What happened at the Starbucks launch in Durban #StarbucksxDurban

All of Durban came to party with the coffee brand PICTURE: Motswari Mofokeng/ANA

All of Durban came to party with the coffee brand PICTURE: Motswari Mofokeng/ANA

Published Nov 22, 2017

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I love it when something exciting and seemingly important, brings out Durbanites in their numbers. The launch of Starbuck’s Florida Road branch was exactly that. It felt like everyone in the city was there and for once, I didn’t mind.

I didn’t mind because it’s one of the last major events before everyone switches off their phones, ignores their emails and heads on holiday. No one would blame them, really. 2017 has been treacherous. 

#starbucksxdurban

A post shared by Andrew Draper - professional (@foodbyandrewdraper) on Nov 21, 2017 at 1:20pm PST

Anyway. Starbucks has finally launched in Durban and will start operating from Saturday, November 25. Judging from what I saw at the launch on Tuesday, it’s going to be a coffee lover’s heaven! 

From the variety of roasted coffee beans, and mugs, to the pastries, cakes and sandwiches on sale and of course, the popular coffees and Frappuccino’s, it’s probably going to be the hottest place to be seen this summer.

However, it really did surprise me that people didn’t know much about the brand. So many people were ordering coffee and then complaining that they wanted the Raspberry and Blackcurrant Frappuccino I ordered. 

“I won’t be able to sleep, thanks to this coffee,” one guest told me. I really wanted to roll my eyes and tell them they should have read the menu. I was being mean, sure, but honestly, the menu was there for everyone to pick out their drink. Theres more to Starbucks than just their signature coffees. 

Raspberry Blackcurrant Frappuccino and the Strawberries & Crème Frappuccino

PICTURE: Buhle MbonambiI have been a hermit since the Vodacom Durban July and so seeing all the city’s personalities, was great. 

I spotted radio jock and TV personality, Vanessa Marawa, who was also the MC. Yes to this! I would love to see more events hosted by Vanessa. She's a breathe of fresh air and never makes things about her. 

Also spotted was her colleague, Vuma FM breakfast host, Makhosi Khoza, who is back in Durban after a brief sojourn in his native Swaziiland and Mpumalanga. 

Fashion designer, Mxolisi Mkhize also made an appearance and he told me how hectic this year has been. 

Ah, success. I love it when talented and hardworking people finally get their dues. I won’t be surprised if everyone will soon be wearing House of St. Luke suits and shirts. #SupportLocal.

The company 😍 #starbucksxdurban

A post shared by Sbongi Ngcobo (@sbongingcobo) on Nov 21, 2017 at 12:03pm PST

Uzalo actress, Nelisa Mchunu, was also spotted. She’s one to watch- she’s chilled, gorgeous and is pretty stylish too. 

I spotted Logie Naidoo when I arrived and he disappeared in the crowd. It was too much effort to go look for him and say hi. I did say all off Durban was present. Mo Magic paid homage to the brand by wearing a bottle green pocketsquare.

#StarbucksxDurban launch with the lovely ladies @neliisah & @sbongingcobo #ChooseDay #fun #coffee #launch #funtimes

A post shared by Samkelisiwe Dlalisa (@millenial_diva) on Nov 21, 2017 at 10:41am PST

Top chef, Andrew Draper, kept the food and desserts coming. I still have a sugar high because I may have overindulged in some of his desserts. 

And the coffee? Well, I’m a fan of Starbucks frappuccinos, as opposed to their hot beverages. I did try out a latte later on in the evening and as expected, it disappointed. I guess they still have to train their baristas on how to make the perfect cup of coffee, especially since Durban already has a number of really great coffee shops. 

Unless they want to poach talent from the many gifted baristas in some of Durban’s top coffee shops? I really would focus on making sure my coffee is great though. It’s going to take a lot to get people to leave their favourite coffee shops for Starbucks.

It was cool watching people be excited when the staff called out their name when their drink was ready. I don’t think it will get old anytime soon. I’m certain that will be what everyone is going to share on social media this summer.

VISIT STARBUCKS AT  233 FLORIDA ROAD, DURBAN 

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