Exciting addition to Boardwalk as Co.Fi branches out
Cosmopolitan dining and upmarket lounge Co.Fi is launching its first coastal branch — in Gqeberha — in style by hosting award-winning DJ Prince Kaybee, DJ Thuli Phongolo, Daliwonga and Monique Bingham.
Co.Fi, established in 2005 by its three directors — Jacky Mathebe, Joel Manaka and Harley Rapetsoa — has lounges in Polokwane, Pretoria and Johannesburg.
And now Nelson Mandela Bay patrons will also get to dine in style at Co.Fi’s new and trendy lounge at the Boardwalk Casino.
Mathebe said the plan had always been to open a lounge in a coastal city.
“Fortunately, Gqeberha was first in our line-up, but I also think our relationship with Sun International assisted.
“The proposition of opening a Co.Fi here was motivation enough.
“As we seek to grow the business, coming here was a strategic goal. Gqeberha has a unique market and the profile of our type of customer is here.
“It is a competitive area because there is a lot going on in Gqeberha — with the airport, harbour, the stadiums — that is one of the biggest advantages.
“It not only attracts South Africans, but also international tourists.
“Recently a cruise liner brought in a lot of customers,” Mathebe said. Co.Fi is open from 8am to 2am, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, and offering an experience that caters to “all customers’ needs”.
It also hosts celebratory and year-end functions, and its relaxing and stylish decor, bringing in soothing elements of the ocean, makes for the perfect venue.
The Gqeberha venue has also introduced a new menu that includes a variety of seafood, African cuisine and signature offerings catering for international guests.
“The seafood options on our menu are informed by the understanding that seafood is an integral part of coastal food culture.
“The unique and relaxing environment is very welcoming and resembles the ocean,” Mathebe said, adding it was the perfect spot to unwind while sipping on one of the cocktails on offer.
Co.Fi Gqeberha had its soft launch on Wednesday evening, and yesterday hosted Phongolo, who starred in Generations The Legacy.
Much-loved amapiano vocalist Daliwonga will perform today, and Bingham, from Brooklyn New York, will perform tomorrow.
On Sunday, award-winning Kaybee will be the final artist featured in the exciting line-up to celebrate Co.Fi’s launch in Gqeberha.
“We are bringing a lot of opportunities to Gqeberha. We are bringing inspiration to local artists to see that anything is possible when they see themselves rubbing shoulders with these big artists,” Mathebe said.