In an ever-evolving world of clicking here and digitally being there, traditional meetings, conference calls and offices have changed forever. More and more people - from creative entrepreneurs to fancy pants suites - are ditching their desks and choosing to be location-independent because where there is a will, there is a way, And where there is Wi-Fi there is a job.  

All over South Africa and also in Nelson Mandela Bay, co-working spaces are popping up everywhere which allows entrepreneurs/business people to rent a small office, studio or just a desk where they are surrounded by like-minded individuals in a structured atmosphere (for example, WERK_ in Baakens Valley has open desks and studio spaces up for grabs, or rather, up for rent).

Working habits have changed thanks to easy access to the internet (and smartphones) and besides co-working and shared office spaces it is also not unusual to see that coffee shops are being used for social and business purposes.

Doesn't it sound like an ideal working space? Good coffee, a relaxed atmosphere and the possibility of 'sweet deals'.

There is a name for this phenomena of working from a coffee shop: Coffice. Because what do you get when you cross a café and an office? 

But when using a coffee shop as your working space, you should keep the following 'Coffice Etiquette' in mind...

1) You'll probably sit in the coffee shop for a long time, and you won't make space for a new table to arrive, so be nice and remember to tip well.

2) Yes, the Wi-Fi is free, but that doesn't mean that you should nurse a glass of tap water. Order drinks. Order food. The rule of thumb is one item per hour.

3) Avoid peak times. In Nelson Mandela Bay most coffee shops are at their busiest over lunch during the week. 

4) Carry a multi-plug with you and share power outlets (and it won't hurt to charge your laptop beforehand).

5) Be responsible with your Wi-Fi usage.

6) Mind other customers - put on your headphones and switch your phone to silent.

7) Be considerate when taking a call. 

8) It is not your home, leave the stretching at your house, keep the feet off the chairs and keep the shoes on. Clean up after yourself.

The Bay, with its sound infrastructure, prides itself on being a hub of regional, national and international business. Numerous coffee shops in Port Elizabeth are being used as coffices by locals and also by those visiting Nelson Mandela Bay; meetings take place, deals get made, reports get done, wam, bam, another coffee, thank you mam.  

6 'Coffices' to work from in the Bay

Here are 6 coffee shops - coffices - in Port Elizabeth where you can get down to business; they offer reliable Wi-Fi, great service and delicious food at affordable prices. If you work from other coffee shops or restaurants in Nelson Mandela Bay - whether it is in Port Elizabeth, Despatch or Uitenhage - why don't you comment and tell us more about its magical Wi-Fi and strong coffee?

Stir Coffee Co.

A new coffee shop in Walmer dedicated to good coffee and delicious food. They offer a fresh vibe for a relaxing time with friends and you can also support Isithembiso Babies Home by purchasing earrings from Stir Coffee Co.

FREE Wi-Fi: Yes (usage/time limit applies).

Plug Points: Yes

Don't miss: Daily light snacks such as quiches and sweet treats.

What others say: "Love the happy family atmosphere at Stir Coffee Co. Excellent coffee made by some really friendly people! Definitely my new spot to get coffee!"

Where: Corner of Heugh Road and 2nd Avenue Walmer.

When: 07:00-15:00 Monday - Friday, 07:00-11:00 Saturday.
 

Cobblestone Bakery 

A family-owned and operated bistro and bakery offering home-cooked meals, confectioneries and a carrot cake that has been voted "the best in Port Elizabeth" by many.

FREE Wi-Fi: Yes

Plug Points: Yes

Don't miss: R10 breakfast special, 2 eggs, toast and tomato relish (Monday to Friday, 07h00-11h00, coffee not included).

What others say: "One of my favourite restaurants! Have gone back a thousand times! Fantastic food, great vibe and reasonable prices!"

Where: 40 6th Avenue, Walmer.

When: 07:00-16:00 Monday to Saturday, 07:30-14:00 Sunday.

Como Caffe

Como Caffe is an Italian restaurant, coffee shop and deli with a New York twist and an atmosphere of comfort and class.

FREE Wi-Fi: Yes

Plug Points: Yes

Don't miss: R45 Good Morning Breakfast Special, 1 egg, 2 rashers of bacon, tomato relish, toast and an Americano (07h30-11h30).

What others say: "Great 5 star coffee! Great spot for a catch up with friends or a small business meeting over a strong brew!"

Where: 86 Heugh Road, Walmer.

When: 07:30-17:00 Monday to Friday, 08:30-14:00 Saturday and Sunday.
 

Rhubarb & Lime

An upmarket retro coffee shop where a passion for food and decor comes together in a refurbished heritage home.

FREE Wi-Fi: Yes

Plug Points: Yes

Don't miss: R30 Cheep-Cheep Breakfast Special, 1 slice of toast, 2 eggs, tomato relish and mushroom (Monday to Friday, 07h30-11h30).

What others say: "The decor and the vibe here is rad. The staff is friendly and the food is super tasty (with great banting options)."

Where: 7 Park Lane, St Georges Park.

When: 07:30-16:00 Monday to Friday, 08:30-14:00 Saturday.
 

The Rose Garden

Situated in a friendly and tranquil atmosphere, with traditional teas and coffee, home-made cakes, locally sourced food and a quirky menu served by welcoming staff.

FREE Wi-Fi: Yes

Plug Points: Yes

Don't miss: R29 breakfast special, 2 eggs, bacon, tomato and toast (Monday to Friday, 08h00-09h00).

What others say: "Lovely ambiance with good service and food. Garden setting is perfect for a warm day and inside fire for chilly days - fabulous!"

Where: 63 Circular Drive, Charlo.

When: 08:00-16h:0 Monday to Friday, 09:00-16:00 Saturday and Sunday.

Raak

A trendy space with an international atmosphere and homemade, artisanal goodness.

FREE Wi-Fi: Yes

Plug Points: Yes

Don't miss: R10 Americano or cuppuccino and R15 for 1 egg, 1 slice of toast and bacon (07h00-08h00).

What others say: "Very different and therein lies the charm. Great service, fantastic food."

Where: 27A Pickering Street, Newton Park.

When: 07:00-15:00 Monday to Friday, 08:00-11:30 Saturday.
 

Please note that the restaurants/coffee shops were contacted to obtain the information about the Wi-Fi, its terms and conditions, as well as the breakfast specials and prices. Information given is subject to change.