So you are in the City and you’re looking for a place to have a great breakfast in Cape Town at an affordable price. For those who believe that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, Cape Town offers many affordable options that won’t burn a hole in your pocket. This list will explore some hidden gems and popular spots for a pocket-friendly yet tasty breakfast.
Table of Contents
The list below is in no particular order. Each entry is equally celebrated for their achievements, and the sequence of names is arbitrary, not indicating any ranking or preference.
Arnolds Restaurant 🥐
A Cape Town gem founded in 1998, Arnold’s Restaurant is a local favourite known for offering quality meals at excellent value. Located opposite the Mount Nelson Hotel on Kloof Street, Arnold’s has earned a reputation for its stunning breakfasts, swift and friendly service, great coffee and a menu that has all of your breakfast needs. If you are looking for the most affordable and most recommended option be sure to try their Breakfast lite which is an English Muffin Slice with Scrambled Eggs drizzled with Pest or try their three-egg omelette, both dishes are only R48 each!
The breakfast menu, available throughout the day, features tasty options, including an early bird special on weekdays. If you miss out on their breakfast be sure to grab burgers, layered sandwiches, and salads, with daily specials adding a touch of excitement. The restaurant’s commitment to affordability extends to the Happy “4” hours, featuring drink and snack specials from 2 pm to 6 pm. Arnold’s is the perfect blend of taste and affordability in Cape Town.
Arnolds Breakfast Menu
Arnolds Restaurant Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 6:30 am to 10 pm and Saturday to Sunday 7 am to 10 pm
Address: 60 Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001
Website: https://www.arnolds.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 424 4344
Swan Café 🦢
Swan Café, Cape Town’s first authentic Parisian Crêperie, has an amazing breakfast experience with a touch of French charm. Founded by Jessica Rushmere, a French-born former international model, the café has been named one of the 10 most Instagrammable cafés worldwide and featured among the top 200 Cape experiences. At Swan Café, affordability meets elegance, offering sweet crêpes, gluten-free savoury galettes, and exclusive tea blends like French Kiss and Paris Je T’aime. The menu extends to brunch options, artisanal coffee, and refreshing alcoholic beverages following French traditions, including cider, beer, and mimosas.
Swan Café is not just a place to dine, it’s an experience, complete with Breton-striped waiters and a well-thought-out menu inspired by Jessica Rushmere’s authentic French background. Specialities include sinfully good-for-you savoury buckwheat-based galettes, salads, and their renowned crêpe cake, available both in-store and online. So why wait if you’re craving a crêpe then this is the best place to be!
Swan Café Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 8 am to 3 pm and Sunday 9 am to 2 pm
Address: Corner Buitenkant and, Barrack St, District Six, Cape Town, 7925
Website: https://swancafe.co.za/
Contact Number: 079 454 4758
The Company’s Garden Restaurant 🍰
Located right in the middle of Cape Town’s Company’s Garden, this restaurant is like a cool secret garden in the city’s busy side. It’s part of Cape Town’s makeover plan, and boy, has it transformed! From sunrise to sunset, they dish out easy-breezy light meals, teatime faves, and good old South African grub. If you’re looking for a tasty and affordable breakfast option then try The Gentle Scrambled which is scrambled egg pan-fried with rosemary and cherry tomatoes served with toast all for the price of R65.
Weekends and public holidays are a bit exclusive, you’ll need a crew of 12 or more, and they’ll hook you up with a set menu. And if the weather’s playing nice, you can snag an outdoor seat surrounded by the greenery. So, if you’re up for a laid-back breakfast in Cape Town, swing by this garden hideout, it’s got all the good stuff without breaking the bank!
