Our favourite brew is going (quite literally) from strength to strength. Here’s where the Insiders get their daily hit.
At last. South Africans are waking up and smelling the aroma of good coffee. No longer content with inky black espresso or that instant stuff being passed off as the real thing, local aficionados are looking for the more complex pleasures of single-origin roasters, extracted for exactly 25 seconds (to create a layer of golden crema), and served with textured milk (not that fluffy stuff they serve at fast-food joints).
That said, the perfect cup of coffee is like a Rorschach Test – everybody comes at it with a different set of expectations and experiences (based on personal preferences and whole bunch of other variables). So, four Insiders hit the streets in search of the best coffee in Cape Town and came up with this list. We’d love to know what you think. Please leave your comments below.
CAPE TOWN
1. The House of Machines
Image Credit: Real Estate Magazine
THoM, as it is affectionately known, is a motorbike workshop and men’s apparel shop (yeah, you read right) by day and a hipster cocktail bar by night. And, somehow added to this eclectic mix, is a much loved café.
The coffee The organic, shade-grown Honduran Arabica, dubbed Evil Twin, is THoM’s signature roast and a thing of earthy beauty. The medium-bodied roast is robust in flavour, allowing you to identify its distinctive bold finish even on your third flat white – the café’s most ordered cup.
The vibe The brainchild of Brad Armitage (co-founder of Vida e Caffè and Brewers&Union), clothing designer and petrolhead Paul van der Spuy (BlueCollarWhiteCollar) and custom-bike builder Drew Madacsi, THoM’s decor is even more eclectic than its owners. With weathered wooden beams, exposed bricks and a bike theme throughout, the mash-up pays homage to a bygone era while remaining decidedly contemporary. (And, actually, hipsters love a throwback.) It doesn’t get more nonconformist than a Speakeasy-themed space selling coffee, café racers, collared shirts and classic cocktails all under one dimly lit roof!
The service Brad has once again waved his golden wand and fostered an air of boisterous camaraderie within the shop. The service is lively, a little hammed up during cocktail hour yet always polished.
Insider tips On Thursday and Friday nights, THoM places the US’s finest spirits front and centre – the perfect accompaniment to the live indie band. Sunday brunch, in association with the El Burro food truck, is a genius addition to the collaboration.
Open Monday – Wednesday, 7am – 4pm
Thursday & Friday, 7am – 11:30pm
Saturday & Sunday, 9am – 2pm
Contact 021 426 1400, workshop@thehouseofmachines.com
Where to find it The House of Machines
TIG reviewer Seth Shezi
2. Deluxe Coffeeworks
Image Credit: Cape Fusion Tours
What started off as a hole-in-the-wall coffee stop in Church Street has now grown into a four-shop coffee company that still offers one of the most authentic coffee experiences in Cape Town.
The coffee Deluxe sources the most imaginative, unique and interesting blends of coffee from around the world, which you can enjoy in-store. Or purchase a bag of beans or freshly ground coffee to take home.
The vibe The Church Street store is the company’s main roastery – and, as such, the focus is coffee. So, don’t expect Starbucks-style extras, such as free wi-fi, choc-chip cookies and “tame skinny lattes with wings” here. It’s all been stripped away in favour of good coffee.
The service The baristas are expertly trained in the art of roasting and coffee-making, and are always available to guide you through Deluxe’s range.
Contact 072 569 9579, judd@deluxecoffeeworks.co.za
Where to find it
Deluxe Church Street
Deluxe Roodehoek Street
Deluxe Metal Lane
Street Food on Bree and Deluxe Coffeeworks
TIG reviewer Dean Horwitz
3. Jason Bakery
Image Credit: Space Talk
The hippest bakery on the block, this always-busy bakery was born when current co-owner Jason Lilley took over the reins from legendary chef and baker man George Jardine. Jason has since extended his footprint in this trendy precinct, opening Weinhaus + BierGarten (formerly &Union) further along Bree Street.
The coffee Salvador certified organic single-estate coffee imported from Nicaragua is the coffee of choice here. A double shot is standard and, trust us, it kicks ass!
The vibe Unpretentious yet überhip, if you catch our drift. Sit at the tables and benches on the pavement and watch the Bree Street parade, or perch at the window-facing bar counter.
The service Good and friendly, overseen by the ever-watchful Jason (when he’s not in the kitchen) and his sister, co-owner Brigette Lilley.
