Google and Commune Cafe use Gemini to create Special Bibingka Latte

Showcasing the transformative potential of human-AI partnership, Google and Commune Cafe have teamed up to brew something that’s absolutely delicious and uniquely Pinoy at the same time.

From September 12 to 26, 2024, Commune will be serving the Filipino-flavored Special Bibingka Latte, a limited-edition coffee blend that’s created in collaboration with Gemini, Google’s generative AI.

The Special Bibingka Latte is heavily inspired by the flavors of the iconic Filipino delicacy, which is popular during the country’s extended Christmas season which anecdotally starts in September, the year’s first -ber month. The drink is comprised of Commune’s espresso and steamed milk, topped by savory shreds of salted egg and queso de bola to evoke the familiar feels of the holiday kakanin. Finally, the Latte is then rounded out by a torched banana leaf to complete the Pinoy experience.

To craft this unique drink, Commune used the power of Google’s Gemini, a helpful generative AI designed to enhance people’s capabilities to think, create, and work. Gemini presented an array of innovative drink concepts, serving as a springboard for Commune’s talented baristas to develop their own masterpiece.

As part of the partnership, Google provided training on generative AI and Gemini to Commune Cafe staff, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to effectively harness Gemini. Following the training, the staff participated in a mini-workshop, where they were divided into groups and competed to put their knowledge into practice and explore the creative possibilities of Gemini within the cafe setting.

“Using Gemini for experimenting with concoctions was a lot of fun! It felt like having an extra brain in the room, ready to toss ideas around. It also streamlined our creative process significantly. Having access to Gemini’s vast knowledge made the whole process enjoyable and collaborative.” said Rosario “Ros” Juan, Chief Extractor of Coffee at Commune Cafe.

“We’re so excited to partner with Commune and bring the Special Bibingka Latte to coffee lovers across the city! This project is a celebration of the delicious possibilities that arise when human creativity and AI blend together. It’s also a tribute to the spirit of Filipino Christmas and the unique flavors of our local delicacies, like Bibingka, which we’re immensely proud to share with the world,” said Mervin Wenke, Head of Communications and Public Affairs at Google Philippines.

Located at the bustling neighborhood of Poblacion, Makati, Commune is renowned for its high-quality coffee that’s fully sourced from the Philippines and inviting cafe atmosphere. The Gemini-inspired Special Bibingka Latte will be available for a very limited time only, so if you’re a coffee enthusiast, visit the cafe and experience this delicious creation from September 12 to 26, 2024.

For every other creative and productive endeavor, Gemini is here to help with its impressive capabilities. Try it out now and see what it can help you come up with at gemini.google.com.