Hello again, everyone!
This is Atta, back again, writing to you from our little café as the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp. This will be our first proper winter in Melbourne, and both Kai and I feel a gentle excitement and nostalgia about the approaching cool.
Coming from our old home on the iceberg, the colder weather feels familiar, almost like a quiet friend returning. Instead of hiding from the cold, we plan to step into it and discover how this city embraces the season with warmth and life.
So, why not plan with us for the new season that is steadily approaching? Let’s have fun with our chilly Melbourne adventure! ( ˘▽˘)っ♨
The Gentle Rhythm of Winter
Melbourne in winter has its own special rhythm. The changeable skies keep things interesting, and the city seems to glow a little brighter against the shorter days. There is something comforting about layering up, moving through the streets, and finding pockets of light and cosiness wherever you go.
Whilst we came to this new place seeking warmth, that doesn’t mean we will just sit and wait for summer to return. Instead, we turn up the joy and meet the season as it is, finding joy in the unique ways only the chillier times can offer.
Wandering Through Warm Lights
One of the first things we look forward to is wrapping up warm and exploring the shops around our little store. Big, lofty places like Emporium and the beautiful Block Arcade offer lovely spaces to wander, even if the very tall crowds can get a little disorienting.
The windows glow softly, and it feels good to treat yourself to something new when the weather turns. Melbourne has some of the loveliest boutiques and designers, so a little retail therapy on a cool afternoon can lift the spirits nicely.
Art That Warms the Heart
We are especially looking forward to visiting the National Gallery of Victoria. This year, they are holding the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition featuring Cartier. Nearly four hundred beautiful jewels, gems and objects will be on display.
I think Kai will enjoy seeing the sparkle and craftsmanship, and I look forward to walking through the galleries with him, taking our time and appreciating the experiences we could get nowhere else. Art galleries make wonderful places for parents and children to share quiet moments together.
⸂⸂⸜(രᴗര๑)⸝⸃⸃
Lights, Festivals and Evening Magic
We have also heard much about the RISING Festival.
Kai didn’t want to go at first because he is a bit afraid of heights, but after I explained that it was a big outdoor arts festival that lights up the city at the start of winter, and that it happened on the ground, he was much more excited.
┬┴┬┴┤ᵒᵏ (･_├┬┴┬┴
With works from artists around the world, I’ve heard it turns streets and squares into places of wonder under the moonlight.
It sounds truly magical. (∩｀-´)⊃━☆ﾟ.*･｡ﾟ
Winter is also a strong season for sport, with the AFL, soccer, rugby and netball filling the city with energy. For quieter evenings, Spring Street offers lovely pre-theatre restaurants where you can enjoy a warm meal before taking your seats for a show.
Finding Warmth at Attakai
Between all these adventures, we will be at our cafés, keeping things warm for everyone. At our Carlton location, you can sit down properly and enjoy something hearty. The tonkotsu sandos or delicious ricotta hotcakes warm you from the inside out. We also serve shokupan sets and hearty tamago sandos, perfect after a day in the cold.
At our Collins Street window, we serve quick, comforting drinks. A hot matcha latte or a yuzu drink makes a lovely pause before catching the next tram.
Our First Melbourne Winter
Kai and I are still learning the ways of this city, but winter already feels like it was made for us penguins. The cool air reminds us of home, yet the warmth of the people and the glow of the events make everything feel new and full of possibility.
Coming together with family to visit the NGV, rugging up for an evening at RISING, or simply finding a warm corner after walking through the Block Arcade; all of these things feel like a perfect way to stay warm during the Melbourne Winter. Plus, if you need a place to sit with a nice, nourishing meal and a warm drink, Attakai is always here for you.
If you’re looking for an Attakai location, you can find us at our Carlton Cafe for food and drinks, and our Collins Street Cafe Window for a quick drink while you’re out and about.
Winter here is not something to endure. It is something to embrace fully, with open hearts and warm hands. We look forward to sharing this first Melbourne winter with all of you.
With steady flippers and a grateful heart,
Atta
Attakai Café