Food and Restaurants

Concierge Coffee in Berlin

| Design & Culture by Ed

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Concierge Coffee, Benjamin Pates’s and Namy Nosratifard’s baby, is there for you to serve the best flat white in entire Kreuzberg, just along the canal. Fresh pastries and house juices are here, too, nicely displayed on the counter (with some quite tongue-in-cheek taxidermy pets in the front). But it isn’t only coffee that attracts Berliners to Concierge, Kreuzberg’s best kept secret. It’s the atmosphere of this low-key spot that makes it so undeniably cool. The coffee bar is hidden away in an old gatekeepers room, while the beverages are served through a small window in the back. Sit with the locals on matching the cups, blue stools, and enjoy the street view!

Paul-Lincke-Ufer 39-40 / Berlin

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Photos by Edward Kanarecki.

Cocolo Ramen X-Berg

| Design & Culture by Ed

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Cocolo Ramen X-Berg is said to have the best ramen in Berlin. I guess the huge queues for a seat are the best evidence for that. I ate the Wantan ramen with shrimp wontons and it was the actual 7th wonder happening in my mouth. Ramen often tends to be too fatty, but this one was just perfect for me – light, but with its recognizable essence. Gyoza dumplings are also worth a try. The industrial interior with long, wooden tables is as charming as the outdoors space. Sitting there on a sunny day and observing the diverse street life of Kreuzberg is something I can do everyday! While sipping Cocolo’s home-made, signature lemonade, of course.

Paul-Lincke-Ufer 39-40 / Berlin

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Photographs by Edward Kanarecki.

Visiting Toruń

| Design & Culture by Ed

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Toruń is one of the oldest cities in Poland, which over centuries was the home for people of diverse backgrounds and religions. Back in the Medieval times, the city was considered the most culturally and technologically advanced centre in Europe. Moreover, during the World War II, Toruń appeared to be one of the few cities in the country, which was left with no damage. No wonder why the Old Town, fully preserved, looks so beautiful and breathes with its history up to now. Nearly every building here is made of brick, while the churches (the cathedral, dating back to 1236, is a must-see!) are  untouched. Walking down the sun-drenched streets, you wonder whether you’re strolling around Brugge or an old Tuscan village…

If you’re here for one day, make sure to visit the District Museum (or Toruń Regional Museum), which is located in the historic Rathaus. The ground floor is an impressive collection of Gothic art and local craftsmanship, while the upper floors hold paintings of Polish artists from XVIII to XX century. Currently, there’s an exhibition of modern art, which presents some of Zdzisław Beksiński, Władysław Hasior and Łukasz Korolkiewicz’s rare works.

In case of culinary experiences, Toruń is recognised for its famous gingerbread. But if you want something less clichéd, try a more niche, off-the-crowd spots. Od Dechy Do Dechy is a cozy, book-filled bar with signature beers, home-made pastries and coffee. Sometimes, they sell second-hand books and vinyls. Perfect place to chill after a busy day.

To sum up, Toruń is totally worth a stay, especially in the summer!

Photos by Edward Kanarecki.

At Charlotte

| Design & Culture by Ed

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Just like a well-kept secret, Charlotte is hidden. Walk into the beautifully tiled patio in the heart of Wroclaw, and you suddenly appear in the most Parisian bistro. Charlotte serves home-made eclairs, macaroons and fruit tarts, but not only. With an impressive selection of signature jams and French wines, Charlotte is Wroclaw’s go-to spot for both, breakfast and late lunch. Don’t forget to grab a brioche or a crispy loaf of bread, baked   earlier in the morning.

ul. Świętego Antoniego 2/4 / Wroclaw

All photos by Edward Kanarecki.

Nanan

| Design & Culture by Ed

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Just a few steps from Wrocław’s Old Market, the sweetest patisserie tempts the locals. With it’s pastel-pink velvet walls and brass details, Nanan is a heaven for lovers of unconventional dessert tastes. No way you can miss it, while the town!

Kotlarska 32 / Wrocław