Life is Great

Date: 30 December 2012
Time: 2330 hours
Drink: Kiasu Stout (Jungle Beer)
Atmosphere: Recovery from slam hour
Playlist: The owner's, on endless loop




It seems like only yesterday when I first stepped in here, on a drizzly weekday. Quickly taken in by the best espresso in town and the funny quips of the owners, many visits came after.






Over two heavy wooden communal tables, spiked periodically with strong caffeine, craft beers and homely bakes straight from a non-existent kitchen; new friends were made, meetings held, war became peace.

A kitchen floor plan discussed, pendant lights chosen, emails exchanged, sketches drawn, photos uploaded.






Behind the Spirit, as we almost keel over dangerous dosages of espresso, Vijay and I learned to appreciate the efforts behind a perfect cup, beyond seemingly easy latte arts.  






As I watch the owner and crew persevere towards its final hours, regular customers and a dog continue to stay behind, spilling over to the sidewalk outside. Friends and family slamming the place, stripping it off its last drop of milk, clean glasses, anything edible on the menu, down to two cups worth of coffee beans.





What makes a good café? Perhaps one where people refuse to leave and come knocking on the days it's closed. One that will continue its legacy long after shutting its doors.