Brews & Bites

A New Chapter in Rosebank Café Culture

Published

2 months ago

July 8, 2025

Chiraag

Odyssey Coffee & Roast exterior Rosebank, baristas Glen and Phumlani, Oxford Glenhove cafe entrance, artisan espresso in Johannesburg, local coffee culture, new coffee spot Jozi, neighbourhood coffee shop, Joburg ETC

Glen and Phumlani bring artisan espresso to the Oxford & Glenhove precinct

A fresh wave of coffee aroma is drifting through Rosebank, and locals are following their noses straight to Odyssey Coffee & Roast. Nestled on 19 9th Street at the corner of Oxford and Glenhove, this inviting new café is already drawing a loyal morning crowd.

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Crafted connections from day one

Odyssey’s launch was more than a soft opening; it felt like a neighbourhood introduction. The café made waves on social media by spotlighting the duo behind the counter: Glen and Phumlani, two seasoned baristas who, in their own words, “speak fluent espresso.” From the start, they made it clear that Odyssey wasn’t just about coffee; it was about connection.

Neighbourhood vibes ignite

The location is more than strategic; it’s intentional. Set within the Oxford & Glenhove precinct, Odyssey adds new energy to the area’s growing café culture. Word spread fast. One weekend visit left guests commenting on the full tables, buzzing atmosphere, and rich espresso that clearly hit the mark. It’s the kind of place where your coffee arrives with a smile and a side of conversation.

Why Jozi coffee lovers should care

In a city saturated with big-name chains and cookie-cutter cafes, Odyssey offers a refreshing return to craft and community. There’s no rush here. Whether you’re in for a quick takeaway or staying to people-watch from the big front windows, it feels personal, the kind of café where your barista remembers your name, your order, and probably what you’re binge-watching too.

Rosebank might often be overshadowed by its trendier neighbours, but Odyssey proves this area still has surprises up its sleeve. It’s a meaningful reminder that Johannesburg’s café culture is alive, expanding, and worth paying attention to.

Rosebank coffee launch Johannesburg, Odyssey interior seating, Oxford and Glenhove coffee precinct, Glen Phumlani brewing espresso, local cafe community vibe, speciality coffee Rosebank, Joburg ETC

Image 1: Instagram/@odyssey_coffee_roast_

Craft, community, and character

What Glen and Phumlani are building at Odyssey is more than a business. It’s a gathering point. A familiar face. A space where good coffee meets good energy. And in a city that moves as fast as Jozi, that kind of space matters.

Whether you’re meeting a friend, taking a breather from the office, or simply chasing the perfect flat white, Odyssey Coffee & Roast makes it feel like time well spent.