Sip & Discover: Coffee Shop Gems of the Upper Highway

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mixed with the buzz of a well-loved local café. We’ve been venturing through the Upper Highway area to uncover some of its best-kept coffee secrets — from the artisan blends to the cozy corners perfect for a quiet moment or creative catch-up. Whether you’re a flat white fanatic, a croissant connoisseur, or simply love discovering local gems, this round-up highlights a few standout spots that bring more than just caffeine to the table.

📍Noble Coffee – A Taste of Europe in the Upper Highway

• Located: Inside Westown Square, Shongweni, Durban, KZN – click here for directions
• Known for: Sleek, modern space with quality-focused coffee
• Expect: A curated menu, locally sourced beans, and knowledgeable baristas
• Bonus: Ideal for remote work or casual meetings with an urban, minimalist aesthetic
• Follow them on Instagram here

Tucked away in the heart of the Upper Highway area, located in the newly built Westown Square within the exciting Westown development, Noble Coffee is a standout addition to the Upper Highway’s growing coffee culture. With another branch based in Durban North, Noble is quickly becoming a name synonymous with quality, consistency, and beautifully crafted coffee experiences.

This hidden gem offers more than just your morning caffeine fix — it delivers an experience that feels worlds away.

From the moment you step inside, you’re met with a sense of calm: the space is beautifully minimal, clean, and bathed in natural light, evoking a distinctly European ambiance that instantly slows you down in the best way.

The coffee? Absolutely outstanding. Smooth, balanced, and expertly brewed — each cup is a quiet reminder of the artistry behind great coffee. One of the standout features we loved was the thoughtful presentation: every drink is served on a coaster that details the specific blend you’re enjoying, a small but memorable touch that adds intention to the entire experience. The earthy ceramic cups further elevate the moment, making every sip feel grounded and special.

While we didn’t get a chance to try the food this time (though it looked delicious!), the real highlight was the staff — friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about what they do. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee aficionado or just someone who appreciates a beautiful space and a great brew, Noble Coffee is well worth the stop.

🎥  Want to see the vibe for yourself? Click here to watch the reel and get a feel for the space, the coffee, and what makes Noble Coffee so special.

📍Lineage Coffee – Where Passion, Purpose & the Perfect Brew Meet

• Located: Inside Hillcrest Centre, Hillcrest, Durban, KZN – click here for directions
• Known for: Passionate coffee craftsmanship and a loyal following
• Expect: A serious focus on bean origin, brewing precision, and educational vibes
• Bonus: Great for coffee lovers who want to learn more, try something new or need a space to work from.
• Follow them on Instagram here

More than just a coffee stop, Lineage Coffee is a space where passion meets purpose — and where every cup has a story. During our recent visit to their Hillcrest branch (the heart of their operation), we were treated not only to excellent coffee but also to a deeply inspiring conversation with the founder himself, Craig Charity.

We enjoyed a flat white, a classic americano, and the much-loved No.7 sandwich — made with just seven ingredients, yet bursting with freshness and flavour. It’s a must-try. What made the visit truly memorable was the opportunity to sit down with Craig and hear the story behind the brand.

Craig is no stranger to excellence: he was crowned South African Barista Champion in 2013, represented the country at the World Barista Championships in 2014, placing 15th globally, and went on to win the All African Barista Championship in 2017. Beyond his accolades, Craig is a proud advocate for entrepreneurs on the autism spectrum. His raw authenticity and drive have led to the creation of three thriving Lineage branches — the Hillcrest hub (which also houses the roastery & repair centre), one in Nottingham Road, and another in Westville.

Lineage is more than just a café. It’s also a Roastery, Barista Training Centre, and Coffee Machine Repair Hub — offering a full-circle coffee experience for professionals and everyday drinkers alike.

Lineage is built on the belief that “coffee without people is pointless” — and that sentiment runs deep in everything they do. With ample plug points, open tables, and a welcoming vibe, the space is intentionally designed for people to do life — especially in today’s flexible, remote-working world.

We also had the pleasure of meeting Mark, their in-house coffee expert who trains other establishments in the art of the perfect brew, and Fanie, who has been part of Lineage since inception, over a decade. Fanie’s story is a special one: he began by helping Craig carry coffee machines to events and, through Craig’s mentorship, has grown into one of their lead roasters — always ready with a smile and an exceptional cup.

At Lineage, the coffee is smooth, the people are passionate, and the purpose is clear. It’s not just about what’s in the cup — it’s about community, connection, and creating a space where people belong.

🎥 Want to see the Lineage magic in action? Click here to watch the reel and meet the faces behind the flavour.

