For the Love of Coffee

It has been equated to magic in a cup, the nectar of the gods. My close compatriots are familiar with my love for the sinister fluid. Of course, being a fitness enthusiast, water is an important part of life, for without it, we wouldn’t be able to make coffee!!!

Coffee owes its success to the caffeine it conceals as well as the sensory pleasures it evokes.

Who could resist its revitalising properties coupled with the unique aroma? No fragrance brands a home more welcoming than a pot of coffee.

Contrary to popular belief, coffee is produced from the seed of a fruit rather than a bean, which in actuality is a product of the entire process. The fruit are picked, the skin and pulp removed, the bean is then dried and the layers of its skin removed.

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.

The coffee community splits the worlds best crops 3-ways.

High-grown milds, Brazils, Robustas.

The High-grown milds and Brazils come from the Coffee Arabica botanical species. Considered the ‘golden boy’ of the coffee world, Arabica is responsible for fixing the world on coffee. It has its origins in Ethiopia (where it still grows wild) and Yemen.

The difference between the two types of Arabica coffees is that the high-grown milds are grown at altitudes between 1200m – 1800m. These well watered mountainous regions provide the tree with optimal conditions in which to flourish. They are prepared with care and picked only when the fruit are ripe.

Brazils are a lower grade of coffee grown at lower altitudes, mass harvested and dried carelessly. Most supermarket canned blends contain a high proportion of Brazils.

Robustas, the third type, grow better at low altitudes than any of the Arabica and are more resistant to disease. However, the best Robusta cannot compare even to the Brazils in terms of flavour and fragrance.

Now that the history lesson is out the way…

When scrutinizing different types of coffees you may notice European names attached to each label.

These names refer to the ‘roast’ of the bean and NOT the origin. Some are tan and some are near black. The higher the temperatures and the longer the bean was in roasting, the darker it will become. What does this mean for the taste? The lighter roasts are easy on the palette and more ‘tea like’ and the darker roasts have a more burnt taste and are used in espresso blends. The roast names tend to vary by manufacturer but generally stick to similar connotations.

When you see coffees with non-European names such as Kenya, Sumatra, Java, Colombia, Ethiopia etc, these names refer to the origin of the bean and has nothing to do with the roast. Coffee can be purchased by origin, by roast or by blend. Below is the 'coffee band' where some of the worlds coffee is produced.

*Arabica

*Robusta

 

In Mexico, coffee is nurtured on small farms rather than being carelessly mass produced. Coffee beans from Guatemala, on the other hand, are grown in rich volcanic soil.  The coffee tends to be more rich. Depending on the exact region in which the coffee is grown, there is a spicy or chocolate tone to the brews.

Brazil and Colombia are the two largest coffee producers. The highest grade of coffee coming out of Colombia is the Colombian Supremo.

Checkers has recently brought in a wide selection of coffees into their growing brand. Starbucks coffees are directly imported by Checkers and the Starbucks Colombian selection is a must try (it's what helped me conclude this post!). Despite being R100 a bag, it's worth every penny!
Below is an extract from http://ilovecoffee.co.za

"Checkers may not be your first port of call for coffee beans but visit one of their selected stores in the Western Cape and you’ll be pleasantly surprised. The chain has significantly upped their coffee game with the launch of their ‘Coffee Collection’ – an impressive selection of single origins and locally roasted gourmet blends.
The ‘Foreign Ground’ range features single origins from Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Guatemala, Honduras, Malawi, Peru and Rwanda, whereas the ‘Home Brew’ range puts some of our local favourites, with the likes of Deluxe Coffeeworks and Tribe, on the shelves.
We tasted a few of the Foreign Ground single origins last week and we’ll admit that we’re pretty impressed!
A Foreign Ground single origin will cost you R49.99 and one of the Home Brew’s R69.99."

Unfortunately, as stated above, these are only available at the Western Cape stores. Hopefully they'll be making their way to Gauteng pretty soon!

Signs That She's Psycho

We’ve all dated at least one psycho female. The thought of her probably just gave you a chill down your spine. If you’re dating a girl like this then you might as well slash your own tyres. I’m just helping you avoid those ‘Stage 5 clingers’.

After I’ve given you the run-down of the red flags that you need to look out for, you’ll find advice on how to dodge those grenades and extricate yourself from this tricky situation. Solutions at the bottom of the page!

If her favourite movie is Fatal Attraction …Run bro.

If she calls you after a minor disagreement …about the colour of your shoes  …238 times in a 12 hour period …Run bro.

If she texts you saying she misses you …when she’s sitting right next to you …Run bro.

If she trades your iPhone 4S for a Blackberry cos she doesn't want you talking to Siri …Run bro.

If she introduces herself as your fiancée, after one week of dating …Run bro.

