South Africa’s coffee culture is thriving, with local roasters and brands providing everything from sustainably sourced beans to bold and exotic flavors. Whether you prefer your coffee rich and strong, or smooth and subtle, there’s something for every palate. Let’s take a look at seven of the best coffee brands in South Africa, starting with number 7.
7. Terbodore Coffee Roasters
Best for: Exotic and adventurous flavors
Founded: 2004
Location: Midlands and Franschhoek
Terbodore Coffee Roasters is all about adventure and flavor. What sets them apart is their commitment to both quality and creativity. Their lineup includes intriguing flavors like “Salted Caramel” and “Hazelnut”. For those with a bold palate, Terbodore offers unique blends like “The Great Dane,” a rich, dark roast that’s robust and smooth.
Why it’s awesome:
- Offers playful and adventurous flavors
- Small-batch roasted for maximum freshness
- Family-run business with a deep passion for coffee
6. Origin Coffee Roasting
Best for: Coffee geeks who value precision and flavor clarity
Founded: 2006
Location: Cape Town
Origin Coffee Roasting is a favorite among coffee purists who appreciate attention to detail. Known for sourcing premium beans from sustainable farms worldwide, they focus on single-origin coffees that highlight the unique taste profile of each region. Their “Ethiopian Yirgacheffe” is a fan favorite, bursting with floral notes and a citrus twist.
Why it’s awesome:
- Focus on single-origin beans
- Roasts to bring out the distinct flavors of each region
- Offers coffee cupping experiences at their café in Cape Town
5. Truth Coffee
Best for: The best espresso in South Africa
Founded: 2009
Location: Cape Town
You can’t talk about South African coffee without mentioning Truth Coffee, an iconic brand based in Cape Town. Known for its steampunk-inspired café, Truth Coffee has won multiple awards, including being named the world’s best coffee shop by The Telegraph. They specialize in high-quality espresso blends, and their house blend, “Resurrection”, is a must-try for anyone who loves a strong, rich cup of joe.
Why it’s awesome:
- Internationally acclaimed and award-winning
- Known for their powerful espresso blends
- Stunning steampunk-themed café in Cape Town
4. Deluxe Coffeeworks
Best for: People who love strong, no-nonsense coffee
Founded: 2009
Location: Cape Town, Stellenbosch, and across South Africa
Deluxe Coffeeworks has earned a reputation for being the go-to brand for strong, unapologetic coffee. They don’t mess around with fancy frills – just high-quality beans, perfectly roasted. Their “House Blend” is robust, full-bodied, and perfect for those who want to kickstart their day with a punch. Plus, their minimalist, hipster-esque cafés are a great place to chill and enjoy a well-brewed cup.
Why it’s awesome:
- Focuses on bold, strong coffee
- Affordable without sacrificing quality
- Locations scattered across South Africa for easy access
3. Father Coffee
Best for: Specialty coffee lovers who want a balance between art and science
Founded: 2013
Location: Johannesburg and Cape Town
Father Coffee is all about perfecting the art of specialty coffee. With locations in Johannesburg and Cape Town, Father Coffee serves up some of the finest small-batch roasts you can find. They’re known for their precision, paying close attention to the roasting process to ensure consistent quality. Their Panama Geisha has a cult following for its delicate floral notes and creamy finish.
Why it’s awesome:
- Known for their meticulous, science-driven roasting methods
- Their Panama Geisha is considered one of the best coffees in SA
- Focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing
2. Rosetta Roastery
Best for: Coffee connoisseurs seeking nuanced flavors
Founded: 2010
Location: Cape Town
Rosetta Roastery is a haven for those who like to savor every sip. With a focus on single-origin coffees from Africa and South America, their beans are roasted to highlight the intricate flavors specific to each region. The “Ethiopia Duromina” is a standout, with its juicy berry notes and bright acidity.
Why it’s awesome:
- Single-origin focused with a dedication to transparency and quality
- Their Ethiopian offerings are world-class
- Operates in small batches to preserve flavor integrity
1. Bean There Coffee Company
Best for: Eco-conscious coffee drinkers who love fair trade
Founded: 2005
Location: Johannesburg and Cape Town
At the top of our list is Bean There Coffee Company, South Africa’s first certified fair-trade coffee roaster. What makes Bean There stand out is their commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing. They work directly with farmers across Africa to ensure that every cup of coffee not only tastes good but does good. Their Kenyan AA coffee is legendary, with a vibrant and bright profile featuring notes of blackcurrant and citrus.
Why it’s awesome:
- South Africa’s first fair-trade coffee company
- Direct trade relationships with African farmers
- Focus on ethical, sustainable practices while delivering exceptional coffee
Final Thoughts:
From Terbodore’s adventurous blends to Bean There’s eco-conscious and fair-trade coffees, South Africa offers a wealth of high-quality coffee brands that cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for strong espresso, fruity single origins, or ethically sourced beans, there’s a coffee brand here that will satisfy your cravings.
With a thriving coffee culture, South Africa proves that it can hold its own on the global stage, and these seven brands are leading the charge. So, the next time you’re on the hunt for a new coffee experience, you know where to look!
FAQs
1. Which coffee brand is the most sustainable in South Africa?
- Bean There Coffee Company is the most sustainable, focusing on fair-trade practices and ethical sourcing.
2. What is the best South African coffee for espresso lovers?
- Truth Coffee is renowned for its powerful espresso blends, particularly their “Resurrection” blend.
3. What is a good coffee for those who prefer fruity, light flavors?
- Rosetta Roastery’s Ethiopian single-origin coffees, like the Ethiopia Duromina, are known for their fruity and bright profiles.
4. Where can I find the most unique coffee flavors in South Africa?
- Terbodore Coffee Roasters offers some of the most unique and adventurous flavors, including options like Salted Caramel and Hazelnut.
5. Is there a budget-friendly coffee brand on this list?
- Deluxe Coffeeworks provides strong, no-nonsense coffee at an affordable price, making it a great option for those on a budget.
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