European Travel Inspiration for Cafe 140B
Want to know the best compliment we can get at the Cafe? “This feels like I’m at a little Cafe in Europe!” (or fill in any European country there). Why? Because that is 100% where we took our inspiration to start a Cafe in the first place. Our travels (mostly before having kids ;) to the Netherlands, England, Italy, and Japan too, shaped so much of what we wanted to create here at the Bed & Breakfast and eventually, Cafe 140B.
When I think back to my favorite memories from trips abroad, they’re usually grabbing a meal or snack at a busy (often outdoor) cafe. The best spots I can still remember were a bit tucked away (or at least it felt like you’d stumbled upon them), yet they were lively and full of locals and travelers alike. I especially love being in the center of historical districts near the most beautiful old, charming buildings. Bonus points if there’s a garden space or park near by.
Of course the U.S. has beautiful Cafes and restaurants like what I’m describing, but they’re a bit fewer and far between and usually in bigger, more walkable/bikeable city centers. While some of what I’m describing is the aesthetic or quality of the space and food, A LOT of the “European vibe” has to do with the city planning with mixed use spaces; Cafes and restaurants scattered around bustling shopping areas and markets that everyone can easily walk through. I could say so much about walkable cities, but if you want to geek out over urban planning with me, check out one of my favorite YouTube channels Not Just Bikes (who happens to be based in Amsterdam, Netherlands - my favorite city!)
We’re fortunate that Ellerbeck is in such a walkable neighborhood, though it’s tucked away from the center of downtown, but I think that contributes to the quiet charm of it all. As often as possible, we keep the doors open and the line between indoor and outdoor a little blurry. We loved large communal tables we saw at beirgardens and wanted to create the same feel. We placed scattered small seating areas, some tucked away here and there, for those who wanted a more intimate space. As much as we could we used antiques to furnish and decorate, like our antique art, or my favorite - the 100 year old bar and bar back cabinet. Add few more special touches - small market with local treasures, spiral staircase to the “secret” attic space, and little blankets scattered around for chilly weather - and you’ve arrived at qauint. I love when the Cafe has bikes parked against trees and fences, tables full of mostly walk up guests, and lots of communal moments happening.
I thought I’d share just a few photos (from a few different trips) of the inspirational cafes, restaurants, and breweries that we collected memories from, long before we even owned Ellerbeck or launched the Cafe. I’m grateful for these experiences and hope that we can pay it forward to our travelers at the B&B as well as our local neighborhood here in Salt Lake City.
Cafe in the middle of the streets/bike paths in Amsterdam
Netherlands has many playgrounds next to restaurants/ breweries.
Lunch in the middle of a big walking plaza in Rome.
Garden cafe in Amsterdam
Little canal cafe in England serving the best Afternoon Tea!
Cafe tucked in the historic center near Old Church in Amsterdam
A hostel with a full restaurant/bar on the main floor in Kyoto.
Homey restaurant in Amsterdam - with tables packed in tight & cozy
Cafe Favorites
