The barista at Doloras was available when I was there and friendly. They use a medium roast coffee from Coffee Merchant. Cup size for my cappuccino seemed to be 250 ml (should be 150–180 ml), which resulted in my cappuccino coming off as a bit milky with diluted flavours. The barista recommended a double shot espresso for a stronger flavour.

Doloras is across the road from a parking area so there is ample parking but no Wi-Fi. Still,  Umdloti’s South Beach is 20 metres away so there are, at least, stunning reviews. I worked on my laptop using phone data.

Doloras is a very popular local spot and is busy most mornings serving locals of all ages who tend to drop in to catch up on the latest news or just hang out.

Very little food is on offer, but there are the likes of chocolate croissants, crunchies and biscuits. Think of surfers popping across the road for a biscuit and coffee before driving home to dress and attack the day.

So, as you realise by now, Doloras is very local and popular.  Decor is simple but  there is very little shade from the elements should it rain, apart from a tarpaulin. The wind could spoil things late morning, but the patrons here are a hardy lot. The vibe here is one to be experienced as most of the regulars live in Umdloti and know one another. This is why the coffee shop is so attractive.

There is only one barista and occasionally the owner helps out,

Counter service and takeaway cups only. As a coffee lover, I would suggest you order a double extraction of the medium roast should you fancy a full-bodied cappuccino – or bring your own, smaller sized cup.

Andre Schubert