--- title: Cape Town Coffee Roasters Worth Visiting Beyond the Usual Cafes description: Explore six Cape Town coffee roasters worth a detour, from a steampunk cafe in the CBD to a wine cellar roastery in Stellenbosch. image: https://blog.nox.capetown/hubfs/pexels-shkrabaanthony-7175975.jpg --- [![Nox. rent. buy. manage. sell](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/rent.%20buy.%20manage.%20sell-2.png?width=155&height=87&name=rent.%20buy.%20manage.%20sell-2.png "Nox. rent. buy. manage. sell")](https://nox.capetown/) [![Nox. rent. buy. manage. sell](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/rent.%20buy.%20manage.%20sell-2.png?width=210&height=118&name=rent.%20buy.%20manage.%20sell-2.png "Nox. rent. buy. manage. sell")](https://nox.capetown/) [![Nox. rent. buy. manage. sell](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/rent.%20buy.%20manage.%20sell-2.png?width=210&height=118&name=rent.%20buy.%20manage.%20sell-2.png "Nox. rent. buy. manage. sell")](https://nox.capetown/) This is a search field with an auto-suggest feature attached. - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. - [Property Management](https://noxmanagement.co.za/) - [Property Sales](https://www.noxproperty.co.za/) - [Holiday Rentals](https://www.noxrentals.com/) - More - [Blog](https://blog.nox.capetown/blog) - [We Give Back](https://nox.capetown/we-give-back/) - [Nox in the Press](https://nox.capetown/nox-in-the-press/) - [Contact Us](https://nox.capetown/contact-us/) This is a search field with an auto-suggest feature attached. - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. # Cape Town Coffee Roasters Worth Visiting Beyond the Usual Cafes by [Nox](https://blog.nox.capetown/blog/author/nox) | Sep 30, 2026 Cape Town has a reputation for excellent coffee, and the city rewards those who look past the obvious choices. Behind the well known cafes sits a group of independent roasters, each with its own story, setting and approach to the cup. Some sit in converted industrial spaces, others in themed interiors that are as memorable as the coffee itself. For visitors staying on the Atlantic Seaboard, most of these spots are an easy drive away, which makes a coffee trail a rewarding way to see different parts of the city. ### In this blog we cover… - **Rosetta Roastery in Claremont:** A multi-award-winning roaster with a filter brew bar and a reserve coffee menu. - **Truth Coffee in the CBD:** A steampunk cafe that has earned international recognition. - **Deluxe Coffeeworks in Gardens:** An industrial espresso bar with hot rod character and a story rooted in a backyard roaster. - **Espressolab Microroasters at the Old Biscuit Mill:** A laboratory-inspired cafe built around coffee precision. - **The 777 Coffee Roastery in the CBD:** An aviation-themed neighbourhood favourite known for its friendly service. - **Legado in Stellenbosch and beyond:** A heritage-minded roaster set in a historic wine cellar. ## Rosetta Roastery: Seasonal Coffee in Claremont Rosetta Roastery was founded in 2010 by Jono Le Feuvre, Rob Cowles and Jeff van Aswegen, and it has become one of the most respected names in South African speciality coffee. The roastery was named South African Coffee Roastery of the Year by The Coffee Magazine in 2023, following earlier wins in 2018 and 2019. The approach here treats coffee much like a seasonal food menu. Instead of relying on house blends, Rosetta sources single origin coffees from celebrated growing regions and rotates them through the year. Each coffee highlights its own terroir, seed variety and processing method. [![Rosetta](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Coffee%20Roasteries/Rosetta.png?width=1200&height=630&name=Rosetta.png)](https://www.instagram.com/rosettaroastery?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)*Images: [@rosettaroastery](https://www.instagram.com/rosettaroastery?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) on Instagram* Their second café in Claremont brings the full Rosetta experience to the southern suburbs. It features a dedicated filter brew bar, rotating single-origin espresso options and a more extensive food menu than most speciality roasters offer. A reserve coffee freezer menu adds a special touch, with a curated selection of limited edition coffees brewed to order as pour-overs. The roastery itself sits right next door, and it is where every Rosetta coffee begins its journey. It is a working production space, but visitors are welcome to greet the roasting team. Those who arrive mid-roast may even get a glimpse behind the scenes. [![Rosetta (2)](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Coffee%20Roasteries/Rosetta%20(2).jpg?width=1170&height=780&name=Rosetta%20(2).jpg)](https://www.instagram.com/rosettaroastery?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)*Images: [@rosettaroastery](https://www.instagram.com/rosettaroastery?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) on Instagram* ## Truth Coffee: Steampunk in the CBD Truth Coffee was co-founded by Andrzej Janik and David Donde, both regarded as pioneers of speciality coffee in Cape Town. The cafe has been named the Best Coffee Shop in the World twice by the UK's Daily Telegraph, an endorsement few local cafes can match. [![Truth Coffee (1)](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Coffee%20Roasteries/Truth%20Coffee%20(1).jpg?width=1170&height=778&name=Truth%20Coffee%20(1).jpg)](https://www.instagram.com/truthcoffee.capetown?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)*Images: [@truthcoffee.capetown](https://www.instagram.com/truthcoffee.capetown?