Coffee Culture in Stellenbosch: A Javaphile’s Dream!
It’s hard to find fault with Stellenbosch: sweeping vineyards, majestic mountains, award-winning wines, and a fantastic ‘village’ feel that beckons you back again and again! Javaphiles (that’s coffee lovers to you and me) are also spoilt for choice, as coffee culture in Stellenbosch is thriving! Grab a table under the oaks and settle in, as Stellenbosch local, Elmarie Rabe shares some of her favourite coffee spots in town.
Bootlegger
A quick stroll from our Visit Stellenbosch offices, is Bootlegger in Ryneveld Street, Stellenbosch. Their ‘Magic Coffee’ is just that – a magical three-quarter flat white which is just about the perfect way to start your day. Or I’ll grab a double-shot Cortado and a couple of slices of their freshly-baked banana bread.
I love the Bootlegger atmosphere too! It’s welcoming, vibey and the perfect place to catch up with friends in town, colleagues – or to grab a spot and fire up your laptop. Remote working is now an important part of our coffee culture in Stellenbosch.
Terbodore Coffee Roasters – De Warenmarkt
Another local favourite is Terbodore Coffee Roasters in the De Warenmarkt, a historic 18th century building in the heart of Stellenbosch’s vibrant cultural district, which is home to a collection of different merchants and ‘purveyors’ – all masters in their craft. It’s a space filled with a great restaurant, wine bar, deli, bakery, juice bar and of course coffee bar. The baristas (Guy and Burlington) are so friendly, and because the team often meets at De Warenmarkt when we walk in there, we honestly feel like we’re among family. It’s the warm heart of Stellenbosch in one delicious package!
Café Furlough
Café Furlough in Dorp Street is a perfect example of the diverse and eclectic coffee culture in Stellenbosch. It is a stylish, beautiful and serene space in which to enjoy the perfect cup of coffee. And as their favourite quote says: “Rest time is not waste time. It is economy to gather fresh strength. Wisdom to take occasional furlough. We shall do more, by sometimes doing less.”
Take some time out of work, catch your breath or connect with friends and family. They have a scrumptious menu of wholesome and delicious breakfasts and a generous pavement where you can pause and watch the world go by.
Lower Dorp Street is really undergoing a revival and it’s definitely worth a visit. Pop into Café Furlough, one of the buzzing Dorp Street eateries or wine bars or enjoy a slow wander around the Sunday market.
Lanzerac Deli
No discussion of coffee culture in Stellenbosch is complete without a mention of the Lanzerac Deli! An absolute favourite among locals and visitors alike (including cyclists stopping off for a brew!), it’s famous for its cappuccinos and all-day breakfast – not to mention its legendary scones. You can grab them as a takeaway, or settle in for a morning on their terrace, soaking up the beauty of the Winelands as you relax under the poplar trees. The service is also impeccable, and you may just find that a Sunday coffee at Lanzerac becomes a regular thing!
Blaauwklippen’s Farm Shop & Deli
Blaauwklippen’s new Farm Shop & Deli is all about celebrating local! It’s a country-style ‘pitstop’ on the R44 in Stellenbosch which stocks the best locally-grown produce, deli fare, and homemade goods – and serves up a mean cup of coffee. You’ll love the expansive stoep and sprawling picnic lawn as well as the chance to mingle with locals, bump into old friends and browse the deli’s gorgeous gift section (think homeware and lifestyle accessories, cookbooks, candles, and fresh flowers!).