📚 Toshikazu Kawaguchi invites readers into an underground café in Tokyo. Before WeForget Kindness is the fifth book in Kawaguchi’s series — but it can be read as a standalone. In this book, patrons can travel back in time for a brief encounter, but only before their coffee cools. The stories are filled with bittersweet human relationship encounters.

Readers familiar with Kawaguchi’s previous works will find that this one offers new narratives that delve deeper into the emotional complexities of life. The four intertwined stories tackle themes of love, regret, and the healing power of connection. The Son Who Couldn’t Smile follows young Yuki as he confronts his parents’ divorce. A Child Without a Name highlights Megumi’s poignant journey as she seeks to have her deceased husband name their child. A Father’s Regret explores Mochizuki’s struggle to reconcile with his estranged daughter. An Undelivered Valentine deals with unspoken feelings and missed connections.

The author has a unique ability to capture small moments that make the characters’ joys and sorrows feel relatable, reminding readers of the vital importance of kindness, human connection, and the weight of unspoken words. The title serves as a gentle reminder to cherish the fleeting moments we have.

WHERE TO FIND IT- Before We Forget Kindness is available at Diwan.

HOT AND FRESH OUT OF THE KITCHEN-

🍴Craving a taste of Tarb with a twist? Tarab is the spot to try. Their menu focuses on creating local sandwich favorites, but with the addition of tarb. Every sandwich is served in homemade baladi bread. While not necessarily unique at face value, the familiar flavors and tastes are executed skillfully, making for a wholesome bit.

Our first pick was the hawashi me’armesh, a treat for anyone who loves a bit of crunch. The baladi bread is turned inside out and toasted to a golden crisp, delivering a satisfying crackle with each bite. Inside, the minced meat was perfectly spiced with just the right hint of heat — bold but balanced. It’s got that homemade, comforting taste, while the mildly spicy kick elevates it to something memorable.

The kofta sandwich was packed with the smokiness of the grill. Creamy tehina covered the meat, which balanced out the savory, herbed flavors of the kofta. Topped with fresh onion for a bit of crunch and a subtle sharpness, this one felt like a complete, satisfying bite with each mouthful.

But the true star here is, naturally, the tarb sandwich. Tarb, a mix of beef and lamb seasoned with onions and spices, is wrapped in a thin layer of lamb fat that melts into the meat on the grill, infusing it with deep, rich flavors. The result is an irresistibly juicy sandwich that’s smoky, fatty in the best way, and packed with flavor. While the recipe here doesn’t stray from the traditional tarb we’re used to, it was expertly made — and we weren’t worried about what it would do to our digestive system later.

For something outside of the Egyptian box, we ordered the grilled wings, and they quickly became a table favorite. Perfectly seasoned and charred, each wing had a slight crisp outside with tender, juicy meat that practically fell off the bone. They didn’t need any sauce — the seasoning was on point and complemented the charcoal flavor.

Can’t decide on just one sandwich? Go for one of Tarab’s box options to sample their top picks. Next time, we’ll be mixing it up with their side options like pickled tomatoes or eggplant to give our sandwiches an extra kick.

WHERE TO FIND IT- As of now, they only have one branch in New Cairo, tucked away at the Mobil Lotus Gas Station. You can pass by their drive-thru if you happen to crave a good meal on your drive home. Only New Cairenes get to enjoy delivery.

💵 Per person: EGP 100-300.

🪑 Outdoor seating: No.

🍺 Alcohol: No.

🦽 Accessibility friendly: Yes.

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