Rise and shine!
There’s nothing quite like breakfast. From health geeks to hedonists, most agree it’s the most important meal of the day. So, it needs to be done right!
Whether you’d like to eat your eggs Benny in a posh hotel, savour avo toast in a boho café, or enjoy a hangover fry-up in a greasy spoon, here’s our comprehensive list of the best breakfast spots in Cape Town – not forgetting croissants and coffee at a sidewalk café.
Which are your favourites? We’d love to hear about them in the comments below.
Find a breakfast spot in your area:
City Bowl
Sea Point + Green Point
Southern Suburbs
Constantia
South Peninsula
Northern Suburbs
City Bowl
Hemelhuijs
Owner Jacques Erasmus’ two passions – design and travel – are evident in the modern and whimsical decor of his ever-changing oasis in the CBD. The creative seasonal menu is bursting with options, one more delicious than the next. Whet your appetite with a freshly squeezed juice – we recommend the green apple, celery, and ginger. Then, settle in for an item or two off the all-day brunch menu, which includes poached farm eggs with roasted artichokes and hollandaise; toasted mosbolletjie (a traditional Afrikaans sweet-bun) with cultured cream and homemade jam; and grilled farm-style sausage in old-fashioned tomato smoor with a soft poached egg.
Breakfast served Monday – Friday, 9am – 4pm
Saturday, 9am – 3pm
Contact 021 418 2042, info@hemelhuijs.co.za
Where to find it 71 Waterkant Street, Cape Town
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Our Local
What was once a mechanic’s workshop has blossomed into one of Cape Town’s most cherished dining spots. This all-in-one café, antique shop and nursery combines its quaint and cosy cottage-core aesthetic with a home-cooked food experience, making Our Local everything that a typical urbanite could want. Guests are welcome to indulge in an assortment of hearty breakfast options – such as their famed shakshuka, creamy chicken livers on toast or feta and spinach scrambled eggs with dukkah – while sipping on a coffee or a mimosa and soaking in the eclectic environment of hanging plants and antique treasures.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 8am – 3.30pm
Contact 064 642 5004, eat@ourlocal.co.za
Where to find it 117 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
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Clarke’s Dining Room
The familiar white canopy and copper sign on Bree Street is still luring hungry hipsters for all-day breakfasts and lazy brunches. Clarke’s was ahead of the curve when it opened a decade ago, with its Scandi décor style, carefully sourced ingredients and artisanal kitchen – most of what’s on the menu is made in-house. It’s still of-the-moment: vegan-friendly, balancing healthy choices with sinful temptations. The kitchen shows off a dozen interesting takes on eggs for breakfast, such as fire eggs (baked in a tomato-chickpea stew), eggs with kimchi fried rice, or as proper huevas rancheros (with black beans slow-cooked in red wine, beer and smoked tomato).
Good to know This is a cashless establishment.
Breakfast served Monday – Friday, 8am – late
Saturday, 8am – late; Sunday, 8am – 3pm
Contact 087 470 0165, info@manfood.co.za
Where to find it 133 Bree Street, Cape Town
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Egghead Diner
The look of this dinky diner is fabulously retro, all gleaming woodwork, lead-paned glass, leather booths, Bauhaus prints and yellow pendant lights – like drops of egg yolk. Pure happiness between four walls. It’s quickly become a favourite all-day breakfast spot in the City Bowl. The headliner is egg rolls (soft, melt-in-the-mouth brioche buns stuffed with egg and other fillings such as bacon, bangers, smoked salmon or rare roast beef, along with not-your-ordinary sauces and trimmings). Other eye-catchers include blueberry pancakes, a breakfast burrito and vegan ‘eggs’ (capsicum and onion tofu).
Breakfast served Monday – Saturday, 7.30am – 10.00pm
Sunday, 7.30am – 5.00pm
Contact 021 286 9034, info@egghead.za.com
Where to find it 34 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Swan Café
Oozing Parisian panache, this sexy crêperie is swathed in romantic mythology, with classical representations of “Leda and The Swan” on its walls. Owner Jessica Rushmere (who grew up in Brittany – birthplace of the crêpe) worked with local designer Haldane Martin to create a traditional French café, with accents of red, white and blue adding fresh appeal. The delicious aromas of crêpe batter, melting chocolate and brewing coffee will certainly lure you inside. And, once seated, you’re sure to find something you love – including a line-up of lip-smacking savoury (gluten-free, buckwheat-based) galettes oozing with cheese.