📍Crane Flower Coffee – Kloof’s Best-Kept Secret

• Located: Inside Robyndale Centre, Kloof, Durban, KZN – click here for directions
• Known for: A beautiful blend of botanical calm and great coffee
• Expect: Serene garden surroundings, artisanal drinks, and possibly a few surprises (like locally made treats)
• Bonus: A hidden gem for quiet reflection or a picturesque coffee date
• Follow them on Instagram here 

Tucked away in the leafy heart of Kloof, Craneflower Coffee is a hidden gem you’ll be so glad you discovered — if you haven’t already.

What began as a lockdown pivot during the height of COVID-19 has blossomed into one of the Upper Highway’s most unique and charming coffee destinations.

Founded by Dale Sandy, Craneflower was born out of unexpected circumstances. After returning from the U.S. during the pandemic and finding himself “stuck” in South Africa, Dale transformed a humble garage into a beautiful, soul-filled space where coffee, creativity, and community collide. The result? A tranquil haven offering top-tier coffee, delicious toasties and incredible artisanal chocolate by Cocoa Africa — a sister brand founded by Dale’s wife, with creations almost too beautiful to eat.

Craneflower features its own on-site roastery, ensuring every cup is as fresh as it gets — expertly brewed by KZN’s top barista, crowned winner of the Battle of the Beans competition held in February 2025. Whether you settle inside the newly renovated cozy café space or enjoy the lush garden seating, you’ll find plenty of photo-worthy moments and even a few remote work-friendly spots if you’re bringing your laptop along.

The menu is simple yet satisfying — from classic toasties and bagels to their absolute must-try: the Butter Chicken & Avo Toastie on sourdough. Pro tip: it’s only available on Thursdays and Fridays, so plan your visit accordingly — it’s worth it!

With its laid-back energy, beautiful setting, artisanal chocolate treats and standout coffee, Craneflower Coffee is not just Kloof’s best-kept secret — it’s a spot you’ll want to keep coming back to.

🎥 Come see what makes Craneflower Coffee so special — click here to watch the reel and discover this tucked-away treasure for yourself.

📍Rioca Cafe – A Whimsical Escape in Kloof

• Located: Behind Maytime Centre, Kloof, Durban, KZN – click here for directions
• Known for: Warm, welcoming atmosphere
• Expect: A creative and flavorful menu, friendly service, and vibrant energy
• Bonus: Perfect for a mid-morning catch-up or a feel-good solo outing
• Follow them on Instagram here

Stepping into Rioca Cafe feels like walking into a scene from The Magic Faraway Tree. Tucked away behind the Maytime Centre in Kloof, this enchanting spot is one of the Upper Highway’s most delightful breakfast destinations — and a true hidden gem.

From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by twinkling fairy lights dripping from the ceiling and lush greenery that fills the space with life. The cozy, plant-filled interior creates a calm and refreshing atmosphere, perfect for lingering over a coffee or catching up on work. With plenty of seating and plug points, it’s an ideal remote work location, too.

Rioca doesn’t just serve coffee — they create a full lifestyle experience. Inside, you’ll also find a boutique-style pop-up shop offering everything from home décor and candles to clothing and jewellery. So whether you’re there to sip, shop, or snack — or all three — you’re in for a treat.

Their coffee is brewed with Craneflower Coffee beans, delivering a smooth and satisfying cup every time. But what they’re really known for is their Benedicts — and rightly so. We tried the Rioca Benedict served on a hashbrown with a generous pour of silky hollandaise, but the star of the show was the Croissant Benedict: flaky, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth good.

Don’t miss the sweet treats at the counter either — their tarts and pastries are as delicious as they are beautiful.

Whether you’re in need of a quiet morning moment, a hearty breakfast, or a little retail therapy with your coffee, Rioca Cafe is the kind of place that makes you want to stay a little longer.

🎥 Come see the magic for yourself — click here to watch the reel and step inside this whimsical Kloof hideaway.

🍕 The Pizza Hunt Begins

Durban is full of incredible food spots, and when it comes to pizza, everyone has an opinion on where to find the perfect slice and best pizza in Durban.

So, we’ve decided to put it to the test.

Over the next few weeks, the Durbanite team will be heading out across Durban on a pizza hunt — visiting different pizza spots, tasting a variety of styles and flavours, and sharing what makes each place special. From thin and crispy to chewy and indulgent, sold by the slice or served straight from the oven, we’re exploring it all.

We’re not professional food critics — just passionate locals who love good food and great experiences. Our goal isn’t to rate or rank, but to highlight the pros, the vibe, and the reasons you might want to add these spots to your must-visit list.

Think of this as your inside scoop on Durban’s pizza scene — one slice at a time 🍕

Check back regularly as we report back on our findings and continue the search for the best pizza in Durban.

• i ♥ NY Slice | Florida Road
• Spiga | Morningside

📍Pizza Stop 1 – Spiga | Morningside

The ‘Best Pizza in Durban’ hunt officially kicked off in Morningside, with our first stop at Spiga — a well-loved name on Durban’s food scene.