The Company’s Garden Restaurant Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 8:30 am to 6 pm
Address: 15 Queen Victoria St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001
Website: https://thecompanysgarden.com/
Contact Number: 021 423 2919
Chalk And Cheese 🧀
For those looking for a quirky and relaxed breakfast spot, Chalk and Cheese provide a playful twist on the morning meal. This family-run café is a celebration of colours, creativity, and, most importantly, delicious food. The menu at Chalk and Cheese is simple but all the basics are there like the all-day breakfast to a selection of tasty toasties. A highly recommended and affordable breakfast meal is their Bacon & Egg role which is also perfect for on-the-go and is priced at R55.
Chalk and Cheese goes beyond the ordinary, providing an affordable breakfast experience that is as visually appealing as it is tasty and if you love antiques and one-of-a-kind creations this is the place to visit. The coffee is also a staple for any breakfast and Chalk and Cheese has some great coffee options as well so be sure to grab a meal at this one-of-a-kind Cape Town breakfast destination.
Chalk And Cheese Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 7:30 am to 4 pm and Saturday 7:30 am to 1 pm
Address: 150 Main Rd, Fish Hoek, Cape Town, 7975
Contact Number: 079 297 8699
The Lighthouse Café 🕯
Since 2013, The Lighthouse Café has become a breakfast go-to in Cape Town, drawing both locals and tourists. Located in a cosy space, the café has a light vibe with a charming blend of French Provençal and Coastal vibes, creating a perfect setting for breakfast goers. If you love spending your mornings surrounded by books, and friends this is the place. This choice is the perfect one if you’re looking for breakfast more on the sweet side make sure to try out their Chocolate Pancakes which is a slab of dark chocolate wrapped in a crêpe and flamed in a coffee liqueur sauce served with toast almond flakes all for the price of R65.
With a team of well-trained staff, each dish is freshly prepared with a genuine passion for food. The servers are not just employees; they’re selected for their ability to interact with customers and provide excellent service, adding a personal touch to the dining experience. The Lighthouse Café’s focus is on delivering excellent service, maintaining high standards of fresh food, and creating a lovely setting. For an affordable yet delightful breakfast experience in Cape Town, The Lighthouse Café is undoubtedly a must-visit destination.
The Lighthouse Cafe Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 8:30 am to 10 pm and Sunday to Monday 8:30 am to 4 pm
Address: 90 St George’s St, Simon’s Town, Cape Town, 7975
Website: https://www.thelighthousecafe.co.za/
Contact Number: 087 700 6421
Blue Water Café 💧
Located within an original Cape Dutch Farmstead dating back to 1743, Blue Water Café stands as a family-friendly gem in the south of Cape Town. This quaint restaurant invites visitors to enjoy their delicious farm-baked cake for R60 within the beautiful farmstead surroundings. The Long Beach views from the traditional stoep and lawn provide an amazing setting for a coffee and cake experience as well as the perfect spot for remote working.
Blue Water Café provides both secluded indoor seating and a sheltered outdoor area. Families with children can enjoy their coffee and cake in a safe enclosed garden, a spacious jungle gym, and a neighbouring animal farmyard, ensuring a delightful experience for all. Now this may not be your typical savoury breakfast spot but if you are looking for a beautiful setting with a good cup of joe and a mouthwatering piece of cake then you have found the place!
Blue Water Café Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 12 pm to 9 pm and Saturday to Sunday 9 am to 9 pm
Address: Imhoff Farm, Kommetjie Rd, Ocean View, 7975
Website: http://imhofffarm.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 783 4545
Bootlegger Coffee Company – Sea Point ☕
Bootlegger Coffee Company, a Cape Town sensation established in 2012 by Pieter Bloem, De Waal Basson, and Antonie Basson, has become a cornerstone of the city’s coffee culture. Since it started, the brand has flourished, expanding its footprint to multiple stores in both Cape Town and Johannesburg, bringing speciality-grade coffee to eager patrons. Bootlegger also provides an option of a DIY breakfast allowing its customers to add and take away according to their budget.
