Durban’s coffee scene offers a diverse range of experiences, from beachfront cafes to hidden gems in lush settings. What makes these coffee spots stand out isn’t just the quality of the coffee—it’s the vibe, the people, and the atmosphere that create a memorable visit. Here are some of Durban’s best coffee spots, each offering more than just a brew.

Here’s a list of the top coffee spots around Durban where you can load up on good vibes and great coffee.

Umhlanga

Tiki Tonga Coffee Roasters – Umhlanga
Tiki Tonga in Umhlanga is famous for its Wednesday morning run, where free coffee is a highlight. The café is well-known for its excellent coffee and welcoming vibe. It’s a great place to meet up with friends or enjoy a laid-back coffee experience, with the energy of the morning runners adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

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African Roots Cafe Restaurant – Umhlanga
Located in the upmarket Pearls Mall in Umhlanga, African Roots offers some of the best coffee in town. The chic, modern setting complements the rich flavours of their African-inspired coffee. The vibe is upscale yet welcoming, making it a favourite for those who appreciate high-quality coffee in a stylish environment.

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Rox Coffee Company – Umhlanga Promenade
Situated on the scenic Umhlanga Promenade, Rox Coffee is known for its excellent coffee and relaxed beachside vibe. It’s a great spot to grab a coffee while taking in the ocean views, whether you’re starting your day or winding down in the afternoon. The baristas are passionate, and the location makes it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.

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The Forest Café uMhlanga – Umhlanga Promenade
At the opposite end of the Umhlanga Promenade from Rox Coffee, The Forest Café offers a relaxed beachside escape. With a tranquil atmosphere and stunning views, it’s a perfect spot for beach lovers to grab a coffee and enjoy the fresh air. Popular with cyclists, joggers, and anyone looking for a peaceful place to savour their brew.

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Durban North & Glen Ashley

Gatvol Coffee – Glen Ashley
Gatvol Coffee is a unique spot in Glen Ashley, blending a jungle-like bar atmosphere with excellent coffee. Inside Neighbourhood Café, Gatvol offers cool vibes and top-notch baristas who create a laid-back, fun environment. It’s a hidden gem for those who enjoy great coffee and a chilled atmosphere.

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Now Coffee – Glen Ashley
A minimalist favourite, Now Coffee in Glen Ashley is known for its clean, no-fuss approach to coffee. The coffee here is always top quality, and the simple treats menu adds to the experience. The café’s sleek, modern vibe makes it a perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee and relax in a peaceful setting.

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Seattle Coffee Co Kensington Square – Durban North
While Seattle Kensington Square is part of a well-known franchise, this location stands out for its friendly, welcoming café vibe. It doesn’t have the typical commercial feel of other chain coffee shops, and the baristas ensure that each visit feels personal. The consistent quality of coffee and cosy atmosphere make it a local favourite.

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Colombo Coffee & Tea Specialty Roastery – Durban North
Colombo has earned a reputation for expanding its footprint in Durban while maintaining exceptional coffee quality. The Durban North location is sleek and modern, offering a great space to work or enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee. The café’s dedication to craft and its welcoming vibe make it a popular choice for both coffee aficionados and remote workers.

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Berea/Morningside

Humble Coffee Churchill – Greyville, Berea
Humble Coffee has a cosy, unpretentious charm that shouldn’t be overlooked. With baristas who are passionate about their craft and a space that feels like home, Humble Coffee offers a simple yet satisfying coffee experience. It’s the perfect spot for those who value authenticity over flashiness.

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Skyline Coffee Durban – Windermere, Berea
Skyline is a hidden gem in Windermere, Berea, known for its excellent coffee and welcoming atmosphere. While it doesn’t boast grand city views, the café’s tucked-away location and friendly vibe make it a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle. With a relaxed environment and plenty of seating, it’s also an ideal place to work or catch up with friends over a well-brewed cup.

