In our search for hidden gems in the city, we chanced upon Champaca. Hidden away in the quiet lanes of Edwards Road, Champaca is a gorgeous independently owned, women-run space that overlooks an avocado tree. Calling it a space is an understatement, for it's a bookstore, a library, and a cafe all rolled into one. Located on the rooftop of a bungalow, once you climb the metal staircase, you are greeted by a charming space that's naturally lit with seating for about 30 people at a time. Our favourite spot is by the large windows that overlook a towering avocado tree and the other pretty neighbourhood houses. There's free WiFi, so naturally, we love to work out of here, more than we should!
The bookstore section is something you will fall in love with. The collection is curated and you can buy books as diverse as philosophy and poetry. The bookshelves, which look like it is straight out of a Hogwarts library, have got even a small sliding ladder you can climb to reach books on the higher levels. Of course, the friendly staff can pick up the books for you, but what fun in that! There is a corner spot that's furnished with floor cushions, reserved for little bibliophiles. Small reading parties and storytime with kids are a possibility here, so take the little ones here for a day of words.
The cafe serves up coffee and small bites such as cakes and desserts.