For the curious
Global Neighbourhood Guide #7
As we settle into the depths of winter, we remain steadfast in our mission to uncover the finest neighbourhood gems around the world. Like a pig snuffling for truffles.
Welcome, to our Global Neighbourhood Guide #7.
When writing the 7th edition of this here trusty guide, we got to thinking about a curious paradox: the feeling of loneliness that can arise even when you’re surrounded by a crowd.
As author Matt Warren puts it: “Feelings of loneliness seem to increase in overcrowded, densely populated environments – in other words, modern cities.”
Ultimately, we suggest, it all boils down to the company you keep.
Community. Stories swapped over nourishing meals and freshly brewed coffee. Midnight confessions to like-minded folks.
So, fine friends, we thus present our latest lineup of favourite global spots that deliver the goods on this front in abundance (and just so happen to keep our Premium Sodas in stock).
Crack a can, sit back, and join us as we venture across the globe to hang out in the best bars, cafes, restaurants and hotels. If you happen to be in the neighbourhood, stop in and raise a can to good taste and great company, worldwide.
Sly, Berlin
Energetic in all the right ways, Sly – a boutique hotel in the trendy Friedrichshain – captures the off-kilter vibe of this up-and-coming area. Blending brutalist design with urban cool, it’s a place to rest your head when life is in full swing.
The 411: This beautiful hotel is kitted up with oak, Italian stone and skyline views from the rooftop sauna. Wash it all down with yours truly, of course.
And…: Be sure to stop by Newton Bar, where fashion photography puts the "more" in glamour.
Neighbourhood Vibe: Bring your black, drape-y, androgynous threads and shades – this place is as uber cool as Berlin gets.
Confluence Cafe, Lyle
Type ‘Lyle, Washington D.C.’ into your digital map and hit zoom – this tiny community is home to Confluence Cafe. With a population of less than 250 souls, the amazing folks behind this place opened it to be able to get a decent cup of coffee without having to drive. Parked right on the bank of Columbia River, it’s a peaceful spot for locals and travellers to gather, sip, and chat.
The 411: The coffee is excellent. The views are insane—their cosy deck seems to float on the Columbia River itself. A cosy, lived-in kinda place, the floors, tables and trimmings were made with repurposed natural wood from a nearby farm. Plus, their wholesome menu pairs well with a freshly cracked can of Something & Nothing.
And…: Bring along a pair of binoculars to spy bald eagles and kite-boarders sailing across the water in the distance.
Neighbourhood Vibe: Located on the bank of Columbia River, in Washington’s Klickitat County, it’s the type of "scenic" that inspires you to pull out a set of watercolour paints to capture the moment.
Aura Wellness Bar, Lisbon
Along the cobbled streets of Lisbon lies Aura, a newly-opened wellness bar.
The 411: Fuel-up your mind/body/soul with Aura’s specialty coffees, cold-pressed juices, smoothies and invigorating wellness shots. With plenty of fun stuff – like homemade cashew milk and vitamin-infused matcha smoothies – they’ve got plenty of great options to grab on the go (our very own sodas included).
And…: Chuck your goodies in a tote and stroll over to Jardim da Estrela for a picnic.
Neighbourhood Vibe: A good mix of architectural styles and lush green spaces, Estrela has plenty of intriguing nooks and crannies to explore. A peaceful vibe, but with plenty to do. Like an inner-city monk.
The Twelve Taps, Whitstable
Warm, friendly, and inclusive, The Twelve Taps is a great spot to catch up over a pint and a few snacks.
The 411: Homey and inviting, there’s plenty to sip on with twelve lines of keg craft beer, including one that’s gluten free. There’s also a seasonal cocktail menu, their own exclusive Whitstable gin, and plenty of Something & Nothing for a sans-booze quencher.
And…: While they don’t serve food per se (it’s all about their snacks!), you’re welcome to bring along a pizza from nearby.
Neighbourhood Vibe: A charming artist-moves-seaside sort of vibe, it’s laid-back but with an edge.
Iconik Coffee Roasters, Santa Fe, New Mexico
A coffee shop should be more than just a place to grab a caffeine fix—it should be a place to linger, to create, to connect. Iconik Coffee Roasters understands this deeply. Since opening in 2012, they’ve built a coffee empire in Santa Fe, spanning three locations, each with its own distinct charm.
The 411: Their original Lena Street location is where the roasting magic happens, complete with high ceilings, warm wooden interiors, and regular art shows. Over on Guadalupe Street, you’ll find a Spanish adobe with a dreamy courtyard, ideal for long coffee dates or solo deep work. And if you like your books with a side of espresso, their Collected Works Bookstore outpost has you covered.
And...: They take their sourcing seriously. Managing Owner Sean Ham personally knows the farmers behind the beans, including Giorgio, a fourth-generation grower near Lake Atitlán, Guatemala. Espresso shots are pulled from a La Marzocco Strada, pour-over is V60, and their whole bean coffee subscriptions start at just $20 a month.
Neighbourhood Vibe: Santa Fe, but make it stylish. A mix of creatives, freelancers, and locals who know that good coffee is non-negotiable for a good life.
We Are Lost & Found, Portstewart, Northern Ireland
Over the past decade or so, We Are Lost & Found has become deeply woven into the fabric of Portstewart's close-knit community.
The 411: Passionate about things crafted with care, their unstuffy brunch menu heroes local produce from around the area. Wash down a good serving of chilli-infused avo toast with a can (or two) of Premium Soda.
And…: Keep an eye on their socials, from time-to-time they have live performances from local musicians.
Neighbourhood Vibe: A beautiful coastal town in Northern Ireland, you’ll be amongst down-to-earth folks who band together to weather storms, watch their kids grow and celebrate when someone conquers a wave.
Nourished Communities, Walthamstow, London
With a vision to create new, more responsible food systems, Rollo Millership started Nourished Communities, a lovely collection of shops that stock loads of super cool independent brands.
The 411: With three stores across London, at Nourished Communities you’ll find a tight range of expertly sourced artisanal produce that’s healthy and downright delicious. There’s plenty to choose, ranging from gut health aids and organic fruit and veg, through to hot sauces and refillable household products.
And…: When heading to their Walthamstow store, wander past Ancient House – a history-infused building that’s reputedly London’s oldest dwelling, circa the reign of Henry VI.
Neighbourhood Vibe: A suburban-ish, leafy village where quaint cottages meet a diverse array of good-eats, bars and craft breweries.