If she accuses you of flirting when you thank the check-out girl for packing your groceries …Run bro

If she thinks marriage will cure her insecurities of you flirting with the check-out girl that packs your groceries …Run bro
 

If she dresses up as a psychopathic mass murderer for Halloween and uses her own clothes as the costume, insisting that psychopaths look like every day people …Run bro.

If she makes you a T-shirt with “I LOVE (insert psycho name)” on it and asks you to wear it every time you go out …Run bro.

If she’s sitting in your apartment with dinner ready when you get home from work …and you never gave her a key …Run bro.

If she says something like, “It took you 10 minutes to get home. Google maps says it takes 8 minutes. Who is she?” …Run bro

If she deletes your Facebook and makes you a joint account …Run bro.

If she makes a scrapbook documenting your relationship for the last 8 years …but you’ve only been together for 2 months …Run bro.

If you say "I’ll just be a minute." And when you get back she says, “That was 2 minutes and 34 seconds, WHERE WERE YOU!?” …Run bro.

If you just started dating and she starts practicing her new signature for when she marries you …Run bro.

If she bakes you a cake… for your 1 day anniversary …Run bro

How to meticulously plot your escape:

First, slowly remove all of your valuables that are in her possession. Careful though, move too much too soon and it will be like startling a grizzly bear!

Second, collect all her articles that are in your possession and give them back. You don’t want her breaking down your door at 3am to get her stuff back.

Third, break up in a public place where she can’t immediately murder you. This will give you time to plot a 'Houdini' move afterwards.

If breaking up with a girl like this simply isn’t enough. Sometimes you need to leave the country, change your name,  have extensive plastic surgery, enlist in the witness protection program and mutate your Y-chromosome.

Also, if you’re a raving lunatic that’s reading this post I’ve attached this ‘Post-datingFeedback Form’ for you to use freely, courtesy of happyplace.com. 

 Please don’t hurt me.

A Gentleman's Guide to First Dates

Making an impression on a 1^st date would be so much easier if you could read your dates mind.

She has already scripted a checklist of criteria that she wants you to fulfill. Women are harsh critics and being critical on a first date is exactly when they’re deep in their element! For good reason too!

What happens during this critical meeting will either lead to a close encounter or slowly nudge her towards the door.

Here are few pointers to get you on your way!

Don’t talk about your ex or hers, medical issues or politics. Do bring up stories about your current buddies, athletic interests, hobbies and past times. Don't impose or get too personal; whatever a girl wants to tell you, she will reveal on her own. Always have an arsenal of jokes, stories and most importantly questions, at your disposal. Don’t be a conversational narcissist because then it becomes apparent who you care about most...

Always choose a venue that you’ve been to before thus, eliminating mishaps with food or service. This is one aspect of the date that you can control. It bodes well if it’s an eatery that you frequent often and can suggest delicacies off the menu. Also, common sense should tell you that a movie is not somewhere you go to get to know someone. Save the flick for the 3^rd or 4^th date!

Be decisive when it comes to choosing a venue, ordering off the menu or making detours in the evening’s plans.

Don’t spend hours deliberating the menu and then ask the waitress what she recommends. Be decisive and have a plan of action along with a backbone, direction & confidence. If plans change she’ll be impressed by your ‘on-the spot’ thinking or glowing at the thought of your fore planning. It doesn’t have to be extravagant but any plan is better than no plan at all. Being ‘wishy-washy’ won’t win you any points.

 Make her feel at ease. Seeing as how the pressure is usually on the guy, putting her at ease will automatically put you at ease. She will be judging and analysing every little thing that you do! If she’s comfortable, she may be more inclined to forgive you for spilling the wine on the table, stepping on her foot or having to kick start your car. (Didn’t happen to me, promise)

 Offer to take care of the bill. If she insists on chipping in, let her. There’s nothing worse than a pushy man. Better yet, tell her she can pay on the next date or take you out for coffee, her treat.

Get it? Good.

Moderate your alcohol consumption. Chances are, you’re her ride home and you don’t want to end up in handcuffs before the night is done. This is not a bachelor party, it’s a first date. Safety First.

Many men forget to notice and compliment their date's appearance. There must be something about her outfit, her hair or the way she smells that you like. You can rest assured that she's spent a good portion of her time primping and preparing for this first date, and it's important that you acknowledge her efforts. Beware though, there’s a difference between being complimentary and being insincere. Don’t over do it.

Put away the soccer jerseys and running shoes. Neat, clean and presentable is the way to go. There’s no doubt that your date has invested a monumental amount of time and effort in getting dressed and it is only appropriate that you reciprocate. Make sure that your outfit is clean, pressed and  coordinated. Choose a good scent and half your job is done!

