No plans for a day out? That’s alright. We’ve got good news for you – there’re some pretty awesome spots in and around Cape Town that will surely have that special man or women in your life smiling from ear to ear. But let’s face it, finding just the spot to match your mood can be overwhelming, especially when you live in a vibrant city like Cape Town – the options are endless! But, simplicity is oftentimes underrated. Although helicopter rides and high-end spa dates are lovely, sometimes simple pleasures like a cappucino and a croissant shared with the people you love is all you need to brighten their day. That’s why we’re thrilled to share our pick of the best cafés in Cape Town!
Starlings Café, Claremont
We kick off with Starlings Café in Claremont, by far by far an underrated gem. Located in the leafy surrounds of Claremont, Starlings. Once you arrive, you will enter into a luscious green garden, greeted by friendly staff and the aroma of coffee beans. And if that doesn’t excite you, Starling Café boasts a diverse menu of organic meals ranging from nutritious aubergine bake to their hearty green Thai curry (my personal favourite). With the doors closing at 4 pm, Starlings Cafe can offer you a fresh start to the day and fill you up with the energy to explore more of Cape Town. It’s truly a hidden gem and a real treat to those who get to discover its treasures.
Starlings Opening Hours: 7 am – 4 pm, Monday to Thursday (Sunday Closed)
Address: 94 Belvedere Rd, Claremont, Cape Town, 7708, South Africa
Website:www.starlings.co.za
Phone: +27 72 051 0491
Olympia Café, Kalk Bay
Another hidden treasure in the culturally rich and colourful beachside town is Kalk Bay. Attracting visitors from all over the world, Kalk Bay is one of those timeless places that never goes out of fashion. From beach lovers to high-rollers, Kalk Bay truly has something for every kind of person. Olympia Café not only has a restaurant, it also has its own bakery just next door! So you can rest assured that you are indulging in the freshest ingredients around town. From warm buttery pastries to savoury eggs benedict, Olympia Café is up there as one of the best cafés in Cape Town.
Olympia Opening Hours: 7 am to 9 pm, Monday to Sunday
Address: 134 Main Rd, Kalk Bay, Cape Town, 7975, South Africa
Website:olympiacafe.co.za/
Phone: +2721 788 6396
Folk Café, St James
Next up, we have Folk Café, another cute and cosy little spot along the main road, leading you Simons Town. Folks Café is exactly as it reads – a place for the community. Hosting a variety of musical events over the weekend, matched up with its delicious pizzas and an impressive selection of wines. Whether you are coming with your Mom, the whole family, or just a couple of friends, Folk Café has something for everyone. The café has both indoor and outdoor seating, and even a fireplace if you’re looking to cosy up on a old winter’s day. Give it a try, we guarantee satisfaction. One of the best cafés in Cape Town for sure!
Folk Café Opening Hours: Monday 7 am to 4 pm | Tuesday to Saturday 7 am to 9 pm | Sunday 7 am to 7 pm
Address: Old Post Office, 54 Main Rd, St James, Cape Town, 7945
Website:www.folkcafe.co.za/
Phone: +27212763656
Cocoa Cha Chi, Observatory
Considered a home away from home, Cocoa Cha Chi is undeniably one of Observatory’s most underrated and treasured spots. As you enter lower main road, you can’t miss this striking blue building that demands a greeting. A great way to describe this spot is like walking into a greenhouse – there are plant varieties all around, allowing you to soak up the aroma of freshness that is spread across the floor. Warm, cosy and friendly are thus he perfect words to describe Cocoa Cha Chi. Its diverse menu is also nothing short of marvellous – with both a day and night menu, you are spoilt for choice. Breakfast, lunch and dinner all in one – they even have R29 coffee special for early risers between 7 am and 9 am. With colourful decor and quirky staff that will make you laugh, Cocoa Cha Chi is truly something special.
