One of the staples of the everyday Filipino breakfast is warm pandesal with hot coffee. The two are a perfect match and can brighten the start of anyone’s day. How many of you take a bit of pandesal to dip it in the coffee before taking a bite? Now imagine enjoying a fresh batch of pandesal while enjoying a roast straight from Melbourne’s iconic Market Lane.

Panco Cafe first found its footing in 2022 after opening its first store in Makati. Its name is a combination of pandesal and coffee. Since then it has found great success in bringing the Melbourne coffee experience to our country. Its third branch recently opened at One Ayala Mall. Here are some dishes and drinks we consider a must-try.

For starters, why not cool off with some iced drinks? One of the bestsellers from the iced non-coffee drinks is Kalma, a unique mix of matcha (Japanese green tea) with fresh calamansi. Tea lovers will enjoy the Melbourne Fog, which has black tea leaves mixed with cream. Those looking for something sweeter can try Ube Pinipig containing fresh milk and housemade ube halaya. Of course, caffeine lovers will find the Melbourne coffee as just the right kick they need to start the day. Just as enticing is the Hot Mocha drink that makes use of rich Davao tablea. If you’re looking for a stronger kick, there’s a menu of caffeinated drinks mixed with alcohol to enjoy as well. Personal favorites are the Boozy Hot Choco and the Bailey Tiramisu.

Each of the appetizers served worked well with the drinks we enjoyed. Among those served, the Bang Bang Cauliflower stood out as a fan favorite. It’s fried cauliflower doused in just the right amount of hot sauce and paired with coleslaw. Served as well were the Tofu Sisig and Coconut Shrimp Poppers. The poppers had just enough crunch and tasted similar to Ebi-frystyle shrimp. It was served with a sweet and sour sauce that was also spicy. Finally, there was the Inasal Chopped Salad, a healthy mix of greens and grilled goodness.

Finally, the highlight of every visit to any Panco Cafe branch is having a go at its all-day brunch menu . Go-to meals include the Charred Longganisa and the Breakfast Brisket. The brisket’s flavors are immaculate. It’s likely the result of its marinating process, which can take around two to three days. You can have it enjoy it with your choice of eggs, sunny side up or scrambled, and in two variations—Melbourne style for those who prefer toast and Manila style for those who prefer garlic rice. We were also given a taste of other meals like Sisig Palabok, Longganisa Pesto Pasta, and the Red Wine Salisbury Steak made using Australian red wine. All filling meals, each with unique flavors that stood out.