FEATURE l Breathers and Beyond: Best Tambayan that every PUPian Should Know

College life at PUP is more than just deadlines and lectures — it's about finding breath between the chaos. From quiet corners on campus to food spots just outside the gates, every moment matters. In the end, it’s these in-between memories that define the journey.

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College life at the PUP bears the marks of both rust and resilience—worn by challenges but rich in purpose. Spending your college days is part of your thesis deadlines, all-nighter paper works, organizational responsibilities, and endless tasks and presentations. But within this academic race lies something as important as grades and achievements: the chance to pause, breathe, and live the moments in between. 

To every PUPian navigating this intense chapter of wear and tear, remember that finding time to step back isn't laziness; it's survival. Taking a breather isn't just about rest; it's about reconnecting with yourself in the middle of academic noise.  

Around PUP Manila, there are more than just classrooms and lectures. It's a campus filled with hidden corners connecting the real struggles of students but stil keep their smiles, reminding them that true luxury lies not in comfort, but in the ability to savor the journey. Whether it's the warm shade of Linear Park, where students exchange stories and group reviews, or the PUP Oval, where a jog or a sport with friends can clear a cluttered mind. At the same time, the PUP lagoon provides a place to enjoy affordable meals and light-hearted moments with friends. The Souvenir Shop offers quality products for PUPian and an Amphitheater that becomes the sanctuary for practicing your presentation; projects are built, friendships are strengthened, and the Ninoy Aquino Library offers silence for those seeking focus, which all places hold memories and worth remembering.  

And just beyond the gates? Some places need to be explored: these cozy cafés, samgyupsal and food trip spots where laughter echoes between grills, food refills, and nearby parks for heartfelt conversations, as they're all part of the PUP experience. These simple escapes remind us that it's okay to slow down to savor time without the pressure of grades or expectations. 

Because one day, you will earn your last day as a college student, you'll look back not just on the classes you took or the exams you passed but on the laughter shared, the walks taken, and the places that gave you breath when you felt like you were running out. 

So, take that pause. Find your space. You're not just earning a degree but building your student life that is worth remembering and feeling nostalgia once you enter a working environment.  

However, outside PUP- Main Campus there are still students who enjoy their me-time while studying and sipping coffee or sweet frappe, or a place where you can be peaceful and group study with friends in an atmosphere that can study productively. Best of all, they're all budget-friendly, so you can relax without worrying about your wallet.  

1. Bricks & Brew 

• This is located at 4427 Old Sta. Mesa St., within the Communication Foundation for Asia. 

• This rustic, brick-walled café offers a cozy escape from the academic grind. Whether you're into coffee, it's a perfect place to read, study, or pause. It's open from 9:00 am-9:00 pm. 

2. The Coffee Realm 

• Located at 263 Teresa St., Sta. Mesa 

• Just a short walk from PUP Main, this minimalist café offers excellent coffee and baked goods—ideal for unwinding after classes. 

3. Study Corner Coworking Space 

• Located at 1943 Road 5, Brgy. 628, Sta. Mesa Manila, near PUP College of Engineering and Architecture 

• Need a focused study session? This coworking space also has strong Wi-Fi, unlimited hot coffee and teas, and a food menu. The study hour rate is as low as ₱75, making it an affordable option for PUP students. 

4. Lunan 

• Located near PUP College of Engineering & Architecture, Anonas St. 

• Dubbed the "second home" of students, Lunan is a cozy place that is enough for solo cramming or group reviews. 

5. Jakeu Café 

• Located at 270 Teresa St., Sta. Mesa 

• A favorite for its drinks, snacks, and laid-back vibe—perfect for short meetings and catching up with friends. 

6. Mr. and Mrs. Brew 

• Located at Bldg. A, El Pueblo Condo, Anonas St. 

• Open 24/5 on weekdays, this café caters mainly to dormers and night owls looking for a quiet corner or a midnight munch. 

If you're feeling adventurous, there are billiard games around Pureza, and if you want a little spice, a one-jeepney ride away, there are a lot of billiard cafés around Espana.  So go ahead, step beyond Pureza and discover something new.  

Around PUP Manila, budget-friendly eateries serve as popular hangouts for students. These spots offer delicious meals and a welcoming atmosphere for friends to relax after long days, exams, or project deadlines. For PUPians, these places satisfy hunger, strengthen the community, and create lasting memories. 

1. Master Buffalo 

   - Near PUP Condotel, Brgy. Anonas St., Sta. Mesa, Manila 

   - A top-tier and famous chicken wing spot beloved by PUPian students. It has excellent food and vibes and is easy on the wallet. 

2. Food Crib 

   - Near PUP Condotel, Anonas Road, Sta. Mesa, Manila 

   - Snacks, milk tea, and board games? Yes, please. Prices range from ₱70 to ₱300, making it a top pick for food trips and chill sessions. 

3. Mukbang Unlimited Samgyup 

   - Located at Bacood, Sta. Mesa 

   - Just one tricycle or jeepney ride away—this spot serves quality meat, chicken, and unlimited side dishes. Perfect for post-exam feasts or barkada bonding, offering a variety of samgyup sets to excite your taste. 

Balancing academics with outside activities is one of the perfect breaks you deserve. This environment is perfect for stepping back and enjoying some relaxation. 

1. SM City Sta. Mesa

   - Recently renovated and now a more vibrant destination for quick eats, movie breaks, or window shopping after classes. 

2. Chill and Thrill Karaoke 

   - Located at Legarda, Sampaloc 

   - Just one jeepney ride away, this karaoke spot is perfect for students who want to belt out their stress (and maybe a little Taylor Swift or Ariana Grande song) with friends. 

3. The G's Hideout 

   - Located Bataan Ext. Cor. Bagumbayan St., Sta. Mesa 

   - A fresh addition to the neighborhood, this KTV, billiards, and resto-bar combo is made for weekend chills and vocal showdowns. 

Whether you're out for food, fun, or focus, Sta. Mesa has everything you need to make student life less stressful and memorable. So go ahead and explore these underrated spots. You've earned that good break.