Motherland Coffee
Motherland Coffee are all about reclaiming Africa's coffee heritage. They believe that coffee started in Africa, and that by investing in our continent's coffee trade, we can create a perky future for all. That's why Motherland bring their customers only the finest African brews, roasted to perfection.
This coffee cafes slogan is Drink the Love - because let's face it, there is no greater love affair than between an overtired city-slicker and their cuppa joe. The difference here is that when you enjoy a Motherland coffee, you are becoming part of the African coffee community.
Motherland Coffee established its flagship store in 2010, before branching out all over Joburg. They now have cafes all over the northern suburbs of Joburg, including Rosebank at the Zone, Dunkeld, Parktown North, Benmore, Sandton, Birnam and Rivonia.
Mother Africa Takes on Bedfordview
On Tuesday, 20 August 2019, Motherland Coffee announced the opening of their new cafe in Bedfordview. Finally us East-siders can have a taste of the good stuff! We paid the cafe a visit one week after its opening to check out the vibe, snacks and of course, the coffee.
Typical of the Motherland brand, the Bedfordview cafe is eclectically African-inspired. From the cushion prints to the wallpaper, there is something distinctly African about the decor. The cafe is situated on the top level of Bedford Village shopping centre, giving customers a fantastic view of the surrounding suburbs. It is also surprisingly quiet. This would be the perfect place to catch up with old friends or even get some important work done (using their free WIFI). When you pay Motherland Coffee Bedfordview a visit, take a seat at the window and soak up a little mellow sunshine while you're at it.
Motherland offer the best of café fare. Their menus are regional, bringing you the best from local producers, farmers and dairies with a focus on quality and ethical sourcing. Their love for coffee has also seen the creation of a number of new and exciting coffee drinks. However, they pride themselves on having perfected the old favourites, too.
Walking into the Bedfordview branch, you are greeted by the sight of muffins, cake loaves, cheesecake and decadent chocolate cake. You are also welcomed by the scent of delicious coffees, freshly brewed and waiting just for you. The food menu features sarmies, wraps, toasties and salads - just what you need to keep you going. But, it's the drinks we are really here for, so let's break down what they have on offer:
Small, Tall and The Mother Cuppa
Motherland Coffee Bedfordview have kept all the good old favourites on the menu. From traditional cappuccinos with silky steamed milk, to flavoured lattes and sweet mochas made with dark chocolate sauce and espresso. However, they know that you also want the latest coffee trends and super cool Insta-worthy drinks on the menu. You can order your drink small, tall or mega - the Mother Cuppa - for those days when your only way to survive is by drowning in caffeine.
We tried out the vanilla latte and a frozen Chai latte - organic chai made with Malawian black tea, blended with milk and ice. The vanilla latte was sweet and frothy, with natural bitter undertones. However, we felt that it could've used a little more espresso to balance out the sweetness and deliver a real kick. The frozen Chai latte on the other hand was perfectly balanced - not too sweet and not too spicy. There was plenty of ice, making it a wonderful refreshment on an unusually warm day.
We simply couldn't resist the milktart, caramel and condensed milk cheesecake either. With subtle hints of cinnamon, a yummy biscuit base and ultra-smooth condensed milk filling, this little treat was well worth the guilty calories. Plus, the flavours complimented the vanilla and spices in our drinks oh so well.
Overall, our visit to the cafe was a tasty, relaxed experience. We'll be back soon Motherland!
For more information
Visit their website for more information. You can also follow their social media pages for the latest news, specials and events:
Facebook - facebook.com/motherlandcoffee
Instagram - instagram.com/motherlandcoffee
Twitter - twitter.com/MotherlandCo
Contact them on 011 447 4360 or via email at [email protected]
Details: Bedford Village Shopping Centre, Cnr Van Buuren and Nicol Rd, Bedfordview, Johannesburg.
Have you visited the new Motherland Coffee? Let us know about your experience!
Mugg & Bean have been in the business of bottomless coffee, giant muffins and home-style classics since 1996. This coffee-shop-cum-bistro is a firm family favourite. They also pride themselves on giving old friends the space and time to chat for hours. To keep this 'spirit of generosity' going during the festive summer season, Mugg & Bean have revamped their menu. Here's what's new:
Breakfast
Mugg & Bean are known for their wholesome all-day breakfasts. But, they also know the importance of healthy living and good nutrition. Staying on the wagon over the holidays can feel near impossible. To help you steer clear of temptation, Mugg & Bean have re-introduced the Country-Style Low Carb Breakfast. It features two eggs, back bacon, pork sausage, fresh baby spinach, grilled mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, sliced avo* and cauliflower hashbrowns instead of toast.
Tex-Mex inspired brekkies are all the rage right now. Giving you that little extra spice you need, Mugg & Bean's Rancheros Omelette is a Mexican-inspired food fiesta, a cheesy, salsa-filled omelette topped with chorizo, fresh avo*, baby potato, charred corn and cherry tomatoes, drizzled with sriracha mayo and served with sour cream served on the side. It's the perfect way to fire up your morning.