Renowned for its commitment to sustainability, Bootlegger sources and roasts its coffee in Cape Town, earning it the title of “Best Coffee in the Cape” for three consecutive years. The company’s success extends beyond the storefronts, with an online shop offering a variety of coffee products, including beans, capsules, and filter grinds, catering to coffee enthusiasts far and wide. So what are you waiting for start your day with a caffeine kick and a satisfying breakfast at Bootlegger Sea Point.
Bootlegger Coffee Company Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 7 am to 5 pm and Saturday to Sunday 7 am to 3 pm
Address: The Point Mall, 76 Regent Road Shop 21, 2nd Floor, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8005
Website: https://www.bootlegger.coffee/
Contact Number: 021 433 2000
Good Riddance Coffee Co. 🐕
Located in Kommetjie, Good Riddance café Inspired by a Shakespearean phrase, the café’s name embodies the positive changes experienced by owners Dominique and her mother, Ann, during the lockdown. With a dedicated team handling various roles, Good Riddance fosters a welcoming atmosphere akin to a friend’s place, where patrons can relax and unwind.
Good Riddance proudly serves a medium roast Guatemala & El Salvador blend and a Peruvian decaf, roasted by Blue Door Coffee in Simon’s Town. Evoking a 70s Lords of Dogtown vibe, Good Riddance exudes calm vibes and fun times, making it a beloved part of the community’s daily routine. With strong community support and a commitment to providing affordable breakfast options, Good Riddance café shows its true connection in the heart of Kommetjie.
Good Riddance Coffee Co. Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 6 am to 2:30 pm, Saturday 7 am to 2:30 pm and Sunday 7 am to 1 pm
Address: 12 Huskisson Way, Kommetjie, Cape Town, 7975
Valley Roast Coffee Co 🪑
Valley Roast Coffee Co. is a hidden gem that combines the love for coffee with a commitment to affordable breakfast options. This rustic and charming café is located right by a Checkers and Virgin Active gym, so if you’re staying in the South Peninsula then this is a great spot to stop for breakfast. Valley Roast Coffee Co. believes that good food and good coffee should be accessible to all.
The breakfast menu at Valley Roast Coffee Co. features locally inspired dishes made with seasonal ingredients. From hearty breakfast to mouthwatering pastry selections, each item on the menu reflects the café’s dedication to providing a memorable breakfast experience at an affordable price. When thinking about what is a highly recommended and affordable option at this coffee establishment be sure to look at the omelette or scrambled egg option at a low amount of R60 providing a tasty meal without breaking the bank.
Valley Roast Coffee Co Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 7:30 am to 9 pm
Address: Sun Valley shopping mall, 3 Buller Louw Blvd, Sun Valley, Cape Town, 7975
Contact Number: 021 785 1469
Lekker Kalk Bay 🥓
Welcome to Lekker, located in the village of Kalk Bay, making waves with its inviting atmosphere, delightful breakfasts, and memorable meals shared among friends. At Lekker, the emphasis is on creating a space where community and good food come together. The breakfast menu at Lekker has many delectable options, promising a flavourful and affordable start to your day such as the Mini Breakfast which is two eggs, three rashers streaky bacon, grilled mushroom, roasted tomato and a choice of toast all for R89. The hot drinks menu is where you can find the perfect cup of coffee or tea, setting the tone for a relaxed morning or afternoon.
As you peruse the main menu, you can see Lekker showcasing its commitment to providing affordable and delicious meals and experiences that combine quality with community. Lekker invites you to unwind, connect, and savour the flavours of Kalk Bay in a welcoming setting that captures the essence of affordable breakfasts and shared moments with friends.
