It’s December and the days are getting grey. I have to admit that I’m not a fan of the dark season; what I need is light and space. I find that in Menorca, where I have a view of the sea and usually plenty of light. On a rainy day like today, I decide to go to Pipet, a place that always lifts my spirits.
When I arrive, I’m greeted by the soothing hiss of the coffee machine, the satisfying click of the portafilter and the rich aroma of freshly ground coffee beans, mixed with hints of vanilla and cinnamon. The homemade cakes in the display case are tempting and make my mouth water. The warm light, the soft murmur of conversation and those familiar smells make me feel at home. Pipet exudes a relaxed cheerfulness that embodies the essence of hygge*. It’s all thanks to Eleonora Pipet and her team, who have lovingly run the café for the past ten years with impeccable attention to detail, good taste and genuine passion: the atmosphere is relaxed as always, many people know each other and sometimes those who don’t get to know each other if they want to.
Today I am looking for that kind of comfort. I sit down at a small table in the back corner, each table decorated with colourful tablecloths and delicate bouquets. The menu offers a delightful selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes, as well as popular classics.
Today I’m in the mood for the ‘Avo’ – toasted wholemeal bread topped with avocado, a poached egg and cress, washed down with a perfect latte. I remember the last time I sat at this table with Zizi, when she told me she was leaving the island.
I often think about Zizi and, more generally, about how sometimes you have to leave a place in order to return. Once you’ve lived in Menorca for a long time, you can’t live without it.
Without sounding too maudlin… in these times of global political uncertainty, it feels essential to find solace in a familiar place – even if it’s just for a coffee to stay.
It’s the little things in life that bring sweetness, like the delicious carrot cake I indulged in afterward. Even though I was alone at Pipet, I got talking to a nice couple at the next table, and before I knew it, two hours and a glass of cava had slipped by.
*Hygge is a Danish and Norwegian word that describes a cozy, comfortable, and contented mood evoked by comfort and conviviality.