Vegetarians can now also rejoice over Mugg & Bean's breakfast bowls. With three new meat-free options on the menu, there is tons to fill you up and keep you going. Our favourite is the Benedict Bowl - tossed baby spinach, cherry tomatoes and couscous topped with two poached eggs, hollandaise sauce, basil pesto and fresh avo*. Vegans, you haven't been left out of this breakfast feast. Try the Avo and Rainbow Slaw Toast - fresh avo* and cucumber slices topped with a crunchy red cabbage, roasted pepper, corn slaw and a generous drizzle of egg-free mayonnaise!
All in all, breakfast this summer is looking good at Mugg & Bean.
Lunch
A quick lunch at Mugg & Bean on a busy day just got even better. Their sandwiches have always taken centre stage on the menu. Filled with the freshest ingredients and innovative pairings, their toasties, panino's and fresh wraps are a delight. New on this sandwich buffet are a selection of gourmet sarmies. Our personal choice would be the Reuben - pastrami, Emmental cheese, gherkins, sauerkraut and Russian dressing on lightly toasted M&B rye bread. We don't think we could make a better sandwich ourselves.
If you are being super health conscious or have a gluten intolerance, order your sandwich on M&B's low-carb gluten free bread at an extra *R10. Or, try out one of their fresh summer salads. Taking your typical garden salad and turning it on its head, Mugg & Bean present the Chicken and Sesame Salad - chicken breast pieces, fresh apple slices, tenderstem broccoli, dried cranberries, toasted almonds and sesame seeds tossed with mixed lettuce, served with poppyseed dressing. It's a glorious mix of salty, sweet and fresh.
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Tea Time
As we mentioned before, Mugg & Bean is the perfect place to settle down for a hot cup of tea, coffee or hot chocolate with friends. Of course, their divine selection of cakes, tarts and muffins also goes down a treat. As we welcome summer, M&B have expanded their iced drinks menu to include vegan-friendly options as well, including the Vegan Muggachino - a refreshingly blended dairy-free coffee iced frappé. The new menu also features two sugar-free ice teas, to keep you cool without the added sugar.
Looking to indulge? Order a Frozen Mocha Coffee - blended coffee, vanilla ice cream and hot chocolate, topped with whipped cream. Or are you a stickler for old favourites? Mugg & Bean's roastery menu featuring premium blend medium and dark roasts is still available. We recommend the Single Origin Honduras blend - a medium organic roast with fruity fragrance and citrus notes. Available in bottomless, so you can indulge as much as you like.
Not in the mood for piping hot coffee? Mugg & Bean now offers bottomless iced drinks:
Top up as many times as you like, while enjoying M&B's bottomless free WIFI and great atmosphere
For More Information
For more information, visit Mugg & Bean's website. Follow them on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.
Find you nearest branch here.
When your kids reach a certain age, it becomes slightly more challenging finding fun physical activities for them that don’t involve school sports. In an ideal world, they would be able to ride their bikes, go skateboarding and play basketball until dinner time – but for many of us, that is not a luxury we have right now. Then there’s the added challenge of getting them OFF their screens and focus on the real world.
Enter CityROCk in Randburg – a phenomenal facility on Republic Road that provides wall climbing facilities for kids of all ages, as well as adults. But don’t take OUR word for it – we sent 12-year old Kayla NT off to give it a try with a few friends – here’s what she had to say:
What activities are on offer?
There are Automatic Belay Walls, which mean you don’t need someone to help belay you down. You first have to take part in an introductory lesson that teaches you how to manage the ropes. There are also Bouldering areas where you can climb (without a rope) - some are easier than others so you never get bored. There’s always a harder one to try! Smaller kids aged 5 and up can also try climbing, so it’s great for families to go together.
There is also a dedicated yoga and Pilates studio, but we were too busy climbing and didn’t go inside.
What makes it special?
It’s really challenging and can be a little scary at first. But once you get going and you realise that you are completely safe, you go higher than you ever expected. Even those of us that are scared of heights!
What does it cost?
The costs vary – you can click here for the full list. We paid R110 per kid, and R90 for shoe and harness rental. You can also sign up to become a member – kids pay R350 per month.
There are also a few different courses that kids can take if they really enjoy climbing and want to get serious about it – I recommend the Kids Top Rope Introduction Course – R640 for 3 days. These courses run once a month. There are also School Holiday Crag Days that kids can do after completing the course – these are R260 (includes gear rental and excludes transport to the local climbing crag).
Do you need to take extra money (outside the entrance fee)?
There is a coffee shop with FREE WiFI, so take extra money for drinks and snacks. There’s also a Specialist Outdoor Gear Shop that sells loads of amazing climbing, hiking and outdoor sports gear, clothing and equipment – so definitely check that out. We saw yoga accessories, camping gear, ski jackets and so much more. I can’t believe we have never heard of this place before!
