Issue 52: The Big Picture

Friday, 18 July, 2025

Introducing Issue 52!

Open Shutter: The View from Above

The bigger picture zooms out over the coffee lands of Colombia. A place where your cup of coffee starts, whether it’s Ethiopia, Brazil, Uganda, or here, it all starts with this.

Brew: Always Be Prepared

The evolution of puck preparation benefits our quest for better espresso! Tools are designed to make your coffee better, although this doesn’t always mean that it will be simple. Never fear, there’s no need to be overwhelmed. Phaedon Gourtsoyannis, owner and Founder of Cape Coffee Beans, the go-to for coffee gadgets, unpacks the way distribution tools have helped make espresso better and why you should consider investing in one.

Discover: Much ado about matcha

Matcha is all the rage right now. But is the craze sustainable and what is ceremonial grade anyway? Nick Dall found out from the experts. it’s tempting to wonder whether matcha is nothing more than the latest fad. But global trends and local experts are unanimous – matcha is here to stay. 

Roast: It’s a Kind of Magic

For some, coffee roasting is nothing short of an obsession, yielding what some would call a spellbinding result. Alicia Steyn, of aptly named Sorcery Coffee, is one of the obsessed. And we are the spellbound.

Origin:Roots in the Soil, Eyes on the World

A marketing success story behind one of the world’s most desirable coffee origins, Colombia! For such a small country, it has become a powerhouse in coffee. Their coffee culture is rich and inviting, a celebration of life and community. Find out more about the driving force behind their popularity, aside from their delicious coffee, of course.

Culture: There’s No Place Like Home

Chad Whitby explores how cafes play the infinite game of hospitality to make or break their spaces. This piece was written for café owners. But if you’re a guest, here’s your chance to see the magic trick. Because what makes a café feel like home is by no means an accident. 

Business: With Love, From Motherland

The trials and successes behind a proudly African chain of cafés that continues to champion African coffees and community.

Human Interest: Barista Stories

In this edition, we have the privilege of featuring Mthethumzima Dlukwana of Yebo Baba in the centre of Cape Town, who serves up more than tasty coffee and good vibes.

Got something to say? Then leave a comment!