Colombo Coffee delivers great coffee, as expected from one of KZN’s most iconic  roasteries. The industrial aesthetic and the enticing aroma of roasting beans set the tone for a genuinely positive coffee experience. The space is open and airy, ensuring you never feel cramped – although sitting outside can sometimes leave you feeling isolated from the staff.

The baristas were friendly, approachable and made me feel valued as a customer. Their cappuccinos are consistently excellent, with rich froth, vibrant colour and no bitterness. They are often adorned with beautiful latte art. The espresso boasted a smooth crema with a hint of acidity and was both balanced and satisfying.

While Colombo sometimes shows minor inconsistencies in their coffee, the margin for error is small and the overall experience is highly enjoyable. The limited food options reflect the fact that Colombo prioritises its role as a roastery over a traditional café. Light snacks and baked goods are available, but the focus is undoubtedly on the coffee.

This café is tucked away on the side of an office block so it might be a little difficult for those who are not familiar with the neighbourhood to spot. There’s plenty of parking (for which you need to pay) and Wi-Fi.

Wayne Schwartz

** Colombo was judged to be one of top three coffee shops in the Durban North/Glenashley/La Lucia areas in the 2024 Battle of the Beans  Competition.