CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — Sip and glance with style and grace at the newest gathering spot in the vibrant heart of San Fernando – Side Eye Cafe, which is set to give the local coffee scene a playful wink as it opened on November 16, Saturday.
Founded by young entrepreneur and coffee aficionado Jose Fernando “Jeio” C. Rivera, the new cafe combines a passion for premium coffee with a commitment to community and culture.
A dream brewed from local roots
A business Management graduate from the University of the Cordilleras and current Master of Science in Entrepreneurship student at De La Salle University – Manila, Jeio has poured his heart into creating Side Eye Café.
“I decided to call the café ‘Side Eye’ because I believe in the power of non-verbal communication, particularly in how a simple glance can express so much without confrontation. We embody that spirit here, offering a playful yet impactful way to foster open dialogue and mutual respect,” says the Jeio.
“At Side Eye Cafe, we challenge the norm by encouraging our patrons to engage respectfully over a cup of coffee. The environment we’ve created is one of comfort and open expression… It’s a place that invites everyone—regardless of opinion—to share, reflect, and connect,” he added.
Committed to setting a positive example for the youth, Jeio demonstrates that respectful conversation can be more effective than vocal protests. “My goal, aside from sharing coffee that I really enjoy with others, is to inspire thoughtful dialogue and create a welcoming space for all generations,” says the budding entrepreneur.
At just 27 years old, his Christian values and the disciplined upbringing from his father, Ferdie, a retired general from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, alongside the confidence instilled by his mother, Hope, a former hotel manager, have all brewed into the vision for this nook.
The official launch of Side Eye Cafe held special significance for Jeio, as it coincides not only with his birthday but also with his mother’s. This dual celebration is aptly set on The International Day for Tolerance, underscoring the cafe’s commitment to respect and recognition of diverse beliefs and rights, embodying its core values in every aspect of its operation.
Local coffee, global standards
Side Eye Cafe proudly supports local coffee farmers in the Northern Philippines by directly sourcing premium beans such as Sagada Arabica from the Mountain province. Meanwhile, Brazil Santos from South America are also available, complementing the locally sourced offerings. This blend of local and international options allows coffee lovers to experience diverse flavors while supporting sustainable practices and community livelihoods.
The beans are expertly roasted in Pampanga, a region known for its craftsmanship and attention to quality. This special roasting process brings out the unique characteristics of each bean, bringing out a balanced and rich flavor profile in every cup. With an on-site roaster, Side Eye offers the freshest and most flavorful coffee experience.
“By sourcing both locally and internationally, we enhance the quality of our beverages while deeply benefiting the local farmers who form the backbone of our supply chain. This approach reinforces our commitment to community support and sustainable practices,” explains Jeio.
“Side Eye’s on-site bean roasting process enables our cafe to offer the freshest and most flavorful coffee experience,” Jeio added.
The highlight of the café is its expansive menu of signature drinks, each expertly crafted to showcase the rich, robust flavors of locally-sourced coffee. Some of the standout options include the Side Eye Breve and Spanish Latte, along with unique blends like Dirty Matcha, Pink Himalayan Sea Salt, Salted Caramel Latte, Toffee Jelly, and Candied Hazelnut, catering to the tastes of every coffee enthusiast.
More than just coffee
Beyond brews, Side Eye Cafe boasts a tantalizing array of pasta dishes, including Seafood Alavar Pasta, Squid Ink Pasta, Tuna Pesto Pasta, and Salted Egg Pasta. Alongside these savory selections, the dessert menu features freshly made crepes—prepared right before your eyes—home-made matcha dream cakes, premium and festive cupcakes, and individual cheesecakes served in a jar. These culinary delights blend comfort with a touch of sophistication to satisfy any palate.
It also extends its vibe into a curated merch shop featuring coffee tumblers, trendy apparel, and more, embodying the cafe’s commitment to style and local culture. This space is not just a place to enjoy great coffee but a hub for community engagement and cultural exchange.
Side Eye Cafe invites everyone to experience this unique blend of coffee culture and community spirit,. Discover your new favorite spot at CJG Bldg, Brgy. Baliti, San Fernando, where every sip and bite comes with a side of respect and open dialogue.
