The Perfect Cup: the magic beans of Parkview

The Perfect Cup is an integral part of the Parkview community. This delightful coffee shop is the perfect stop for a delicious coffee and tasty meal.

The Perfect Cup is also one of the businesses that took part in the Shop Local, Support Jozi campaign we ran in partnership with Airbnb. As part of the initiative, when customers spent R100 or more with SnapScan, they received a R75 Jozibucks voucher which could be spent at other participating businesses.

Read more: Molweni Coffee: the perfect blend of caffeine and enthusiasm

We spoke to Michelle Dancer, owner of The Perfect Cup, to learn more about her business and what makes their coffee so special. 

Tell us about the history of your business?

The Perfect Cup is one of the oldest Roasters in Joburg. Even though it was only established as The Perfect Cup in 1996, it had been running as a roastery since the late 80s.

It is in the heart of Parkview and is the oldest coffee shop on the Tyrone strip. With all this history comes many very loyal customers. We are immensely grateful to be a part of such a great community.

Who are the people behind The Perfect Cup?

You’ve heard of the saying “it takes a village to raise a child”, well I also believe it takes a village to run a successful business. 

I took over The Perfect Cup in 2010, but would not have been able to do so without a lot of help and support from my village. Most importantly, my parents, Mary and Coenie, who are always willing to lend a helping hand or much needed advice. Deirdre, who started the shop in 1996, and trusted me enough to take over the shop she established, has taught me so much about running a business. Bongani, and the rest of our amazing team, are the reason the shop runs smoothly every day.

Thomas, my husband, is a massive support, especially when it comes to the quality control of the coffee and pancakes!

And then there is the Parkview community, without whom there would be no Perfect Cup.

How was 2020 for your business? What learnings are you taking into this year?

2020 was STRESSFUL! But it once again reminded me of how amazing our community is. They supported us throughout the lockdown and are the reason we were able to trade today.

Read more: Grumpy & Runt: love in every bite

How do you determine your menu?

We look at what is popular and what our customers want. I have also recently met with a consultant to help us with some vegan and vegetarian items as there is a big demand for that right now. We recently added mushrooms on toast to our menu and I love it! And then, of course, a cappuccino is a favourite, too.

Do you have any advice for entrepreneurs who dream of opening their own coffee shop or restaurant?

• It is hard work, but it is so worth it.
• Treat your staff well, and they will be loyal.
• Remember to take a break every now and then.

Are you excited for Airbnb’s Support Jozi, Shop Local campaign?

Very excited! Joburg is so wonderful and having someone like Airbnb create awareness about businesses in the area is such a wonderful campaign. 

Update: The Airbnb ‘Shop Local, Support Jozi’ campaign has ended, but you can still support The Perfect Cup by visiting the coffee shop, located at Shop 15, Parkview Centre, 54 Tyrone Ave.  

If you’d like to share your business’ SnapScan story with us, please get in touch at stories@snapscan.co.za.