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)on Instagram* The interior is the main talking point. Metal, pipework, cogs, vintage instruments and airship-inspired details create a full steampunk world, and the staff dress to suit the theme. Menus resemble old London newspapers, and even the bathrooms follow the concept, with solid metal doors and authentic fittings. Guests are encouraged to wander and take in the details. The coffee holds its own against the decor. Truth is known for bold, full-flavoured blends, with options ranging from dark and intense to smooth and balanced. Beans from origins such as Ethiopia and Guatemala feature across the range. The central CBD location makes it a convenient stop for anyone exploring the city centre. [![Truth Coffee](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Coffee%20Roasteries/Truth%20Coffee.png?width=1200&height=630&name=Truth%20Coffee.png)](https://www.instagram.com/truthcoffee.capetown?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)*Images: [@truthcoffee.capetown](https://www.instagram.com/truthcoffee.capetown?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)on Instagram* ## Deluxe Coffeeworks: An Industrial Espresso Bar in Gardens Deluxe Coffeeworks opened in April 2009, founded by Carl Wessel and Judd Nicolay. Judd brought years of coffee experience from New Zealand and noticed how little good coffee was available in Cape Town. Carl, who co-owned a film production company, wanted a change of pace. The two met in a Cape Town bar, and within weeks they had bought a second-hand roaster and set it up in Carl's backyard. [![Deluxe (1)](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Coffee%20Roasteries/Deluxe%20(1).jpg?width=714&height=477&name=Deluxe%20(1).jpg)](https://www.instagram.com/deluxecoffeeworks?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)*Images: [@deluxecoffeeworks](https://www.instagram.com/deluxecoffeeworks?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)on Instagram* About six months later, the first shop opened at 25 Church Street in the CBD, complete with a 5kg roaster on site. The early customer base ranged from high court judges and lawyers to skaters and punks, and the shop became known for its ten rand cup of coffee. Deluxe has since expanded to larger premises, with its shop now on Buitenkant Street in Gardens. Additional shops followed in Stellenbosch and Namibia, and a consulting arm now advises hotels, restaurants and cafes internationally.  The look is best described as an espresso bar disguised as a hot rod garage, with an industrial finish to match. Polished concrete floors, a dark ceiling and metal pendant lamps set the tone, while steel-framed glass panels divide the space and let in plenty of light. Along the walls, tan leather banquettes and timber panelling add warmth, with small tables and black metal stools for those settling in for a while.  [![Deluxe](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Coffee%20Roasteries/Deluxe.png?width=1200&height=630&name=Deluxe.png)](https://www.instagram.com/deluxecoffeeworks?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)*Images: [@deluxecoffeeworks](https://www.instagram.com/deluxecoffeeworks?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)on Instagram* ## Espressolab Microroasters: Coffee Treated Like Science Espressolab is found at the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock, at 373 to 375 Albert Road, and the name is fitting. The shop sits a few steps below street level and looks like an alchemist's workshop, with white tiles on the bench, walls and ceiling. The first impression may be stark, but the atmosphere turns out to be warm and lively. ![EspressoLab (1)](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Coffee%20Roasteries/EspressoLab%20(1).png?width=1522&height=857&name=EspressoLab%20(1).png)*Image: [y](https://maps.google.com/maps/contrib/105916130911833833259)* The baristas are welcoming and knowledgeable, and they are happy to explain the extensive menu. The drinks list is written on the wall like the periodic table, with symbols such as E for espresso, La for latte and Ca for cappuccino. Customers choose between two blends featuring beans from origins as varied as Costa Rica and Ethiopia, each roasted to bring out its best qualities. Orders move quickly, which suits those grabbing a cup on the go, though seating is available indoors and in the courtyard. Roasted and raw beans are sold alongside coffee accessories, from pots to flasks, making it a useful stop for anyone wanting to recreate the experience at home. ![Espressolab](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Coffee%20Roasteries/Espressolab.png?width=1200&height=630&name=Espressolab.png)*Images: [Anas Alrubya](https://maps.google.com/maps/contrib/100006749460601958125)  ; [Charles Henry Mercer](https://maps.google.com/maps/contrib/117601660846415710871)* ## The 777 Coffee Roastery: An Aviation-Themed Cafe in the CBD Known to regulars as the Triple 7, this CBD coffee shop sits in the heart of the business district and is a popular choice for quick lunches and catch-up meetings. The theme comes from the Boeing 777, with airport-style signage and pilot-inspired uniforms. The concept is present without taking over the experience. [![777 Coffee (3)](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Coffee%20Roasteries/777%20Coffee%20(3).jpg?width=1170&height=1558&name=777%20Coffee%20(3).jpg)](https://www.instagram.com/the777coffee_roastery?