Debbie and I tried out a new (to us) cafe in Linden last Saturday. It's called "The Whippet" and we've been hearing great things about it so we had high hopes.The decor is inviting, open, airy, light, and modern. Tables are distressed wood, walls are painted brick, and there are plenty of tables out on the patio for the good weather.
The menu is interesting, including a special that includes poached eggs that are then coated in tempura batter and deep fried. We didn't try any of the menu items though because, being a Saturday, we were on a quest for treats! Debbie got the melktert (milk tart) and a berry cheesecake, while I got a croissant - part of my eternal quest for the best croissant in Jo'burg. Ok, or even a good croissant in Jo'burg.The Whippet also roasts their own coffee, which is always a good sign. They use a two group La Marzocco, but it's an auto and it's clear that this cafe is not oriented around the coffee. Still, shop roasted coffee and a La Marzocco are great signs.
The tart and cheesecake were great! We finished every bite, and I regretted not getting more. :) Sadly my search for the perfect croissant continues. These were good, better than average, but they were bready - not nearly flaky enough - and did not "shatter" like a proper croissant should. I suspect they don't keep the dough cold enough while rolling it out, but I didn't see them preparing it.
The coffee was good, not great, "Bean There" doesn't need to worry yet. The espresso was good, but they neglected to warm the cup first, so by the time it got to me it was merely warm, not hot, and Debbie's macchiato had way too much milk. I'd say that they're probably just behind Post in quality, and ahead of Motherland. My current ranking of cafes in Jo'burg would be Bean There, Double Shot, Post, The Whippet, Motherland, 4th Ave Coffee Roasters. Foundry wasn't roasting yet when I tried them, so I need to give them another chance. Origin (from Capetown) has just shown up in Neighborgoods and roasts their own, I'd expect they'll end up in the top four if they can recreate their Cape Town coffee experience here.Bottom line - The Whippet is a great little cafe, wonderful for a weekend breakfast or brunch, great pastries, good coffee, excellent ambiance, and the food menu looks good. I recommend it.
