Serenity and Artistry Unveiled: Exploring Crescent Moon Cafe and Studio Pottery in Antipolo

Nestled amid the tranquil landscapes of Brgy. Dalig, Antipolo City, Crescent Moon Cafe beckons like a sanctuary of calm and creativity, offering a haven for cherished moments with friends and family. This charming establishment provides a respite from the bustle of city life, inviting visitors to unwind, dine, and immerse themselves in nature's embrace.

A Retreat into Nature's Embrace: Crescent Moon Cafe's Allure

Amidst the rhythm of urban life, Crescent Moon Cafe stands as an idyllic escape. With a brief journey to Brgy. Dalig, Antipolo City, one discovers a serene oasis where the pace of life slows and the soothing cadence of flowing waters from the koi pond provides an exquisite backdrop. Here, nature becomes a balm for weary souls, offering the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Rediscovering Connection in Unprecedented Times

The current era, marked by the pandemic's challenges, has underscored the importance of connections and shared experiences. Crescent Moon Cafe emerges as a place of solace, a venue where the need for human interaction and the desire for culinary delights merge seamlessly. In a time of extended isolation, this haven becomes a bridge that reunites individuals with their loved ones, and even strangers, fostering the inherent social nature of humanity.

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Roots and Evolution: The Tale of Crescent Moon Cafe and Studio Pottery

Originating from a home-based ceramics studio established in 1981 by Lanelle Abueva, Crescent Moon Cafe's history is woven with threads of creativity and passion. The fusion of art and gastronomy was further enriched when Lanelle's husband, Bey Fernando, an erstwhile law practitioner, ventured into the culinary realm. The cafe's moniker, once a childhood imagination of their daughters Majalya and Celine, eventually found its place as the embodiment of their dining venture.

The year 1997 marked a pivotal turn, as Bey transitioned from law to his culinary calling, motivated by both personal health considerations and the sheer love for cooking.

Culinary Treasures: A Gastronomic Exploration

Crescent Moon Cafe tempts palates with a Southeast Asian-inspired menu that celebrates diverse flavors. Its crowning glories include the Alagao Salad, a delightful rendition of the Thai miang kham street food, artistically arranged on alagao leaves. The blend of basil, coconut, chili, green mango or kamias, ginger, onion, shrimp, and sweet peanut sauce captivates the senses, underscoring the essence of balance and harmony.

When it comes to the main course, the Beef Rendang emerges as an exquisite choice that promises to tantalize your taste buds. This dish boasts succulent beef, slow-cooked to perfection, tenderized in a luxurious bath of coconut milk. The result is a harmonious symphony of flavors that dance on your palate, a testament to the culinary artistry that defines Crescent Moon Cafe.

Stepping into unique territory, the Lemongrass Pork Belly presents itself as a delightful departure from the ordinary. Drawing inspiration from the beloved pork adobo, this dish takes a creative twist by infusing the rich pork belly with the citrusy and fragrant essence of lemongrass. The result is a medley of familiar comfort and innovative taste, a testament to the innovative spirit that defines Crescent Moon Cafe's culinary philosophy.

For dessert enthusiasts, an array of suman creations awaits. From the classic pairing with ripe mango to the adventurous Suman a la Mode featuring vanilla ice cream, Crescent Moon Cafe reimagines this Filipino staple with ingenuity. The suman's journey continues with Suman at Tsokolate and Suman Itim, promising novel encounters with traditional fare.

A Toast to Indulgence: Crescent Moon Cafe's Beverage Selection

As you explore the culinary treasures of Crescent Moon Cafe, the libations on offer are just as enticing. The cafe plays host to a carefully curated selection of beverages, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences.

For those seeking a local brew, Santiago Craft Brewery and Malthouse come together to offer a range of craft beers that reflect the unique flavors of the region. Delight your senses with the Four Unique Variants, each a testament to the art of brewing:

• Amihan Blonde Ale: Crafted in the Belgian-style tradition, this ale offers a light and refreshing experience that dances on your taste buds. Its delicate profile provides a perfect companion to the cafe's culinary creations.
• Habagat Amber Ale: This variant takes you on a journey through roasted malts with a subtle hint of caramel, delivering a depth of flavors that pairs harmoniously with Crescent Moon Cafe's savory dishes.
• Ipu-Ipo India Pale Ale: Bold and unapologetic, this India Pale Ale embraces bitterness and hoppy notes, providing a distinct and robust flavor profile that caters to the discerning palate.
• Buhawi Chocolate Cream Stout: A symphony of indulgence awaits in this stout, where intense notes of chocolate and coffee intermingle, creating a luxurious experience that serves as a perfect finale to your culinary voyage.

Stoneware Artistry: Crafting Beauty from Earth's Elements

Lanelle's artistic journey found expression not only in culinary endeavors but also in stoneware ceramics. Infused with a unique touch, these handmade pieces are adorned with volcanic ash glaze, a testament to the beauty born from adversity, much like the eruption of Mount Pinatubo. These ceramics, displayed on the cafe's shelves, radiate an aura of aesthetic appeal, inspiring patrons to adorn their spaces with pieces of functional art.

The cafe's offerings extend beyond dining experiences, as it welcomes enthusiasts to partake in pottery classes. Keep an eye on their Facebook announcements to seize the opportunity to engage in this creative pursuit.

In Conclusion

Crescent Moon Cafe and Studio Pottery in Antipolo City offers more than a mere dining experience; it's an embrace of nature's tranquility, a celebration of human connection, and an homage to artistry's myriad forms. Amidst the ever-changing tapestry of life, this establishment stands as a reminder to savor each moment, each flavor, and each touch of creativity that enriches our journey.

Crescent Moon Cafe and Studio Pottery

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Sapang Buho Road, Brgy. Dalig, Antipolo City
crescentmooncafeantipolo@gmail.com 
(02) 8234-5724

Crescent Moon Cafe dining hours:
Wednesday to Sunday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Buffet
Saturday and Sunday: 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.