Coffi Kitoko in Cwmbran Centre achieves 5-star rating

Coffee Kitoko took away the award for Coffee Shop of the Year in 2025, and has now been given a five star hygiene rating <i>(Image: Supplied)</i>
Coffee Kitoko took away the award for Coffee Shop of the Year in 2025, and has now been given a five star hygiene rating (Image: Supplied)
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Coffi Kitoko in Cwmbran Centre has been awarded a 5-star food hygiene rating following its latest inspection.

Based at 8 The Mall in Cwmbran Centre, Coffi Kitoko has quickly established itself as one of Cwmbran’s most popular independent coffee spots. Locals and visitors say they now walk past the big chains to get their caffeine fix there instead.

The name “Kitoko” means “beautiful” in Lingala, and the team aims to reflect that in everything from the way the coffee is poured to the way customers are greeted.

Coffi Kitoko serves African-grown, Welsh-roasted coffee from Big Dog Coffee, with a menu that runs from double espressos and flat whites to long blacks, cortados and seasonal specials. There is also a choice of breakfasts, sourdough toast, granola, pastries and cakes.

The food and drink regularly attract positive feedback online. Reviewers often call the brunch and pastries “super tasty”, and some describe the coffee as the “best coffee I have ever tasted”.

Inside, the espresso bar has a cosy, creative feel, with bright décor, comfortable seating and artwork designed in-store that encourages people to linger over their drinks. Reviews on TripAdvisor and social media consistently praise the friendly, chatty staff and relaxed atmosphere, with customers describing Coffi Kitoko as a “rare independent treat” surrounded by “far inferior corporate neighbours”. Others highlight reasonable prices and the fact that, despite being busy, the team still take time to talk to regulars and remember familiar faces.

The recent visit from environmental health officers led to Coffi Kitoko receiving the top rating possible under the Food Standards Agency’s Food Hygiene Rating Scheme. Inspectors found good hygienic food handling, very good cleanliness of the building, and good management of food safety. After receiving the results, the team posted online to share the news with their community.

They said on social media they were “delighted” to receive a 5-star score again and pledged to keep their community healthy and safe.

For regulars, that 5-star rating is a reassuring endorsement of a favourite hangout; for anyone yet to visit, it is one more reason to give this independent Cwmbran espresso bar a try

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