Cochin- and its best

Cochin has always surprised me with its exotic locations and styles and the salty air. Thought the heat is excruciating, I never let myself be within the air conditioned rooms of my uncle’s abode. I demand my friends to take me out, and show me the places that I have visited hundreds of times, yet every time I go there once more, there’s something new and refreshing about them. But the most amazing experience has been in Kashi Art Cafe. In the heart of Fort Kochi, this small space has created a relaxed atmosphere to thousands of tourists and people like me.

My first trip to Kashi was in September 2005, when Vinod decided to celebrate Mona’s birthday at Kashi. Never having heard of that place all of us just sat back in the car and enjoyed the salty breeze, the lanes that were used by the Dutch, the cemeteries and the churches. A turn towards Burgher Street brought us to this small café, a very old house which has been renovated with a modern taste.

The first two halls of this 260 year old Dutch row house (that’s what the website has mentioned) are dedicated to exhibiting art in a deserving professional manner. Once through with the gallery, you enter an airy tropical garden café. There was only one word to describe it- beautiful. The space was simple, letting nature create the restful ambiance. Wooden benches that still carried the smell of forest, cane curtains, an old tea maker and urns and vessels completed the space.

Known for its mouth watering chocolate cake, we ordered one for the pretty femme, Monica. I don’t have to mention that we devoured the whole cake in jus seconds after first slice of yummy cake went into Mona’s mouth. The Lemon ice tea was so refreshing and I wondered why the Pizza hut iced teas couldn’t have that effect.

2 years later, when I visit this place, I realize that I have changed a lot. But the place remains the same, devoid of change, as beautiful as ever. This time there were a bunch of us ex-Ximeans, to attack the cheese omelet and chocolate cake. And they couldn’t take their eyes off from some of the blondes and brunettes that were regular visitors to this area during their vacation. A pretty pose, and all of us were ready to get back to finish our marathon called LIFE!!!

Some moments in Life are forever!!!!
For all those who are interested, here is the address:

KASHI Art café
Burgher Street,
Fort Cochin 682001
Kerala