Anyone familiar with Somerset West will notice, on the way from the Bright Street/Main Road corner towards Southey Vines the pleasant aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans alone will arrest their advance.
Well, that 100% Arabica aroma comes from the latest small business venture, Coffee Station, your one-stop, drive-through for a steaming morning cuppa.
Founded by Helderberg newbies Bronwyn and Brian Jordan, it is super-convenient for those rushed mornings.
“Coffee Station is a convenient option for anyone who wants a quick take-away caffeine fix, especially in winter when it’s cold and raining, and for early birds on the go by 06:30, which is when we open,” says Bronwyn.
But more than that, it is a beautiful setting where thw owners and baristas Ricardo Sias and Shanine Biza will make them feel at home.
They sell medium to dark roast 100% Arabica that is bold and smooth, with a balanced rich syrupy feel on the palette leaving you with a dark mocha cocoa and honeycomb aftertaste.
Humble beginnings
The business-power couple to the Helderberg from Pietermaritzburg, impressed by the friendliness of the people and all-round service received in the Cape – yet something was missing.
“We lived near a coffee drive-through in Pietermaritzburg, where we would go during the Covid pandemic,” Bronwyn related. “So the journey to revisiting the concept for Somerset West began.”
Brian started looking for a container, a 12 m-high cube in a good condition. They found one, and with the help of SMART MOD for converting it and their son-in-law for the interior design they created a user-friendly, tastefully decorated venue. What’s more, Southey Vines had the space needed for their drive-through concept, and working through the municipality was efficient. “As landscaping has been our other business we are excited to be able to team up with Southey Vines to enhance and beautify the area with new trees and flower beds,” Bronwyn states.
Indulgence awaits
When stopping by for coffee one can expect the friendly, talented, and welcoming service of baristas Ricardo and Shanine.
“We also have place to sit and enjoy the beautiful tranquil setting at Southey Vines if one does not want a rushed coffee experience,” Bronwyn added. “And you can take a walk with you dog as we also have dog treats and water bowls to accommodate them.”
Coffee Station has various eats and treats, also on sale, such as almond croissants, cheese and ham croissants, sweet chilli chicken mayo fresh or toasted sandwiches and a variety of muffins. “We also sell a delicious Nastergal berry jam, which is delicious with yoghurt, ice cream or on fresh scones or pancakes.”
Bronwyn said it had been a great start to move to Somerset West, where they immerse themselves in the local community. “Brian and I love meeting new people and look forward to being part of the community,” she said.
