Experience the ambiance and exclusivity of airport lounges, without ever stepping inside a terminal.

This was the vision behind Vine Café Lounge, founded by Jem Tinsay after working eight years as a flight attendant. Jem shares,

Vine Café is where quiet luxury lives | Photos: Vine Café Lounge

“A year ago, Vine Café Lounge was just a dream—stitched together by memories of airport lounges, the comfort of quiet luxury, and my deep love for beauty, good food, and meaningful conversations. Today, as I stand here in front of the very people who helped me reach that dream, I’m reminded that Vine was born from the chaos of courage—built by hands that refused to give up, even when the road was unclear.”

Nostalgia meets novelty in every dish on the menu | Photo: Vine Café Lounge

That road is now crystal clear. Vine Café Lounge has evolved beyond its beginnings as a dining concept blending restaurant and lounge culture. Today, it’s a vibrant space offering patrons more than just food and drink, it’s a destination. Whether you're a hobbyist exploring new interests or a gearhead on a Sunday drive looking for a place to talk shop, Vine Cafe has something for everyone.

To celebrate its first anniversary this May, invited guests enjoyed a day filled with hands-on activities. The celebration kicked off with a flower arrangement workshop, where participants selected their favorite blooms to create personalized bouquets. There was also a candle-making activity—both held in collaboration with the cafe’s affiliate, Boxed Blossoms, the flower shop located right at the café’s entrance. If you're interested, these classes are regularly offered every Saturday.

For its one-year anniversary, the café introduces Bouquet & Brew Workshops to spark creativity, connection, and mindful moments | Photo: Vine Café Lounge

Known for its crafted coffee and curated cocktails, Vine Café did not disappoint. I opted for coffee and tried the Shakarato—a shaken cortado with half-and-half sweetened milk, topped with cocoa powder. I usually prefer my coffee unsweetened, but this drink surprised me. It wasn’t overly sweet and had a velvety texture. Like a drinkable dessert. Definitely a must-try.

Torched Salmon Teriyaki | Photo: Vine Café Lounge 

The menu that day featured some of their best sellers. We started with the Tuna Tataki appetizer—organic butter toast blocks topped with egg crumble, ponzu glaze, and wasabi tobiko. For mains, we were served two dishes: Cornish Hen Karaage with vegetable chahan, adlai, roasted French beans, and homemade furikake. And Torched Salmon Teriyaki, a salmon fillet with homemade teriyaki sauce, garlic-buttered tri-color quinoa, grilled vegetables, wakame, and sesame dust.

Cornish Hen Karaage | Photo: Vine Café Lounge

Every dish was thoughtfully prepared and full of flavor.

The venue was beautifully adorned with florals by Boxed Blossoms, perfectly complementing the botanical garden-inspired decor. The afternoon concluded with a charming tea set of mini sandwiches and pastries. A fitting close to a memorable occasion.

It’s clear that Vine Café Lounge has become everything Jem envisioned and more:

“The space became more than just a café—it became a haven. A place where strangers share their stories, where ideas flow as easily as coffee, and where even the flowers seem to speak a language of intimacy.”

Vine Café Lounge, Tiffany Building, L.P. Leviste Street, Salcedo Village, Makati. Call 0967 056 5128. Instagram: @vinecafelounge.