Is there anything better than a fresh cup of coffee to start the day? On the North Coast, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding the perfect spot for a caffeine boost. This month, in celebration of International Coffee Day, we share some of the area’s most loved places to grab your favourite drink…
BIKE & BEAN FOREST CAFÉ
Nestled within the protected uMhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve, Bike & Bean Forest Café offers a serene café experience in a tranquil coastal forest setting. The wheelchair-friendly boardwalk made from recycled plastic is an integral part of the journey to one of Umhlanga’s most popular coffee spots. Managed by the uMhlanga UIP and supported by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife who manage the uMhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve, the first 250m of the deck has been sponsored by local business and the public, with fundraising efforts ongoing to complete the next 750m of the project to provide viewing decks overlooking the beach and lagoon and access to the beach from the boardwalk. While coffee is at the centre of what Bike & Bean does, the community is at their heart.
Details: Operating hours: 05:00-18:00 in summer; 06:00-17:00 in winter; IG: bikeandbean_durban; FB: BikeandBeanDurban
THE ORANGE TREE
The Orange Tree is a quiet oasis hidden in the heart of Umhlali, just opposite the entrance to the Umhlali Prep School in Makers Yard.
The shady deck is the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of their three-bean coffee blend, which is well-balanced with an initial sweetness and a lovely lingering cocoa finish. The friendly team of baristas takes great pride in serving the perfect cup of coffee and you’re very likely to find a real work of art skillfully poured into the top of your cappuccino. The team is passionate about serving outstanding food and drinks, always with a smile. Their coffee alone is worth the drive from Ballito but whilst you’re there you will find it hard to resist one of their all-day breakfasts. They also serve a range of salads, sandwiches, burgers, light bites, milkshakes, frappes, waffles, pancakes and delicious homemade cakes. There are plenty of vegetarian options and the kitchen is always happy to accommodate specific requests so even the most particular eaters are well catered for. The kids’ menu for under 10s includes nutritious meals with hidden veggies, as well as a few tasty treats!
Details: Mon-Fri 6.30am-4pm during term-time, 7am-3pm in school holidays, Saturdays 7am-2pm; IG: @theorangetree_sa, @makersyard_sa
SAINT FRANK CAFÉ
Nestled inside SUPERSPAR Salta, Saint Frank Café brings good vibes, great coffee and bold flavours to the table. Whether for work or play, breakfast or lunch, Saint Frank’s friendly team, warm ambience and (loadshedding-proof!) complimentary Wi-Fi will leave a smile on your face. At Saint Frank Café, the baristas, equipped with the illustrious Victoria Arduino Black Eagle and trained by the industry’s finest, transform coffee brewing into an art form, elevating each cup to extraordinary heights. Swing by and say hello howzit to East Coast living. Details: Marine Walk Shopping Centre, Umdloti; www.supersparsalta.co.za;
IG: supersparsalta; FB: supersparSalta
B.L.A.C.K
B.L.A.C.K Umhlanga is one of the most stunning restaurants you’ll see as you make your way down Lagoon Drive. It boasts an outdoor breakfast and dining area overlooking the ocean. Their offering includes a variety of signature breakfast and lunch dishes accompanied with freshly brewed coffee and juices. Enjoy your meal in a welcoming atmosphere while relaxing outdoors or indoors.
Details: Shop 1, Oceans Mall, 7 Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga; 082 736 7721;
IG: @blackoceansmall; FB: BLACK
NOW COFFEE
Now Coffee was born out of a passion for coffee and community. The team is driven by an obsession to do good within the industry; and aspires to set standards that push the coffee industry in South Africa. Now Coffee roasts, sources, and serves its own beans that are brought in from some of the best specialty coffee farms in the world. Based in Glenashley, the space boasts spectacular sea views, delicious coffee, and a great vibe. Details: IG: @nowcoffee_dbn; FB: Now Coffee