You must try a doughssant – a cross between a doughnut and a croissant. These decadent pastries are served on Saturdays and each week there’s a different filling – we had the raspberry, lime and coconut. Get there early or order in advance – they sell out fast.
Open Monday – Friday, 7am – 3.30pm
Saturday, 8am – 2pm
Contact 021 424 5644, orders@jasonbakery.com
Location 185 Bree Street, Cape Town
Where to find it Jason
TIG reviewer Jackie Lange
CAPE TOWN EAST CITY
4. TRUTH Coffee
Image Credit: Yatzer
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Sherlock Holmes-era laboratory, where writhing machinery collides with industrial-chic decor. Welcome to Cape Town’s only steampunk coffee roastery. (For those unfamiliar with the term, steampunk is a science-fiction subgenre from an alternative history of the Victorian era). Co-founder David Donde says the concept was a natural choice, considering the relationship between coffee and steam.
The coffee Built around a 1940s cast-iron coffee roaster, Truth makes a clear statement about celebrating premium coffee. Not to be outdone by the eye-catching decor, the coffee is simply exquisite and keeps the crowds coming back. To fully appreciate the brew, try the full-bodied espresso before anything else – the Truth, ahem, is in the tasting.
The vibe Apart from the moody steampunk decor, there is a palpable cosmopolitan buzz, with hipsters and creatives sipping away at their ground nectar while scouring Tumblr on their MacBook Airs. The shop’s centrepiece is a vintage roaster adorned with copper dispensers, gauges and contraptions which turn the piece into a functional kinetic sculpture – this gizmo alone is a landmark for any traveller.
The service Friendly, efficient and proficient (one of the baristas was the 2008 South African Barista Champion). If time is on your side, grab a seat and take in the industrial spectacle, or get your to-go fix at the counter.
Fact An espresso machine is steam-powered.
Open Monday – Friday, 6am – 6pm
Saturday, 8am – 6pm
Sunday, 8am – 4pm
Contact 021 201 7000, cafe@truth.capetown
Where to find it TRUTH Coffee
TIG reviewer Seth Shezi
5. The Blend
Image Credit: Milk and Cookies
This cosy café, in the heart of Cape Town’s burgeoning East City precinct, is where office workers looking for a hearty (or healthy) breakfast and a potent caffeine fix congregate.
The coffee Choose between Deluxe, Flat Mountain single-origin or the secret Blend (a combo of South American and African beans that yields a deliciously creamy foam). All coffee is roasted locally. Also, you can order a small coffee from Monday to Friday between 7am and 10am for only R10.
The vibe The black walls and metro tiles give the space a glimmer of New York. It’s the kind of place where you can hang out with friends, workmates or even alone.
Service Friendly and efficient.
Open Monday – Friday, 7am – 4pm
Saturday, 7am – 2pm
Contact 073 831 0547, orders@theblend.co.za
Where to find it The Blend
TIG reviewer Sharon Kariwo
DE WATERKANT
6. Origin Coffee Roasters
Image Credit: We are awesome
A pioneer of the “coffee movement” in South Africa, Origin takes the art of coffee-making very seriously – they even offer Coffee Appreciation Courses. Located in the überhip neighbourhood of De Waterkant, Origin serves coffee, tea and freshly made breakfast and lunch options.
The coffee Its 10 to 20 single-origin coffees are sourced ethically, and the beans are ground and roasted on site to ensure optimum freshness and flavour.
The vibe With long communal tables and an upstairs and downstairs area, it makes for a fabulous mobile office or meeting space.
The service Knowledgeable, skilled baristas are well-versed in the coffees on offer. It gets very busy at rush hour, so you may have to wait a little longer than usual for your order, but it will be worth it.
Open Monday – Friday, 7am – 5pm
Saturday & Public Holidays, 8am – 3pm
Sunday, 8am – 2pm
Contact 021 421 1000, info@originroasting.co.za, originroasting.co.za
Where to find it Origin Coffee Roasters, 28 Hudson Street, De Waterkant
TIG reviewer Sharon Kariwo
WOODSTOCK
7. Rosetta
Image Credit: And People
Pared-back artisanal chic at its best, this small coffee shop in the Woodstock Exchange (aka Hipster HQ) was one of Buzzfeed’s 25 Coffee Shops Around The World You Have To See Before You Die!
The coffee Rosetta imports single-origin and estate coffees from South and Central America, Africa and Asia, micro-roasting each one to best present its unique personality.