It is always part of first date etiquette to pick her up and drop her off afterwards. She may object and want you to meet her at the venue. So whatever the case may be, never be late. Be at least 5 minutes early if you’re picking her up and at least 10 minutes if you’re meeting her at the venue. You don’t want to keep her waiting. It’s rude and unbecoming of a gentleman.

There’s a fine line between assertiveness and aggressiveness. If the waiter messes up the order or someone cuts the line, by all means, speak up but there’s no need cause a commotion or raise your voice. Stand up for yourself and your date without being rude and abrasive. Avoid being condescending to others and belittling them. Any rude outbursts, even the most minor will never go unnoticed and definitely won’t sit well with your date. Relax and just have a good time!

…and do so generously! She’s not only watching if you do tip, she’s also watching how much you’re putting down. Show her that you’re generous and that you appreciate good service.

Your blackberry is off limits! End of story. Unless someone is knocking on deaths door, you should keep your phone discreetly tucked away. Your date should feel like she’s the most important thing in the world in that moment. It shows her that you’re able to shut off the world for at least one night and not have a constant need for attention.

So remember your table manners, stock up on your chivalry and keep a whole lot of charm in your back pocket. Follow these pointers and you’ll be well on your way to date number two.

Keep following this blog for a series of upcoming posts:

 -A gentleman’s guide to spotting the red flags of a psychotic girlfriend

- A new comic series of do’s & don’ts!

Duvane Does Durban

If you have an appetite for escapades and are keen to try new things, the usual restaurant franchises provide little relief from this intrinsic yearning of the adventurer.

From pizza to pastas, sushi to grills, burgers to prawns, to curries and cocktails, welcome to new experiences…  

Gone are the evenings that are spent begging the questions of where to eat, what to do, what do you feel like eating? This is part 1 of a 3 part dining series that will provide you with fresh insight into some of the popular culinary locales in and around Durban & Johannesburg.

Don't even plan it, just go. 

So make sure you bookmark this page for quick access! You're welcome. 

 (Please feel free to leave a comment below of your personal experience with these establishments)

       

Prawn Shack

Prawn Shack

As the name suggests, this rustic lodging located near the Amatikulu Estuary on the KZN north coast offers a unique culinary experience.

This isn’t the place for the prissy or the sissy. The caipirinha is the signature drink of this establishment and is served as a complimentary welcome drink. This is a place for the open-minded, offering a 7-course buffet style menu known as the “Lazy Lunch”, due to the amount of time it takes to get through! (Approximately 5hrs).

Honestly, I did come expecting prawns the size of my head but was sorely disappointed.  The prawn soup was by far the best of the lot. Also served up was a prawn salad, prawn bunny (A hash of spices with a small burn, quite an insult to a curry)… but palatable. Grilled prawns on an open braai which were good but could’ve been better. Dessert consisted of camerbet… which I realized how much I dislike. I must point out that this place is more about the drive, the bohemian vibe and the social experience rather than just the food. The bar has a nice touch with playground swings instead of formal seating. I suggest coming along with good company; people that know how to have fun regardless of context.

Service is extremely friendly and they add a nice personal touch to the entire experience albeit at the cost of efficiency. Half-way through the day all patrons are escorted down to the beach to walk off a bit of those extra servings. This is an ‘all you can eat’ experience but taste testing is about as much as you’ll be willing to do for some of the dishes.

Damage: 160pp (7 "courses")

Contact Details: 084 737 6493  

    prawn@shak.co.za

                               http://www.shak.co.za/

  Note: Prawn Shack is a cash free zone so be sure to take along your debit/ credit cards

La Casa Nostra

La Casa Nostra

This ‘little piece of Italy’ located in Umdloti is an authentic old fashioned Italian trattoria. A family run restaurant, who also own Bel Punto (next review), that has all the exclusivity that such an establishment should possess. You won’t get any sea views but the cuisine should be distraction enough.

The starter courses were decent. The deep fried calamari (baby squid) & mushrooms in cheesy sauce-Both done exceptionally well. I am quite the fan of pasta dishes and but was a tad disappointed in their ‘carbonara’. The pasta sauce was used frugally, which left the dish very ‘underdone’. On that note, Primis Carbonara never fails to disappoint. As for the ravioli at Casa, superb. Having used Spiga d’Oro as a yard stick when measuring any pasta’s, I can confidently say this ranks among the best.

Next on my hit list will definitely be their calzone!

Service was good, friendly and personal. Most patrons seemed like regulars, well acquainted with the owner. The making of an enjoyable evening here begins with starters & a nice port (depending on your meals & taste) with a long dragged out conversation & laughter with mains, desert and coffee before parting.

Damage: 120 – 150

Contact: 031 568 1996

     Shop 4, Whitesands Shopping Centre 1 Main Road Umdloti 

     Note: Operating times are not your usual business hours and bookings are a must if you want to avoid disappointment.

