Snugging It Out at Fillmore

by Julius Kensan
25th May 2016
Hidden within the compound of a private residence, a break in Fillmore easily extends to hour-long stay thanks to its snug attribute and, of course, coffee.

Fillmore understands the merit of delayed gratification. Just when you’re about to throw your hands up from struggling to pinpoint the spot while edging dangerously close with another car in a tight two-way lane, a residential gate slides open to reveal the coffee joint by the corner.

Located within a private residence, Suites at 7, Fillmore is a snug space converted from a fraction of the compound’s parking space. Drawing influence from San Francisco, the name is derived from a neighbourhood in the city that is abundant with the presence of coffeehouses.

Over the counter, it’s very likely that one would regularly encounter the owners, Randy Aliwarga and Astria Chandra, during their visits. Randy mans the coffee machine using beans from local roastery, Curious People, while Astria takes charge of tea as well as bites in the forms of pastry and smoothie bowl.

Coffee aficionados would immediately find comfort in Gibraltar, an espresso cut with small amount of warm milk that also originated from San Francisco. Those who aren’t used to the bitterness of coffee would do well to opt for the joint’s Honey Latte. The latter is a great entry point for amateur coffee drinkers or simply when you’re feeling under the weather.

There’s also rooftop on the second floor for a healthy dose of air to go with your coffee or, if not, just simply hide by the counter with a good read. Perhaps it’s no coincidence that Suites at 7 and its surroundings are mostly occupied by expats from tech companies and startups, which makes Fillmore an ideal spot for those who feel more at ease geeking out in a spot that’s hidden and secluded. Still, given the cosiness that it exudes, it’s hardly that Fillmore would stay hidden for long.