first impression | From chef Loryn Nalic and her family—the team behind Balkan Treat Box—Telva at the Ridge is a coffee shop concept focused on Balkan breakfast and brunch offerings. Tucked away upstairs at Rolling Ridge Nursery, the restaurant get’s its name from the grounds left at the bottom of the cup, which can be used for fortune telling—an inspiration can be felt in the cozy atmosphere and bohemian decor.
must try
Kazandibi Latte, $4.50: The coffee offerings at Telva are excellent. Many of the lattes are inspired by Balkan sweets, including this one. Kazandibi is a milky pudding with a coating of caramelized sugar. The concept is perhaps intimidatingly sweet, but the actual latte is not overwhelming. The vanilla and caramel flavors complement the espresso well.
Poppyseed Pastry, $6: This was a standout among the pastries. If you’re looking for something that is not too sweet, this is the perfect option. The poppy seeds offer a nuttier, more savory counterpart to the sweeter pastry. It’s the perfect balancing act.
Kunefe, $6: The traditional dessert features kataifi (shredded phyllo dough) soaked in syrup and layered with cheese and topped with pistachios and rose petals. When we ordered this, our server suggested we have it warm. That is the right call. The combination of stringy cheese and crispy pastry is delightful. It was unexpected, but certainly a treat.
Breakfast Sendvic, $9: This breakfast sandwich features a runny egg and cheese on fresh bread. You can choose to add a protein—beef bacon, turkey bacon or sudzuka (Turkish beef sausage). It may be simple, but it’s the definition of comfort food.
Avocado Tost, $13: Everyone is familiar with avocado toast, but Telva takes it to the next level. Avocado is hardly even the focus with toasted tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese and tzatziki all playing a part. The result is bright and refreshing —each bite is a new dynamic flavor. An egg can also be added to the dish for protein and some additional richness.
final thoughts
Telva may be a counter service coffee shop, but the cozy atmosphere and excellent food and beverage offerings make it a can’t miss. It’s the perfect place to grab brunch with friends—at the risk of exposing myself as a millennial, I must say the vibes are immaculate. If your green thumb brings you into Rolling Ridge Nursery, don’t miss the chance to pop upstairs—at the very least grab a pastry and coffee!
60 N. Gore Ave., Ste. A | 314.395.2760 | telvastl.com
Pictured at the top: Telva Avocado Toast – roasted tomato, cucumber, feta, olive, tzatziki, sesame crunch, oregano
Photo: Bill Barrett