e:
CE N E i M RI UND E P S EX LE Å m he
T ni
Just like visiting your cool aunt In a shopping centre in the heart of Ålesund, you will find Tante Bruun, a homely café where guests can unwind in a relaxed atmosphere with trendy interiors, while enjoying delicious homemade food. Here, you are encouraged to pick up a magazine, get comfortable on the sofa with a coffee and a slice of cake, and simply feel like you are at home. By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Tante Bruun Ålesund
This is not your average shopping centre, and not your average café. The building dates back to 1904, and what used to be old apartments has rejuvenated into the perfect setting for a modern feel-good café with a retro vibe. With its original Art Nouveau style, the space is full of old charm, something owner Camilla Stene was keen to embrace when she opened Tante Bruun in 2011. “The walls are full of history, and the different apartments and living rooms with old wooden floors, high ceilings and original features make it an interesting space to work with,” she says. 88 | Issue 118 | November 2018
The café has become her baby, and she believes in the importance of great food, service and atmosphere.
Making people feel at home Often referred to as Tanta, the name of the café comes from the Norwegian word for aunt. Stene created the persona of a hip lady that would capture the essence of the space, a fictional character that could be anyone’s aunt, which makes you feel like you are stepping inside some place familiar. “The concept came naturally; I just followed my heart and my initial gut feeling,”
she explains, adding: “It is all about creating a personal and friendly atmosphere, making people feel welcome, like they are when visiting their own aunt.” Interior design has always been a big passion of Stene’s, something you can clearly see in the premises. Her eye for details and for mixing old and new has given Tante Bruun a unique look, making it a place to come and discover the latest trends in interior design. “I am constantly finding new furniture and decorative items for the café. You should see my garage – it’s full of cool vintage finds that I can’t wait to redecorate with,” Stene enthuses.
Healthy, fresh, homemade food Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Tante Bruun has quickly become a popular spot in Ålesund. Every month, around 7,000 customers come to visit, including