Loading Bay - A simple concept

Things have to be good on the outside as well as the inside

Jon-Paul Bolus was born in Johannesburg and moved to Cape Town in his early teens, he travelled the world a little, worked for various design companies and lifestyle concept stores and studied design. Being interested in how things are made, in tradition and in culture, he found that something was missing in South Africa. That something was a link to different experiences: originality, passion and a personal experience. "I planned to start an establishment that links passion, simple design, originality and artisan craft." says Jon-Paul. The Loading Bay’s concept is to bring all ideas and passions together.

The Loading Bay (has its name due to the fact that it was previously a loading bay) works in collaboration with smaller and concentrated brands that focus on quality: Espresso Lab, Monocle, Inventory Magazine, Our Legacy, Velour and Acne from Sweden, Naked & Famous and Apc that specialise in rigid selvedge denim, handmade fragrances and 100% soya wax candles from NYC et al. The idea: educating people in products, fresh produce, supporting your farmer and not big franchised companies. "We source from someone that is making the best," says Jon-Paul.

During the day the Loading Bay serves comfort food (seasonal, local, fresh = support your farmer) with locally roasted coffee (from the Espresso Lab Microroasters in Woodstock) and freshly squeezed juice. Comfort food means homey food: boiled eggs with sliced bread and avo, toast with milk, oats and berries and lot’s of other stuff on toast, salads, sandwiches and more. And beer? Brewers & Union, of course.

The Loading Bay is known for its Thursday burger-night... people say they have the best burgers in town... try it out and let us know if they‘re right. The meat is sourced from local butchers that take care of their animals as well as all the other ingredients are sourced and prepared correctly. Burgers are served with truffle salted fries or a side a salad, for the vegetarians there is a veg burger as a second option. "We keep it simple, which means we focus to provide quality," adds Jon-Paul.

"The Loading Bay is a place to be inspired" he continues. Experience great products, exceptional service with a personal touch. The Loading Bay is hot and in-trend with well designed furniture and interior. "We want people to be individuals. We want to become a brand that people know for honesty and trustworthiness, we establish relationships and educate." says Jon-Paul. "A lot of regulars are creatives who come here for the food, free wifi and networking," confirms Jon-Paul. "This place attracts good people. Things have to be good on the outside and inside."

Today is a good day

... and other happy slogans you can read all over the Loading Bay. A good reminder to stay positive. The Loading Bay is indeed a happy space.

By Antonia Heil

Loading Bay
30 Hudson Street | De Waterkant | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 425 6321

Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 9am - 5pm; Saturday: 9am - 4pm; Thursday is burger night, open till late

P.S. The Loading Bay will open its second store in Joburg; but no worries, there are no plans for franchising.

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More restaurant inspiration you find in our section Eating Out.