 Times: Lunch Wednesday - Sunday: 12:00 - 15:00

                   Dinner Tuesday - Sunday: 18:00 - 22:00

       Open every day in Season and Mondays on Long Weekends

Bel Punto

Bel Punto is the sister restaurant to La Casa Nostra, also in the Umdloti Village. The evening ambience is bolstered by the soft lighting which pales into triviality when compared to the option of sitting on the deck. This is a modern, casual, chic establishment with a contemporary feel and outstanding panoramic sea views no matter where you are seated. Bel Punto stands out because of venue. Lunch here supersedes dinner, not in menu but in ambience.

Service is friendly and astute. There have been odd instances of disappointment in certain food items at both Bel Punto & La Casa Nostra, but this is to be expected with exclusive restaurants that don’t churn out dishes like a franchised production line. The steak fillet definitely ranks right up there with Beira Alta & Butcher Block. The à la carte selection is sparse but whatever you choose you’ll be left satisfied, more often than not. Trust that I will not lead you astray!

Bel Punto is a definite style point earner for a date, thoughtful outing & even a business luncheon.

Damage: 120

Contact: 031 568 2407

   Umdloti Centre 1 South Beach Road, Umdloti

Note: Bookings are essential!!

The Bamboo Lounge

This remarkable little sushi lounge located in the heart of Umhlanga ranks in at #1 on my current list of sushi places. Some have suggested Aqua at Sibaya but I think it would be cheaper for me to fly to Japan and back for dinner.

Bamboo Lounge

Wherever you eat sushi, even though they’re all named the same, it’s very rare to find a restaurant that make them in the same way. The tempura, maki, California rolls, always taste different at every restaurant. I must say, I’ve been quite impressed with the quality and consistency of sushi at the Bamboo Lounge.

A must try are the cucumber rolls; battered & fried prawn encompassed with rice, cucumber & a small dollop of mayo. It’s the best thing the Japanese have come up with after Nintendo & Godzilla.

 With their lunch time special this place also has excellent value for money, second to none. When you consider the cost of individual plates, R65 is dirt cheap. I must stress, due to the popularity of the lunchtime special, bookings are essential.

Damage: R65pp Uncapped! A.k.a, All you can eat lunch special Mon - Fri (11:30 am – 15:30pm)      Includes 1 free drink.

                - Normally R110pp Uncapped - Includes 1 free drink.

                - ½ Price on all take- away Sushi

Contact: 031-561 2705

               48 Protea Mall 17 Chartwell Drive Umhlanga Rocks (Next to Wimpy)

Beach Bums

For a coastal city, Durban and its surroundings have few quality dining and entertainment options with a sea view or beach vibe. This is where Beach Bums rise above the rest.

Beach Bums

What could be better than breakfast on the beach with your toes in the sand? Or an evening of cocktails lying on the dunes…

Their motto “Forever Chilled” gives a good indication of the vibe that you can expect. It’s very laid back and tropical accompanied by decent background music .

The menu offers a wide selection of dishes. The Moroccan chicken burger, peri-peri chicken and line fish are worth a try. The pizzas are also noteworthy despite this not being a pizzeria.

Abandoned house

During peak periods bookings are essential but I must warn you, service is slow and inconsistent. During the busiest times you can expect to wait up to an hour and a half for your meals and don’t be surprised if your drinks arrive warm. It’s sad that the abysmal service brings down such an exceptional establishment. What keeps them going is that they have found a niche in the market, without competition. On a few occasions I have found myself having to leave my table to locate a waiter!

Service aside, you will not find another place with bar & restaurant facilities situated so close to a beach (literally on the sand) that allow a safe family atmosphere.

Chilling on the beach & taking poser photos at the neighboring abandoned house is a must!

Without a doubt, this is still one of my favourite places in Durban that I will continue to frequent on every visit to the province. 

Damage: 80

Contact: +27 32 943 1132

   65 Casuarina Beach, Westbrook

   beachbums@mweb.co.za

Special acknowledgment must be made to the following people (in no particular order) who made each and every dining experience a pleasurable one. 

Theesan Muruvan           Prasantha Ramsamy

Tarryn Govender            Kitrishia Naidoo

Jared Manickum             Ashlina Ramdutt

Sairushka Naidoo           Joelene Jetnarayan

Denushka Naidoo           Ian Naidoo

Ryan Fernandes              Thiruven Naidoo

Sanolia Naidoo               Deevaksha Viranna

Akira Ramdhial               Jessemaine Manickum

Shalin Naidu                    Lavania Joseph

Kavudh Panday               Devesh Lakman

Kavona Pillay                  Shaheev Parthab

Lashistha Pillay               Kavir Lutchmiah

Sumaya Ismail                 Tiffany Thumbiran