Johannesburg – Birdhaven’s Gourmet Grocer might have been born during some of the highest levels of the Covid-19 lockdown, when it served as a morale booster for its loyal customers, but a lot has changed since then.
When it officially launched in May 2020, coffee was the central element of its offerings with its “Coffefe Roastery” at the helm, a name inspired by Donald Trump and his ‘‘covfefe” tweet which sparked social media mayhem a few years ago.
Community involvement was so key to the Gourmet Grocer’s caffeine offerings that they even created the “Birdhaven brew” to pay tribute to their loyal consumers.
The restaurant experimented with a few brews from coffee hotspots around the world, including Columbia, Guatemala, Brazil, Costa Rica, India and Indonesia.
The master brewer at the time also played around with flavours from Africa, including those originating from Tanzania, Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda.
Another initial attraction of the Gourmet Grocer was sourcing unique goods from small and local suppliers. This included sauces, oils, flours, pastas and sweet treats that came as a comfort during a time when the nation was confined to home.
Now, two years later, the Gourmet Grocer has evolved extensively to extend its operations, which still include its acclaimed coffee and unique food and beverage offerings.
“We now have a bakery that we didn't have before,” owner Larry Hodes told The Saturday Star.
“We have the most amazing baker and one of our most popular items are our bagels which are boiled and baked in a classic New York style.”
The Gourmet Grocer now also has a unique deli, which includes a kosher section. Hodes added that the eatery’s wine section is something that he is proud of. This is their wine farm selection comes from small producers.
“We offer boutique and artisanal wine, and we wanted to give people something that is unique.”
Another appeal of the Gourmet Grocer is its European-feel vibe with its ample seating options on the pavement alongside the bustling Wrenrose Avenue.
They have also revamped their menu to include items based on good old-fashioned hospitality which incorporates quality fresh ingredients infused with delicious flavours.
Some include health breakfasts, a range of Benedicts, soups, innovative burgers and sandwiches and salads.
There is even an option to customise a meal by choosing a base and protein as well as dips and spreads.
There are also craft beers, cocktails, non-alcoholic beverages and fresh smoothies to choose from.
Even pets have something to enjoy at the Gourmet Grocer as they lounge in the spring sunshine alongside their beloved owners.
The Gourmet Grocer offers doggy treats such as chicken livers, chicken breasts, doggy biscuits and for the most esteemed palettes, 20gm of royal beef fillet.
“We are situated near the James and Ethel Gray park so many people walk their dogs there then bring them here where they all have something to enjoy. We give people what they want with a smile and they appreciate it,” said Hodes.
The Gourmet Grocer also hosts a range of functions including year-end events