Ever since moving to Pune, am constantly looking for new places to check out, work from and catch up with people at. The latest to add in the list is Cafe Kathaa, F C road [lane opp Vaishali]. A cafe is not just about great food and coffee—it’s about the stories shared over steaming cups and the moments created within its beautiful space.
Cafe Kathaa is one of those cafes that is tucked away in a quiet lane and has a very college vibe to it. When I entered the place around 1ish that Sunday afternoon, the place was packed. There was plenty of seating in the outdoor area and some inside as well. The indoor space was full, and the only table available was a sit on the floor kinda one, which I wasnt too keen on. So, I stepped outside and looked for a table, and had to sit in the extra chairs all the way at the back and wait.
The reason I picked this cafe was that it was mid point for me & my friend, plus they mentioned a space dedicated to books [ I found a shelf with books inside]. This friend was visiting from Goa, and our friendship could be traced back to Chennai. She is the woman behind Chennai Blogging club, and we’ve stayed in touch through the years. She & Her husband teach at BITS in Goa now and they have a dog as well.
A Picturesque Escape in the Heart of the City
Stepping into Cafe Kathaa feels like entering a storybook. The warm, rustic decor, wooden furniture, and shelves lined with books and plants make it an inviting space for anyone looking to escape the bustle of the city. The large windows let in streams of natural light, creating a peaceful atmosphere where time seems to slow down. Whether you’re here for work, a leisurely read, or catching up with friends, every corner of the cafe has a touch of charm that makes you want to stay just a little bit longer.
A Reunion Over Coffee and Conversations
After what felt like ages, I reunited with friends who had travelled all the way from Goa. There’s something magical about meeting people after a long time—time apart, shared experiences, and the thrill of catching up. Cafe Kathaa, with its laid-back vibe, was the perfect backdrop for this reunion. We found ourselves reminiscing over juices and food, laughing about old memories, and creating new ones. The cafe’s cozy corners and quiet ambiance made it feel like we were in our own little world. We spoke in Thamizh as much as possible and it was such a treat to just be ourselves.
The Menu: A Delightful Blend of Comfort and Creativity
No cafe experience is complete without great food, and Cafe Kathaa does not disappoint. Their menu is a delightful mix of comfort food and creative dishes, from artisanal sandwiches and light salads to decadent desserts. The coffee is rich and aromatic, with every cup brewed to perfection. We indulged in a spread of snacks—light yet flavourful—and it complemented our conversations perfectly.
While I chose the Jabchae [ Glass noodles with veggies], S chose Rice with Rajma and tikki while her husband chose rice and egg curry. I also had the fresh watermelon juice, which was refreshing. For dessert, she chose the Cheesecake, which alas came with a tiny strand of hair and so we had to send it back. But that apart, I was quite impressed with the food and beverages standards. Showed they had a chef who knew his flavours.
A Space for Stories
True to its name, Cafe Kathaa is a place for stories. As we sat there for hours, catching up and sharing updates, it felt like the walls themselves held the echoes of countless conversations and laughter from past visitors. The relaxed atmosphere, the thoughtful decor, and the genuine warmth of the staff made it a place where stories could unfold naturally.
So, if you ever find yourself in need of a beautiful space to catch up with friends or to simply enjoy some solitude, Cafe Kathaa should be at the top of your list. Who knows, maybe it will become the backdrop for one of your favourite memories too. Would definitely reccommend this place, go if you arent too particular about fancy ambiance.
Address:
Cafe Kathaa,
F C Road, Lane, opposite Hotel Vaishali,
Ganeshwadi, Pune