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North Coast/Dolphin Coast

The Waterberry Coffee Shop – Ballito
Tucked away in a forest-like setting, The Waterberry Coffee Shop in Ballito is a peaceful retreat offering more than just coffee. The café’s excellent food and warm hospitality make it a top choice for those looking to enjoy a cup of coffee amidst nature. It’s an ideal spot for a quiet morning or afternoon escape, far from the hustle and bustle.

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Salt Café – Salt Rock/Chaka’s Rock
Located in the laid-back coastal town of Salt Rock, Salt Café is a cosy coffee spot with a casual beach vibe. It’s the perfect escape for those looking to enjoy a cup of coffee in a peaceful, seaside setting. Whether you’re a local or just visiting the coast, Salt Café offers a relaxed environment and top-quality coffee.

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Durban’s coffee scene is filled with unique spots that offer much more than just a good brew. From the scenic beachfronts of Umhlanga’s Rox Coffee Company and The Forest Café uMhlanga to the minimalist charm of Now Coffee and the hidden jungle vibes of Gatvol Coffee & The Waterberry Cafe, these spots bring together great coffee, cool vibes, and welcoming atmospheres. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee on the go or settling in for a relaxed afternoon, these spots offer the perfect mix of quality and experience.

Durban is not only a great place for beach lovers and food enthusiasts, but it’s also becoming increasingly pet-friendly.
If you’re looking to enjoy a meal or a coffee with your furry friend by your side, you’re in luck! From beachfront cafés to charming delis and laid-back pubs, Durban offers plenty of spots that welcome dogs with open arms.

Here’s a list of the top dog-friendly restaurants around Durban where you and your canine companion can relax and enjoy a great outing.

1. The Oyster Box Hotel (Umhlanga)
This iconic hotel offers a luxurious, dog-friendly experience. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas, including the Ocean Terrace.
It’s perfect for a high-end, pet-friendly outing with stunning ocean views.

2. Atasca Portuguese Restaurant (Westville)
Atasca offers a warm and welcoming environment with a dog-friendly outdoor area.
Their Portuguese-inspired menu is a hit, and dogs are always greeted with a smile.

3. Sage Café & Deli (Salt Rock)
Although a bit north of Durban, Sage Café is worth the drive for its large outdoor garden area, ideal for dogs to roam while you savour their organic menu.

4. Surf Riders Café (South Beach)
Located right on the beachfront, Surf Riders Café is popular among pet owners.
Dogs are welcome outside, making it the perfect spot for a post-beach brunch or coffee.

5. Olive & Oil (Glenwood)
This relaxed eatery has a beautiful outdoor seating area where dogs are welcome.
It’s a great spot for Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with a friendly vibe for pet owners.

6. Old Town Italy (Umhlanga)
This charming Italian restaurant and deli welcomes dogs in their outdoor seating area.
It’s a vibrant spot with a European flair, ideal for a casual meal with your pet after a stroll around Umhlanga.

7. Lupa Osteria (Westville)
This Italian eatery has a dog-friendly patio where pet owners can savor delicious pasta and pizzas.
The casual, relaxed atmosphere makes it a popular choice for dining with dogs.

Know of any places that should be on this list? Drop us a comment below!

The Sibaya node has seen much activity over recent years and the catalytic projects undertaken in the area are continuing despite setbacks faced in the KZN province over the past two years. One of the most exciting projects within the Sibaya region will reach completion and be open to the public on 30th September 2022, that will have a profound impact on job creation and tourism in the Sibaya precinct. There’s no doubt that the opening of the Umdloti Marine Walk Shopping Centre will change the landscape of the Sibaya area for the better, offering residents of nearby areas a safe, convenient and family-centric retail space right on their doorstep.

Project lead on the Umdloti Marine Walk Shopping Centre, Devmco Group’s Brad Winstanley, believes that convenience and connection are two of the most important factors for people looking to change and improve their lifestyles. “We have set our sights on improving the quality of life for people in the area through this shopping centre. We are proud to have created a curated collection of retailers in a safe shopping space, with an open-air courtyard and restaurants that spill out into nature. It is a space that inspires relaxation, entertainment, and connection,” says Winstanley.

