25 March 2011

Food Adventures with Shelley #2: The "Secret Garden" Sonya Gertzel Shapira, Tel Aviv





Brunch is mine and my friend Shelley's favorite meal, and when better than a sun-filled Friday morning to indulge. Because I am a huge dining enthusiast, I keep a list of eateries in my moleskine that I must try. At the top of my list was Sonya Getzel Shapira--a whimsical garden café neatly tucked away in a small side street of King George. Behind rustic wrought-iron gates, a bohemian vibe is set with simple lawn furniture and brightly coloured mosaic-style tables which freckle the outdoor space. Nonconformist Tel Avivians lazed in the sun sipping cappucinos and eating shakshuka while waiters whisked by with crispy cinnamon pastries, and thick-layered sandwiches. An open-faced Croissant served with ham, cheese, and egg was the winner for Shelley, and my traditional Israeli breakfast of an omelette, salad and a crusty loaf of oat bread satisfied my brunch craving.

03 March 2011

Vienna, Austria














Rich desserts, a swell of culture