Like the rare and beautiful lakes from which it draws it’s name, the Cafe Oasis rests within the opulent Goblet residential district, providing a welcome respite from the suffocating heat and ostentatious displays of wealth surrounding it. It is cool and welcoming, luxurious yet accessible; unlike the manors around it, it is meant to register a feeling of relief instead of envy.
Entering the lustrous white building, the soft lighting of the greeting room is an immediate reprieve from the blinding desert sun. It’s enough to make the entire place seem like a mirage, however I am thankful to find the verdant foliage and tricking fountains to be quite real. I am met by cafe owner and mastermind Heidi Bellveil. I’ll learn throughout the night that she’s gone from selling shaved ice in Limsa Lominsa to waiting tables at taverns, then training at the world-renowned Bismarck restaurant before finally opening her own cafe. Her accent is thick, and her laugh comes easy, making her seem as much charming hostess as passionate businesswoman and chef.
“Cafe” may inspire images of a small coffee shop, however the dining room is a beautiful expanse far more akin to the Oasis portion of the name. The space wraps for two floors around a decorative pond in the center, surrounded by spacious tables and booths. Along the far wall is an expansive bar, stocked for plenty and staffed for more. The upper level seating is separated by a balustrade topped with an actual running canal, flowing around the room like a gentle brook and creating a cooling ambiance for the seated diners.
It feels fitting to mention the serving staff I met by name (Alleisha, Serra, Shimo and the aptly named green-furred Viera, Mint) because each one introduced themselves and made it clear that they had ownership in our experience. Each went out of their way to be friendly and helpful, gushing not only about their work but their proprietress. Too often, the owner of a restaurant will refer to their staff as family without knowing how said ‘family’ feels; it’s very clear the staff at the Cafe Oasis view themselves as a cohesive team.
This feeling of care translates into our meal for the night; my small party, Heidi included, are each presented with a meal recommended and prepared specifically based on our input. Between us we’re offered their burger set, a hearty patty stacked with fresh vegetables between soft buns; a dish of sausages and ham, sizzled and seasoned meat certain to satiate even the most road-weary traveler; and a bowl of stone soup, an old-fashioned dish warmed by dropping a hot stone into broth. For dessert, we’re offered rolanberry shaved ice inspired by Heidi’s humble beginnings and perfectly designed to settle stomachs in Thanalan heat. Everything we try is delicious, and showcases the Cafe’s dedication to caring for each customer as an individual.
I left my visit satisfied and refreshed, like any would after drinking cool water from a hidden desert spring. With delicious fare to satiate the body and charming service for the soul, the Cafe Oasis is certain to provide a fitting respite to all those who seek their solace.
( Please visit Cafe Oasis in the Goblet Plot 49, Ward 8 on the Ultros server of the Primal datacenter. More information can be found on their carrd – https://oasis.crd.co/ )
