When the trained architect Zita Poulsen arrived in Luxembourg some 20 years ago, she initially worked in an office with the dream of owning her own café still lying somewhere in the distant future. However, earlier this year, the time had finally come and the Danish entrepreneur was able to realise her dream. And when it came to furnishing her café in Diekirch, she was intuitively inspired by her roots and career.
After 3 months of renovations, the café was ready for its customers. The resulting bright, airy space immediately evokes a positive vibe and really puts you in a better mood. Most of the furnishings are made of wood and harmonise beautifully with the earthy red and pastel green of the wallpaper. The plants that habituate each corner add a natural touch. The venue offers ample room for its customers to sit in two interior rooms and on the terrace, perfect for a hot summer’s day! As for the name of the café, it is simply drawn from its house number, which makes it all the easier to remember.
Zita places a high value on inclusivity and wants to ensure that her menu appeals to as many people as possible. From personal experience, after being diagnosed with a gluten intolerance e ten years ago, the owner knows that this is by far not always a given and that dietary restrictions or preferences can sometimes still be quite limiting. “Quite regularly I was disappointed with what was on offer in restaurants and had to find out for myself what I could still eat without feeling unwell”.
Food-wise, the focus is thus 100% gluten-free, local, seasonal and preferably healthy. From bread to cakes, everything is homemade and the majority of products are sourced from Luxembourg or neighbouring countries. There are many vegetarian and vegan dishes on the menu, but also fish and poultry options. Not to forget a nice selection of chilled drinks and a delicious coffee.
Having her own clientele now, she is happy to provide them with a wide range of delicacies suitable for as many as possible. In terms of turnout she’s also quite content: “During the week, many business people come for a light lunch, and on the weekends, when we organise brunches, people of all ages join us. We don’t really appeal to any particular demographic, we just welcome everyone with open arms.” The fact that the café closes its doors in the evening and does not serve alcohol is also not an issue. The many bars and restaurants throughout the village give visitors plenty of choice to carry on their evenings.
As for future plans, Zita still has a bunch of ideas up her sleeve. For one thing, she would love to organise regular and special events, such as yoga workshops for instance, and make the café available for private parties.
Certainly a place to keep an eye on!
More information: Cafe.no12
Pictures: Lexi Nickels