We’re a small, independent roastery tucked into a beautiful 1930s building in the heart of Ceres. But our story really begins on the gravel roads of the Koue Bokkeveld.
Back in 2017, there simply wasn’t access to fresh, quality roasted coffee where we lived. So we started small—partnering with friends in the industry who roasted for us, while we focused on getting good coffee into the hands of our local community. It was never about being fancy—just about making sure people could enjoy a proper cup, even off the beaten track.
Out of that season, Lize named our blend Grondpad Coffee (gravel road coffee), and it stuck. Serving those off the beaten path became part of who we are. Not just coffee lovers in farming areas, but also being part of something bigger. We were always involved in our local community—especially in supporting children without access to quality education and healthy environments—and over time, coffee became a natural way to help fund that work.
As things grew, we built an off-road mobile trailer—the Gravel Café—and started showing up at local events. What began as a simple idea slowly evolved into what we have today.
Grondpad now lives as a brand under Alcove, but the heart remains the same: simple, approachable, honest coffee. Our house blends are built around Brazil and Ethiopia, and we love showcasing African single origins that highlight the complexity of altitude and seasonality. For those wanting to explore a little more, we also offer rotating seasonal coffees.
At the end of the day, we’re still about serving people well—wherever they are.
