Brewing Community: New Brunswick’s First 2D Café Opens in Riverview

Mary Anne Catipon is bringing something to Riverview that has every resident, trendsetter, and coffee-connoisseur talking. Tambayan Café on Trites Road is following in the footsteps of the Japanese 2D Café trend — where their floor-to-ceiling commitment to the 2D aesthetic maintains the illusion of two-dimensionality.  

The only café of its kind in New Brunswick, every wall of Tambayan is an interactive art experience that invites customers to be a part of the story. Mary Anne and her husband, Joie, have always loved travelling. When they first moved from the Philippines to New Brunswick, they traveled all over the Maritimes to get to know their new home. With three children — spanning ages 13 to three — alongside busy careers and now a new business, they have limited ability to travel everywhere they want and so you’ll see some of their dream destinations depicted on the walls.  

“We want people to come here to celebrate and enjoy commemorating their time with unique photos. Since everything looks like a black and white drawing, the person becomes the main subject and it gives a very cool effect as you stand out against the backdrop,” says Mary Anne.  

Tambayan, a Filipino word that means a welcoming hangout space, describes a place where people gather to relax, chat, and spend time together. The Catipons partnered with local artist Ji Hyang Ryu to bring this vision to life, and the love for local is felt throughout the space.  

In addition to offering a variety of bubble tea, the café also features hot and iced specialty coffees and baked goods. Their signature croffle — a marriage between a croissant and a waffle — is available in both sweet and savoury options to cater to every taste.  

Tambayan Café will be celebrating their grand opening on Saturday, April 26, at 3 p.m.  with a ribbon cutting, tasty treats, a live band starting at 6 p.m., and a scavenger hunt! 

As Tambayan Café opens its doors to the Riverview community, it’s clear that this one-of-a-kind space is more than just a place to grab a drink — it’s a vibrant, interactive experience that invites everyone to step into a world of creativity and connection. With its fusion of culture, art, and local flavors, Tambayan Café is sure to become a beloved gathering spot for friends, families, and coffee lovers alike. Be sure to stop by on April 26th to join in the celebration, try something new, and see for yourself why this café is making waves in the community.