As part of our Valentine’s Day series, #LoveCBR, we talked to Mike Kadinski (Treehouse Bar)and Sophia Carlini (freelance writer and awesome baker) about how they met, and what they love about our city.
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Where did you two meet?

Mike: We’ve actually known each other for years. We first met back when I was working the door at ICBM.

Sophia: It was back in 2007. Life took us our separate ways, but then we got chatting at last year’s Austalian Hotels Association Awards night… and things kind of just kicked off from there!

What was your first date?

S: We went to Soju Girl for dinner. It was a lovely night.

M: I’m a gentlemen – I had to make sure she was looked after.

S: (laughing) Mile is very chivalrous. It’s nice.

Where is the most romantic place in Canberra?

M: I think it’s the lake! We went paddle-boating once, and Mike made us peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for us to eat out there

S: Yeah – when I think of beautiful places I Canberra, it has to be the lake… and what more romantic thing to do than have a picnic on the lake!

What is one thing you notice about Canberra when you come back after time away?

M: It’s just so liveable and cruisy. I love the tight community – especially in hospitality where you get to know everyone and anyone. It’s great to be able to work with other businesses and succeed together.

S: People say it’s like a big country town, I think it is for all the best reasons. We tend not to notice, but when I go away and come back you can really see it.

Why do you love Canberra?

M: Again, it’s community. By building great connections in the industry, I’ve found a space where I can thrive.

S: It’s great for families, and it’s somewhere I can see myself being for quite a while!

What part of Canberra do you like to show off to tourists?

S: EightySix!

M: We actually did this a couple of weeks ago. Sophia had some friends here from Sydney and Melbourne, so we took them to Treehouse for an R&B night, but also got to show off Braddon culture.

S: They loved The Hamlet… and were amazed at how easily we can get around.

What will you be doing on Saturday night?

S: We’re going to walk through the Multicultural Festival and then head to EightSix for dinner. It’s my favourite restaurant, so I’m really looking forward to it!

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To see more of Sophia’s baking, head over to facebook.com/baked.canberra. Mike can be found keeping Canberra cocktail fans happy at Treehouse bar

Do you #LoveCBR as well? Upload your photos to Facebook, Twitter or Facebook to win a $100 shopping voucher. Click here for details!
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Looking for inspiration for Valentine’s Day? Check out our guide to what’s hot here.
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Looking for inspiration for Valentine’s Day? Check out our guide to what’s hot here.