Java in Jozi: Favorite Cafes

"The Motherland has a Sweet Dictator Situated in a quiet corner of the Zone in Rosebank, this quaint little coffee shop has some tall orders on its menu. With a size called "The Mother Cuppa" and a drink called the Dictator, Motherland Coffee Co.'s range of fair trade based beverages are sure to leave your mouth wanting more. The particular drink in the photo above is the Dictator — a layering of condensed milk, double espresso and whipped cream topped off with chocolate shavings. While your taste buds are coming to grips with the drink you've ordered, you can enjoy some memes or youtube clips on your laptop courtesy of the free wi-fi."

"Have Some In-House Brew, Bru When you first walk into Father Coffee you may think you've teleported into a small European village, but you'll quickly find yourself at home and back in Jozi with some of their in-house brew, which can also be bought (in packaged form, of course) if you like it that much! It's a great spot to get a morning fixer before a heavy day during the week and works well as a place to meet up with your friends on the weekend for a quick snack before heading out to the market next door or an inner city tour. This place reminds me a lot of one of my favourite haunts in Cape Town , The Loading Bay. The only thing missing is the Mountain."

"Eat Your Heart Out In Maboneng Eat Your Heart Out is a cool corner deli with a Jewish inspired menu, located in the bustling Maboneng Precinct. This particular morning I'd met up with a friend and his family for a quick breakfast before heading onto the Market on Main, located just down the street. I'd chosen the "Israeli Breakfast" which is an omelette lightly spiced with a mix of Arabic herbs, served with toasted pita, diced salad, pickled lettuce, chilis, olives, chunky feta and organic humus."

"Slurping on Smoothies from Uncle Merv Uncle Merv's Original Shakes makes some killer smoothies, all with non-dairy milk bases. My favourite would have to be the Macci-Porter, a delicious blend of Tahini, Dates, Cashew nuts, Banana, Honey and Soy Milk. Grab a sarmie (sandwich) or a croissant and a coffee or smothie and plant your bum at the nice, long table under the tree to do a bit of people watching on a Sunday. Or if you're feeling tender ffrom a big party the night before, you can order a health breakfast and recover in the sun The sidewalk shop is situated next to the Infor'motion Station in Fox Street"

"Linden's Local Eatery, The Whippet, is a Winner! One early morning, with close to zero sleep and after a quick photo job in the area, I made my way to the Whippet in Linden as I'd heard it was awesome. On walking in, I was quite surprised as to how busy it was during the week. I found a spot at the back in the corner and ordered a cup of hot choc and something warm to eat. The hot choc arrived with a cute little piggy in the foam! That made my day :) The breakfast was pretty good, but I think I need to go back for a lunch to test out their food offering a bit better... and also when I'm more awake, But as it's stands the hot choc was really nice (just be careful of the really high coaster) and the breakfast was pretty decent. So if you're in the area and looking for something to fill your tummy, make your way to the Whippet. Here's a little tip: The guys at The Whippet manufacture their own furniture out of recycled wood for use in the store and then change it out every few months, so they sell the furniture at decent prices to make way for the new stuff. Keep an eye out and you could net yourself some well priced wooden furniture!"