If you are on the M19 passing through Kloof, do yourself a favour and swing off at exit 24 (Old Main Road, Abrey Road Kloof) and head to the little row of shops bordering the highway called Maytime Centre. There you will find Shop 8, Velvet.Coffee co.

You can’t miss it because of the big, old comfy leather couch outside the entrance where you can chill and sip coffee if you so wish –  or you can step inside for more formal seating.

If you are a coffee connoisseur and enjoy an intimate café set up, then this will quickly become your go-to spot when in Kloof.

The espresso came in the correct sized cup with a fair amount of crema on top….well extracted with nuances of each note of the coffee profile.

The cappuccino was light but flavourful, served at the correct temperature and with dense micro textured milk on top. A bonus was the great latte art.

They serve Bluebird Coffee which is roasted medium light so that you are able to taste all the coffee notes… without the strength or bitterness that some people like.

Blessing is the barista and he is full of warmth and passion for his job.

He has a great knowledge of the coffee profile that he is serving and is happy to talk about it if you so wish.

The menu is small but of a high quality. Mainly light snacks such as filled bagels, croissants, toasties and sweet treats.

Free Wi-Fi is available and you are welcome to sit there and work.

Laura Hayes-Foley

** Velvet was judged to be one of the top three coffee shops in the Lower and Upper Highway areas in the 2024 Battle of the Beans coffee competition.