Discover What Makes Bootlegger a Must-Visit for Every Coffee Lover in the Mother City
TL;DR: Key Takeaways
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Bootlegger Coffee Company, founded in 2012 by three friends in Cape Town, has become a household name across South Africa.
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It stands out for its bold branding, artisanal coffee, and emphasis on sustainability.
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The name “Bootlegger” is a creative nod to Prohibition-era rebels who broke the mold—just like the company’s coffee culture today.
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They have 46+ locations across the country, including the V&A Waterfront, Sea Point, Stellenbosch, and Rosebank.
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Expect expertly brewed coffee, stylish interiors, healthy meals, and a seamless experience powered by their Bootlegger Rewards App.
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If you’re a coffee purist or a foodie seeking a soulful spot to meet, work, or relax—Bootlegger delivers every single time.
Who Owns the Bootlegger Coffee Company?
I remember the first time I walked into a Bootlegger café. It was early on a misty morning in Sea Point, and I was struck by the unapologetically moody lighting, the smell of real coffee roasting in-house, and the buzz of regulars chatting over their first flat white of the day.
That moment traces back to three visionaries: Pieter Bloem, De Waal Basson, and Antonie Basson. These lifelong friends and entrepreneurs co-founded Bootlegger Coffee Company in 2012, armed with little more than a deep love for great coffee and a dream of building something bigger than just a coffee shop.
And they’ve done just that—Bootlegger is no longer just a brand; it’s a culture. A lifestyle.
The Bootlegger Coffee Company Logo: More Than Just Branding
The instantly recognizable black-and-white logo, featuring bold typography and minimalist design, encapsulates everything Bootlegger stands for—edgy yet refined, vintage-inspired yet forward-thinking.
It’s no coincidence. The logo feels like a stamp of authenticity, and when you walk past one of their storefronts, you know there’s something good brewing inside.
What Makes Bootlegger Coffee Different?
Every city has its cafes—but few are as thoughtful, immersive, and intentional as Bootlegger. Here’s why:
1. The Coffee is King
Bootlegger sources single-origin beans from the world’s top farms. Every bean is roasted in-house, using a custom Probat coffee roaster, which means the quality is consistent, fresh, and deep in flavor.
Each coffee blend is specifically designed to suit the South African palate. Whether you’re ordering a cortado, flat white, or nitro cold brew, you’ll notice the complexity.
2. A Feast for the Eyes and Tastebuds
I’ve eaten at several Bootlegger locations and can vouch for their menu—it’s health-forward, flavorful, and comforting. Expect free-range eggs, sourdough breads, smashed avo, shakshuka, and seasonal salads—all served with flair.
Bootlegger also makes their own almond milk in-house (a win for plant-based folks).
3. Sustainability at Its Core
From biodegradable straws to compostable takeout cups, Bootlegger walks the talk. Their commitment to sustainability includes:
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In-store recycling programs
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Incentives for using reusable cups
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Local sourcing wherever possible
It’s more than a trend—it’s part of their ethos.
Why Is It Called “Bootlegger”?
I’ve always loved this about Bootlegger—the name is a tribute to the 1920s Prohibition era in the U.S., where underground brewers illegally distributed alcohol. It’s a nod to rebellion, innovation, and the spirit of entrepreneurship.
In a world of copy-paste cafes, Bootlegger chose to stand out and shake things up. The brand’s name honors those who dared to do things differently—just like the founders have done in the South African coffee scene.
Bootlegger’s Locations: Where You Can Find Them
Bootlegger has grown from one Cape Town café to over 46 stores across South Africa. What I love is that each location is tailored to its neighborhood—no cookie-cutter vibes here.
Some of the standout branches include:
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V&A Waterfront—touristy but stylish, with harbour views and a vibrant mix of locals and visitors
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Bantry Bay—Coastal calm with chic décor
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Stellenbosch—perfect blend of student energy and coffee-house sophistication
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Green Point—Ideal for a post-gym smoothie or work meeting
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Rosebank (Johannesburg)—Sleek, professional, and fast-paced
Each venue captures the spirit of the local scene while maintaining Bootlegger’s signature character.
🗺️ Click here for Bootlegger Locations & Maps
What’s on the Bootlegger Menu?
From early morning breakfast to brunch and post-work dinner, Bootlegger caters to every kind of appetite.
Here’s what stands out for me:
Signature Coffees & Beverages
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Flat White—Velvety texture with bold taste
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Bootlegger Brew—a darker roast with rich crema
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Matcha Latte and Golden Milk—Superfood meets flavor
Breakfast Favorites
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Build-Your-Own Breakfast— A personal favorite. Choose your protein, eggs, toast, and extras.
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Protein Pancakes—High-protein and gluten-free
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Bootlegger Benedict—A twist on the classic with a smoky hollandaise
Lunch & Light Meals
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Buddha Bowls—Packed with greens, grains, and flavor
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Sourdough Toasties—Think cheese, mushroom, and brisket
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Pasta, wraps, burgers—hearty options for midday refueling
And yes, there’s a solid kid-friendly menu, plus vegan and gluten-free options for all dietary needs.
📋 View Full Menu on Bootlegger’s Website
The Bootlegger Rewards App: How It Works
I’m not usually one for loyalty programs, but the Bootlegger App is truly next level. It combines rewards, personalization, and convenience in a sleek, intuitive interface.
What You Get:
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Earn points with every purchase
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Get free coffee upgrades
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Receive personalized recommendations
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Send coffee gifts to friends
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Order ahead and skip the queue
Just scan the QR code on the website or in-store to download. The app feels like an extension of the brand—clean, modern, and easy to use.
📱 Download the Bootlegger App
What Real People Are Saying
“There’s something deeply comforting about walking into a Bootlegger. You just know you’re going to get a great cup of coffee and a moment of calm.” — Jessica B., Cape Town local
“I started going there for the Wi-Fi and ended up addicted to their protein pancakes. Highly recommend for remote work!” — Daniel M., Freelancer
“The almond milk is homemade and their coffee hits just right—plus they’re so eco-conscious it makes me feel good spending money there.” — Nomzamo T., Food Blogger
Pros and Cons of Visiting Bootlegger Coffee Company
What I Love:
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Ethically sourced, expertly roasted coffee
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Stylish, work-friendly spaces
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App-based ordering and rewards
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Locations in all the right spots
Room for Improvement:
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Some locations can get busy during peak hours
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Limited parking at a few inner-city branches
Contact & Official Info
đź“Ť Website: https://www.bootlegger.coffee
đź“ž Phone: 021 433 2599
📧 Email: Available via contact form on the official website
📱 Instagram: @bootleggercoffeecompany
đź“Ť Google Maps (V&A Waterfront):
Open Map Link
Final Thoughts: Why Bootlegger Coffee Company Is Worth the Hype
Bootlegger isn’t just a coffee brand—it’s a South African success story rooted in passion, grit, and innovation. Whether you’re sipping a flat white at the Waterfront or enjoying eggs benedict in Rosebank, you’ll feel the Bootlegger difference.
It’s where quality meets character. A rebellious coffee movement that rewrote the rulebook and made it classy.
If you find yourself in Cape Town (or anywhere near a Bootlegger), don’t miss the opportunity to step in, breathe in, sip slowly, and savor the soul of South Africa’s most compelling café chain.
Disclaimer: WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors such as pricing, hours, or location details. Please consult official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
