The promise of a good cup of coffee has driven men to some dramatic extremes. The smell of a good brew roasting and percolating is, probably, one of the most comforting and enticing aromas known to someone that appreciates quality coffee. A good coffee shop must, of course, serve superior coffee and, for that matter, teas and other beverages. However, the complementary food also needs to live up to a high standard for the establishment to qualify.
The following places are those that, along with an excellent cup of coffee in Port Elizabeth (or lattรฉ, cappuccino, espresso, etc), also boast good food.
Como Caffรฉ (Heugh Street, Walmer)
This modern New York Little Italy-styled cafรฉ pairs an awesome ambience with great coffee and irresistible baked goods. Gourmet Paniniโs and burgers are paired with stunning pastries for a very satisfying menu. There is also a deli section, which provides the coffee that they sell as well as an array of imported delicacies.
Bocadillos Bakery & Cafรฉ (6th Avenue, Walmer)
With dรฉcor that combines classic pewter with acid yellow pops, Bocadillos is trendy without ever negotiating on quality and service. ย The pastries are delectable and the sweet treats sinful, including a strawberry pavlova that will make those with a sweet tooth weak at the knees. However, there are amazing sandwiches, pizzas, salads and breakfasts on offer too. Live music and specials on food and drinks complete the Bocadillos experience.
Urban Espress (corner of 6th Avenue and Villiers Road, Walmer)
This little hotspot is all about fabulous coffee and simple (but delicious) gourmet sandwiches. It combines an industrial look with a rustic country feel in a very unique atmosphere. With the floor to ceiling glass walls and doors, light and air stream in. Although there is certainly no sacrifice made for quality, the prices are good, with an Americano for only R10.
Deli Street Cafรฉ (Stanley Street, Richmond Hill)
Situated in the heart of the famous Richmond Hill suburb, which is abuzz with trendy eateries and cafรฉs, Deli Street Cafรฉ combines excellent location with the perfect cup of caffรฉ. The entire cafรฉ is open, light and airy, decorated with an eclectic mix of furniture and accessories. Fresh pastries, generous salads and novel flatbreads are all on offer at Deli Street Cafรฉ.
Friendly Stranger (1 Bridge Street, Upper Valley Road)
This new establishment was only opened in October 2012 and offers something very special. It combines old-world stone walls with mounted brass plates and modern art. A sky light and glass doors gives it the feeling of plenty of space, although a very intimate venue. This cafรฉ also boasts a basement in which to dine. This is small and cosy, reminiscent of an old castle cellar, making for a very special coffee and dining experience. Views of the Baakens River complete your encounter with the Friendly Stranger.
