I Cannae Cut My Panino
Part of making a new city your new home is creating habits that help you put down roots in your new habitat. The easiest way is to consider the things you used to do back home and just transfer them. For me, one of the things I did quite often in San Francisco was to get my eyebrows done. So, when I first moved to Edinburgh I took on the task of finding a place I could trust my eyebrows with. Now, what do my eyebrows have to do with food and this blog? Well, after some hours research, my friend Zoe and I decided upon Afreen Beauty at the foot of Leith. Having just moved here we hadn't realized just how far this place was from our student accommodation. But adventure called...and so did my shapeless eyebrows. We slowly realized that this still abstract location was further than what we expected, and along with that came the first pangs of lunchtime hunger. We didn't know any places in the area, so when we came across Gaia's Deli, about three quarters of the way there, we decided to venture inside. The place is tiny with just a few tables and stools, yet so cozy and welcoming. In the back they have a small display of Italian cold cuts, antipasti, cheeses, etc. The menu is simple with a handful of cold and hot paninis and a daily pasta and soup. We both chose the 'Crudo' which consisted of prosciutto, mozzarella, and tomato. Despite its simplicity, it was absolutely amazing and we vowed to go back as soon as possible. Now it has become a sort of tradition that each time we go get our eyebrows done, we stop by Gaia's before for our panino fix which we usually accompany with a San Pellegrino and finish off with an espresso (one of the best I've had in the city). We've tried some of their other paninis, but the 'Crudo' has become our go-to option. Not only are their paninis good, but the staff is also extremely friendly, easy going, and one can't help but feel at home!
Even though Gaia's is a bit out of the way, the family-run deli is definitely worth the detour! (Especially if it also means getting your eyebrows done!)