The vibe Purists will feel like they’ve died and gone to minimalist heaven. No fuss, folly or fluff here – just good coffee and an atmosphere of earnest appreciation for the beverage.
The service If you have the time (and you really should make some), let the knowledgeable and super-professional staff educate you on the perfect cup of coffee. Sounds poncy, but it’s really not.
You must try A cup of the in-house blend, Kenya Karatina AA – a lightly blended brew, perfect for a morning pick-me-up.
Contact 021 447 4099, info@rosettaroastery.com
Where to find it Rosetta
TIG reviewer Dean Horwitz
8. Espresso Lab Microroasters
Image Credit: Pinterest
The “lab” is equipped with state-of-the-art gadgets designed to create the perfect brew. With this passion for experimentation and innovation, it’s not surprising that Espresso Lab is located at The Old Biscuit Mill, one of Cape Town’s foremost creative hubs.
The coffee Its green beans are sourced from sustainable, organic and equal-trade farms across the world that are then roasted in small amounts to allow the unique balance of fruitiness, acidity and sweetness to shine. Single-origin and blended coffees are available.
The vibe The lab-style decor gives the shop a crisp and clean look that is nevertheless welcoming. The periodic table-style menu echoes the chemistry theme. The open-plan space allows visitors to watch the busy baristas at work. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.
The service Quick, friendly, efficient, knowledgeable – and always with a smile.
You must try the Black Ice (espresso, crushed ice and natural sweetener) – a refreshing pick-me-up on hot summer’s day.
Open Monday – Friday, 8am – 4pm
Saturday, 8am – 2pm
Contact 021 447 0845, info@espressolabmicroroasters.com
Where to find it Espresso Lab Microroasters
TIG reviewer Sharon Kariwo
GREEN POINT
9. Giovanni’s Deliworld
An authentic Italian deli with a buzzy communal coffee counter, where the baristas stand in the middle, so you can watch your coffee being made. The baristas know how regulars take their coffee (and are tolerant of anyone ordering a cappuccino after breakfast, which is a no-no in Italy).
The coffee Potent, like in Italy, and quite delicious. It’s Giovanni’s own 100% Arabica blend – which they have been using for the past 25 years – and, ironically, it’s imported from Brazil.
The vibe A total buzz, it’s constantly packed with regulars, in-the-know tourists and discerning food shoppers – the deli section is arguably the best-stocked in the city.
The service Good, which is extraordinary considering the roaring all-day trade at the cooked food and deli counters. After your coffee, stock up on prosciutto and Parmesan and other picnic goodies, and head to the beach.
Open Monday – Sunday, 7.30am – 9pm
Contact 021 434 6893, giodeli@iafrica.com
Where to find it Giovanni’s Deliworld
TIG reviewer Jackie Lange
SEA POINT
10. Bootlegger Coffee Company
Image Credit: Cape Town My Love
A cool, modern coffee shop in the heart of Sea Point.
The coffee A blend of beans sourced from Guatemala, Burundi and Costa Rica, which are roasted on-site.
The vibe Vintage industrial finishes are combined with graphic tiles and quirky glamour to create a chic pared-down atmosphere.
The service Friendly and efficient.
Insider tip Get there between 6:30am and 8:30am for a cup of freshly roasted coffee for R12 a cup!
Contact 021 434 0060, pieter@bootlegger.co.za
Where to find it Bootlegger Coffee Company
TIG reviewer Dean Horwitz
SOUTHERN SUBURBS
11. Four&Twenty Café and Pantry
Image Credit: The Pretty Blog
This delightful patisserie/café/deli opposite Maynardville on busy Wolfe Street in Wynberg Chelsea does excellent coffee by baristas who know their business. While you’re there, tuck into a hearty breakfast, delicious lunch, snack or something from the cake trolley prepared by co-owners Marijke Duminy and Tracy-Leigh Genricks.
The coffee Bean There’s Ethiopian coffees are served in the café and also sold at the deli counter, along with Rwanda Kivu and Burundi Musema.
The vibe Busy seven days a week, this former clothing store has morphed into a chic Parisian-style cafe with armchairs and sofas covered in neon pink fabrics, and a cool courtyard for hot summer days. Get there early to secure a table as the café does not take bookings, and it’s always packed.
The service Excellent! Young, polite, well-trained waitrons are attentive and informed.
