A Must-Try?

Ever since Mitsukoshi opened up, we were finding the opportunity to dine in Key Coffee. In 2022, it was normally swarmed by long queues, and it's just now that I personally got to dine in here with my family. In this blog post, we will be answering the ultimate question of "is Key Coffee a must-try for foodies?". Let's check it out! 

🗝️The Origin of Key Coffee

Key Coffee is a coffee brand that originated in Japan in 1920. It was founded by Torabika Eka Semesta, a Japanese entrepreneur. Key Coffee has been providing high-quality coffee to its customers for over 100 years, and it has expanded globally, with branches in various countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, and now the Philippines.

☕What Makes Key Coffee Special

One of the things that make Key Coffee special is high-quality coffee selection. They claim that they only use the best coffee beans sourced from various parts of the world, which are roasted on-site to ensure maximum freshness. The coffee is brewed to perfection using state-of-the-art equipment.

Another thing that makes Key Coffee special, and particular to this branch in BGC, is its cozy and inviting atmosphere. The cafe's decor is modern and trendy, with comfortable seating and ample natural light. It is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a cup of coffee.

Key Coffee also offers pastries to-go, so if you feel like grabbing a few to take home, you can do so

🥶Soft Opening Blues

Key Coffee is currently still in its soft opening despite operating for a couple of months now. Unfortunately, this has been evident when it comes to the service. Right from the moment we entered, we didn't get the energetic and welcoming vibe from any of the staff. The proportion of the tables and chairs as to the number of servers also feel like awry resulting to a very passive service. 

It's important to clarify that the service was not in any way terrible, but we were expecting for the service to meet the "Japanese standard" given that it is a Japanese restaurant, but I guess it's something that they are working on as of the moment. 

Chic interior of Key Coffee that combines brick and wood elements giving it a homey feel

🥘Unique Dishes to Try

Aside from coffee, Key Coffee also offers a variety of food items that are interesting to try. The menu has a wide selection for all-day breakfast, appetizers, soup & salad, sandwiches, pasta, pizza and desserts. Each category has not less than 4 dishes to choose from. 

*Prices in this blog post are as of April 2023

For the appetizer, we ordered this Okonomiyaki Fries (P380) which features hand-cut fries drizzled with okonomiyaki sauce, Japanese mayo and katsuboshi flakes. There is an ample serving of the smoked bacon which gives it a unique blend of flavors when eaten altogether. 



This Hokkaido-Style Mac & Cheese Kamameshi (P510) may appear rather petite for the price, but don't be deceived by what you see. It has a considerably hefty serving as this bowl is deep. 

If you are looking for a unique interpretation of mac & cheese, I very much suggest this. It blends the usual tanginess of cheese with brine accents from the mushrooms and seaweed. Best of all it has generous pieces of shrimps and scallops to further give it rich textures and flavors. 



Another one that shares the same richness in seafood goodness and cheesiness is their Kissa Scallop and Seafood Doria (P620).



This dish, although still harnesses the power of the sea, is something that caught me off guard with how delectable this is. It's their Crab Egg Scramble & Croissant (P540). The croissant is notably delicate that almost melts as you take a bite, and it pairs well with the crab egg scramble that explodes with rich crab essence. 

If you want to give your palate a good jolt for immense seafood umami goodness, go for this! 



The Kissa Wagyu Hambagu Steak and Rice (P530), although very Japanese in its presentation and general flavor, was a lacking a bit of that oomf compared to other dishes. However, the sauce was incredible with a well seasoned tomatoey overall. 



The Angus Ribeye Gyudon Bento Set (P680) was perhaps the most basic dish that ever graced our table during our visit. Don't get me wrong, it was of course delicious, but the experience was something that I can derive from a gyudon that are half the price of this. Hence, I am not recommending this. 

Last, but definitely the best, was my personal order which was the Crab Ikura Udon (P540). It was something that I don't normally see on menu of other Japanese resto, and when it was served, my eyes just sparkled with how well-presented it was. In terms of flavor profile, this is likened to that of the Crab Egg Scramble, but this has still a different edge to it, as the crab fat is somehow mellowed by the tempura bubble bits and the ikura (roe). Hands-down, this is my most favorite dish so far for 2023! 

👍Is it A Must-Try?

Despite the lack of enthusiasm in its service, Key Coffee proves to be a powerhouse in providing a jolt in the palate with its well-curated selection of Japanese delights. The top 3 dishes that I personally recommend are Crab Ikura Udon, Crab Egg Scramble & Croissant and Hokkaido-Style Mac & Cheese Kamameshi. 

Generally speaking, I am very happy with the experience, and I'm excited to try their other dishes as well. 

Key Coffee

Mitsukoshi Mall, 8th Ave. Corner 36th St., Grand Central Park, North, Taguig, 1630 Metro Manila

Operating Hours: 11 AM to 10 PM

Reservation No: +639293747890