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)*Images: [@the777coffee\_roastery](https://www.instagram.com/the777coffee_roastery?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) on Instagram* Behind the counter is Bosaqr, a commercial pilot, business owner and much-loved barista. The coffee comes from high-altitude farms, and the menu includes well-liked sandwiches, recently added smash burgers and sweet treats such as tiramisu, which has built its own loyal following. The overall impression is a cafe that feels playful yet dependable, offering something visually memorable alongside consistently good coffee. [![777 Coffee](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Coffee%20Roasteries/777%20Coffee.png?width=1200&height=630&name=777%20Coffee.png)](https://www.instagram.com/the777coffee_roastery?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)*Images: [@the777coffee\_roastery](https://www.instagram.com/the777coffee_roastery?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) on Instagram* ## Legado: Heritage Roasting in Stellenbosch Legado Coffee Roasters was founded in 2010 by three friends who shared a vision of good business and exceptional coffee. Their story began with the discovery of one of South Africa's original Diedrich roasters. Persuading its long-time owner to hand over the machine, along with his expertise, became the foundation of the business. The name is Portuguese for "legacy," reflecting a commitment to honouring both the traditions of the coffee industry and the farmers who grow the beans. [![Legado Coffee (2)](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Coffee%20Roasteries/Legado%20Coffee%20(2).jpg?width=1170&height=839&name=Legado%20Coffee%20(2).jpg)](https://www.instagram.com/legadocoffee?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)*Images: [@legadocoffee](https://www.instagram.com/legadocoffee?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) on Instagram* The Woodmill Roastery is housed in a century-old wine cellar on Rosenview Guestfarm in Stellenbosch. The setting blends Cape Dutch warehouse and cellar styling, and it is often described as one of the loveliest and most intimate cafes in the Cape Town region. A day in the Winelands is a highlight for many visitors, and a stop here offers a welcome balance to a morning of wine tasting. Coffee lovers in the city can also find Legado at the Oranjezicht City Farm Market at the V&A Waterfront.  [![Legado](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Coffee%20Roasteries/Legado.png?width=1200&height=630&name=Legado.png)](https://www.instagram.com/legadocoffee?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)*Images: [@legadocoffee](https://www.instagram.com/legadocoffee?stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) on Instagram* ## Planning a Coffee Trail Around Cape Town Each of these roasters offers something different, from precision and provenance to theatre and heritage. Grouping the visits by area makes the day easier. Truth Coffee and The 777 Coffee Roastery are both in the CBD, with Deluxe Coffeeworks close by in Gardens. Espressolab is in Woodstock, and Rosetta Roastery is in Claremont, in the southern suburbs. Legado calls for a separate day trip into the Winelands. For visitors staying along the Atlantic Seaboard, [Nox Cape Town](https://www.noxrentals.com/rentals) is a dependable partner for all holiday rental needs. From Camps Bay and Clifton to Sea Point and Mouille Point, a comfortable base makes it simple to explore the city's best coffee at a relaxed pace. [![Spring Blog End](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Blog%20End%20Media/Spring%20Blog%20End.png?width=1080&height=1080&name=Spring%20Blog%20End.png)](https://www.noxrentals.com/rentals) ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Which Cape Town coffee roaster has won the most awards? Rosetta Roastery has been named South African Coffee Roastery of the Year by The Coffee Magazine in 2018, 2019 and 2023. Truth Coffee has also been named Best Coffee Shop in the World twice by the UK's Daily Telegraph. ### Where can specialty coffee be found in the Cape Town CBD? Truth Coffee and The 777 Coffee Roastery are both in the city centre, and Deluxe Coffeeworks is a short distance away on Buitenkant Street in Gardens. Each offers a distinct atmosphere. ### Which coffee shops in Cape Town have unusual themes? Truth Coffee uses a steampunk theme, Deluxe Coffeeworks combines an industrial look with hot rod character, Espressolab looks like a laboratory, and The 777 Coffee Roastery follows an aviation theme. ### Is there a good coffee roaster near the Stellenbosch wine farms? Legado's Woodmill Roastery is set in a century old wine cellar on Rosenview Guestfarm in Stellenbosch, making it a natural stop during a day of wine tasting. ### Can visitors buy beans to take home? Yes. Espressolab sells roasted and raw beans along with coffee accessories, Rosetta Roastery supplies freshly roasted single origin coffees from its roastery in Claremont, and Legado beans are available at the Oranjezicht City Farm Market and through online stockists. ### What can be found at Rosetta Roastery in Claremont? The Claremont café offers a filter brew bar, rotating single origin espresso, a fuller food menu and a reserve coffee menu of limited edition pour overs. The roastery is next door, and visitors are welcome to say hello to the roasting team. ### Where can specialty coffee be found in the southern suburbs? Rosetta Roastery has a café and roastery in Claremont, offering single origin coffees and a range of brew methods. 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