Our Mozart Kaffees arrive
bedecked with chocolate
and set upon pink
on pink on pink.
Our significant others
had opted for waters, only,
but we ladies committed
all-in on indulgence.
They sit perched in winter coats
on spindly rose-hued chairs
while the women, unabashed
begin to feast.
I flew here on a mission
to eat drink touch
smell absorb capture
everything in my path.
I want to inhale this city
See it through
my host family's eyes
feel the magic, its pulse.
To make sense of this place
its lofty history
its renowned cuisine
its origin stories for artists.
Sugar and caffeine hits
I guffaw loudly too loudly
- so American -
with my dear ones.
For now the Belvedere
and pre fixe menus
and the Staatsoper
can wait.
Because warming up here
in a cozy cafe with steaming kaffee
rich tortes and unfiltered laughter
I have already fulfilled my quest.
