Side benefit of meeting locals around town for research-related interviews: you discover those tucked-away eateries that are nigh-impossible to discover on your own. Babiche has it all: atmosphere, pastries, good coffee, quirky decor, and incredibly friendly staff.

Located in Shmeisani, just across from the Millennium Hotel (not far from Duwwar Shmeisani/Duwwar Abdali/aka Duwwar where the Mukhabarat used to be), it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it – although it’s well-signposted amidst the much-taller buildings that tower nearby.

Having arrived early for my meeting, I ordered a coffee and was promptly given a plate of cookies and sweets to go with it. Needless to say, I’ll be back.