Finally opening its doors this week, the much-anticipated shopping space was built around the same philosophy of sustainability and environmental consciousness that Durban-based developers Devmco have weaved throughout the Salta development. The stylish retail space boasts large open areas and landscaped terraces for families to enjoy before, during and after their shopping – as media, influencers and stakeholders got to experience first-hand during a sneak preview event on Thursday 29 September 2022. According to Winstanley, the new mall will not only offer convenience to local shoppers from the surrounding areas but will act as a platform for local businesses to thrive.

Mzokoloko Gumede (Vuma FM) & Joel Magic (Durbanite)

“We have purposefully looked to include tenants in the centre who comprise of some of South Africa’s most popular and loved brands like Dischem, Kauai, Mr Price, Woolworths, Spar, Milady’s and Mugg & Bean. We have also hand-picked a number of owner-run and managed establishments and stores that are considered local treasures,” explains Winstanley.

Umdloti family-run business Casa Nostra have relocated their popular restaurant to the new shopping centre that has established a reputation and following in the community for 27 years. Considered a true family institution owned and run by Emanuele and Vanessa Cantatore, their authentic Italian home-style cuisine, with its focus on quality ingredients and authentic Italian flavours, will undoubtedly be a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike to the centre. “We are looking forward to offering our customers, who are like family to us, the same tried and tested menu favourites, but with a new dining experience that has something for the whole family to enjoy,” says Vanessa Cantatore.
In addition to local favourites such as Waxy O’Connors, Moustache Barber, Petland and Frozen For You – shoppers will get to enjoy the very first Woolworths W.Edit store in KZN. In a strategic move to expand their footprint to smaller malls and locations that wouldn’t necessarily be able to include the full Woolworths offering, the new W.Edit store is a boutique offering of the very best of Woolworths Fashion, Beauty, and Homeware items, curated especially for customers in the area.

Similarly, a new SUPERSPAR will welcome local residents to a flagship store that is employing and extensively training 67 previously unemployed staff members. “It has been a privilege to work with a blank canvas and build a SUPERSPAR from scratch at the Umdloti Marine Walk Shopping Centre”, says Paul Jason, co-owner of SUPERSPAR Salta. “Our vision is to exceed customers’ expectations through unbelievable service and an extraordinary shopping experience. With notable additions like a dedicated Gelato counter, a freshly made sushi station and a wood fired pizza offering, and an in-house café to sit, work, chat and eat at – not to mention a menu built by Durban legends Paul Sheppard of Marco Paulo and Raymond Friedman of Ray’s Kitchen.”

Devmco Group Director, Charles Thompson says, “We have created a shopping and lifestyle space where convenience is at the heart of this offering as we work towards redefining the customer retail experience. Retail is shifting, and customers are embracing the move to smaller, more intimate shopping zones. They no longer need to travel to the larger “city centre” malls to get their shopping done, when they can do it right here, and enjoy the same service excellence from their favourite local brands, in the fresh open air on the coast – close to home.”

As an increasing hub of residential and commercial activity, Salta Sibaya is ticking all the boxes with its exceptional product offering. A vibrant coastal lifestyle with sporting facilities and popular amenities, a close-knit community of like-minded people, and the ultimate convenience with popular retail brands, grocers, and restaurants all within close and easy proximity to your front door. A welcome addition to the area, Maine Walk during its opening weekends will offer families entertainment like LIV Choir performing on Saturday 1st October with massive opening specials at most stores during the opening weekend. Veranda Panda will also be performing at Waxy O’Connors on Friday 7th October and there will be kids entertainment over the rest of the weekend to keep youngsters entertained during the school holidays.

For more information about the Umdloti Marine Walk and all the activities on offer – follow their Instagram and Facebook pages, or visit www.marinewalk.co.za.