Good to know Brunch Your Way is served all day.
Breakfast served Monday – Saturday, 8am – 3pm
Sunday + public holidays, 9am – 2pm
Contact 079 454 4758, bonjour@swancafe.co.za
Where to find it Corner Buitenkant and Barrack Streets, East City Precinct, Cape Town
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New York Bagels
This family-run deli (originally opened in 1940 in Sea Point) prides itself on being Africa’s only dedicated bagelry: they produce no less than 13 different kinds of traditionally boiled and fresh-out-of-the-oven bagels with a wide variety of delicious fillings. The breakfast fillings are delicious: scrambled eggs, bacon, smoked salmon trout, pastrami, hummus and grilled veg, to name a few. Those with a sweet tooth will relish the chocolate croissants and traditional baked cheesecake. There’s also sourdough or rye bread instead of bagels.
Breakfast served Tuesday – Friday, 7am – 4pm
Saturday + Sunday 7am – 2pm
Contact 082 697 6061, orders@newyorkbagels.co.za
Where to find it 44 Harrington Street, East City Precinct, Cape Town
The Yard at Silo
In the Silo District of the Waterfront, this concept-store-meets-bistro-bar serves meals in a contemporary, open-plan space. The breakfast menu offers exciting variations on the usual themes, such as The Big Bombay: Indian-style scrambled eggs, roasted vine tomatoes, potato rösti, breakfast dal, lamb sausage with sautéed spinach and homemade flatbread. Not quite sure what you fancy? Well, you can build your own breakfast too. Plus, this is a rare spot where you can enjoy fragrant lassi (a yoghurt drink laced with fruit and gentle spice).
Breakfast served Monday – Saturday, 7:30am – 12pm
Sunday, 8am – 3pm
Contact 021 879 1157, theyardqueries@gmail.com
Where to find it Silo 4, Silo District, South Arm Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
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Kloof Street House
In a striking Victorian building, set back from the bustling high street, a fantastical dining experience awaits. Inside, Gatsby-esque furnishings (think: lofty ceilings, deep-buttoned leather sofas and dark-wood floors) set the scene, while a garden courtyard provides the backdrop for laidback weekend jazz brunches. Expect the likes of eggs Benedict with smoked Norwegian salmon, smoked bacon, or mushrooms and spinach; or a traditional breakfast with a teriyaki beef-banger twist. The classic steak, egg and chips combo is elevated with Chalmar sirloin and red wine and parsley compound butter.
Good to know “Never-ending mimosas” can be added to your brunch dish until 12pm.
Breakfast served Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Monday, 12pm – 4pm
Contact 021 423 4413, info@kloofstreethouse.co.za
Where to find it 30 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
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Nourish’d
Tucked away in a revamped old storage garage in Gardens, behind lush granadilla creepers and a bounty of hanging plants, this laidback plant-based café and juicery is the kind of place where everyone is welcome – from surfers to suits and their furry friends, too. Owner Natasha Napoli’s menu offers more than a dozen fresh cold-pressed juices, smoothie bowls served in cool coconut dishes, breakfast bowls and tasty toasts, plus a matcha waffle for the sweet-toothed – all packed with fresh, health-conscious and superfood ingredients.
Good to know Nourish’d has a second outlet in Observatory and a brand-new branch in Green Point.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 7.30am – 1pm
Contact 064 755 2431, marketing@nourishd.co.za
Where to find it 117 Kloof Street, corner of Hof Street, Oranjezicht, Cape Town
Butter
In Cape Town’s busy city centre, this quaint little daytime spot serves melt-in-the-mouth food (mostly made with dollops of butter!). There’s burnt butter (in your pap), almond butter (in the coconut porridge), buttery croissants and brioche, butter scones and buttermilk flapjacks, to name a few. The menu also features a breakfast burger, burrito, bowl, Benedict (with a more buttery hollandaise than usual) and hashbrown stack. Add friendly decor, creative cocktails and happy tunes in the background, and you’ll want to hang out here all day.