Open Tuesday – Saturday, 8am – 5pm
Sunday, 9am – 4pm
Contact 021 762 0975, email info@fourandtwentycafe.co.za
Where to find it Four&Twenty Café and Pantry
TIG reviewer Jackie Lange
12. Coffee BloC at Buitenverwachting
The perfect place to enjoy a coffee and leisurely weekend breakfast, while the kids play on the lawn or in the leafy courtyard (where you can keep an eye on them).
The coffee Mountain-grown Arabica beans are roasted on site by Quaffee, and are then approved by connoisseur Lars. Freshly ground special blends are available for purchase in the deli, and if you’d like to watch the roasting process on site, make an appointment to do so.
The vibe Tables are set around the courtyard fountain – the perfect spot for a relaxing weekend coffee. Next door is Buitenverwachting’s tasting room, should you need to make some post-breakfast purchases.
You must try a slice of Sacher Torte with your coffee of choice.
Open Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm
Saturday, 8.30am – 3pm
Contact 021 794 3522, info@buitenverwaching.com
Where to find it Coffee BloC at Buitenverwachting
TIG reviewer Jackie Lange
13. Caféen
Image Credit: Show Me
On a suburban street away from the noisy main roads, this quaint coffee shop feels like a home-from-home. It’s perfect for your first cup of the day, or for a lazy brunch on Sunday.
The coffee Lavazza. And if you take milk, it’s thick, creamy and foamy.
The vibe Caféen’s shabby-chic style is characterised by quaint collectables that are constantly being changed and rearranged. A wall adorned with antique plates presides over a large sideboard groaning with cake and cupcake stands. It is casual, relaxing and has a quiet buzz, typical of a suburban establishment.
The service The staff is friendly and professional, but service can be a bit slow on very busy days.
Open Monday – Friday, 8am – 4.30pm
Saturday, 8am – 3pm
Sunday, 9am – 2pm
Contact 021 674 6209, bookings@cafeen.co.za
Where to find it 3rd Avenue, Harfield Village, Claremont, Cape Town
TIG reviewer Sharon Kariwo
KHAYELITSHA
14. Department of Coffee
Welcome to the first township-based artisanal coffee shop in Cape Town. Located next to the Khayelitsha train station, this bustling coffee shop does caffeine beverages for a fraction of what you’d pay at other gourmet coffee spots.
The coffee DoC’s own brand of Arabica-Italian beans is roasted locally. There are five blends to choose from, namely Umlungu, Runaway, Mzansi, Africa, and Station, and you can decide how you’d like yours: filter, cappuccino, latte, macchiato, chocochino or freezacino.
The vibe Impossible-to-ignore bright-red walls indicate that you’re in for a fun time. There is no seating inside, but it’s so much more fun to sit outside under the big orange umbrellas for unparallelled people-watching. The nearby train station (complete with stalls selling everything from CDs, fresh produce, clothing, jewellery, shoes and even barbecued chicken feet) brings weird and wonderful visitors.
The service The three enterprising owners welcome patrons opening. Their proficient skills coupled with their quirky latte art makes the DoC experience rather special. They also deliver coffee (free of charge) to nearby areas including the mall, the Khayelitsha court and hospital.
Open Monday – Friday, 6am – 6pm
Saturday, 8am – 3pm
Contact 073 300 9519, DOCKhayeStation@gmail.com
Where to find it Department of Coffee
TIG reviewer Sharon Kariwo
STELLENBOSCH
15. Schoon de Companje
Image Credit: The Pretty Blog
This bakery, ice-cream parlour, wine shop, bar, butchery, deli, restaurant and coffee roastery all rolled into one is a food lover’s paradise in the heart of Stellenbosch.
The coffee Different varieties of Arabica beans are roasted in the coffee shop, Het Roosterij. Whether you choose an espresso, flat white or latte, the rich delicious flavour (and buzz) will leave you wanting another.
The vibe Old-world Dutch charm with a distinctly artisanal flavour, evident in the repurposed wooden furniture and reused luggage.
The service Always friendly even during the busiest times, but be prepared to wait if it’s very full.
Contact 021 883 2187, info@decompanje.co.za
Where to find it Schoon de Companje
TIG reviewer Dean Horwitz
We also rate these hot spots for good caffeine:
Bean There, Cape Town
Starlings, Claremont
Coffee Roasting Co at Lourensford, Somerset West
Loading Bay, De Waterkant
C’est La Vie, Kalk Bay
Haas, Cape Town
Empire Café, Muizenberg
De Hoek, Franschhoek
Field Office, Cape Town