Filipenko
September 2024
5
Filipenko is a tiny cafeteria in the heart of Novi Sad, hidden from the tourist traffic on a narrow street. You'd never find it unless you were looking for it, as it's overshadowed by a local giant, another coffee shop, "Zenit Books." I myself passed by it several times, overlooking its minimalistic sign. It was only because of a friend's recommendation that I finally opened the door and stepped inside, ready for anything. At first glance, the interior wasn't fancy at all: plain white walls and seemingly nothing else. However, as your eyes lazily scan the place, you start to notice other things: Soviet-style carpets on the floor, posters here and there, and plants scattered around the corners. All of these create a unique atmosphere that makes Filipenko a memorable place. People don't go to coffee shops just to drink coffee; they can do that at home. They go because these places, if they're good, offer something more. Ambience is surely one of them. When I ordered my "the-biggest-americano-you-can-make," I sat upstairs and immediately fell in love with the place. There were quite a few people, chatting quietly at different tables: IT guys fixing bugs, medical students doing homework, entrepreneurs having Zoom calls with their colleagues. All of this immediately reminded me of what a coffee shop really is: a meeting point. The service is also excellent. The waiters are always nice and helpful, speaking all possible languages. What I like most about them is that they are not there to sell; they are there to assist. Almost invisible, they bring your drinks, clean the tables, say some random nice things here and there, inevitably making you smile. A tip is never demanded but always well-deserved. It's a shame that I don’t always have cash on me to express my gratitude.
City Park Hotel Sochi
February 2024
5
A nice store with reasonable prices. The stuff speak English. Union pay works.