want for not, but coffee

Nestled at the northern base of Monte Berico, just 60 kilometers west of Venice, there exists in my memories and in stunning realness a sleepy town which belies any notion of linear time. Vicenza, derived from the Latin Vicetia, meaning “victorious”, has existed in one form or another since before the common era. Stamped with the works of 16th century architect Andrea Palladio, it is your quintessential Italian Renaissance daydream. And while there may seem few things to want for in such a setting, those which any resident might agree upon are the ever-expeditious cappuccino e cornetto. Situated a block from the bustling Piazza de Signori, this experimental café endeavors to offer retreat from the spirited commotion of weekly markets and museum events. An undulating recycled brick façade greets café-goers and gently guides them through a large revolving door. Once inside, customers may visit the circular kitchen in the lower level or find a place to enjoy their morning ritual next to any number of protruding light vessels. Each of these vessels might display a variety of crafts and fine objects which locals deem of quality and appropriate representation. On the second and third floor are located the offices and residence of the café owner, which are connected visually to the rest of the structure through a floating core. On the roof there are expansive social platforms for enjoying the sun, an homage to the strangely mismanaged, yet joyful fountain which once stood in the cafés stead.

Contra' Muscheria, 33, 36100 Vicenza VI, Italy