On a sunny fall afternoon, I stepped into Likha Art Café and was immediately greeted by its owner, Emma Songalia, whose warmth and enthusiasm instantly made me feel at home. The café radiates the same welcoming energy as Emma, with vibrant art, Filipino greeting cards by the door, and a tranquil, garden-like atmosphere that invites you to linger. Likha Art Café is more than just a café; it’s a creative haven and a slice of home for the Filipino community.
Emma’s journey with Likha began over a year ago when she and her friends, co-owners Eddie Manongsong, Ruel, and Aileen Jusi, inspired by their Filipino roots, opened the café to fill a gap in the local community. “There weren’t many options for Filipino-inspired food, and there wasn’t great coffee around either,” Emma recalls. Likha was born out of the desire to bring a taste of the Philippines to New York, and today, it offers delicious coffee blends from Abbotsford Road, including Forza, Crema, and Decaf. Likha isn’t just a café; it’s a slice of home for many.
A self-described foodie, Emma has worked tirelessly to make Likha known for more than just coffee. Their Ube Matcha Latte with Espresso and Ube Cheesecake have become iconic menu items, drawing in regulars and new customers alike. When it came to selecting a coffee partner, Emma was looking for quality and accessibility. “Abbotsford Road gave me everything I needed,” she says. From the coffee to syrups, matcha powders, and even barista training, she appreciates the ongoing support from Jerico and Martin, who regularly visit and ensure the café’s success.
Community is at the heart of Likha Art Café, and Emma has built a loyal customer base by creating a space where people feel welcome and connected. One of her most popular initiatives is line-dancing every Monday at 6 PM. “It’s all about being flexible and listening to what people want,” she says. This extends to the coffee as well—if a customer wants a half-decaf, half-regular coffee, Likha makes it happen.
Emma admits that she didn’t know much about coffee when she started, but through barista training with Jerico, her confidence has soared. Her smile widens as she shares how her latte art skills have improved. “I’m getting better every day, and our matcha is hands-down the best,” she says proudly. Likha’s dedication to quality coffee and a unique atmosphere has made it a go-to spot for the Filipino community and regulars from the nearby medical school.
Looking ahead, Emma is excited about the upcoming transition to their seasonal menu. “It’s important to keep innovating and giving our customers reasons to come back,” she shares. Likha Art Café is a place where Emma continues to learn every day, a space she is immensely proud of.
As we wrap up, Emma gives me a quick tour of the café. The tranquil hideaway she’s created is more than just a place for coffee—it’s a hub for creativity, connection, and culture. The energy of the space mirrors Emma’s own spirit: bubbly, welcoming, and full of life.
Closing:
As I leave Likha Art Café, it's clear that this space is more than just a business; it's a thriving community hub built on the foundation of meaningful partnerships and a dedication to connection. Emma’s passion for serving great coffee, fostering creativity, and nurturing relationships has turned Likha into a symbol of cultural pride and community spirit. Through partnerships like the one with Abbotsford Road, Likha Art Café continues to deliver success in every cup and every interaction, proving that true success is about more than just business—it’s about community.
Thank you, Emma, for creating not just coffee, but a space that brings people together. Likha Art Café is a testament to the power of passion and partnership.