Lekker Kalk Bay Breakfast Menu
Lekker Kalk Bay Opening Hours: Monday to Wednesday 6:30 am to 6 pm, Thursday to Saturday 6:30 am to 9 pm and Sunday 7 am to 6 pm
Address: 106 Main Rd, Kalk Bay, Cape Town, 7975
Website: https://lekkerkalkbay.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 207 0073
Empire Café 👑
Tucked away on a side street in Muizenberg, Cape Town, Empire Café is a hotspot for great breakfasts. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a unique interior that defies expectations. Beautiful seashell chandeliers illuminate the space, surfboards adorn the walls, and a spiral staircase leads patrons to an indoor balcony offering sea views. Empire Café provides affordable options such as the Bacon Brekkie which is two fried eggs, bacon and a choice of toast for only R50!
What sets Empire Café apart is not just its aesthetics but also its ever-changing menu. The café takes pride in offering a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes, ensuring a delightful surprise with every visit. Empire Café also provides a study-friendly environment. A window-facing coffee bar for customers to take a break from studies or work, complemented by free Wi-Fi for a relaxed and productive breakfast experience. Discover the unexpected charm and affordable breakfast delights awaiting you at Empire Café in Muizenberg.
Empire Cafe Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 7 am to 4 pm and Sunday 8 am to 4 pm
Address: 11 York Rd, Muizenberg, Cape Town, 7950
Contact Number: 021 788 1250
Spirit Café 👻
Spirit Café proudly stands out with its uncomplicated menu that prioritizes freshness and seasonality. This café’s commitment to staying close to the source ensures a dining experience that captures quality, affordability, and great taste. The menu at Spirit Café effortlessly caters to both vegans/vegetarians and non-vegetarians, offering a range of breakfast options from quick-grabs to sit-down affairs featuring free-range eggs. There are many affordable options for breakfast at this establishment from smoothies, smoothie bowls and of course the usual brekkie with eggs and bacon.
What sets Spirit Café apart is its inclusive approach to dietary preferences. Whether you’re gluten-free, sugar-free, or meat-free, Spirit Café ensures that you can savour a variety of dishes without compromising on taste. Uncover the joy of a simple yet delectable breakfast at Spirit Café.
Spirit Cafe Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8 am to 4:30 pm and Saturday to Sunday 8:30 am to 2 pm
Address: 10A Courtyard, Constantia, Constantia Main Rd, Constantia, Cape Town, 7806
Contact Number: 083 544 0474
Jason Bakery 🧁
Jason Bakery in Cape Town Central is a breakfast spot along Bree Street, known not only for its exceptional coffee and pastries but also for its trendy and modern atmosphere. This popular venue has carved a niche for itself, standing out as a go-to spot for locals seeking a memorable breakfast experience. The menu at Jason Bakery features unique items that elevate the breakfast game. From indulgent bacon croissants and innovative cronuts to hearty toasted sandwiches and flavorful duck stir-fry, ensuring a delightful start to the day.
Breakfast at Jason Bakery extends until noon, providing a relaxed timeframe for patrons to savour the delectable menu. The artisan coffee, highly praised for its quality, includes a standard double shot, making it a convenient and energizing choice for corporate go-getters seeking a morning pick-me-up. Beyond the delectable menu, Jason Bakery’s inviting atmosphere and commitment to delivering an affordable and trendy breakfast experience make it a standout destination in Cape Town Central.
Jason Bakery Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 7 am to 3 pm and Sunday 8 am to 2 pm
Address: 83 Main Rd, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005
Website: https://jasonbakery.com/
Contact Number: 021 433 0538
Cafe Nood 🥞
For a decade, Café Nood has graced Cape Town under the ownership of Margo and Anton Dekker. The café, adorned with local artwork on a rotating three-month cycle, seamlessly blends a welcoming atmosphere with a feast for the eyes. From 7 am to 4 pm on weekdays and 8 am to 12 pm on Saturdays, Café Nood treats patrons to an extensive and affordable breakfast and brunch menu.
