Our journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. As with many small businesses, Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 forced us to make the difficult decision to close down our beloved shop.
It was a time of uncertainty and hardship, as we navigated the unprecedented circumstances that impacted businesses worldwide. Our once-thriving café and bar, celebrated for its unique blend of motorbike culture, delectable food, and pulsing vibe, has fallen silent.
The empty tables and silence were a stark contrast to the vibrant community we had built over the years. Just as we were trying to navigate the fallout from the pandemic, another calamity struck. Super Typhoon Rai, known locally as Typhoon Odette hit the island in December 2020, dealing all of us a crushing blow.
... but our spirits were far from extinguished.
Fast forward to October 2022, and a new chapter began for us in Zicatela Cartel. We started the renovation with a renewed sense of purpose and passion. The local community and Zicatela’s aesthetics provided the perfect canvas for our revival.
We poured our hearts into every detail, from the rustic decor to the expanded menu. We envisioned a space that would not only capture the essence of our original location but also bring a fresh, revitalized experience to our customers.
The reno was a labor of love, symbolizing not just the rebuilding of a café...
Here's to new beginnings and the open road ahead.
but the resurrection of our home.
December 2022 marked our reopening in Zicatela. It was a day filled with excitement and nostalgia as we threw open our doors to old friends and new faces. The air carried the rich, inviting scent of freshly prepared tacos, a testament to Chef Winnie’s culinary mastery—a recent addition that swiftly earned its place as a standout favorite.
We proudly reintroduced our signature Loose Keys cocktails and coffee. Each sip is a reminder of our storied past. Our shelves were stocked with fresh merch, and for those with a love for adventure, our motorbike rentals, a cornerstone of our identity, were ready to hit the road.
Throughout this journey, one thing remained constant: our incredible staff. The old team, who had been with us through thick and thin, stood by our side. Their dedication, passion, and unwavering support were the backbone of our business. These selected individuals brought with them not just skills and experience, but a deep sense of loyalty and community spirit. It was their hard work and belief in our vision that made the reopening possible.
Our reopening was more than just a business milestone; it was a testament to perseverance and community. The challenges we faced in 2020 are now a part of our story, a reminder of how far we’ve come.