How Altitud Coffee Space Became Home to Its Community Animals
Along the bustling streets of Pilar Road in Las Piñas is a quaint cafe that welcomes more than just coffee lovers.
At Altitud Coffee Space, community animals have become part of the place and its story.
The Paw Post spoke with Altitud Coffee Space owner, Jessica Lorriz (@jessibrews on IG) about the growing bond between the cafe, its community, and the animals who have become familiar faces in the space.
It All Started At Home…
The coffee shop started in their home garage, where Jessi's pets were naturally around while coffee was being served. Customers quickly became accustomed to seeing them, and bringing pets along became just as natural.
When Altitud eventually moved into a proper coffee shop, that part of its identity came with it.
"It wasn’t something we intentionally planned as a concept," Jessi shares. "It just grew naturally from how Altitud started."
More Than Just Visitors
Over time, several animals have become part of Altitud's everyday rhythm, each with their own personality and place within the community.
There’s Rambo, a British Shorthair cat who is known for being timid and well-behaved. Then there’s Zot, a Shih Tzu who often visits in the mornings with his fur parents after their bike rides.
The newest addition is Icoy, a cat who moves around different spots within the compound. He often drops by in the afternoon for a snack or finds a comfortable spot to sleep, including the al fresco tables.
Their presence gives regulars another reason to pause, say hello, and connect.
And then we have Latte.
The Community Dog Who Stayed
Latte wasn’t the first dog Altitud fed at its old space, but he was the one who stayed.
He began visiting every morning for food and eventually became part of the cafe’s daily routine. He would even walk one of the baristas home at night. Before long, the team welcomed him inside, and customers began bringing him food and looking forward to seeing him.
Then, last year, Latte was diagnosed with cancer. The community that had grown to know him came together to help raise funds for his treatment.
Today, Latte is still at Altitud, happily greeting customers. When he isn’t at Altitud, customers notice. They ask where he is because, for many regulars, seeing him has simply become part of the visit.
“Sometimes, Latte’s presence alone can make someone’s day a little better.”
When Animals Bring People Together
For Jessi, the animals do more than add warmth to the cafe. They help people connect.
A quick hello to a dog or a comment about a cat can become a conversation, and over time, customers begin recognizing both the animals and their humans. Latte’s story is a reminder of what can happen when a pet becomes more than a familiar face. He became part of Altitud’s daily rhythm, brought people together, and found a community that showed up for him when he needed it most.
Now, that community has another reason to come together.
Come Meet Latte! 🐾
You can also support Altitud’s community animals by getting their community stickers for just ₱30 each.
Every little bit helps keep the community going and gives these familiar faces the care they need.
If you’ve never been to Altitud, perhaps this is the sign to finally stop by. Bring your furry friend, grab a coffee, and come be part of the story.
You can find Altitud Coffee Space at Unit 4, Pilar Development Center, Pilar Village, Pilar Rd., Las Piñas 1740. Follow Altitud Coffee Space on Instagram at @altitudcoffeespace or on Facebook at Altitud Coffee Space, to learn more about their community and upcoming events.