They also have a few sweet treats like the Creamy Baked Cheesecake and the irresistible flour-less Chocolate Nemesis. Dog-friendly and community-oriented, Café Nood invites four-legged friends for treats on Saturday mornings and the café transforms into a fully licensed function venue in the evenings, emphasizing wholesome, locally sourced, and freshly baked delights, expertly crafted by a qualified pastry chef. For those seeking an affordable breakfast paired with cultural richness, Café Nood is an inviting breakfast spot in Cape Town.
Cafe Nood Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 7 am to 4 pm and Saturday 8 am to 12 pm
Address: Quadrant Square. Shop, 3 Wilderness Rd, Claremont, Cape Town, 7708
Website: https://cafenood.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 671 4475
Harvest Café 🍴
Harvest Café in Cape Town is all about celebrating nature, eating healthy, and chilling out with friends. It’s a cosy spot where you can catch up, get some work done, or just enjoy a coffee and a good read. Their vibe is laid-back, and they’re all about keeping it green and sustainable. The menu is packed with affordable breakfast options that are fresh and wholesome, making both your taste buds and the planet happy.
Harvest Café is also a social hub where the community comes together. With the scent of delicious food in the air, it’s the perfect spot to relax and connect with others. So, if you’re looking for a relaxed and affordable breakfast spot in Cape Town that’s all about good vibes and healthy eats, Harvest Café is the place to be. Go on in, grab a seat, and join the fun!
Harvest Cafe Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 7 am to 4 pm and Sunday 7 am to 1 pm
Address: Newlands Quarter, 35 Dean St, Newlands, Cape Town, 7725
Contact Number: 073 089 2452
Park Café 🕊
Green Point Urban Park is home to the Park Café the new go-to spot for breakfast in Cape Town. After a recent makeover and change of hands, this place has become a breath of fresh air amidst the greenery. Imagine a Central Park vibe right in Cape Town, that’s Park Café for you. The menu might be small, but it’s got something for everyone, especially if you’re into veggie or vegan eats. The staff at Park Café? Lovely, making the whole breakfast experience even better.
But it’s not just about the food. The café sits right in the middle of Green Point Urban Park, a public space that’s like a mini paradise. There’s everything from soccer games to roller-skating and kite flying, creating a vibe that is one of a kind. So, if you’re up for a laid-back and affordable breakfast surrounded by nature and good vibes, Park Café is where it’s at in Cape Town.
Park Café Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 8 am to 5 pm
Address: 1056 Bill Peters Dr, Green Point, Cape Town, 8001
Website: https://parkcafect.co.za/
Contact Number: 087 759 4652
Bread Milk and Honey 🍯
Located at 10 Spin Street in the heart of Cape Town, Bread Milk and Honey is a great spot to stop for affordable and delectable breakfasts in the city. With a welcoming vibe, this eatery opens its doors during the week, offering a selection of breakfast options and a tempting buffet lunch. Whether you’re looking to catch up with friends or prefer a quick bite on the go, Bread Milk and Honey cater to all appetites. Their takeaway service, featuring a buffet with a variety of tempting dishes, is a convenient choice for those on the move.
A standout feature of Bread Milk and Honey is their reputation for serving some of the best coffee in Cape Town. With a selection of blends and a commitment to Relationship coffee, the café ensures that every cup is a journey through the city’s rich coffee culture. Go for an affordable breakfast experience at Bread Milk and Honey you’ll thank us later.
Bread Milk and Honey Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 6:30 am to 4:30 pm and Saturday 8:30 am to 1:30 pm
Address: Corner of Mostert and Corporation, 60 Corporation St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001
Website: https://breadmilkhoney.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 461 8425
Kanéla Café 🛎
Kick back and soak in the vibes at Kanéla Café, your local hangout in Sea Point, Cape Town. This spot is more than just brunch, it’s a spot for everyone, from vegans to keto fans and anyone hungry for tasty, plant-based goodness. Step into the café, where the chill meets the thrill. With a laid-back vibe, cosy couches inside, and a breezy courtyard with a cool stone water fountain, Kanéla sets the scene for good times. And don’t worry about the buzz outside; this spot’s vibe blocks out the noise, creating a chill space to munch and mingle.
