The coffee lover’s guide to Pretoria

As a university student, the caffeine kick offered to you by a cup of coffee is likely to become very familiar (and sometimes incredibly necessary). Late nights working or an early morning class may call for you to embrace your inner barista and make your own cup of Joe. However, if you have the time, there are some real gems in and around Pretoria that offer a great cup of coffee.

Bamlilo Coffee Company

Closest to campus is Bamlilo Coffee Company in the vibey Square 2.0. Their menu is broad and caters to everyone’s taste. There are familiar favourites like cappuccinos, americanos, and lattes for the coffee lovers, or an array of teas if that’s more your speed. There are also a number of Bamlilo’s own creations that are worth a try. Bamlilo is a great place to
grab a copy of PDBY when new editions have been printed!

PDBY’s Tip: the iced Kahlua Latte is a great way to cool off on a warm day or unwind after a long week.

Nush Café

Nestled in a small centre in Colbyn is Nush Café. Their menu is described as “culturally explosive” and features yummy food from all over the world. This is a great spot to meet a friend for coffee and get a bite to eat. If you’re not in the mood for a full meal, there is a display case full of pastries and sweet treats to tempt you.

PDBY’s Tip: Grab some prescribed reading and head over to Nush for coffee and a sweet treat to motivate you. They serve an excellent cappuccino and the best iced americano in Pretoria.

Plato Coffee

Regardless of where you are in Pretoria, good coffee is never far away. With locations on Atterbury Road, in Groenkloof, and Irene, Plato Coffee has most of Pretoria’s suburbs covered. This recently franchised brand, originally based in Rustenburg, has changed the coffee scene in Pretoria forever. They’re brewing up incredible coffees served in their signature cups that are seriously Instagram-worthy. Their staff are the friendliest people around who are always happy to serve you a great cup of coffee. They usually have some yummy eats to accompany your drink of choice.

PDBY’s Tip: Try the Ham and Cheese Croissant. Or the Chocolate Croissant. Or the plain Croissant. Okay, basically our tip here is that the croissants are incredible, so try whichever variation intrigues you. On a hot day their iced latte is sure to quench your thirst (there are a variety of non-coffee options too). Or if the weather is chillier, they make a great Dirty Chai Latte.

Artisan Coffee Bar

There are a variety of options on campus too, if you need a pick-me- up between classes. Although some of them have been closed due to the pandemic, Artisan Coffee Bar has been serving up great brews and delicious food in the lower levels of lockdown.

PDBY’s Tip: Be sure to snap a picture in front of their stunning, coffee-inspired mural!