Once an auto-electric shop, this buzzy juice factory is an energising addition to Cape Town’s East City
Does Cape Town really need another juice bar, we hear you ask… Only if it offers something special, which The Electric does in spades, as you’ll discover the moment you step off the busy street and under the bright yellow entranceway into the light-filled interior. Perhaps it’s because, just six months ago, this inspiring space was the burnt-out remains of an auto-electric shop… The transformation is so dramatic, it feels energising.
Just like the food and drinks on offer… As you enter, the fridge full of brightly coloured bottles is a siren song. The juices and nut milks have been created by co-owner Janette De Villiers, who has been passionately experimenting at home for years. And you can tell. The six different coloured juices (green, red, yellow, orange, pink and white) offer various flavour combinations – my favourite is the watermelon, mint, basil and lime. Sweet, fresh and zesty. Although the yellow (pineapple, cucumber, mint and ginger) is also pretty delicious.
The nut milks are a rare treat – five flavours across four nuts (almond, cashew, Brazilian and walnut) with different flavour profiles. The Brazilian with cacao, vanilla, dates and salt was out of this world. And then there are the shots – small bottles packed with a punch: activated charcoal, ginger or orange (with turmeric, ginger and honey). There’s talk of Bloody Mary shots to be added to the menu soon… only available on Saturday mornings.
Of course, it’s not only about the drinks – a small menu offers smoothies and eggs for breakfast and sandwiches for lunch. Choose from Tom’s famous five-seed bread, baguette or ciabatta, with five fabulously fresh fillings on offer. The salmon and cream cheese is fresh and bountiful; the salami, cheddar and gherkin came with plenty of mustard and flavour.
The Electric is just as suited to a quickie breakfast, lunch on the go, a three-hour-long working session, or a chill session upstairs. It’s an event space as well as a café, and there are plans afoot for regular events in the future… For now, it’s a newly opened café with a whole lot of heart and an energising mix of food and drink.
Insider tip Return your glass bottle for a R5 bottle deposit.
Opening times Monday – Friday, 7.30am – 6pm
Saturdays, 9am – 2pm
One Response to “The Electric Nut-Milk + Juice Bar Lights Up Cape Town’s East City”
Lisa
The Electric is without a doubt a new firm favourite!