IT'S

HOT!

Stay cool with an Iced Coffee.

I’d call myself an iced coffee expert. Not officially, but I’ve certainly put in the hours. I’ve sipped my way across Cape Town, testing every roast, ratio, and milk alternative the city has to offer, all in pursuit of the perfect iced coffee. Not a cold brew (never that), but the proper kind: espresso, milk, honey, ice, done with care. Some days I want something strong and serious, other days smooth and a little indulgent. These are the places that always get it right, and what I usually order when I’m there.

Words by: Amy Gajjar

Origin Coffee Roasting

Origin is where precision meets ease. Their iced coffee is crisp, balanced, and consistently smooth. Every pour feels intentional, from the roast to the chill. Sit close to the door in De Waterkant and watch the morning rush with something excellent in hand.

My order: Iced Hazelnut latte with almond milk

Truth Coffee Roasting

Truth does drama well — the space, the people, the espresso. Their iced coffee is rich and velvety without going bitter, ideal for when you need caffeine and atmosphere in equal measure. It’s bold but never too much.

My order: Silky Rez

Bootlegger Coffee Company

Bootlegger is Cape Town’s everyday hero. You’ll find one almost anywhere, and the quality rarely wavers. Their iced coffee has just enough strength to keep you moving, with a caramel note that keeps it interesting.

My order: Iced Vanilla Latte with almond milk

Kauai

Kauai keeps things light and practical. Their iced coffee is straightforward, no unnecessary sweetness, no heavy cream. It’s clean, quick, and perfect for when you’re pretending your morning routine is organised.

My order: Iced Cappuccino with almond milk and honey

Vida e Caffe

The quiet achiever of the bunch. Vida e Caffe doesn’t make a fuss, but their iced coffee is dependable and smooth, with just the right ratio of espresso to ice. It’s perfect for a slow start or a soft landing between meetings.

My order: Iced Spanish Latte with almond milk

Montreal Bagels, Sea Point

Montreal Bagels has that neighbourhood feel that makes you want to stay awhile. Their iced coffee is unfussy and pairs perfectly with a warm bagel and sea breeze. A reminder that good coffee doesn’t need theatrics.

My order: Vietnamese Iced Latte in a can

Cooked

Cooked feels like the calm in the middle of the city. Their iced frappe is creamy and balanced, not too strong, not too sweet. Ideal for a quiet afternoon or a late-morning catch-up.

My order: Frappe

Seattle Coffee Company

Seattle is the comfort choice. The iced coffee is strong, straightforward, and reliable. It’s the cup you can count on when you’re short on time but still want something that tastes properly made.

My order: Iced Latte with honey and almond milk

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