June 04, 2026

Baristart Coffee in BGC: Artisan-Roasted Coffee & Pastries Made with Premium BIEI Jersey Milk

Founded in Hokkaido, Japan by Master Barista Yuki Takeuchi, Baristart Coffee was created with a concept that goes beyond specialty coffee beans. Inspired by cafés that celebrated the craft of coffee, Takeuchi wanted to shine the spotlight on another essential ingredient: milk.

IMAGE from Baristart Coffee

This vision led to the birth of Baristart Coffee, a café brand known for highlighting the richness, smoothness, and premium quality of specialty Hokkaido milk.

Its name reflects the founder’s journey and philosophy: Barista, representing his profession; Art, symbolizing craftsmanship and creativity; and Start, marking the beginning of a dream and passion project. Today, Baristart Coffee has grown beyond Japan, with branches in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines, introducing more guests to its unique specialty milk café concept.

Master Barista Yuki Takeuchi / IMAGE from Baristart Coffee

In the Philippines, Baristart Coffee is owned and operated by HRT Ventures Corp., a company managed by three brothers who share a love for good food and coffee. The idea of bringing the brand to the country began during the pandemic, when the owners discovered Baristart online and were drawn to its distinctive focus on authentic Hokkaido milk.

Seeing the opportunity to offer Filipino diners a premium dairy experience, especially for those looking for the perfect latte, they opened the first Philippine branch on July 13, 2023 at 2 Meridien Tower, Bonifacio Global City. Following a strong customer response, a second branch opened at Greenhills Mall on February 28, 2025.

As a casual dining Japanese café, Baristart Coffee Philippines blends premium ingredients, thoughtful craftsmanship, and warm hospitality. It offers a welcoming space for quick coffee breaks, leisurely meals, and relaxed gatherings with family and friends—all while giving guests a genuine taste of Hokkaido.

A must-try is the Hokkaido Milk Cream Puff, one of the café’s signature creations. This customer favorite features a perfectly baked crust filled with silky Hokkaido milk custard, creating a satisfying balance of texture and flavor. The pastry has also earned recognition in Singapore as the Best Cream Puff, further making it one of Baristart’s most beloved offerings.

Hokkaido Milk Cream Puff (Php 250/piece) / IMAGE from Baristart Coffee

Seasonal flavors such as Banana Caramel Cream Puff and Strawberry Cream Puff have also become popular among returning guests, with more limited-edition creations expected in 2026.

Strawberry Cream Puff (Php 280/piece) / IMAGE from Baristart Coffee

For savory and hearty dishes, Baristart also serves comforting Japanese-inspired favorites such as the Hokkaido Carbonara (Php 520) and Obihiro Butadon (Php 420), both crafted to highlight the café’s signature Hokkaido flavors beyond its well-loved coffee and pastries.

Hokkaido Carbonara (Php 520) / IMAGE from Baristart Coffee

Obihiro Butadon (Php 420) / IMAGE from Baristart Coffee

You may partner these with Baristart’s beverages starting with the Hokkaido Latte. The Hokkaido Latte (Php 215 to Php 225) remains one of the café’s bestsellers, bringing together carefully crafted coffee and the creamy richness of premium Hokkaido milk.

Hot Hokkaido Latte (Php 215) / IMAGE from Baristart Coffee

Matcha lovers can also enjoy the Hot Matcha Latte, made with ceremonial-grade matcha sourced from Baristart’s partner farm in Japan and blended with Hokkaido milk for a smooth and full-bodied drink.

Hot Matcha Latte (Php 280) / IMAGE from Baristart Coffee

Behind the menu is a culinary team dedicated to consistency and innovation. Chef Emi Sasaki, born in Hokkaido, brings international pastry experience from Australia, Canada, and Japan. She is best known for developing Baristart’s iconic Hokkaido Milk Cream Puff and regularly visits the Philippine branches to maintain quality and develop new flavors.

Chef Emi Sasaki / IMAGE from Baristart Coffee

Chef Kensuke Shima, also rooted in Hokkaido cuisine, helped create Japanese comfort dishes such as the Signature Obihiro Butadon, Wafu Pasta, and Hokkaido Carbonara.

Chef Kensuke Shima / IMAGE from Baristart Coffee

Meanwhile, Chef Gerardo “Ardo” Mercado, Baristart Philippines’ restaurant manager and chef consultant, is a two-time Philippine Culinary Cup champion whose creations include the Spinach Dip, Hambagu Omurice, and Takoyaki Crunchies.

Chef Gerardo “Ardo” Mercado / IMAGE from Baristart Coffee

Baristart Coffee BGC can accommodate up to 70 guests, with 40 indoor seats and 30 outdoor seats. The GH Mall branch offers a larger capacity of 100 guests, with 60 indoor seats and 40 outdoor seats, making both locations suitable for casual meetups and intimate gatherings.

Baristart Coffee BGC / IMAGE from Baristart Coffee