I traveled to Belfast for work back in 2022, and it was truly a study in contrasts. From graffiti-covered streets bearing the echoes of the Troubles to the refined beauty of art museums and historic castles, the city offered a striking juxtaposition at every turn.
Ever since visiting all three Arabica locations in Kyoto and two in Tokyo, I’ve made it my mission to visit every Arabica location in the world. Surely, I can’t be the only one with this wild idea—their tagline does say, “See the World through Coffee,” after all.
Admittedly, this might be a bit ambitious. As of now, Arabica boasts a staggering 213 locations, including an eye-popping 87 in China alone. But I’m determined to make it happen, one cup at a time. Thankfully, Morocco made it easy for me: there are only two locations in the country—one in Casablanca and one in Marrakech. Since those were the only two cities I visited, I happily checked both off my list.
Casablanca
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| Berber fabrics on the seats |
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| Moroccan tiles in the doorway |
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| Kyoto latte never disappoints |
Marrakech
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| Indoor fountain |
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| Thought this was a matcha cookie - but it's pistachio |
I recently traveled to Morocco for work, and as is often the case with work trips, most of my meals were either hotel catering or wherever the client chose to take me. Fortunately, my client had excellent taste, opting for nearby restaurants in Casablanca like Rick’s and La Sqala—both of which were incredible and a welcome change from the hotel's western-style food.
When I had a free day in Marrakech, I finally had the chance to choose my own dining spots, and I made sure to pick some truly exceptional restaurants. While it wasn’t exactly the foodie adventure I might have dreamed of, I still managed to enjoy a good variety of flavors along the way.
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| Asian Food: Sushi (Japanese), spring rolls (Vietnamese), and Pad Thai (Thai) |
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| Juices: Lemon, mixed fruit, cucumber, orange, and pomegranate |
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| Desserts: my favorite being the black rice pudding from Rick's |
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| Dips |
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| Breakfast and snack at the Riad |
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| Chicken Tagine, and Lamb Tagine |
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| Western food |
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| Client lunch at Petanque Social Club |
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Cocktails
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Like many people, I developed an unexpected hobby-slash-obsession during the pandemic: picnics. What started with a mild fascination for cheese and charcuterie boards quickly spiraled into living room picnics, and eventually, full-on outdoor picnicking adventures of every kind.
In spring, you’ll find me sprawled out at Laurelhurst Park. By early summer, I’m perched near the Mt. Tabor reservoir. And come late summer, I’m basking on the sandy shores of Sauvie Island. Each season, each spot, has its own vibe — and I’m here for all of them.
Naturally, my picnic gear has grown to match my enthusiasm. I now own four picnic baskets: one shaped like a watermelon (because why not?), two classic rectangular ones, and one charmingly round. My blanket collection is just as curated: two cozy wool blankets for parks and two beach-friendly options. And let’s not forget my arsenal of containers — at least four — for cheese, charcuterie, and whatever else the picnic gods inspire me to bring.
When it comes to picnic provisions, my go-to is Providore Fine Foods Market. Their sandwiches, cheeses, charcuterie, and sweets never disappoint. Lately, though, I’ve been mixing it up: sampling treats from other bakeries, experimenting with tin fish boards (a whole vibe of their own), and even attempting to craft my own sandwiches.
This post is a celebration of these post-pandemic years of picnicking — and the pure joy of embracing a simple, delicious, outdoor tradition. Here's to more baskets, more blankets, and many more perfect bites shared under open skies.
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| All kinds of Providore sandwiches |
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| Backyard picnic |
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| Japanese sandwich and musubi picnic |
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| Typical basket on a solor trip |
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| Bakery haul for the picnic |
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| The round table in action |
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| Russian caviar picnic |
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| Providore's cheese and meat board |
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| Typical set up |
I traveled to Belfast for work back in 2022, and it was truly a study in contrasts. From graffiti-covered streets bearing the echoes of the ...
