Life is about change, change is inevitable, but some things never change, and they shouldn't either...
The other day the wife and I headed out for a little bit of shopping. She needed a new bag and wanted to get some things related to her hobbies, so we went to the mall that had more or less everything under one roof and would offer the best deals.
And below that mall, is the original branch of Tabaq Coffee.
Yes, the Tabaq Coffee that I can't stop talking about. The one that I've loved for close to two decades now.
After getting married we've had one of our first dates here. It was her first time having Tabaq Coffee, and she, just like me, fell in love with everything they had to offer; from the food to the environment. The last time we were here visiting this branch was over two years ago, back when we used to live in our older flat and area. It was way closer back then, and it would just take a 5-minute walk to get here. Now, it takes quite a bit more time and effort. So instead, we go for the branches or different cafes that are closer in distance.
Even though I've taken down my number of cafe visits by a lot, every now and then I still like to drop by for a solo coffee break or the regular meetings. My wife, however, prefers a nice cup of homemade coffee these days. She says that she's beginning to dislike the creamy texture of the coffee they make at these cafes, and for myself, that's what I love the most about these cafes and their coffee.
I guess...
Opposite do attract.
The desserts, of course, are loved by us both. Tabaq makes some of the best desserts among all the cafes we have here. The sandwiches are also among some of the best we've had. And that is why we keep coming back. Because from service to the food to the ambiance, Tabaq offers the best of all worlds.
I believe we went there at the perfect time, so it wasn't as packed, but as we kept conversing and eating, people started to flock in. It's a very small spot, and they surely can afford to expand, but I love that they've kept everything the same as it used to be from day 1. This branch is almost two decades old, but nothing has changed, except for the equipment and machinery I'd say. It's an iconic spot, especially for Coffee connoisseurs and Tabaq fanatics.
Even when I reminisce about my visits of the past, they are just as vivid to this day. The only difference is that I couldn't look over the counter back then, now I can, quite effortlessly too. And nor do I have to worry about counting coins and small cash notes to pay for a coffee or dessert. Yes, the prices have increased a lot over the years, but of course, a man pushing 30 will be better equipped to pay for such delicacies, compared to a 14-year-old.
We got there and ordered the usual, a nice sandwich and a cappuccino. She didn't want any coffee, the sandwich would suffice. I, however, wasn't leaving without a cup of coffee.
So, we sat down at the same spot we sat the first time we were here and were talking about how things have changed within a matter of years. How our lives have changed, how we've learned so much within these past years, and how time is flying by so fast. We've been married for four years now, but it literally does feel like yesterday.
Next year, we're taking a big step, and she'll be moving in permanently after she's completed her Masters Degree. She's thinking about getting a job. So, it's definitely a big step, and our lives and lifestyle will change, and a few things we will have to change. We're facing some tough challenges right now, but I believe that about 3 to 4 years later, we'll look back at these moments, and these current problems will only be a thing of the past. All that will remain, are the memories worth cherishing.
Cheers! To another day and another hot cup of coffee. ☕️
