After an early Friday morning coverage in Tarlac City, the day took a refreshing detour, thanks to Pampanga Press Club president and vinyl enthusiast Noel ‘NT’ G. Tulabut. Before heading back to Mabalacat, where we met and carpooled, President NT made what he calls a “mandatory pitstop” at one of his favorite haunts — The Garage Café, a quiet, vintage-themed nook tucked away from the bustle of the city.
It was just past ten in the morning, as the café had just opened its doors, and while the caffeine was calling, it was the ambience that greeted us first.
Inside The Garage Café, every corner whispers nostalgia. The space is a well-curated collection of all things retro—rotary telephones, analog clocks, brass ornaments, and vintage speakers. The tables are especially charming—reimagined sewing machine stands, their wrought iron bases still bearing the names of once-famous tailoring brands, now supporting smooth wood tops that cradle warm cups of coffee and easy conversation.
But what truly sets this place apart is the sound—vinyl records spinning softly in the background, adding warmth to the already cozy atmosphere. A pair of turntables invites guests to choose a record and play DJ for a while.
President NT’s first pick was Chuck Mangione’s ‘Feels so Good,’ which he was surprised to know had a version with vocals. He was surprised Astrud Gilberto’s mellow bossa nova floated in the air as we browsed through a collection that spans generations—Motown, disco, mellow 80s hits, OPM gems. It’s a playlist made by time, curated by feeling.
For Noel, however, the music was more than background—it was the main event. The Garage Café also sells vinyl records, and Noel was on a mission: to grow his collection. As I sipped my cappuccino, he flipped through crate after crate, eyes lighting up at rare finds and nostalgic covers. He walked out with a few solid additions—quiet trophies for any collector.
The coffee? As honest as the décor. My cappuccino was just right—smooth, strong, and comforting, with a velvety finish that matched the café’s charm. The baristas serve it with a smile and no rush, because this isn’t the kind of place where people come to hurry. It’s where people come to remember.
In a world of quick brews and playlists on shuffle, this place reminds you to slow down, sip slowly, and let the music play on.
NT had his fresh stash of vinyls, I had my perfectly pulled cappuccino, and we both had our fill of nostalgia steeped in strong coffee and warm, analog charm. We came for the caffeine—and maybe a few records—and left with a playlist of good taste, great finds, and timeless ambiance. In The Garage Café, it’s always a good day to press play.
San Rafael, Tarlac City, Tarlac, Philippines
0939 906 6153
thegaragetarlac@gmail.com