Did everyone enjoy it?
Everyone! Even my friend that had a broken arm (and couldn’t climb) enjoyed watching everyone and shouting instructions from the bottom. She can’t wait until her arm is out the cast and then we’re going back. I think both girls and boys enjoy it just as much!
Is it a good venue for parties?
Definitely. They host parties for between 6 and 25 kids (all children must be over 5 years of age). You can choose between 11:00 – 13:00 and 15:00 – 17:00, and pay R250 per child. Activities include team races on the automatic belay wall, ladder climbing, bouldering, knot tying skills and so much more. Sounds like fun!
What would you rate this activity?
A definite 8 out of 10. It’s highly recommended!
For More Information
Address: 173 Republic Road, Fontainebleau, Randburg
Tel: 010 007 2732
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.cityrock.co.za
REVIEW BY: Kayla NT (12) - with a little help from her mom, Shelli NT.
Mugg & Bean
Most of the Mugg & Bean branches have 30 minutes free WiFi. So catch up on your emails and online research, while you get some nutritional revival. For a major energy boost in your lunch hour, try the Decadent Latte. Made with peanut butter and topped with whipped cream, peanut brittle and drizzled with butter toffee sauce. It's an indulgence, but a worthy one, especially after meeting that heavy deadline. Feeling the inspiration from that peanut butter? After the 30 minutes are up, ask your waiter about paid-for internet access.
Andiccio (Various branches)
Needing to catch up on some work in the dark hours of the morning or evening? They've got great pizza and awesome free WiFi. Order a drink or a delicious pizza and get unlimited free WiFi. Just ask the waiter for the daily password and you're on your way.
Seattle Coffee (various branches)
Enjoy unrestricted WiFi access at Seattle while you enjoy a tall skinny latte. These venues have no power outlet access so you’ll need to leave home fully loaded.
Kauai
Kauai offers free WiFi to customers when they order a smoothie, coffee or meal. Ask for the password and you’ll get unlimited WiFi at most of their branches in Jozi.
Wimpy
Believe it or not, Wimpy is a great place to work. The coffee is fab, the burgers are, well, Wimpy, but they fill a hole (and they will remind you of road trips with your folks, no doubt!) AND the WiFi is FREE. Just ask for the password and you’ll be sorted for hours.
Skoobs (Montecasino)
Visit Skoobs for a toasted sandwich or a delicious slice of cake while you tuck into their free onsite WiFi. There’s no better place to be inspired than in a room full of glorious books! While you're there, check out some of their killer titles. Who can read a book on anything but paper, I wonder?
For more free WiFi spots in Joburg, check out this useful map.
For guaranteed WiFi in a number of Joburg spots try Always On – a nifty WiFi connection service.
Know other free WiFi spots not mentioned above? Let us know below!
Remember that our “Top Picks” are not paid for and are compiled at the discretion of the journalist. We only write about what we love.
Mugg & Bean
Most of the Mugg & Bean branches have 30 minutes free WiFi. So catch up on your emails and online research, while you get some nutritional revival. For a major energy boost in your lunch hour, try the Caramel Peanut Butter Latte. Made with caramel and peanut butter and topped with whipped cream, peanut brittle and drizzled with butter toffee sauce, this is a worthy indulgence. Feeling the inspiration from that peanut butter? After the 30 minutes are up, ask your waiter about paid-for internet access.
Andiccio 24 (various branches)
Need to catch up on some work in the dark hours of the morning or evening? Then head to Andiccio 24. They've got great pizza and awesome free WiFi. Order a drink or a delicious pizza and get unlimited free WiFi. Just ask the waiter for the daily password and you're on your way.
Seattle Coffee (various branches)
Enjoy unrestricted WiFi access at Seattle while you enjoy a tall skinny latte. These venues have no power outlet access, so you’ll need to leave home fully loaded.
Kauai
Kauai offers free WiFi to customers when they order a smoothie, coffee or meal. Ask for the password and you’ll get unlimited WiFi at most of their branches in Joburg.
Skoobs (Montecasino)
Visit Skoobs for a toasted sandwich or a delicious slice of cake while you tuck into their free onsite WiFi. There’s no better place to be inspired than in a room full of glorious books! While you're there, check out some of their killer titles.
Wimpy
Believe it or not, Wimpy is a great place to work. The coffee is fab, the burgers are, well, Wimpy, but they fill a hole (and they will remind you of road trips with your folks, no doubt!) AND the WiFi is FREE. Just ask for the password and you’ll be sorted for hours.
For more free WiFi spots in Joburg, check out this useful map.
For guaranteed WiFi in a number of Joburg spots try Always On – a nifty WiFi connection service.
Know of any other free WiFi spots not mentioned above? Let us know in the comments section below!