On Thursday I failed to bring my umbrella to work (naturally: it was bright and sunny), forgetting that spontaneous spurts of torrential rainfall are now permanently in the forecast. I had to buy a new umbrella for my seven-minute walk home from the station and left my bike to stay, covered but still vulnerable to sideways rain, in the racks outside the exit. While many Japanese people have mastered the balancing act of holding their umbrellas while pedaling, I've tipped over too many times to attempt this again.
The rainy season typically lasts through July. With our leisurely work schedules, we have plenty of time to explore Nagoya's food and cafe culture (indoors).
In the past few months, Nunc Nusq cafe near our apartment has become my frequent haven for good coffee and European-style sweets. As I've mentioned, fresh coffee in Nagoya is generally expensive, usually costing around 300 to 400 yen for a small cup. At Nunc Nusq cafe, coffee is 300 yen but well-priced given the sophisticated, relaxing atmosphere and rich blends. I've spent many hours there conversing, eating, and reading by the window (not to mention admiring the sprawling deli-presentation of pasta salads and elegant cakes).
This week, Stephen and I decided to try out the lunch menu. He ordered a set, which consisted of pasta in a rich beef-tomato sauce, salad, unlimited artisan bread, a main dish of a halibut-topped rice patty, and coffee for 1300 yen. I ordered beef-stroganoff which was delicious, presented on a bed of mixed rice. For the attractive presentation and high-quality of the food the meal was well-priced, especially after sharing a wonderful slice of lemon-meringue pie and not being charged for it!
Last night, craving a jolt to the taste buds, we decided to go to CasaBlanca, a Moroccan restaurant in Sakae. The food was mind-blowing with flavorful meats and unique spices. We shared a sample-platter including a variety of couscous, tender lamb skewers, hummus, and slightly sweet Briwat (crisp Moroccan spring rolls stuffed with beef). We also enjoyed sweet mango juice and traditional lemon-chicken Tajine: a thick, braised stew to be eaten with large wooden spoons. For dessert we ordered mint tea and Moroccan-style coffee infused with over 20 spices (presenting mainly cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger). I spent a long time just enjoying the warm aroma (it reminded me of Robertino's, as we made lattes with these autumn spices)! The restaurant's atmosphere was mesmerizing with bright, African decor lining the walls and colorful lamps and carpets, not to mention a 20 minute belly-dancing show! She brought members of the audience to the stage for a short lesson, including Stephen, and he was by far the greatest entertainment!
We also recently went to Pippin's Cafe in Tsurumai (we're surrounded by great cafes) for dinner sets and "New York Style" cheesecake!
More postings soon to come! Happy eating, everyone.