Breakfast served Tuesday – Friday, 8am – 3pm
Saturday, 9am – 3pm; Sunday, 9.30am – 2pm
Contact 082 853 1939, hello@butterallday.com
Where to find it 70 Loop Street, Cape Town
Manna Epicure
Owned by French-Corsican Agnès (who opened the original restaurant in Kloof Street with late husband Johnny van der Westhuizen, from Citrusdal), Manna Epicure combines French flair and homegrown hospitality. It’s a popular all-day breakfast spot, offering a delicious assortment of gluten-free options, too – we recommend the scrumptious coconut bread (served with smoked salmon, avo and two eggs). There’s also croque-monsieur, eggs Benedict and Florentine and a breakfast banana split, to mention a few of the temptations. The contemporary all-white interior makes it a lovely choice to enjoy an indulgent modern bistro-style meal.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 8am – 4pm
Contact 021 426 2413, info@mannaepicure.com
Where to find it Elm Court, Burnside Road, corner of Kloof Nek Road, Tamboerskloof, Cape Town
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Between Us
The inspired creation of Jamie and Jesse Friedberg, twin sisters and self-taught chefs, Between Us is a quiet and stylish sanctuary at the top of busy Bree Street. Aesthetically immaculate, with art on the walls, beautiful flower arrangements and an air of informal rustic-chic, it’s a peaceful ambience for a working breakfast or brunch with friends. Besides a suitable array of egg dishes (frittata, sunny-side-up, scrambled or muddled), they offer three enticing ways with porridge (creatively working with rhubarb, plum or stone fruit), plus avo on rye or polenta pancakes and, of course, excellent coffee. There are several two-seater outdoor tables on the narrow verandah above the street with Table Mountain views.
Breakfast served Monday – Saturday, 8am – 12pm
Contact 079 729 5316, info@betweenus.capetown
Where to find it 176 Bree Street, Cape Town
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Liquorice & Lime Gourmet Café
If you’d like to start your day gazing at a most perfectly framed view of Table Mountain, away from the mad rush of the city centre, head up to the top of Kloof Street to this gem. With its black-and-white checked floor and wallpaper, it has a chic, almost cinematic feel – with indulgent food to match. The all-day breakfast choices change often, but you may find such delights as omelettes made with a variety of cheeses, a breakfast quesadilla, smoothie bowls with chai pudding and a variety of in-house bakes (oven-fresh muffins, bagels and scones). Pull up a seat at the window counter and enjoy.
Breakfast served Monday – Friday, 7am – 5pm
Saturday + Sunday, 7am – 4pm
Contact 021 423 6921, manager@liquoriceandlime.co.za
Where to find it 162 Kloof Street, Oranjezicht, Cape Town
Sea Point + Green Point
Arthur’s Mini Super
Arthur’s Mini Super is perhaps the cutest eatery in Sea Point. Its laidback retro vibe is reminiscent of a corner grocery shop in the 80s, only cooler. For breakfast, expect delicious “Things on Toast” (it’s named like that on the menu); scrambled eggs with smoked salmon; or granola with fresh fruit. Arthur’s is famous for its toasties – owners Will Hobson and Stephanie Anastasopoulos’s favourite is the Pizza Toast: cheese, tomato, anchovies and oregano. Another bestseller is the sausage and egg muffin – and everything is made with organic eggs and grass-fed, free-range meat.
Breakfast served Monday, 7am – 12.30pm
Tuesday – Sunday, 8am – 2pm
Contact 087 702 7470, steph@arthursminisuper.co.za
Where to find it 15 Arthurs Road, Sea Point, Cape Town
Kleinsky’s Delicatessen
A bona fide New York deli – you almost expect to see the crew from Seinfeld hanging out here. Be sure to try the famed breakfast bagel, topped with a choice of lamb bacon, streaky bacon or avo, fried egg, melted cheddar and tomato. Another stand-out is the Latke Benedict with a choice of pastrami, salmon, lamb bacon, streaky bacon, mushrooms or spinach. The bagels are hand-rolled and made the traditional way, as is the pastrami. There’s also a choice of shmears (spreads) for bagels, French toast made from home-baked challah bread, and this is the spot to find cereals imported from the US.
Good to know Breakfast is served all day, except for the eggs Benedict (only served until 12pm).
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 8am – 5pm
Sunday, 8am – 3pm
Contact 021 433 2871, orders@kleinskys.co.za
Where to find it 92 Regent Road, Sea Point, Cape Town
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Jarryds
Brothers Jarryd and Ariel Segal opened their restaurant when they returned to Cape Town from Sydney, with the dream of elevating dining out. Suffice to say, they’ve delivered in spades. This “all-day brunchery” has an infectiously buzzy vibe. Service is slick and quick, the food is fab and the coffee is said to be the best-made in Cape Town. Come for their infamous pancake stack or the Benedicts (a royale with salmon cream cheese roulade or one with buttermilk fried chicken); Turkish eggs or salmon rösti, Aussie scrambled eggs or smoothie bowls… It’s an eclectic menu that will feed any craving.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 7.30am – 3.30pm
Contact 021 023 3642, info@nonamehg.com
Where to find it 90 Regent Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town
Jason Bakery
Aromas of freshly baked pâtisserie emanate from this Victorian-era house on Green Point’s main drag, where “Captain Bread” (aka Jason Lilley) prepares the best almond croissants in town, and his famous doughssants – only available on the last Saturday of every month (pre-ordering advised). Come for that perfectly simple combo of a cup of freshly brewed coffee and heavenly pastry (blueberry Danish, milk tart brioche doughnuts, pasteis de nata etc). You won’t be disappointed. Or tuck into heartier options that might include mushroom ragout on toast, a flapjack stack, toasties, bagels, burgers, and more.
Breakfast served Tuesday – Saturday, 7am – 3pm
Sunday, 8am – 2pm
Contact 021 433 0538, orders@jasonbakery.com
Where to find it 83 Main Road, Green Point, Cape Town
Sonny and Irene
Dressed in pastel pink, marble and oak, this bakery-café blends an air of Art Deco-ish nostalgia with contemporary touches – brilliantly echoing what Sea Point was and is. To match the gorgeous surroundings, the menu combines retro, classic and contemporary tastes. The star of the breakfast menu is signature eggs – poached, fried, scrambled or boiled – made into delectable dishes with heady flavours (porcini aïoli, chervil-and-mint salsa verde, truffle cream, preserved lemon yoghurt…). There are also five choices of Benedict, sinful buttermilk hotcakes and more angelic health options.
Good to know The adjacent Pastry Bar opens from 7am for coffee with a treat – think doughnuts, tartlets, croissants, cookies and more.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 8am – 11am
Contact 021 745 6600, reservations@sonnyandirene.co.za
Where to find it Station House, 19 Kloof Road, Sea Point, Cape Town
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Southern Suburbs
Garden Lounge at The Vineyard
There’s hardly a more peaceful setting for breakfast than the Vineyard Hotel’s landscaped gardens. On the banks of the Liesbeek River, with Table Mountain’s eastern slopes as a backdrop and the sounds of the Cape’s many bird species all around, tables on the patio offer a special breakfast experience in nature. Options vary from a three-cheese omelette to a waffle with berries, or go for the full English with free-range eggs, baked beans, sautéed potato, mushrooms, bacon, tomato and a choice of pork banger or beef sausage. A full vegan breakfast is also available.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 7am – 11am
Contact 021 657 4500, eat@vineyard.co.za
Where to find it 60 Colinton Road, Newlands, Cape Town
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The Gardener’s Cottage
Lee Barty’s 30-year-old restaurant at the Montebello Design Centre offers a tranquil reprieve from the noise of the city. Ask any Newlands local, and they’ll tell you that a meal here is a special treat. On sunny days, sit outdoors under the camphor trees amid lush gardens and enjoy delicious home-cooked breakfasts and freshly brewed tea or coffee. The sourdough seedloaf is baked on-site and is absolutely addictive!
Good to know A walk through the adjacent nursery is a must for the green-fingered.
Breakfast served Tuesday – Saturday, 8am – 11.30am
Sunday, 8.30am – 11.30am
Contact 021 689 3158, gardenerscottage@telkomsa.net
Where to find it Montebello Design Centre, 31 Newlands Avenue, Newlands, Cape Town
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Starlings Café
Hidden behind a hedge on Belvedere Road in Claremont, this warm and hospitable café is housed in a Victorian building complete with high ceilings and wooden floors, and filled with charming ornaments and flowers. There’s a variety of options to start your day – from lentil dahl or peri-peri chicken livers with poached eggs to a seasonal veg scramble, avo pesto with salsa and cream cheese, berry smoothie and all-day breakfast wrap with chorizo. In summer the enchanting garden is the place to be for beautiful mountain views; a fireplace inside keeps diners warm and toasty in winter.
Breakfast served Monday – Friday, 7am – 12pm
Saturday, 8am – 3pm
Contact 079 473 3554, starlingscafe@gmail.com
Where to find it 94 Belvedere Road, Claremont, Cape Town
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Backyard Cafe
A secret garden oasis in the suburbs, hidden behind the owners’ furniture showroom, The Backyard Café is a relaxed spot brimming with rustic nooks, cane sofas and wooden tables tucked among vegetable planters, flowers and trees. Headed up by creative young chef Ellah Maepa, the kitchen adds to the traditional breakfast repertoire of eggs Bennie, full English, avo toast and smoothie bowls, with a variety of filled croissants, flapjacks and a vegan rösti stack, not to mention their tempting array of cakes and coffee.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 9am – 12pm
Contact 021 204 0177, backyard.cafe.ct@gmail.com
Where to find it 4 Sol Cohen Road, Bergvliet, Cape Town
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Quince
A refreshing slice of green alongside the Diep River, Quince (co-owned by chef Graham Isaacson and Rael Abromowitz) is set in the historic farmhouse of Waterford farm, now Little Orchard Nursery. With its garden, huge old oak tree, outdoor tables surrounded by plants and three rooms indoors connecting to a deli, it’s popular with locals and garden enthusiasts. The menu starts with a simple Sunrise Breakfast of eggs and bacon, and moves through to the more complex Boho (polenta with wilted spinach, bacon avo and poached eggs), or filled omelettes, tartine open sandwiches, plus a vegan Moroccan chickpea dish with avo and rocket.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 8.30am – 12pm
Contact 021 569 0179, info@quince.co.za
Where to find it 7 Massinger Road, Diep River, Cape Town
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Constantia
Bistro Sixteen82 at Steenberg
A long-time Cape Town favourite for small plates and Steenberg’s classic sparkling wine, Bistro Sixteen82 is a stylish contemporary space, with serene views of cooling water features, sculptures and an indigenous garden. Chef Kerry Kilpin’s flavourful breakfast menu includes sweetcorn flapjacks (with bacon pieces, goat’s cheese mousse and truffle honey); yoghurt panna cotta (with seasonal fruit and berry coulis) and shrooms on rösti (assorted mushrooms, chives, spinach and emmenthal cream).
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 9am – 11am
Contact 021 205 3866, reservations@bistro1682.co.za
Where to find it Steenberg Estate, Steenberg Road, Tokai
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Spirit Café
You don’t have to be vegan, vegetarian or even health-conscious to enjoy the utterly delicious, made-from-scratch dishes at Spirit Café in Constantia. The breakfast options – crustless quiche, powerhouse porridge, exotic mushroom scramble, muesli bowl, Turkish eggs, chia pots – will get your day off to a spirited start. There’s also organic coffee (available for takeaway in reusable cups), along with other beverages such as caffeine-free carob-based mesquite and golden milk (turmeric, ginger, oat milk, coconut oil and vanilla).
Good to know Popping in later? A daily buffet of delicious, fresh salads is available from 12pm.
Breakfast served Monday – Friday, 8am – 4.30pm
Saturday, 8.30am – 2pm
Contact 083 544 0474, cafe@yogaspirit.co.za
Where to find it Constantia Village Courtyard, Main Road, Constantia, Cape Town
Chardonnay Deli
This renovated farm building near Groot Constantia is owned by Charmaine Lilje, whose passion for good food and warm hospitality make meals here a delight. Add magical forest views, friendly staff and a laidback vibe – and you’re all set. The breakfast menu changes seasonally but no matter what’s on offer, you’re assured of wholesome, top-notch goodness to kickstart your day – think a baked apple stuffed with almonds, yoghurt, cinnamon, nuts and honey; kippers with sweetcorn fritters; anchovies on toast…
Good to know Chardonnay Deli has a sibling outlet in Kalk Bay.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 7am – 11.30am
Contact 021 795 0606, manager@chardonnaydeli.co.za
Where to find it 87 Constantia Main Road, Constantia, Cape Town
The Conservatory at Cellars-Hohenort
A rambling garden that leads into a forest is the setting for this elegant yet relaxed hotel restaurant in the Constantia Valley. Settle into the breakfast room or head to the terrace and make your selection from the Continental and hot à la carte menu. The generous array includes eggs Benedict (with a Banting option), French toast, three-egg omelette, smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, crumpets, cereals and homemade muesli, sliced seasonal fruit, a pastry basket and selection of cheeses, hams and cured meats (to name a few).
Good to know The breakfast costs R295 per person.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 7.30am – 10.30am
Contact 021 794 2137, restaurantres@cellars-hohenort.co.za
Where to find it The Cellars-Hohenort Hotel, 93 Brommersvlei Road, Constantia Heights, Cape Town
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Jonkershuis
Situated on historic Groot Constantia wine estate, Jonkershuis is ripe with breathtaking views of vineyards and distant False Bay. Entering the estate, this characterful eatery draws you in, with outdoor seating under age-old oak trees. Whether you opt for a freshly baked pastry, scrambled eggs, eggs Provençal, a brekkie burger or a granola bowl, you and the little members of the family will leave satisfied – this is child-friendly with a capital C (a duck pond, trees, lawns and a dedicated kiddies’ menu).
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 8am – 11.30am
Contact 021 794 6255, info@jhuis.co.za
Where to find it Groot Constantia, Groot Constantia Road, Constantia
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Four & Twenty Café
This charming café, a long-time favourite meeting place in Wynberg’s Chelsea for its all-day breakfasts and bakes, has a second branch at Constantia Uitsig wine estate. Both offer the same delicious fare, with the odd tweak here and there. Try one of four variations on their indulgent Benedict menu: Green Eggs + Ham with poached eggs, Dijon-brushed sourdough, basil hollandaise and crispy hickory ham. You can also build your own breakfast, or enjoy a wide selection of scones or some scrumptious flapjacks with flavours that change along with the seasons.
Breakfast served Monday – Saturday, 8am – 5pm
Sunday, 9am – 4pm
Contact 021 012 5994, uitsig@fourandtwentycafe.co.za
Where to find it Cottage 5, Constantia Uitsig Wine Estate, Spaanschemat River Road, Constantia, Cape Town
South Peninsula
Olympia Café
Though we’re always on the lookout for new breakfast spots on the Muizenberg-Kalk Bay coastline, we keep coming back to Olympia. This Kalk Bay institution stands the test of time, for its warm atmosphere, harbour-facing setting and buttery croissants (this is the perfect breakfast, but there are other choices too such as frittatas and omelettes on the blackboard menu). The bakery around the back has a pet-friendly section, making it the perfect place to enjoy a post-walk cappuccino, Fido in tow, on the benches under the trees.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 7am – 12pm
Bakery: 6.30am – 7pm
Contact 021 788 6396, info@olympiacafe.co.za
Where to find it 134 Main Road, Kalk Bay, Cape Town
Casa Labia by Ideas Cartel
More than just a restaurant, Casa Labia is a landmark. Built in 1929 in the Venetian style by an Italian count, the interiors are adorned with Renaissance and Baroque works of art, silk drapes on the windows and crystal chandeliers, creating a distinctly Gatsby-esque feel. Outside is a beautiful garden and superb sea views. The fresh, seasonal and delectable dishes drifting out of the kitchen will have you planning your next visit after your first bite. Spoil yourself with Nutella brioche French toast, eggs Benedict, a full English breakfast or a health stack (aubergine, mushroom, polenta with tomato and coconut cream sauce). Chef Alex Vushe’s famous scones are the ultimate treat!
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 8am – 11.30am
Contact 072 902 0440, casalabia@ideascartel.com
Where to find it 192 Main Road, Muizenberg
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Harvest Cafe
Bali meets “Slaapstad” at this chilled café in Muizenberg, with its neutral hues, woven decor, swing chairs, indoor plants, surfboards and pet-friendly vibes. Diners can expect an array of healthy and vibrant breakfast options such as all-day breakfast smoothie bowls packed with superfoods or eggs Benedict on sourdough, with loads of next-level vegan-friendly choices: think tofu eggs and chives served with crispy kale, zataar tomatoes, brocolli florets, smashed avo topped with dukkah; or banana, almond butter drizzled with maple syrup, topped with cinnamon, chia seeds and toasted coconut flakes. There are also juices packed with exotic ingredients like dragon fruit and baobab, and great coffee.
Good to know Harvest Café has a second branch at the Newlands Quarter.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 7am – 12pm
Contact 079 448 1618, info@harvestcafe.co.za
Where to find it 4 York Road, Muizenberg, Cape Town
Foragers Deli
In the chilled seaside village of Scarborough, this buzzy community café serves a selection of hearty breakfast dishes, including flapjacks, frittatas, breakfast wraps, baked goods and good ol’ beans on toast. Grab a table in the covered (pet- and cycle-friendly) courtyard, with a view of the kiddies’ play area, and enjoy the scene. Be sure to swing by the deli before you leave to stock up your fridge and pantry (everything from pasture-reared meat, free-range chicken, homemade yoghurt and kefir, fruit, veg, cheese and olives to an assortment of take-away meals and picnic items).
Good to know The Coffee Bar serves hot drinks and freshly baked croissants from 7:30am.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 8am – 11am
Contact 021 780 1047, infovillagehub@gmail.com
Where to find it The Village Hub, 2 Watsonia Avenue, corner of Main Road, Scarborough, Cape Town
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Bob’s Bagel Café
In that labyrinth of narrow side streets in Kalk Bay, you’ll find this pocket-sized gem that serves good coffee and made-from-scratch bagels. Choose between a 100% wholewheat New York-style bagel or a sweeter Montreal version, filled with bacon and egg; smoked trout and cream cheese; or mature cheddar and homemade strawberry jam. There are also sweet treats such as brownies, ginger cake and shortbread. Sit at one of the three tables inside, or outside opposite the playground, where children and hounds can run free.
Good to know It’s cash only.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 7.30am – 2.30pm
Contact 083 280 0012, robinpoll@netactive.co.za
Where to find it 6 Rouxville Road, Kalk Bay, Cape Town
The Foodbarn
A stalwart of Noordhoek Farm Village – and its biggest drawcard – the Foodbarn has transformed with the times, but the standard of food (set by owner, renowned chef Franck Dangereux) remains top-notch. Breakfast here can be a go-to favourite or have a delicious global twist: Big Green poached eggs with pea and mint pesto, green veg and pecorino; a toasted croissant with smoked trout, whipped labneh and dill; baked Ranchero eggs with spicy beans; a Persian Benny with spicy chickpeas. The bakery churns out excellent croissants, crêpes and cakes. The bonhomie of this converted barn, with its rustic-chic decor, and the relaxed village vibe make dining here a wonderful day out for the entire clan.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 8am – 11.30am
Contact 021 789 1390, info@thefoodbarn.co.za
Where to find it Corner Main Road (M6) and Village Lane, Noordhoek, Cape Town
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Folk Cafe
Situated at the St James train station, in the old post office, this laidback restaurant offers great coffee (the in-house Heritage blend), a wonderful array of freshly baked cakes, muffins and pastries, and an assortment of classic breakfast dishes (eggs Benni, omelettes, fry-ups), or try the Breakfast Bunny (creamy mushrooms, bacon and egg in a brioche basket) or a potato rösti stack. It takes full advantage of its seaside location, with outdoor seating and a playground for children, plus it’s dog-friendly! It’s the ideal spot for a pre-beach breakfast or post-swim feed (the iconic St James tidal pool with its colourful beach huts is steps away).
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 7am – 11.30am
Contact 021 276 3656, info@folkcoffee.co.za
Where to find it 54 Main Road, St James, Cape Town
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Northern Suburbs
Groot Phesantekraal
Old wooden beams, mangers, stone floors and built-in chicken roosts are some of the charming features we love about the restored 1767 stable that houses the restaurant at Groot Phesantekraal wine farm. Tables spill out onto a grassy terrace with views of the Boland mountains – a peaceful setting for the beautifully presented country fare. The morning menu includes seasonal takes on eggs Benedict, French toast (perhaps with smoked bacon jam, caramel and vanilla cream and toasted coconut), omelette (with aubergine pâté, smoked olives and spicy feta atchar), porridge (currently, apple pie overnight oats) and a full farm breakfast (eggs, bacon, sausage, mushrooms) served with cheddar and wild garlic rösti.
Breakfast served Tuesday – Friday, 8am – 11.30am
Saturday + Sunday, 9am – 11.30am
Contact 021 825 0060, restaurant@phesantekraal.co.za
Where to find it Klipheuwel Way (R302), Durbanville, Cape Town
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Chocolat Bistro
You had us at “chocolat”… This French Baroque-inspired eatery in the heart of Durbanville – adorned with vintage bric-a-brac, gilt-framed paintigs, chandeliers and velvet chairs – offers a decadent selection of morning delights. Think three-cheese croque-madame, classics such as French toast, eggs Benedict, omelettes and croissants, a Grande full-house breakfast and the signature breakfast (scrambled eggs, savoury mince, mushrooms and grilled cheddar on bread). Did we mention the freshly baked scones and the range of cakes and all-day desserts? You can also dip into the brunch side (from 10am) with savoury pancakes and quiche. Outside there’s a gorgeous garden (with children’s play area) and a sunkissed patio under shady trees.
