Updated: July 2024

The aroma of freshly ground beans is like a drug… able to transport you to coffee nirvana. And with the proliferation of great coffee in South Africa there’s no excuse to settle for so-so coffee on #InternationalCoffeeDay. That’s today, 1 October in case you didn’t know.

Sadly some of the best halaal coffee spots have closed down due to the financial crisis brought on by COVID-19. Spots like Timbuktu, Batavia Cafe and Kahvé Road will sorely be missed. Some new places have opened so here are some of our fully halaal finds where awesome coffee is the name of the game.

Cape Town

Seattle Coffee Company
One of my favourite coffees is from Seattle Coffee Company. They have perfected their flavour and get it just right every time. At least for me. Find halaal outlets at these branches of Fresh Stops at several Caltex garages. Fresh Stop Doncaster Road, Kenilworth, Fresh Stop V&A Waterfront, Fresh Stop Main Road Kenilworth. Fresh Stop Greenways, Gordons Bay, Fresh Stop Salt River.

Bootlegger Coffee Company
Bootlegger Coffee Company has long since been the go to place for those who won’t settle for mediocre coffee. Now you are also able to enjoy their fully halaal coffee shop menu including all day breakfast as they are rolling out several new halaal sit down and express stores.
Find their sit-down stores at Three Anchor Bay and Kenilworth.

Rumi Cafe, Pinelands
Remember those Nutella pancakes from Timbuktu Coffee? If you cried crocodile tears when they closed down like I did, cos no more Nutella pancakes….. you’ll be glad to know about Rumi Café. Run by the same people who had Timbuktu, they have opened this new coffee shop and eatery in Pinelands. Serving Truth coffee, it’s coffee shop fare and light meals in the week and grills on the weekend. And of course, the Nutella pancakes are back!!!

For more coffee shops in Cape Town click here.

Johannesburg

Manaka Coffee, Midrand
Whether you’re a coffee fan or a foodie, Manaka Coffee at Polofields Crossing is sure to satisfy either craving. As the flagship store of the Manaka brand, this coffee shop and eatery has a gorgeous location in the upmarket Waterfall City. Special mention for their Mozart Honey Cake!

Upcycled Café, Benoni
A destination spot where the creative owners have poured their energy into every piece of furniture and décor in the place. Every item of furniture has been repurposed from something that may have just ended up in the scrap yard. Think of a loveseat for 2 made of an old 1950’s style car fender. Chairs fashioned from vintage wooden cooldrink crates made comfortable with bright pillows and fabrics. Oh and a good double shot cappuccino!

Mugg and Bean, Killarney
A sophisticated eatery in Greenside, serving healthy meals that are Banting, Diabetic and Vegan friendly. Known as an anti-ageing eatery you can look forward to guilt-free sweet treats to go with your flat white, latte or cappuccino.

For more coffee shops in Johannesburg click here.

Durban

Strangers Coffee, Berea
This cosy venue is an intimate little gem with an eclectic feel. They serve Humble coffee brand and have a curated menu of light meals. Look out for their rich chocolate Matilda cake which is a huge hit with those in the know.

Mugg & Bean 12 on Palm, Umhlanga
The first halaal sit-down branch in Kzn. Their famous bottomless coffee is sure to make many kzn hearts happy. From generous Eggs Benedict to healthier low-carb breakfasts and even vegan and vegetarian options you’ll find loads of variety on their menu. Don’t miss their infamous lemon meringue which has always been a South African favourite.

Antique Cafe, Morningside
Journey to the leafy suburb of Windermere to the picturesque Antique Café. It is a period-style maze of dining rooms and display rooms selling antique furniture, clothes and other items. The back leads to a garden with an eclectic mix of rustic tables and chairs under a canopy of trees. It is really pretty and serene. We had a laid back brunch here of Fried eggs and Macon open toast with sweet potato fries. It’s a great spot for light meals and breakfast.

For more coffee shops in Durban click here.