First, you must know that this is not a restaurant. In fact, it’s more of a sanctuary in honor of a man who was a Buddhist, a vegetarian, and an avid collector of coffeemakers.
Second thing to note is that you MUST make a reservation. You cannot just stroll in and expect to be served, it doesn’t work that way. Also, Yuli can accommodate up to 10 people on one large communal table, no more. And when you do make your reservation, you must pay half the cost of the meal upfront. You see, everything served is fresh from the market. After you make your reservation (and pay the required amount), Yuli will then procure the ingredients and begin to prepare the meal. If you do not show up, a bus is late, train gets canceled, whatever, all of that fresh food will go to waste (it cannot be sold) because YOU were the only expected guest of honor.
I promised Yuli I would mention the first two things, but a third thing you should know it that this establishment is home to a few cats (who mainly keep to themselves), and a precocious little dog (who does not). So, if you are in any way allergic to animals this may be something to consider.
Ok, now to the review. My wife and I arrived at the appointed time and greated warmly by Yuli. She and her sister (who helps her) served us a delicious 6 course meal made with local ingredients. It was simple and delicious. Yuli will come out and explain what’s in each dish, and give the backstory. I won’t describe each dish, but I do recommend Yuli’s hot sauce condiment if you like spicy things.
After the meal, we spoke at length with Yuli and admired her extraordinary collection of coffee makers and teapots. Frankly, I think she may have the largest collection in the world, and, as such, is eligible for a Guinness World record in that category. I’m not kidding. She explained that her late husband had a restaurant at that location where he displayed his coffee makers, and after he passed away, she kept the place going in its current form in his honor. He was a Buddhist and a vegetarian. Yuli learned to cook vegetarian food after he had passed as a form of remembrance. She also kept expanding the coffee maker collection to literally thousands. It’s an incredible testament to the love she has for her husband.
I advise you go now as the future of the building is up in the air as the owner wishes to sell. Yuli has plans to relocate elsewhere, but with all the coffee makers I can’t imagine a move would be easy.
Yuli is an amazing person, an artist, and a saint. This experience is highly...
Read moreA truly unique & wonderful dining experience!
We stumbled upon this place & were fortunate enough to make a booking for the next evening - lucky we did as you need to book ahead (& choose how many of the set dishes you'd like) as each sitting is for a max of 10 people.
Not really knowing what to expect other than the fact it was a vegan/veggie restaurant (it's clearly displayed on the door) and that we chose a 6 and 10 dish set menu, we were instantly enthralled with the ambience of the place.
The owner (Yuli) goes to great efforts to make you feel as though you are at home. Nothing is rushed and the whole dining experience will take as long as it takes (or you want it to last) - be prepared to spend a few hours at least!
The food is imaginative, fresh, traditional & delicious with no nasty additives used the cooking process. For those (like the last reviewer) who want 'mainstream' local cuisine it's probably not the place for you. For those who enjoy the totality of a dining experience, great food & amazing hospitality then you need to come here - make sure you bring your appetite!
Thanks Yuli for having us at your place! We had a wonderful time & wish you...
Read moreDinner with Yuli is more than a meal, it's an experience. She devotes herself both to the food and to making sure you enjoy your time in her dining room. She happily shares her knowledge of the ingredients (largely local, all organic and fresh) and preparation techniques as well as her love of life in general.
There is no menu. You need to make a reservation and should provide any dietary restrictions at that time. Our vegan meal was slightly different than the vegetarian fare provided to the other couple at the table.
I contacted her at 9am or so for a 6pm same day meal. Her English is excellent and she makes sure to introduce you to the other diners to help provide a convivial atmosphere.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to enjoy a great vegan or vegetarian meal and make some...
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