Cocoa Cha Chi Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7 am to 11 pm
Address: Shop 20, Lower Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town, 7935, South Africa
Website:www.cocoa.co.za
Phone: +27 64 972 1074
The Gardeners Cottage, Newlands
Located in the hub of one of the most diverse parts of the Cape Floristic Region, Newlands Gardens Cottage invites visitors to immerse themselves in nature, all while enjoying a hot cup of coffee and a scrumptious breakfast – voted one of the best in town. This family-run restaurant, which opened up in 1933 by Lee and Jeremy Barty, was started with the intent of offering wholesome dining experiences as a commemoration to the pristine beauty of Newlands’ greenery. For the current owners of this quaint cottage, their emphasis is on people and bringing the joy and appreciation of nature to the dining table. It is therefore a perfect choice for family breakfasts and lunches. Although a modest menu, the quality cannot be understated. So whether you are coming just for a coffee with mom or a large lunch with the entire family, Newlands Gardens Cottage has every kind of delight waiting for you.
Gardens Cottage Opening Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 8 am until 4.30 pm
Address: Newlands Ave, Newlands, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
Website: www.gardenerscottage.co.za/
Phone: +27 21 689 3158
Coco Safar, Sea Point
Nestled in Sea Point’s Artem Centre, Coco Safar is a luxurious café and patisserie offering a blend of global sophistication and local charm. With its retro-chic decor and plush interiors, it resembles the elegance of grand European cafés. Renowned as one of the best cafés in Cape Town, and most well-known for its artisanal coffee, brewed using the world’s first Spirit Idrocompresso machine that delivers an unparalleled coffee experience. They also have their own on-site roastery, ensuring that your coffee is always made to perfection. On their menu, you can expect a combination of classic and contemporary dishes, including croissant waffles, Mediterranean-inspired bagels, and even curry! And if that is not impressive enough, they have an in-house botanical microbrewery that produces unique rooibos-based beverages too. Open daily, Coco Safar provides an all-day dining experience that blends culinary artistry with affordable luxury, all in the heart of the elite Sea Point tapestry.
Coco Safar Opening Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 8 am until 4.30 pm
Address: Newlands Ave, Newlands, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
Website: www.cocosafar.com/za/
Phone: +27 21 000 5408
The Granary Café, Cape Town
Perched on the sixth floor of The Silo Hotel, The Granary Café offers a renowned dining experience with breathtaking views of Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront and Table Mountain. Built within a reimagined grain silo, the café features geometric windows and rich interiors that are both industrial and elegant. Their executive Chef, Veronica Canha-Hibbert, prides herself on a menu of modern classics crafted from fresh, local ingredients, including dishes like crayfish benedict and za’atar lamb chops. The café is also well-known for its royal tea and a variety of sweet and savoury treats. Whether enjoying a lunch, a dinner, or a romantic sunset meal, The Granary Café provides an unforgettable experience in one of Cape Town’s most beautiful settings.
Granary Café Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 12 pm to 9.30 pm
Address: Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Website: www.theroyalportfolio.com/the-silo-hotel/dining/the-granary-cafe/
Phone: +27 21 670 0500
Sonder Café, Observatory
Tucked away in Observatory’s diverse lower main road, Sonder Café is a cosy, community-driven haven that blends vintage charm with modern creativity. Founded during the pandemic by Chase Dell and Michelle Fredman, the café was inspired by the idea that “every stranger has a story,” creating a space that encourages connection through art, conversation, and exceptional coffee. Its menu offers New York-style bagels and artisanal sourdough sandwiches with quirky names like “The Kevin Bacon” and “Hamela Anderson.” Vegan and vegetarian options are on the table too, such as the “Keep Calm & Carrot On” bagel and the “Bohemian Wrapsody” wrap, catering to all kinds of preferences, truly making it an inclusive and welcoming space.
With a homely and vintage aesthetic, leafy plants, and walls decorated with vibrant artwork, you might just never want to go home. So whether you’re seeking asoulful brunch, a date with Mom, a quiet corner to work, or simply wanting to connect with the local community, Sonder Café offers you a warm welcome. It truly is no surprise why this has been voted one of the best cafés in Cape Town.
Sonder Café Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 7.30 am to 4 pm (Sunday Closed)
Address: 79 Lower Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
Website:www.sonderobz.com/
Phone: +27 83 394 6672
Whether you’re planning a heartfelt brunch, a cosy coffee date, or a scenic seaside bite, Cape Town’s café scene offers something special for every kind of gathering. From hidden gems to luxurious spots, these cafés promise not just great food, but unforgettable moments with the ones you love most.
