Chef Harold Villarosa has teamed up with The Caffè by Mr. Espresso in Oakland, California, to create a new summer signature beverage inspired by his Filipino roots. Known as UNK The Filipino Chef, Villarosa reimagined the traditional Filipino drink Sago’t Gulaman with a modern twist, incorporating Mr. Espresso’s rich coffee flavors. The beverage features tapioca pearls soaked in an espresso and brown sugar simple syrup, coconut cream, condensed milk, nata de coco, and a unique addition of house-made ricotta cheese, creating a savory-sweet creaminess. Villarosa's culinary journey spans from working at McDonald’s to becoming a celebrated chef, with stints at Michelin-starred restaurants and appearances on Food Network’s BBQ Brawl. The collaboration drink, made with The Caffè’s signature cold brew using Organic Dark Roast Guatemala CODECH – Women’s Lot, is priced at $6.50. A portion of the proceeds supports Oakland’s Community Kitchens, emphasizing the community-focused ethos of the collaboration.
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