Coffee Cantata - MCA, Circular Quay, Sydney

MCA CAFE - level 4, MCA, Circular Quay, Sydney
Simply irrestible. Only just opened. The coffee has a way to go, but the setting is world class. Enjoy.
Bouquets: 2.5

Coffee Cantata - Andalucia, Spain

The Coffee in Spain

In preparation for my European jaunt I'm researching what's what, in the world of coffee, and where to find it. Lonely Planet have come up with this helpful summary of what to ask for when ordering coffee in Andulcia (Spain).

"In Andalucia the coffee is good and strong. A cafe con leche is half milk, half coffee (something like cafe latte), a cortado is espresso with a dribble of milk (like an Italian macchiato), and solo is a straight black espresso. Ask for a grande or doble if you want a large cup (pequeno for small), en vaso if you want it in a glass and sombra or manchado if you want lots of milk."

Granada here I come (June 2012)

'The Window Spotter' - Double Bay & Edgecliff

Furniture from the Attic, Reddy St. Edgecliff

This shop front is just that...a shop front for Furniture from the Attic. If you want to get your hands on these lovingly restored pieces of attic furniture with their signature distressed paint finishes then check out their web site. I've seen cheaper but the detail of care that has gone into these pieces is excellent.

Oriental Legend, New South Head Road, Double Bay                                                             

All things bright and beautiful, these cushions are winners.Ranging in price from $15 to $45 they lend a sophisticated look to an 'at home' decor.

The Silk Shop, New South Head, Edgecliff

You'll enjoy the elegant design lines of this Teapot and two cups set

Tika Tea - New South Head Road, Double Bay

This is the ultimate in Japanese Teapots

Papier D'Amour - 8 Cross Street, Double Bay

A Happy Easter Wreath

                                                                                        The Silk Shop, Edgecliff
                                         Don't deny yourself this beautiful piece of Italian Silk

Fun Fashion & Fab Food

'The Window Spotter'

With the arrival on the retail scene of chain stores with their 'same as the next store' branding, shops that displayed individual style were forced to take a back seat.

In June/July 2012 'The Window Spotter' will accompany 'Coffee Cantata' on a European trip of discovery, unearthing those shops that, by daring to be different, stand out from the crowd. Through the eyes of Coffee Cantata and 'The Window Spotter' you'll be able to find out where the best places are in Europe to enjoy an above average cup of coffee, and where to find goods that deliver a leading design edge, with a sensible price tag attached.

TOP T's

At $40 they're a fun find.

Where: T-Bar, World Square Shopping Centre

SPANISH DELI DELIGHTS

A fabulous assortment of bottled, packaged and refrigerated Spanish food. So special that you'll want to build a siesta into your day.

Where: Encasa Deli, 135 Bathurst Street, Sydney CBD.

'The Window Spotter' - Storage boxes

With the arrival on the retail scene of chain stores with their 'same as the next store' branding, shops that displayed individual style were forced to take a back seat.

In June/July 2012 'The Window Spotter' will accompany 'Coffee Cantata' on a European trip of discovery, unearthing those shops that, by daring to be different, stand out from the crowd. Through the eyes of  Coffee Cantata and 'The Window Spotter' you'll be able to find out where the best places are in Europe to enjoy an above average cup of coffee, and where to find goods that deliver a leading design edge, with a sensible price tag attached.

Pretty Storage Boxes

How to accessorise on a very limited budget

Spotted in one of my regular haunts these pretty femine storage boxes come in various sizes and range in price from $10 to $25.

Where: The Reject Shop, Bondi Junction or any of the 200 + branches

 

"The Widow Spotter"

Iced Cakes

Celebrate in Style

These iced cakes are a little OTT but you'll get what I mean when I say "if you're looking for that little something different to celebrate an occassion/event, look no further than here. I didn't cost these beauties,but judjing by the prices on the small cakes, an order won't stretch your entertainment budget.

Where: Marrikville Quality Cakes, 236 Marrikville Road.

Coming to a space near you

Post the GFC a flagging retail market has had to look elsewhere for outlets. Hence a new Modus Operandi - the rise and rise of the Pop Up shop. Keep an eye out, they're everywhere. This one is in 'hallowed' William Street, Paddington.

'The Window Spotter ' - Sydney

Umbrellas with attitude

This wasn't my 'spot' but was passed on to me by a friend.

I raced into the Soul Pattison Pharmacy,MLC Centre, Martin Place to check out these umbrellas.

They're gorgeous, conjuring up visions of My Fair Lady elopes with the burlesque Deta Von Teese. All rhinestones, baubles, beads, and frivilous lace. Don't look at the price tag, just make an impulse purchase and worry about ithe damage later (you won't). Get in fast while the sun still shines because once it rains they'll be floating out the door.

                                            Colour in the  Kitchen

These 'happy' aprons will add a splash of colour to any kitchen and brighten up the wearer. Priced on the right side of $30 they're great to keep in the pressie's'drawer. Much better to give something that will be appreciated and used than to come up with an 11th hour, bought in a panic, gift. Make sure you get one for yourself while you're there. So where were they spotted?  King of Knives, Shop 1043, Westfield Shopping Centre, Bondi Junction.

                                                         In the Rear Vision Mirror

Where: at Bondi Bikes, cnr Oxford and Nelson Street, Bondi Junction. Dare to be different . Pick up a sporty handle bars mirror for your bike. It will lend a great colour accent and provide you with generous rear vision at the same time. There's a touch of European nostalgia here, they remind me of the chequered flags used at the Grand Prix in Monaco. A steal at $35.

Product Photography

You need neither a Degree in Product Photography or expensive props to 'pull off' a great shot. This Reflective Crystal Goblet shot was set up on my coffee table using natural light. The composition is intentionally simple, with a view to showing the glass off to advantage.  The reflection in the shot is an added bonus. NB. Less is always  more.....