StarBuk's

 Welcome to Starbuk’s!

This regular residence owned by Paul and Neneng on top of the hill which turned into a rustic coffee setting and sort of a hole in the wall eating place is now a go-to space for both hikers and local residents. 

It is a 45min walk (depending on your pace) from McDonald’s Banawa to Good Shepherd to Lola’s house (everybody’s friendly Lola) and then deep into the steep and slippery hill of Spartan Trail. This path however, is called Spartan Trail because it requires discipline, determination and endurance while trekking the obstacles in the wild.

You can also go there directly via Hoya trail or the Monterraza’s trail. But we prefer the challenging steep hillside because the slope means having the chance to meet and feed Kulafu (the name of one of the dogs which is a pretty and affectionate black and white dog) and the other dog we fondly called “Vino” since we don’t know her name. Both of these dogs are female by the way yet for some reason we think the names fit the bill. Hahaha.

These dogs guard this seemingly abandoned house in the middle of nowhere cloaked and surrounded by Banana and Jackfruit Trees. So, if you plan to trek via this path, please bring dog food or in our case, pan burikat. Hahaha. 

Just above this house is the demanding footpath where snake holes provide a perfect nesting spot not just for snakes but other wildlife as well. Geez! 

But the view on top is absolutely stunning and picturesque where malls and tall buildings in the city appear to be minute.

Starbuk’s offers refreshments apart from coffee and street food favorites such as kwek-kwek (P5 / pc), tempura (P20 / 3 pcs), fish balls (P1 / pc) and hotdog (P10 / pc). You can also request them to cook pancit canton (P20/pack)

They also have chichirya, chicharon and the all-time fave pan burikat. 

Neneng also sells plants and flowers.

🚘 How to get there:

🦯 Starting point is McDonald’s Paseo San Ramon in Banawa. From there, find your way to Casa Rosita and then Good Shepherd. You may ask the local residents for direction or just follow the trail. (Tip: It is best to have a tour guide for first timers unless you are brave enough to explore and blaze a trail.