5 glass cafés where you won’t need an umbrella indoors

They offer stunning golden hour shots while keeping you cool and shaded.

The reopening of Harlan Bridge in Bonifacio Global City has divided the internet over its controversial, all-glass design—even extending to the roof, with netizens spotted opening umbrellas inside to shield themselves from the sun.

The café has since announced plans to install a permanent sunshade as it continues its soft opening.

The Philippines has no shortage of beautiful cafés, including those with similar glass-heavy designs that offer scenic views while providing shade from the sun.

Here are five cafés across the country where you can get golden hour shots without opening an umbrella indoors.

Glass House Study Hub, UP Diliman

Located inside the University Hotel, this co-working space offers a quiet setting for studying and working. While not strictly a café, it serves food and drinks alongside work essentials like high-speed internet and power outlets.

A 14-hour day pass costs ₱700 for regular visitors and ₱400 for students, inclusive of free-flowing coffee, iced tea, and lemonade, as well as complimentary sandwiches and snacks. Hourly, weekly, and monthly payment plans are also available.

Seltsam, Makati City

This rooftop café operates during the day before shifting into a low-key bar at night. Its menu includes coffee blends and cocktails for merienda plans and happy hour catch-ups.

Its glass walls offer stunning views of the city, particularly at sunset. Curtains can also be drawn to help reduce exposure to direct sunlight.

Skyland Garden Hotel Coffeeplace, Baguio

The hotel houses Coffeeplace Café and Microroastery, which offers a naturally cool setting thanks to the city’s mountain breeze.

Its sunset views and seasonal fog have drawn attention online, making it a spot for Instagrammable shots. The café also roasts its own coffee beans in small batches, offering a selection of local and international varieties.

Temple of Leah Glasshouse Cafe, Cebu City

Located inside one of Cebu’s popular tourist destinations, this café features elegant metal grills and hanging plants, letting visitors live out their Bridgerton fantasies.

After visiting the temple’s Roman-inspired architecture, art collection, and memorial, visitors can stop by the café to relax. The surrounding metalwork also creates shifting silhouettes throughout the day, adding visual interest to photos.

Glasshouse Coffee, Davao City

Tucked inside the Oboza Heritage House compound, Glasshouse Coffee is a cozy café within a preserved bahay na bato that has since become a foodie spot.

The surrounding plants help keep the interiors shaded and cool. Though indoor seating is limited, visitors can still take golden hour shots while enjoying the heritage compound’s atmosphere and history.

READ: