Kitchen by Mike

Upon Kass's recommendation recently I ventured out to Rosebery to see for myself the visual spectacle that is Kitchen By Mike. I'd like to say I happened upon this wondrous design showroom slash cafe, but in all honesty I had to hunt it down. This amazing little eatery accompanies the Koskela showroom and was opened earlier this year by former Rockpool chef Michael McEnearney. The open plan kitchen means visitors can watch as food is prepared – a handy distraction as the line to be served is a tad slow. Meals are served by portions, ie one would order a $3.50 serving of coleslaw to compliment the $7.50 serving of pork belly. Don't bother planning your meal choice before you go, though; the menu changes daily according to what fresh produce can be sourced. Although, if you're keen I believe that their Facebook page is updated regularly with what food can be found.

The Catcher in the Rye

The Catcher in the Rye tells the story of Holden Caulfield, a teenage slacker who has perfected the art of underachievement. During the last days before his expulsion, he searches for an appropriate way to conclude his school experience, but he ends up getting so annoyed with his school and schoolmates that he leaves in the middle of the night on the next train home to New York City.

We read this book because we all knew it was a classic, but weren't familiar with the story. We had mixed feelings reading it as the language is really very colloquial and the plot doesn't seem to make much ground, but interestingly after we met and talked about it we all felt that this book still has a lot to offer its readers over 60 years after it was written.

There are some unusual approaches to this novel, and one is that the protagonist isn't necessarily our favourite character. It's written in first person, and after just a few pages, we that Holden Caulfield is actually a negative, bratty teen whom we probably wouldn't have much patience for if we were to meet him. We do learn to like him though, as we learn about his unlucky and unhappy life circumstances, and see that he is a good young man with a kind heart and a love for his family. Not a page-turner, but not a hard read either... if that makes sense!!

Pinteresting!

Who out there isn't completely in love with and addicted to the latest online image pinning craze: Pinterest?! It's so easy to collect, organise and share inspiration, and on such a lovely, friendly platform. Check out Claire's Pinterest collection here, or Chantel's here. Stay tuned for the rest of the Boheemian's accounts!

How International Design Awards

Another feather in the cap – Hurrah! One Tree Coffee Co. branding continues to show its popularity with its 'Miscellaneous Merit' award in the How International Design Awards.

Get Sidetracked

When I saw the street number on this dear spot in Bowral was my lucky 37, I had a feeling there would be treats in store... and I was right. Sidetracked is the kookier, more industrial sister to main street's Three Wise Monkeys – and whilst their website gives a nice little sneak peak to their wonderfully curated collection of books, gifts and vintage goodies... Sydney-siders really must make the trip to this very pretty part of the world to see these wonders first hand.

A Little Pixel with a lovely aesthetic

I'm not totally sure of what we're looking at here to be completely honest, but I like it. I think this guy has re-constructed some classic album covers and presented them as a treated set. I think the merit needs to go to the designers of these original beauties, but I'll enjoy this collection for what it is all the same. See more at Little Pixel's Flickr link.