Worth a journey
El Union Coffee
San Juan · Urbiztondo, Philippines
🏆 World's 100 Best Coffee Shops 2025 #61Special experience
Why it’s on the route
El Union was opened in 2013 by Kiddo and Amy Cosio in the surf town of San Juan, La Union, with co-owner Sly Samonte, a multiple Philippine National Barista Champion. Coffee is roasted in the café's own roaster and lab, drawing on Philippine farms in the Cordillera, Benguet, Bukidnon and Mt. Apo alongside imported lots. It now runs as an open-air café at the Great Northwest Travel Stop, with an espresso-led menu and nitro cold brew on tap.
At a glance
| Address | The Great Northwest Travel Stop, MacArthur Hwy, Brgy. Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union |
|---|---|
| Signature beans | Let's Go Sliding blend · Dirty Horchata (signature drink) |
| Recognition | World's 100 Best Coffee Shops #61 (2025); co-owner Sly Samonte PH National Barista Champion (2016, 2019) |
| Google rating | ★ 4.4 (1,654 reviews) |
| Last checked | October 2026 |