The greatest clue is in the taste
The Number 1 Ladies Detective Coffee Shop and how it came to be as we know it today, its evolution and exciting future plans, are nothing short of a full blown motion picture production. Ke gore ke Mmovie. The venue continues to be a hub for the artistic expression and most things creative. The story of the coffee shop is fittingly theatrical. After all, it is named after the first detective novel ‘The Number 1 Ladies Detective Agency’ in the eponymous series by Scottish author Alexander McCall Smith, first published in 1998, who later founded the coffee shop with a theatre in order to promote the arts in Botswana. I remember what a buzz it was when tinsel town hit our shores to film the movie. I was casted and recasted but had the honour of seeing the lead role phenomenon; Jill Scott in her trailer as legendary hair Technician Ben attended to her, and again at an event at GICC where I saved the day as she suffered a minor wardrobe malfunction.
When Mimi first realised the possibilities in managing the restaurant, she had already read the book in high school, so I can imagine it felt very right and likely nostalgic. After not being able to clinch managing the café in 2011, Mimi went on to open ‘The Bean Bag’ on the Maruapula Campus early 2012, it served as a niche hang out for students and catered to Maitisong revellers.
One might have noticed that the common denominator is the Arts. From her youth, mentored by Roslyn Beukes it became evident that Mimi had Art and Theatre coursing through her veins. The position for management of the coffee shop she had eyes for availed itself once again and she took on both projects head on. She served as the new manager for a year and would later go on to purchase the business, and have to simultaneously find a new location for it as it was in its last year of residency in Kgale. Finding the perfect location was a meticulous task which took two years. The new home for the coffee shop has since been
Thapong Art Centre. There are two original pieces from when the coffee shop/theatre was first open in Kgale which make up part of the décor and bring a sense of reminiscence. They are the Chandelier and what used to be the reception area. The eatery’s physical menu is designed with images of the previous establishment including the new, and this is a lovely way for guests to connect with and appreciate the rich history.
As the restaurant is cradled within the Art Centre, the collaborative effort between the two entities is one fuelled by passion and creative expression in all its forms. Plays, exhibitions, poetry, live music, concerts and corporate launches. Since the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, there are a couple of events worth ear marking at the café , Unplugged Live Sessions, Sol Affairs and the “Most Epic Night Scene In Gaborone”; The Night Market, with the next one billed for February 19.
If you are looking to host friends and family, have a kiddies party or simply need some quiet time, they open Monday to Sunday 9am to 5pm, it is a family oriented space with a huge jungle gym for the kids to enjoy, and yet, somehow it remains peaceful and allows one to unplug while enjoying one of their signature drinks which are traditional but made different with a twist. It’s been pretty hot and humid the past couple of days so first thing I did when I arrived was scrounge the menu for something refreshing. I usually get cold water or a passion fruit and lemonade so I ordered a
PF&L but was quickly convinced to rather have a Homemade Lemonade with a Splash of Passion Fruit. You’ll love it! Mimi asserted, and I sure did.
It came with a lot of ice and mint, just perfect for a hot summer day. The menu has a little something for everyone and on this day the ‘pulled pork tacos with an option of avo on the side’ stood out for me and they were a great choice. A perfect light meal with just the right amount of Mexican heat, I was pleasantly gratified. The pork will melt in your mouth perfect and the flavour profile within the taco was just world class. I’m definitely having it again…and again. Best sellers include the oxtail and beef burgers with big juicy homemade patties which we also indulged in with extra bacon and cheese. Healthier alternatives to write home about are the exotic Kudu Carpaccio and the Butternut or Goat Cheese Salad.
On numerous occasions I have seen their carrot cake ranking high on the ‘Who Sells the Best Carrot Cake in Gabs’ survey online and they are definitely worth the accolades. The service was immaculate from when we arrived at the door through our stay, one more reason to revisit. I will be going back with my boys for a family outing. I am adding the night market to my calendar of events for the year as they are hosted bi-monthly, I will assuredly be on the lookout for new exhibitions at Thapong as well. The Number 1 Ladies Detective Coffee Shop is a stand out spot for a great meal and inspired experiences.