For years, our travels have been more than just geographical movements; they’ve been a quest, a heartfelt pursuit of beauty, history, and the stories etched within handcrafted objects. From bustling souks to quiet antique shops, from ancient ruins to vibrant art galleries, each piece we collected held a fragment of a memory, a whisper of a culture, a testament to human artistry. As we finally laid down roots here in our beloved Mangalore and envisioned our cafe, a thought blossomed: why keep these treasures confined within our home when they could be shared, sparking conversations and enriching the experiences of everyone who walks through our doors? Our cafe, therefore, is not merely a place to savour exquisite coffee and delectable food; it’s an open invitation to journey with us through time and across continents, a shared narrative woven from the threads of our adventures.
The very bones of our cafe, the majestic pillars, speak of this intention. The robust rosewood pillars that grace the interior, with their deep, resonant hues, feel like old friends, their presence lending an air of timeless solidity. The cornice of two of these pillars boasts elaborate carvings, a breathtaking depiction of a bird and grapes, a masterpiece that stops visitors in their tracks, prompting a closer look and a moment of quiet appreciation. The others, equally intricate, showcase a vibrant tapestry of carved fruits, a celebration of nature’s artistry. These weren’t just acquired; they were discovered, admired, and brought here with the hope that their beauty would resonate with our guests.
Stepping into the portico, the pillars that greet you, salvaged from a demolished house, carry the weight of untold stories, their weathered surfaces a testament to the passage of time. Similarly, the wild jack pillars at the entrance, their shaft and cornice adorned with elaborative carvings, are a striking introduction, hinting at the unique character that lies within.
The magnificent old door within, sourced from a century-old demolished house in Tanjore, feels like a portal to another era. Its elaborate carvings are a silent testament to the skilled hands that crafted it, a piece of South Indian heritage that we felt compelled to share with our community in Mangalore. Imagine the stories it could tell!
The warmth and character of our cafe are deeply intertwined with the furniture, predominantly crafted from rich rosewood. Many of these pieces have been lovingly refurbished from old houses in Mangalore and Goa, connecting us to the local heritage while also reflecting our journeys through the region. The elegant cabinets at the far end, hailing from colonial houses in Mangalore, with their aged tiles and intricate brass work, evoke a sense of nostalgia, a glimpse into a bygone era that we hope our guests will find captivating.
Our walls serve as a gallery, each artwork a cherished memento from our travels. The mesmerizing 3D carpet from Tabriz, Iran, depicting a bustling market, is a vivid memory of our time exploring the rich culture of Persia. The intricately carved wooden door panel from George Town, Penang, with its narrative carvings, is a story we discovered in Malaysia, now inviting our guests to decipher its tale.
The delicate Persian Marquetry Inlay, depicting a poetic gathering, is a testament to the exquisite craftsmanship we encountered.
The painting from Iraq, capturing the raw energy of its streets through bold knife strokes, is a poignant reminder of our years living in Qatar.
Closer to home, we proudly showcase the talent of Mr. Santosh Andrade, a celebrated Mangalorean artist whose award-winning work beautifully captures the essence of our land. A painting from Louisiana, depicting the serene swamps, brings back memories of our time living in the American South.
The vibrant bull racing artworks from Vietnam, a cultural echo of our own Mangalorean tradition, were collected to celebrate the shared human experiences across the globe.
Adding another layer of history, the tiles adorning our walls were carefully salvaged from a demolished old Jewish house in Isfahan. Visiting that city in 2014 was a profound experience, and these tiles, with their intricate patterns, now serve as a quiet reminder of the diverse cultural tapestry of the world, a story we are eager to share.
Even the tables we gather around tell a story. Each one features a collection of hand-painted tiles, a vibrant mosaic showcasing the diverse beauty of Indian art. These aren’t just decorative; they are an invitation to explore the rich artistic heritage of our country, a conversation starter over a cup of coffee.
Our cafe, while embracing a modern sensibility, exudes a homely and cozy atmosphere. It’s designed to be a haven, a place where the hurried pace of life slows down, and people can take a moment to appreciate the beauty around them, to connect with the stories embedded in each object, and to share their own. It’s our way of sharing our journey, our experiences, our stories with our guests, all while enjoying the simple pleasures of good coffee, delicious food, and warm companionship in the heart of Mangalore.
