The new FABLE Café + Lounge by Kenneth Cobonpue whisks you into a whimsical world of flavors, ambiance, and charm.
In the heart of Bonifacio Global City’s concrete jungle lies an enchanting portal that transports one into a whimsical oasis. FABLE Café + Lounge is an immersive celebration of nature, art, and flavor. Kenneth Cobonpue, the acclaimed industrial designer and creative director for the Kenneth Cobonpue brand, is behind this new dining spot.
He says: “Design to me is theater. I want Fable to transport the audience to a world of make believe. In this case an abstract representation of the natural world. Nature, even if man-made, never fails to captivate and amaze us.” It is a space where nature, art, and culinary experiences converge. He initially envisioned a simple café for his Manila showroom. But with Kenneth, nothing is ever just simple. The concept developed into a space that embodies his distinct design philosophy, blending art, nature, and craftsmanship.
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Designed with Emotion, Inspired by Nature
Kenneth is renowned globally for his signature style: “Unique objects inspired by nature, designed with emotion, and crafted by hand.” Fable’s interior is a space that feels both grounded in nature and elevated by his signature design sensibility.
It is a tactile exploration of organic textures, with rattan, bamboo, and hand-woven fabrics; materials are not only aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable, aligning with Cobonpue’s commitment to using resources that are as kind to the environment as possible. Every piece of furniture, from sculptural seating to intricate lighting fixtures, becomes part of the larger story of the space.
He explains, “Fable is a sanctuary where dining meets artistry.” From intricately designed furniture to the seamless interplay of textures and lighting, every detail reflects his creative philosophy. “I wanted to craft a space where every element tells a story, evoking wonder and connection. This is my interpretation of nature—how even in its artificial form, it continues to inspire, captivate, and enchant us.”
A World of Ethereal Interiors
Stepping into Fable feels like an ethereal dreamscape, where giant fabric leaves climb the walls and oversized, vibrant fabric flowers seem to bloom endlessly. Above are delicate light canopies that take the shape of floating flowers while illuminated paper clouds drift overhead. A standout feature is the DJ booth, designed as carabaos or Filipino water buffalos.
Curio hanging lamps reinterpret the 18th-century European tradition of the cabinet of curiosities, offering a thought-provoking interplay between beauty and nature. Along the walls, giant dew drops glisten in the warm light. Their table setting is an artful extension designed to resemble miniature gardens. Asymmetrical plates mimic the natural curves of leaves and petals, while cutlery rests on sculpted creatures.
Dining, Day to Night
Fable is open 11:00 in the morning until late into the night. By day, guests can savor a menu of globally inspired dishes and specialty coffee, with brunch specials served daily from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. At night, the space transforms into an elegant dining haven, where the evening comes alive with two exclusive dinner seatings: 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. to 10:00 P.M. The ambiance shifts as guests unwind, while the DJ takes center stage after 10:00 P.M.
Beyond Dining: A Cultural Experience
Within the same space, Kenneth Cobonpue’s showroom invites guests to immerse themselves in his iconic designs, showcasing timeless classics alongside new collections, many of which are seamlessly integrated into Fable’s interiors.
Adding another layer of creativity, the Cloudgrey Gallery features works by Ronald Ventura and other Southeast Asian artists, bringing a vibrant art scene into the building. At the Kenneth Cobonpue showroom, dining, design, and visual art don’t simply coexist—they harmoniously converge, creating an immersive experience that celebrates art in all its forms.
Fable is located at the Grand Hyatt Residences at the corner of 36th Street and 8th Avenue in Bonifacio Global City. Follow @fablecafelounge on Instagram and @fablecafé+lounge on Facebook. For reservations, call or message (0919) 267 8000.
Photos courtesy of FABLE Café + Lounge.
