#coffehouse

So about a year ago I started to live on my own for the first time, and the first room in my new place that I wanted to decorate was the kitchen.  I wanted to create a place that would never prompt me to eat out or go to Starbucks ever again.  So, I spent weeks finding the perfect milk frother, I went to every store in the city to see all my kettle options, and I spent hours online looking at mugs.  I actually have so many that I am running out of cupboard space...

One thing I almost overlooked, however, was coffee syrups.  I assumed that because I had sugar and honey that that’s all I would need for a perfect cup of tea or coffee.  I was very, very wrong.  I needed variety!  Something a little more exciting than the dalgona coffee trend that was all over TikTok.  So I went to torani.com and started buying their coffeehouse syrups.

I have bought several of their syrups since moving out, and for every one I’ve had I will review them for anyone who is thinking of doing the same!  

The first one I will review is my least favorite: pistachio.  I bought this one because I tried Starbucks pistachio latte and wanted to try and give it a go myself (I found out later after watching reviews from small coffeeshop owners that Starbucks version tastes nothing like actual pistachio, and had more of a sugar cookie taste to it), and I did not like it in the least.  In hindsight, I was never going to like it because I do not and have never liked nuts, but I had hope that this time would be different.  I suppose that’s what I get for stepping outside my comfort zone. 

If you like pistachio I would recommend it because it does taste just like it!  I, however, am biased and will likely let that 750ml bottle of syrup live on my countertop for decoration until I move out and am forced to deal with it properly.  

This is the only nut flavored syrup I will likely ever try, so if you were hoping for a hazelnut, almond, or butter pecan review I am sorry to say you are on the wrong blog.  Maybe a coffee creamer but never again will it be a syrup.  If I ever find a way to drink this stuff that doesn't taste awful - or if anyone has any suggestions - I will post an update but until then, I have a new fragile piece of home decor on my hands.

We spent the next day wandering around Tampere and then we moved to Helsinki. The journey took aprox. two and half hour by bus, but it was the cheapest option..aand all low-cost options are win.

We came to Helsinki. Tried the Finnish markets and luckily found our apartment.

When we finally came to our new home, we were quite exhausted from the travelling and walking. We cooked some dinner and then chilled and planned the next days.

One thing that was confusing for me was definitely the light! There was much more light in the night..no dark at all I think and the sun was setting down way more later (around 10 p.m-11 p.m) We couldn't fall asleep that easily even though we were tired. We still had the feeling it's around 7 or 8 p.m. The next day we couldn't get up and the rest of the days were no different.

We walked around the city, saw some lakes and parks. One thing I probably like the most was the weather and the climate. Although there was 28°C I didn't feel so hot. The city was full of trees and green spaces and that kept the heat out of the town.

The seaside and the port was pretty. There were a lot of people sunbathing and even few were swimming. We sat down on the beach and enjoyed the sun and waves.

And we found the Czech restaurant right next to the railway station. There were menu with all the typical food and even the beer and it was written in czech as well.

Then I loved the small hidden alleys and restaurants and coffees that looked so cozy.

And sunflowers at markets. 🌻🌻

Overall conclusion on Helsinki :

~ Beautiful, but confusing.

~ Big and yet so calm?

~ Not many tourists.