New York Maven tip: Coffee breaks Swedish style at Fika

Good afternoon, Thursday. Hey, sun- what happened to you? Was a perfectly gorgeous morning and now it's a bit ashy out. Yuck. I do, however, love me some chill in the air so can't complain about sleepy mornings with open windows. Gorgeous.

Here's something else that's gorgeous- the little chain of Swedish cofee shops called Fika right here in Manhattan. They're not new, really, I've just never been. And on my way to an early am meeting this morning, I spotted this sweet spot and had to go in. Lately, I can't resist anything Swedish- admittedly years ago I was in Stockholm and had no love for it, but think it's time for a rethink- sure everyone's nuts for the Nordic types these days, but I have to come to things in my own time, so there. I think my obsession started somwhere between Swedish style blogger Elin Kling and Eric the Vampire on "True Blood", but that's not here nor there. On to cardamom pastries.

Kanelbullar is a Swedish cinnamon roll that is not nearly as gross as a cinnabon. I hate cinnamon buns in general because sticky food is just not really my thing. Picture a cinnamon bun without the glossy thing and about half as sweet, in a good way. And the secret weapon to this light, flaky delicious little angel of a pastry is cardamom, which gives it a little unexpected yet delightful kick (kind of like Alexander Skarsgard, who is rumored to be in the running to play the lead in 'Fifty Shades of Grey'). I'm a big fan of this little coffee spot (Fika means taking a coffee break in Swedish) and was happy to stumble upon it as I tried to get the party started this am. Love it. Go forth and fika. There's a few of them around town, so check one out. 

And that's what's up this lightly infused, kicky little Thursday in the 212. All the love, you sweet things. XO

http://www.fikanyc.com/