Can we all confirm that craving comfort food in winter is a universal thing? The moment the weather turns chilly, suddenly coffee tastes better, and desserts become irresistible. Whatever the reason, this season always inspires me to continue my quest for some of the best coffee stops in Harare.
One café that keeps calling me back is 7 Rings at Highland Park. While Harare has no shortage of great cafés, 7 Rings has carved out its own niche by doing one thing exceptionally well: doughnuts. In fact, I would confidently say they might just serve some of the best doughnuts in town. The only place I'd put in the same conversation might be Broomtree.
Walking into 7 Rings instantly lifts your mood. It has a bright, modern aesthetic. One of my favourite little details is the sign they always have outside. They regularly swap it out with witty quotes that make you smile. On my recent visit it read, "You are the sprinkles to my doughnut."
You can choose between the comfortable booth seating inside or outdoor tables if you prefer fresh air and a bit of sunshine on those crisp winter afternoons.
Their freshness stands out. You don't have to take anyone's word for it. I watched trays of doughnuts disappear almost as quickly as they were brought out, only to be replaced with freshly baked batches moments later.
Of course, this is a coffee review too, and on the particular day I had a cappuccino which was exactly what I had hoped for: smooth, creamy and comforting. The espresso packed enough flavour to satisfy coffee lovers, while the steamed milk softened it into a well-balanced cup that paired beautifully with their fresh doughnuts.
Hear it from me: 7 Rings deserves a spot on your list. Great coffee, fresh doughnuts, inviting interiors and a few smile-inducing quotes along the way. It checks all the boxes for the perfect comfort stop on a cold day in Harare.