Café culture gains foothold in city

Anukampa Sharma

Amritsar, June 25

Known for its delicacies, like kulchas, the city, nowadays, is marking the emergence of cafés at almost every nook and corner. These small cafes are popping up everywhere in the city and have become the common hangout spots for youth. The emerging café culture in the city could be attributed to many factors, from the growing mass culture to the mounting affection for coffee among the former predominantly tea consumers.

Kritika Kaundal (21) says, “We prefer hanging out at the cafés instead of restaurants and popular food joints which are often too crowded for our liking. The cafés maintain a peaceful atmosphere and they are seldom overcrowded. Cleanliness and amiable service also add to our comfort.”

She adds, “They are the perfect spots to meet and hangout with friends. The food there is delectable and matches the taste of our generation. We usually prefer light food that they offer, such as pastas, pizzas, ice creams, brownies, etc. over the spicy and heavy traditional Punjabi food. We can simply relax there without feeling any rush.”

Ajay Kapoor Panchratan, owner of Café Chokolade, says, “The cafés have an youth-oriented approach, atmosphere that is comfortable and allows them to feel ease. They enjoy the affordable and hygienic food along with the light music that suits both long and easy conversations as well as the lone customers who enjoy their solitude. TV and the classic and new board games, such as Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, Scramble, Uno, Carrom Board, etc., is also available for the visitors. They can spend a number of hours at the café without feeling uncomfortable or shy.”

Hartika Sharma, a frequent visitor to cafés, says, “The ambiance of the cafés is lively and full of youthfulness that resonates with our mood.

Whenever we go out, we want to take numerous photos to commemorate the enjoyable time and for that the interiors of café make the perfect background. The attractive décor of such places adds charm to the entire experience.”

Another point of notice is that not just the city masses, but also the youngsters from the surrounding regions like to frequent the cafés. With the changing times, the independent youth feels the need of such places that cater to their needs and wants.