After more enforced (lock)downtime, having our wings clipped by the pandemic, and generally feeling as if our horizons have diminished, tashas inspired (Quivertree) provides some respite.

The second cookbook by restaurateur Natasha Sideris — founder of tashas, the boutique cafés we love so much — is well timed to recreate something of the café experience that’s been denied us at home. “At tashas, we think about every single detail, and I would like to encourage home cooks to do the same,” says Sideris.

Tashas inspired is divided into chapters, each dedicated to the café cultures around the world: from cities like Paris and New York to broader regions like Spain, Greece, and the Levant. There are even sections for traditions, such as the English picnic. Each section includes advice for table settings and décor, so you can recreate the particular café society ambience. The recipes (which are delectable) are illustrated with beautifully styled photographs and are presented with original artworks chosen to capture and convey something of the social spirit and creative flair that inform each culture.

Chilli eggs in 'tashas inspired'.
Chilli eggs in 'tashas inspired'.
Image: Supplied

While the book undoubtedly helps to make it possible for us all to create a little of the café culture we all miss so much at home, it’s also a timely reminder of the social, cultural, and artistic life cafés feed, as much as our hunger!

Available at tashas cafés and leading bookstores

Gemista in 'tashas inspired'.
Gemista in 'tashas inspired'.
Image: Supplied

 From the February edition of Wanted, 2021.

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