On a recent visit to Canberra I was struck by how a coffee shop that didn’t look that cosy still had a sense of community. The architecture and decor was harsh and hard. But…. there were regulars streaming in who were obviously known by the baristas. It reminded me of days in Melbourne of when I had my own ‘regular’. I wrote them a poem for when I left Melbourne and have posted it here. Cheers!
Reminiscences of Romano’s Fairfield!
Beautiful baristas! Some coffee for me please!
My eyes are heavy,
My limbs flop limp,
I’m weakening at the knees!
I wandered in one morning,
Seeking a coffee for my way,
Something broke right through my yawning,
And stayed with me from that day.
No doubt characters cross the threshold,
Of the glassy welcoming doors,
Some may be shy, some may be bold,
They may come in sunshine, or shuffle in when it pours.
But when I entered Romano’s,
Something seemed to click,
It was more than just coffee and milky flows,
Whatever – it seemed to stick.
Is it the bouncy family way,
With kids gawking at the cakes?
Or those seeking to ease the day,
With the Age or Herald Sun news breaks?
Or is it the staff of friendly face,
Who kindly spread their cheer?
Who know their regulars around the place,
And who ordered what in here.
It’s more than just the grind and steam,
Of the coffee they tenderly give,
But an ambience in the scene,
That helps you want to live.
Romano’s helps you greet the day,
With a good and spritely start,
Whether sitting inside or take-away,
It helps to lighten the heart.
Coffee beans might pick up your rate,
And milk might give your bones strength,
But Romano’s staff add a pleasant state,
And boil an atmosphere in their cafe length.
The atmosphere percolates through little gestures,
Like giving a coffee card,
Which might give no frequent flyers,
But makes walking past real hard!
You might give a tip to them,
But here’s a tip for you and me:
Count your blessings as well as your money,
And with your gratitude be free.
So, as you in the morning greet
The bustle and Melbourne breeze,
Make your way to Station Street,
To Romano’s, if you please!
Simon C.J. Falk Commenced 10 December 2010
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