Think of Transylvania, and images of Dracula and Gothic architecture spring to mind. But there’s more to the Romanian region than Medieval history and vampire fangs. Its unofficial capital Cluj-Napoca is dotted with architectural landmarks that stretch from the Saxon period to the present, and the city also has a flourishing culinary and coffee house scene.
It’s these quieter corners of Cluj-Napoca that have become the stomping ground of lifestyle photographer and instagramer Lavinia Cernău.
‘Most cafés are hosted inside historical buildings, which gives them a particular charm as all architectural details are carefully preserved – with a contemporary twist,’ she says. ‘While some are newly established, there are a few that stand as landmarks of the city, like the lake-side Chios Social Lounge.’
Here she takes us on a tour of her favourite haunts.
Yolka is a synthesis of patterns and textures. It’s also a great example of how plants can create an enjoyable, relaxed atmosphere. Yolka boasts a wall of greenery and also two very charming ceramic heating stoves. I love the Yolka Special, which is a fir syrup coffee served in an equally lovely cup.
Photography: Lavinia Cernău
Bujole is the definition of sophistication, both in terms of design and food. Vivid colours and bold design elements come together to create a sleek space amplified by well placed mirrors. It’s like being in someone’s kitchen: there’s no bar, but there’s an island area, and the combination of wood and metal, plus the copper pans and utensils makes it feel really homely. French-Mediterranean inspired dishes complete the atmosphere of Bujole, which is a coffee shop by day, restaurant by night.
Photography: Lavinia Cernău
Chios Social Lounge is one of the city’s best-known landmarks: it overlooks a small lake in the middle of Parcul Central, and was built in a Neo-classical style. The interior of Chios Social Lounge has warm-and-cold contrasts from wood and marble, and handmade natural elements. There’s a lovely terrace outside and relaxing gardens behind the building where you can enjoy Chios’ mindful eating concept.
Photography: Lavinia Cernău
Flowers Tea House is very close to the old town, and it almost feels like you’re having tea in someone’s living room. Hard wood floors, round marble tabletops, and Thonet chairs make for an intimate atmosphere. I particularly love the wooden bar with all the vintage tea cans behind it, and what is, by the looks of it, an equally old coffee machine. They have a great selection of herbal teas and the best freshly squeezed grapefruit juice.
Photography: Lavinia Cernău
Meron coffee house turns into a wine bar during the evening. This hip spot – complete with cosy seating and tall ceilings – feels industrial and urban. Greys are broken up by pops of colour, and the floor features honeycomb-shaped tiles, a motif mirrored by the shelving.
Photography: Lavinia Cernău
Napoca 15 opened in 1992 and has a somewhat bohemian atmosphere. The exterior of this historical building is framed by ivy, which helps enchant passers by. I love the sunny cobblestone terrace – it’s like stepping into a relaxing oasis in the heart of the city.
Photography: Lavinia Cernău
Café Olivo is a retro home to some of the best food in town. Interiors feature wood panelling and seating in shades of military green and tangerine, which give this place an elegant but relaxed feel. I particularly love the pastel-hued mural. On the menu? The zucchini and avocado crème-soup is highly recommended.
Photography: Lavinia Cernău
Narcoffee Roasters offers the best coffee in town and great service too. This simple but stylish coffeehouse has an all-round friendly atmosphere. Its light pendants are a great touch in a somewhat dark interior, and the triangle-shaped mirrors boost the sense of space.
Photography: Lavinia Cernău
Toulouse Café Brasserie evokes the spirit Toulouse Lautrec’s Paris in Cluj-Napoca. Reds, browns and creamy greens combine inside the bistro, contrasting the hard black-and-white diamond tiles. Toulouse Lautrec sketches hang on the walls, and are integrated into the design of the menu, which features a mix of delightful finger food, sandwiches and soups.
Photography: Lavinia Cernău
Follow Lavinia on Instagram for more.
Read next: Take a spin around Transylvania’s subterranean theme park
