For the curious
Global Neighbourhood Guide #5
Finding a place to belong isn’t about the destination, it’s about the connections made along the moss-dotted path of life. That feeling of being part of something, of being seen, of sharing a wavelength with another human for a moment, or five.
Sociologist Ray Oldenburg calls these places where community connections happen "third places"—spots beyond home and work where community is able to do its thing and blossom. From cosy cafés to bustling markets, these are literal meeting points where folks gather, share stories, create bonds.
As is our (irregular) want, we've gathered some of our favourite third places from around the world. At all these excellent spots you can enjoy a Something & Nothing drink in one hand while gesticulating wildly with the other as you have an excellent conversation about the weather/public transport/the fact the human eye can see more shades of green than any other colour.
Welcome, to our Global Neighbourhood Guide #5.
These third places not only offer a sense of community and belonging but also embody the values of quality, sustainability, and connection that Something & Nothing holds near and dear (despite some of these being very far flung).
Next time you’re in the neighbourhood, drop by, enjoy a Something & Nothing drink, and soak in the local hospitality.
Here’s to good taste and great company, worldwide.
Saint-Jean, Amsterdam
Located in the historic Jordaan neighbourhood in Amsterdam, Saint-Jean Vegan Bakery is a haven for plant-based treat enthusiasts (and general treat enthusiasts too).
The interior design emphasises high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship, a real case-in-point for the beauty of simplicity. This minimalist aesthetic is an echo of the food philosophy here too, where pure flavours, high quality ingredients and creativity are baked into every morsel.
It's the perfect third place to enjoy a refreshing Something & Nothing drink while savouring a perfectly baked pistachio cruffin or a slice of their melty chocolate and hazelnut babka brioche. Yum.
Café Venue, Bielefeld
Freshly opened like the flowers in spring 2024, Café Venue at Klosterplatz is an urban oasis with a healthy, uncomplicated nutritional concept on the corner of Hagenbruchstrasse.
Founders Christin Wemmel and Madleen Asaturoglu have created a light-filled space with large hinged window fronts, inviting folks to linger and enjoy their nourishing food in the slanting beams of sun.
Free from industrial sugar additives and gluten, the café offers delicious, natural ingredient-based dishes alongside Something & Nothing sodas.
We love this healthy and happy community hub, because we strive for a similar approach with our drinks.
James Provisions, Hurst
Deborah Williamson’s James Provisions brings the sophisticated charm of her former Brooklyn restaurant to Hurst, Texas.
Known and beloved (in the truest sense of the word) for their all-star items like roasted chicken in 18-hour jus and grass-fed beef burgers, this fine-casual neighbourhood joint is a third place you can return to dozens of times.
Serving dinner and weekend brunch, it’s a spot for locals and visitors to gather, connect, and enjoy Something & Nothing drinks in a cosy, welcoming atmosphere.
Fallon & Byrne, Dublin
Fallon & Byrne is a Dublin institution that believes in wonderful food, fine wine, and great company. They're not fools, these folks.
Whether you’re enjoying a meal in their restaurant, shopping in their food hall, or attending an event catered by them, Fallon & Byrne offers a beautiful space to connect with others.
Their emphasis on excellent ingredients and slow food make them a true Something & Nothing bedfellow. Stop by and enjoy a can while mingling with fellow food enthusiasts.
Birdie's, Austin
On the corner of East 12th and Harvey in Austin, Birdie’s occupies a historic white-brick building with cerulean-framed doors and windows.
Originally a grocery-laundromat-warehouse from 1949, it's present day iteration is a wonderful neighbourhood fine-casual dining spot that's dog- and kid-friendly.
Gold and white vintage lights illuminate the open kitchen, where chefs Tracy Malechek-Ezekiel and Arjav Ezekiel blend their New York fine-dining expertise with local ingredients. Don’t miss the handmade pasta, steak with peppercorn sauce, or seasonal vanilla soft serve with citrus spiked olive oil.
A well-frequented and loved third place, you may have to wait in line, but you can pass the time sipping a can of yours truly while you people watch the diners inside.
MOLLIE, Aspen
MOLLIE Aspen is a boutique hotel that honours the outdoors and encourages adventure.
This luxurious yet simple space provides guests with a place to connect, get inspired and find respite. Yes please and thank you.
Whether you’re enjoying the natural beauty of Aspen or relaxing within the hotel’s inviting ambiance, don't forget to stay hydrated and enjoy a Something & Nothing soda while pondering those incredible views or padding about your room in a fluffy robe.
Yes please, take me on a MOLLIE-day
Good Morning Market, Melbourne
Aside from the world's newfound fascination with the Australian accent, arguably the biggest influence Australia has had on the world is their approach to specialty coffee and cafe culture in general. Melbourne is the heartland for this, and Morning Market is one of the best in town.
It's a beaut corner store and cafe showcasing curated pantry goods, flowers and a delicious menu. Owned by Melbourne chef, Andrew McConnell, it is the perfect spot for brunch, lunch and coffee, or to grab some treats for home. We're stoked to be among such fine company there.