Loaves on Long is a dream realized. And if you have ever tried a pain au chocolate from here, your dreams could be realized too.

This Long Street bakery, eatery and emporium has only been around for just under six months, but it has already become one of the best places to visit on the stretch – a step inside reveals great coffee and fresh items for sale. A few steps further up inside, lies the pleasing-on-the-eye eatery section including a charming balcony. You can tell by stepping inside Loaves on Long that owners Ciska and Lyndal love doing what they love and it shows in the hands-on style approach the wonderful pair has adapted for a dream realized.

We caught up with Ciska to find out more.

How long has Loaves on Long been around for and how was it born?

Loaves on Long has been open for nearly six months. Wow! It was supposed to be a five-year plan but ended up being a ‘let’s do it now’ kind of project. Well, to tell the truth, the dream and image of it has always been with me. It has always been a part of who I am and what I want to become.

Lyndal and I shared a common dream, and in January we started talking about building something spectacular. A place where we can share ourselves and our passion with the community – where they can feel at home.

What has been your professional background?

Both myself and Lyndal have studied at The Culinary Academy (now The Hurst Campus). We then went our separate ways, working at some top-ranking establishments in the Western Cape. It has been one hell of a ride and we learned a lot!

bread_by Claire Gunn

What are some of your greatest joys in life?

For me personally that is such a simple answer: love. 

Love makes me happy! It gives me the greatest joy in life. The complexity is in the many forms of love one gets to enjoy in this life, like the love we receive from mother nature in the many gifts she gives each and every day.

The love for your parents and siblings and the warmth you feel when making them proud. The love for your partner and the unconditional support you receive. The love for what you do – each and every day. I love the look on a guest’s face when they enjoy what I have created. I love the smell of fresh bread and the feeling of warm dough in my hands. Working alongside passionate people that share the love and don’t just see it as a job, but a lifestyle instead.

I am in love with life! And I find joy in so many things everyday life brings. 

What can visitors expect when visiting Loaves on Long?

They can expect fresh bread, croissants, pain au chocolat and muffins. Exceptional coffee from Legado and really amazing tea from Lady Bonin. Home-cured meats and bacon. In a nutshell, good food which has been made with love and care. We try and create the menu so as to have something for everyone to enjoy. Expect friendly faces, great food and a place to feel at home.

pain au chocolate_by Claire Gunn

Loaves on Long is fast becoming an institution in the city. Where do you see it going in the future?

We want to grow in our business and become a go-to destination for a quick lunch, a sexy breakfast or any function you might want. We have many plans for the future (watch this space) – I am so excited for things to come! 

We would obviously like to grow and expand, but I believe the most important thing is to maintain good standards and consistency. Good food, made with passion and pride!

OF NOTE
Where 33 Long Street, CBD
When 06:30 am – 6 pm
Contact +27 021 422 3353, [email protected], www.loavesonlong.co.za

Photography Claire Gunn

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