What’s cooking? Everything! From smoothie bowls to hot breakfast options (vegan and non-vegan), light bites, healthy sweets, and a bunch of plant-based goodies. The Cosmic Cacao smoothie bowl is a must-try, not just for the flavour explosion but also for its Insta-worthy looks. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, go guilt-free with the vegan and gluten-free choc-chip flapjacks. Need a caffeine fix? Kanéla’s got you covered with coffee from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, brewed up by a family-owned spot in Uganda. Tea lovers, there’s a lineup of classics like Rooibos, green, and English teas, plus some fancy options like matcha and ginseng oolong. But wait, there’s more! Grab some Kanéla swag while you’re there. It’s not just a café; it’s a community, furry friends and all. So, swing by for a taste of Sea Point’s laid-back charm at Kanéla Café.
Kanéla Café Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 8 am to 5 pm
Address: 78 Regent Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8001
Contact Number: 066 251 7761
okja café Camps Bay 🍵
okja’s second store in Cape Town, bringing dreamy breakfast delights to the vibrant Camps Bay area. This new café, an extension of okja’s in central town, promises a morning filled with delicious and affordable options that cater to everyone. Freshly baked cookies, vegan croissants, and other delights take centre stage at okja, all crafted with plant-based ingredients, including the star of the show, oat milk. The menu has world-class bagels and sandwiches, featuring mouthwatering choices like hummus, avo, and tomato bagel.
Each morning, the in-house pastry chef works magic in the test kitchen, ensuring that every bite stays true to the spirit of oat milk and is crafted from the finest ingredients. okja doesn’t just stop at the breakfast spread, they offer a range of delectable products for purchase, including the beloved oat milk lineup, a chocolate hazelnut spread that’s a game-changer, and an organic coffee bean range for those who want to bring the okja experience home.
okja café Camps Bay Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 6:30 am to 4:30 pm
Address: 29WG+RX, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8005
Website: https://www.okja.com/
Contact Number: 083 857 1993
Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room 🍾
Clarke’s Bar and Dining Room is a great breakfast spot at 133 Bree Street, they have an affordable menu and great quality food. From juices to all-day breakfasts, sandwiches, brunch, dinner, and cocktails, Clarke’s has become a go-to spot for a satisfying and top-notch experience. The restaurant offers a blend of bar and cafe options. With a commitment to inclusivity, the menu features vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring that every customer finds a delightful dish to enjoy.
Their specific dishes like burgers, fries, poached eggs, and salads are under the spotlight. The breakfast options, in particular, have garnered high acclaim showing that Clarke’s has one of the best breakfasts in town. Beyond the menu, Clarke’s stands out with its full bar, takeout services, reservations, outdoor seating, and free Wi-Fi. The restaurant’s flexibility extends to special diets, making it an inclusive space for vegetarians, vegans, and those seeking gluten-free choices. Clarke’s Bar and Dining Room emerges as a must-visit destination for an affordable and flavorful breakfast experience in Cape Town.
Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday 7 am to 10 pm, Saturday 8 am to 10 pm, Sunday 8 am to 3 pm and Monday 7 am to 4 pm
Address: 133 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001
Website: https://www.clarkesdining.co.za/
Contact Number: 087 470 0165
As we come to the end of our list of affordable breakfasts in Cape Town it’s evident that Cape Town offers many top breakfast spots for every taste and budget. From beachside cafes to hidden gems in the city centre, each breakfast spot has its unique charm and meals that will satisfy your hunger.
Whether you find yourself indulging in a hearty breakfast with a view of the ocean, sipping artisanal coffee in a trendy café, or savouring locally inspired dishes in a historic garden, Cape Town has a place for you. So, the next time you find yourself in the Mother City be sure to grab a delicious breakfast near you.
