From Type A’s Brews to Pluck’s Roast Chicken: NBS Park Is Mandaluyong’s Best-Kept Lifestyle Secret
Why Type A Coffee & Pluck Manila Make NBS Park Mandaluyong’s Best-Kept Secret
If your ideal weekend involves dodging mall crowds, sipping great coffee, and indulging in a slow, leisurely meal, add NBS Park in Pioneer, Mandaluyong to your radar. What used to be known primarily for its flagship National Book Store location has quietly transformed into an all-in-one lifestyle compound—the kind of place where you can easily spend half a day eating, browsing, and unwinding all the way until happy hour.
Here’s how to spend the perfect slow day at this underrated neighborhood hub.
Morning Kickstart: Cold Brew & Celebrations at Type A Coffee
Every good weekend day starts with caffeine, and Type A Coffee sets the bar high. Known for its minimalist aesthetic and meticulous approach to brewing, this fan-favorite specialty coffee spot provides a quiet refuge from the city's fast pace.
Luck was on our side during our visit—Type A was celebrating its 10th anniversary! The team pulled out all the stops with complimentary brews, sweet slices of cake, and a surprisingly delicious twist on local flavor: free puto topped with savory salmon. It sounds unconventional on paper, but the balance of sweet, salty, and savory paired perfectly with their rich coffee.
A Standout Lunch: Feast on Flavor at Pluck Manila
When lunch hour rolls around, simply walk across to Pluck Manila—and come hungry. Pluck has quickly earned a reputation for elevated, comforting dishes, and it truly does not disappoint.
The Hero Dish: The Roast Chicken is the undisputed star of the show. Boasting golden, crispy skin and incredibly tender, juicy meat, it’s an instant classic you'll make a mental note to order again before you've even finished your first bite.
The Starters: Do not skip the Bonito Butter served with warm, fresh bread. The savory, umami-rich butter is dangerously addicting.
The Sides & Mains: Rounding out the meal were their crispy potato dish and a vibrant Lemon Caviar Pasta—a bright, refreshing dish that keeps the meal light yet deeply satisfying.
Pro tip: Save space for your next visit! We’re already planning a return trip just to try their promised lamb skewers.
Afternoon Browsing: Art, Books, & Design
One of the biggest charms of NBS Park is its multi-concept design. After lunch, take time to digest and wander around the compound:
National Book Store: Get lost in the aisles for a dose of nostalgia and fresh reads.
Art Gallery & Furniture Showroom: Take a casual stroll through curated design spaces and art exhibits, giving the precinct a creative, elevated vibe.
Golden Hour: Craft Beers at Encanto Taps
Before calling it a day, finish your itinerary at Encanto Taps. Whether you're staying for an early dinner or just catching up over a cold local craft beer during happy hour, it's the ideal final stop to wind down your afternoon.
The Verdict
From morning coffee to happy hour drinks—with a side of retail therapy and free parking—NBS Park packs everything you need into one laid-back space. It’s easily one of Mandaluyong’s best hidden gems for anyone craving a restful, flavor-packed day out.