The morning sun rose lazily over the city, bathing the streets in a warm golden glow. Bibi, a cheerful nine-year-old with a head full of curly hair and dreams even bigger than the sky, bounced excitedly beside her Uncle Phong as they made their way to a special place he had promised to show her. It wasn’t every day she got invited out for breakfast — and certainly not a “luxurious” one.
Uncle Phong was Bibi’s favorite relative. Always impeccably dressed in tailored shirts and polished shoes, he had a way of making ordinary things feel magical. Whether it was telling stories about his travels or showing her how to fold paper cranes, Uncle Phong had a knack for turning simple moments into memories.
Today, he had a twinkle in his eye.
“Are you ready for the best breakfast of your life?” he asked, as they turned the corner.
Bibi nodded, her sneakers tapping quickly on the pavement.
The coffee shop was not like the small ones Bibi had seen before. It stood on a quiet, tree-lined street, with large glass windows and elegant gold lettering spelling out “Café Élégance.” The scent of freshly baked bread and rich coffee beans drifted into the air like a warm embrace. A doorman in a crisp black uniform greeted them with a polite nod, opening the heavy glass door.
Inside, the café was a picture of sophistication. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, their delicate lights casting a soft glow over marble tables and velvet armchairs. A soft melody from a piano floated across the room, mixing with the gentle clinking of fine china.
Bibi’s eyes widened. “Wow,” she whispered.
Uncle Phong chuckled, pleased with her reaction. “Only the best for my favorite niece.”
They were led to a cozy corner by the window. The table was already set with gleaming silverware and a pristine white tablecloth. Moments later, a smiling waiter appeared with menus that looked more like beautifully illustrated books.
Bibi flipped through hers carefully. The options were endless: buttery croissants, golden pancakes stacked high, creamy omelets filled with herbs and cheese, tropical fruit platters, smoked salmon on brioche, and even tiny breakfast tarts topped with edible flowers.
“Uncle, can I really choose anything?” Bibi asked, her voice trembling with excitement.
“Anything,” he said, winking. “Today is a special day.”
After much deliberation, Bibi ordered a fluffy Belgian waffle with whipped cream and fresh strawberries, a side of scrambled eggs, and a warm mug of rich hot chocolate topped with marshmallows. Uncle Phong chose a French omelet with Gruyère cheese, a croissant with raspberry jam, and a dark roast coffee.
As they waited for their food, Uncle Phong told Bibi about his adventures in Paris, where he once had breakfast on a balcony overlooking the Eiffel Tower. His stories made her laugh and gasp in wonder. She pictured him wearing a beret, sitting under the morning sun with a croissant in one hand and a book in the other.
When the food arrived, it looked even better than the pictures in the menu. The waffle was crisp and golden, with strawberries so red they looked like rubies. The eggs were soft and creamy, and the hot chocolate was so thick that Bibi needed a spoon to stir it.
She took her first bite and closed her eyes. “Mmmm! This is the best breakfast ever!”
Uncle Phong laughed heartily. “I’m glad you think so! Remember, Bibi, good food is one of life’s great joys.”
They savored every bite. Between mouthfuls, Uncle Phong taught her how to properly cut a croissant — “never squash it,” he instructed — and how to savor the aroma of coffee even if she wasn’t old enough to drink it yet.
As they ate, more dishes appeared. A waiter brought over a three-tiered tray filled with mini pastries: éclairs, tarts, and macarons. “Compliments of the chef,” he said with a bow.
Bibi’s eyes sparkled. “We get more?!”
“Of course,” Uncle Phong said. “Luxurious means there’s always a little extra.”
After breakfast, they lingered over the pastries, nibbling here and there. Bibi especially loved a tiny lemon tart that made her cheeks pucker in the best way. She even tried a sip of Uncle Phong’s coffee — just a tiny one — and immediately made a funny face. It was too bitter for her, but Uncle Phong only laughed again.
Outside the window, the city was waking up. People walked their dogs, kids rode bikes, and shopkeepers arranged their displays. But inside Café Élégance, time seemed to slow down. It was just Bibi, Uncle Phong, and the warm, sweet world of breakfast.
When they finally stood up to leave, Bibi felt a little sad to go. She wanted to stay in that cozy, delicious place forever. Uncle Phong noticed.
“Don’t worry,” he said, ruffling her hair. “We can come back. Maybe next time, you can even invite your friends.”
Bibi grinned at the idea. A breakfast party with her friends at such a beautiful café sounded like a dream come true.
As they stepped back into the sunshine, Bibi slipped her hand into Uncle Phong’s.
“Thank you, Uncle. This was the best day ever.”
Uncle Phong smiled down at her, his eyes twinkling once more.
“The best days,” he said, “are made with a little bit of magic — and a lot of love.”
And with that, they walked down the sunny street together, full of laughter, full of stories, and very, very full of the most luxurious breakfast Bibi had ever had.
