I know that many of the readers of this blog are travellers, occasional or otherwise. Take heed of this post if…
- you happen to be in Cape Town
- you happen to love coffee
- if you happen to enjoy a sensory experience of Hemingway proportions.
If you tick any of the above boxes, you’ll do worse than take a stroll through De Waterkant’s busy little streets and drop your Louis Vuitton bag next to a table at Origins, possibly the best coffee shop in Cape Town.
I’ve been in some interesting debates recently about this question: ‘Where is the best coffee in Cape Town?’ A choice one came up where one party said ‘Origins’ and the other said another little coffee shop in the Southern Suburbs. The opposing party’s argument was something like this: ‘No way man, Origin cannot hold a candle to my choice! I’ve been to both, and mine is twice as good!’ After some heated conversation, the opposing party was informed (to great embarrassment) that Origins actually made the coffee at her choice.
Erm… awkward.
Anyway, it seems to be a trend nowadays that if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. Trying to beat Origin at its own game is a vain pursuit (although I’ve recently heard of a farm out Somerset West way that’s supposed to be up for it) . So now there are a handful of smart vendors around Cape Town that are merely learning its trade from Origin and reselling their wares.
If you’re in town, and you want a cup of the finest, drop by at 28 Hudson Street (off Somerset Road in Green Point). You enter through the door and you know you’ve arrived at the right place. From the big sacks of coffee on the floor and the beans laid out neatly by the counter, to the cocky baristas who know their stuff, man.
It is a true hidden gem, and worth pondering that weather beaten Cape Town map for. Go to the website for directions, or phone the shop at 021 421 1000.
Enjoy!
Candice focuses on travel, surfing, running, dark chocolate and uncovering gems hidden in the Cape outdoors.
Steve Bolnick is recognized as one of southern Africa’s outstanding safari guides. He grew-up with a deep love for the African bush and has spent the past 29 years living and guiding in southern Africa.
Lisa Griggs writes about the hidden vineyards and the undiscovered cultivars in the Western Cape.
Nicky Coenen looks for the secret hideaways and hidden gems in Cape Town and surrounds.
Steve Robertson tracks the off the beaten track action happening around Cape Town.
Fred Roed looks for the undiscovered coffee spots in the Western Cape and rates them.
Peter has worked in the wine and spirits industry for over 40 years and is an appreciator of fine things.
4 Comments
I don’t believe “Origin” offers the finest cup of coffee in town. I feel that their “freshly” roasted beans are burnt which leaves a bitter taste to your cup of coffee. The roastary on the farm out Somerset West way is the coffee roasting co, and each batch of beans are roasted to order and to their unique characteristics.
I’ve heard much about the Somerset West farm, and it’s on my agenda to take a trip out there soon.
I must say that there have been times (twice) when I’ve been to Origin that I’ve had a less than perfect cup, and even the owner has commented that he was unsatisfied on certain days. They set the bar high, and on the whole I’ve been blown away around 90% of the times I’ve been there.
I see these posts were a few years ago but I wonder if anyone knows the name of the Southern suburbs coffee shop referred to in the article? I’m always on the lookout for other sumblime tea spots in the Southern suburbs so other sugestions would be welcome too… thank you! :)
Hi Di - funnily enough Woolworths are starting to offer great coffee with their new cafe’s in store.
The other option is the coffee shop opposite The Westerford Building on Main Rd, Rondebosch.
Josephine Mill also offers a nice brew.
Fred