'DAIRY GOOD'

CEBU’S LATEST ICE CREAM, DESSERT JOINT LOOKS

The Philippines loves its sweets, and Cebu is no exception. But in this day and age, Cebuano entrepreneurs are taking sweets and spots to a whole new level with innovative techniques, unique flavors and Instagrammable interiors. One such place is the newest dairy bar in town, Kakka Dairy Bar, with proprietor Karla Tan at the helm.

Step into this sweet and stylish place, and you will be swept into a magical realm of sleek design and sweet indulgence. The black modern exterior is a total opposite of the colorful and vibrant interior; the highlight—a faux concrete wall decorated with candy sprinkles in neon lights and framed ice cream scoops. Inside, customers can get to choose whether to chill on a cozy blue sofa or use its black and white chairs. The Dairy Bar can accommodate up to 30 people.

The staff, in French-inspired uniforms, are ready to delight guests with creamy, smooth handcrafted ice cream—all made in-house—using pure and fresh ingredients. The flavors are unique, too. There’s “Toasted Rice,” which literally tastes like sweet toasted rice; “Isaphan,”

Karla’s take on her favorite rose strawberry flavored macaroons from France; “Vanilla Beans” and “Ube Jam.” These are all served on top of a homemade waffle crisp, with a playfuldesigned cup as a base to protect customers from ice cream drips.

Along with her passion and determination, the sweet concoctions that inspired Karla to start her own business are also showcased.

“It all started with the blueberry cheesecake I baked for a friend’s party. I was overwhelmed with the good feedback from my friends and from then on, they started ordering it,” she recalled. Just like her artisanal ice cream, each imaginative cake comes with “pun-ny” names as well: “The Usual,” “Black Mirror,” “Not A Magnum” and “Day-O.” These treats are carefully baked and designed by Karla.

A selection of frappés, shakes, teas, parfaits and waffles also await curious diners.

“I wanted to build a place for everyone to bond over a crazy, colorful cup of happiness, and plates of one-of-a-kind confections that are proudly Cebuano—made by a Cebuano for Cebuanos,” said Karla.

Kakka Dairy Bar is located at Axis Entertainment Avenue, Vibo Place, N. Escario St. It is open from 12 p.m. to 12 midnight every Monday to Thursday and 12 p.m. to 1 a.m. every Friday to Sunday.