A Central Perk
Written by Pam Romualdez, Philippine Daily Inquirer, November 17, 2007

MANILA, Philippines - When commercialized, fast-food-style coffee was introduced to the Philippines a few years ago, the Filipinos took to it well.

Unlike its role in the US as a hub for Americans to make quick stops for a cup of coffee, it has become just the opposite here. These coffee to-go places have turned into actual gimmick spots that sometimes have you standing around waiting to find a seat.

Inevitably, several popped up at every corner of every street of every city - just like a fad, it was quick to start and quick to deteriorate.

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BoNa Coffee Company - Have your fill of delicious coffee and pastries - minus the calories!
My Home, August 2007

It's no secret that Filipinos have embraced the coffee culture in the past years. While most prefer to get their caffeine fix in widely franchised cafe's all over the metro, it is quite refreshing to come across a coffee place that has its own distinct flavor and vibe.

Entering Bona Coffee Company in Paranaque is like being ushered into a totally different place, with a cozy ambiance instantly greeting guests. Friends can settle down on cushy seats illuminated by warm lighting or enjoy their seats amidst refreshing potted greens outside. Making you more feel at home are the cordial baristas, who really take the time to chat with guests and help them pick the best drink or pastry to get.

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Counting Calories Never Been This Good
Appetite Magazine, June/July 2007

"Drink well, eat better and be healthy for it." So goes the mantra of Bona Coffee Company, the newest player in the market, launched November last year. It's the brainchild of well-traveled young couple Jose Luis Gonzalez an Candace Schmidt, who are also behind the edgy furniture and accessories shop Bohemian Nation (BoNa, get it?) For Paranaque denizens, the cozy Oriental-themed space - designed by Jose Luis and Candace, is just great fro hanging, with the plus of getting certified good, healthy and satisfying eats at shockingly pocket-friendly prices.

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BoNa Coffee - The Cafe that Feels Like Home
Written by Betty Tiangco, Southbound.ph, January 4, 2007

BoNa Coffee is a small cafe just off Elizalde Avenue. It's located beside Cardinal Ceramics in the Banco Filipino Building. The interior of the cafe itself has around five or six tables (with some couches, naturally), but their outdoor seating stretches around the building porch, so there's always somewhere to sit here.

Don't be misled by its impressive branding (I first thought it was an Australian franchise): BoNa Coffee is locally owned. The owners, Luis Gonzales and Candace Schmidt, are a hip, well traveled couple, looking to spread some love and come up with a unique offering in the increasingly saturated industry.

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