Second-gen Fil-British entrepreneurs join hands in London coffee event

Guests at the recent Barako Bean and Mamason coffee get-together in London. INQUIRER/Melissa Alcantara

LONDON – An exclusive event in Camden was hosted by independent Philippine coffee brand Barako Bean and Filipino ‘dirty ice cream’ parlor Mamasons Monday, December 9.

The evening provided a networking opportunity for young entrepreneurs with similar visions to connect with businesses and locals alike.

Guests included several of bloggers and influencers involved in London’s food, coffee and culture scene, as well as local residents.

Heritage local brands

Brands involved included The Adobros, Native Province and Virginutty, some of whom showcased unique collaborations with Barako Bean products.

Buko-Charcoal-Latte at Mamasons & Barako Bean Coffee Event. INQUIRER/Melissa Alcantara

The Adobros, a popular Filipino supper club run by British-Filipino brothers Mike and Mark Corbyn, presented guests with three coffee-inspired desserts, including silvanas, bibingka and polvoron, created with Barako Bean’s beans.

Virginutty, a sustainable and ethical Philippine coconut skincare brand, provided guests with an organic coconut-coffee body scrub made from ground Barako Bean coffee (Disclosure: Virginutty is owned by this reporter).

Coffee Bibingka by The Adobros. INQUIRER/Melissa Alcantara

Native Province, a new online platform that aims to showcase Philippine culture and handicrafts around Europe, was there to network and cover the event.

Family spirit

Attendees were offered a range of coffee-based sweet treats, including coconut charcoal lattes, espresso martinis and affogato ice cream.

They were also treated to intimate musical performances from local singers.

Giveaways at Mamasons & Barako Bean Coffee Event. INQUIRER/Melissa Alcantara

The night was sponsored by Mr. Black Spirits, an Australian cold brew coffee liquor, and Don Papa Rum, a Philippine rum.

More events such as these, which champion British-Filipino cultural crossovers in the UK and foster a spirit of inclusivity, are in the works for 2018. -@melissalegarda