Originally based on Florida Road, Spiga relocated to Innes Road (opposite Mitchell Park) in 2019. Since the move, they’ve continued to enjoy the same level of success, proving that loyal customers will follow good food. The standalone location, with no neighbouring restaurants, gives the space its own identity and an easy, relaxed flow.

🍕 The Pizza

Spiga is known for its neapolitan style, thin-base pizzas, and that’s exactly what we were served — consistent, well-cooked bases across the board.

We ordered a selection to get a good feel for the menu:

• Pollo Stiano (Chicken, Feta & Avo)

• Don Corleone (Feta & Meatballs)

• Carne (Meat)

• Marinara (Seafood – the best!)

• Pepperoni

The pizzas were tasty and satisfying, with familiar flavours done well. They’re reliable, crowd-pleasing and easy to enjoy — the kind of pizza you know you’ll like when you order it. One of our Durbanite team members even rated the Marinara as “the best seafood pizza I’v ever had!”

🍷 Atmosphere & Experience

One of Spiga’s strongest points is the atmosphere. The space feels festive and welcoming, making it a great option for a relaxed lunch, a casual dinner, or a catch-up with friends.

The staff were friendly, helpful and attentive, adding to the overall positive experience and making us feel well looked after from start to finish.

🍕 Final Thoughts

Spiga is a solid choice for thin-base pizza lovers looking for a lively setting, good service and a dependable dining experience. It’s a spot that’s easy to return to — comfortable, familiar and consistently enjoyable.

As our Best Pizza in Durban journey continues, Spiga earns its place as a strong starting point in the hunt 🍕

🎥 Click here to watch the reel of our experience

Give them a follow!
FB – @SpigaOriginal
IG – @spigadurban

📍Pizza Stop 2 – i ♥ NY Slice | Florida Road

Stop #2 on our ‘Best Pizza in Durban’ hunt took us to Florida Road, where we visited i ♥ NY Slice — one of Durban’s newest and most exciting pizza spots.

Recently opened and already drawing crowds, this is the first i ♥ NY Slice in Durban and only the second halaal branch in the franchise. With its bold New York–inspired look and energetic vibe, it’s quickly becoming a go-to for both locals and visitors.

🍕 The Pizza

This is New York–style pizza done properly — sold by the slice and seriously generous in size (think: the size of your face!).

What stood out immediately was the quality and freshness of the ingredients, paired with dough that’s chewy, airy and slightly sweet — a combination that makes each bite indulgent without feeling heavy.

We sampled a variety of flavours:

• Buffalo Chicken (our favourite)

• Pepperoni

• Manhattan (a close second)

• Staten Island

• BBQ Chicken

Each slice was bold, flavourful and satisfying, making it easy to understand why this spot has gained popularity so quickly.

🍷 Atmosphere & Experience

i ♥ NY Slice offers more than just pizza — it’s a full experience.

Pizzas are made in front of you, adding to the excitement and giving the space an interactive, fast-paced energy. Aesthetically, the venue is a treat, with plenty of photo opportunities throughout — especially the iconic swing chairs outside, which are already a firm favourite.

The space feels fun, vibrant and welcoming, making it a great stop whether you’re grabbing a quick slice or lingering a little longer.

🍕 Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for something different from the usual sit-down pizza spots, i ♥ NY Slice is a must-visit. With its halaal-friendly offering, oversized slices, fresh ingredients and standout vibe, it’s a fantastic addition to Durban’s food scene — especially for those who love bold flavours and New York–style pizza.

This stop definitely raised the bar as our pizza hunt continues 🍕

Give them a follow!
FB – @NySlicePizza
IG – @nyslicepizza

🎥 Click here to watch the reel of our experience

More pizza stops coming soon…

The wait is almost over — the 2025 Durban Botanic Gardens Trail of Lights is a few weeks away!

What’s New This Year:

💫New lighting displays – surprises around every corner

🎠 Mini Golf – a playful new family favourite
🎅 Santa’s Workshop Upgrade – we’ve teamed up with our friends at Build A Bear South Africa and Toy Kingdom to bring you a Workshop zone bustling with fun.
🌌Forest Walk – explore even more illuminated beauty across the Gardens along our low sensory forest walk.
🍫 Ms Claus Craft Café – indulge in holiday crafts with Ms Claus and her team of merry elves.

🍔 Expanded food garden serving up festive treats for every taste and budget

Why You’ll Love It:
✨ Durban’s No. 1 festive family event
🌿 Set in Africa’s oldest surviving botanic garden
🎶 Wholesome entertainment, food, and joyful atmosphere
❤️ Supports the Durban Botanic Gardens Trust & local charities

The Best Part?
🎟️ Flexible Ticketing!
Plans change — we get that. With our flexible ticket system, you can reschedule your ticket up to 24 hours before your booked date at no additional cost making sure your festive season stays stress-free. T&Cs apply.

🎟️ Book your tickets here — popular dates sell out fast!