Good to know Poke your head into Petit Chocolat, the tiny shop, bakery and deli out back for take-home treats.
Breakfast served Monday – Saturday, 7.30am – 12pm
Sunday, 8am – 12pm
Contact 021 975 2426, bookings@chocolatbistro.co.za
Where to find it 46 Oxford Street, Durbanville, Cape Town
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Jéan Restaurant at Klein Roosboom
Chef Loríanne Heyns is at the helm of this eatery at Klein Roosboom, a boutique winery in the picturesque Durbanville Valley. Her breakfasts, served with nostalgic flavours and a healthy shot of attitude, are simply delicious. Think French toast with streaky bacon, grilled banana, crème fraîche and fynbos honey; or an English muffin Benedict with smoked trout and grapefruit bearnaise. Only a handful of wine-farm restaurants are positioned this close to the vineyards, especially if you’re on the patio – simply magical!
Good to know This hidden gem winery is known for its unique wine-tasting caves. If you’re partial to a walk after breakfast, there are three hiking trails leading to incredible views over Cape Town and Table Bay.
Breakfast served Tuesday – Sunday, 9am – 11.30am
Contact 086 057 2572, info@jeanrestaurant.co.za
Where to find it Tygerberg Valley Road (M13), Durbanville, Cape Town
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The Melkbos Kitchen
A whitewashed house on the beachfront is an idyllic setting to start the day. And this one’s a crowd-puller, although it will be a late breakfast. Stunning views, friendly service and lovely ambience, with indoor or alfresco seating, add the cherry on top of delectable deli-style cuisine. The morning menu features crumpet stacks (with mascarpone and ginger syrup or chocolate and fried banana), flaky croissants (filled with egg and bacon or salmon, or made into French toast), and baked eggs on creamy spinach. You can also build your own breakfast from the classic ingredients, or there’s a selection of cakes if that’s all you’d like with a cappuccino.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 10am – 11.45am
Contact 021 001 8210
Where to find it 47 Fifth Avenue, Melkbosstrand, Cape Town
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On the Rocks
This shore-hugging eatery is a Blouberg landmark, having upheld its reputation for scenic views (indeed, that iconic Table Mountain view) and seafood by the sea for almost 60 years. Seafood aside, the early menu includes eggs Benedict, Florentine, West Coast (with smoked haddock) or Jonkershuis (with crispy pork belly); a Spanish breakfast and a vegetarian hash option; croque-madame, brioche French toast and shakshuka. A visit in summer calls for a seat on the terrace, savouring your meal along with refreshing sea breezes and breathtaking views.
Good to know The Seaside Coffee Hatch is a streetside window at On the Rocks serving hot drinks, mini quiches and pastries if you prefer your breakfast with a seafront stroll.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 9am – 12pm
Contact 021 554 1988, ontherocks@seascapecollection.co.za
Where to find it 45 Stadler Road, Bloubergstrand, Cape Town
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Die Damhuis
Housed in a national monument (built around 1785 as a fish shed and boathouse), this seaside restaurant has been doling out down-to-earth meals-with-a-view for 13 years. There’s a small, medium and large classic breakfast fry-up, along with Banting Benedict, omelettes, French toast, poached eggs Hollandaise, creamy eggs, mince on toast and scones. Enjoy your meal in one of four areas: the beach house-style Fisherman’s Tent; the cosy and rustic Voorhuijs; the sun-soaked Outside Terrace, or the colourful Beach Area where the little ones can run free.
Breakfast served Monday – Sunday, 9am – 11.15am
Contact 021 553 0093, info@diedamhuis.co.za
Where to find it 32 Beach Road, Melkbosstrand, Western Cape
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3 Responses to “The 40 Best Breakfast Spots in Cape Town”
Kate
Definitely Red Sofa Cafe and Deli in Vredehoek. What about Saveur in Simons Town? Best
Gillian Key
What about Ellen Jay in Plumstead?
The Inside Guide
Hi Gillian
It is lovely, and the owners are so charming, but we couldn’t include everyone.