If you’re on the hunt for the best coffee spots in Cape Town, you’re in for a treat. This city is a coffee lover’s dream, with plenty of unique cafés waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, taking a look at one or more of the top coffee shops in Cape Town is a fun way to explore the city and even do some work as you travel because most of these establishments have free WIFI. Each café offers its own special vibe and, of course, delicious coffee. You’ll find everything from organic blends and house-roasted beans to creative brewing styles. So, if you’re in Cape Town and craving some amazing coffee, there are plenty of spots to check out.
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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.
Rosetta Roastery Cafe – Bree Street ⚫
Right in the heart of Cape Town, you’ll find Rosetta Roastery Cafe on Bree Street, a must-visit spot for coffee lovers. This cafe is part of the famous Rosetta Roastery, known for its top-notch single-origin coffees. They focus on unique Arabica beans and experimental coffee varieties, ensuring every cup is something special. With its mix of rustic and cosy vibes, Rosetta is perfect whether you’re popping in for a quick coffee or to do some work and grab lunch.
At Rosetta, you can enjoy expertly made espressos and pour-over coffees, paired perfectly with freshly baked pastries and cakes. They also sell coffee beans, so you can recreate the experience at home. Whether you’re a coffee expert or just someone who enjoys a good brew, Rosetta Roastery Cafe is sure to leave an impression with some of Cape Town’s best coffee offerings.
Rosetta Roastery Cafe Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 7 am to 4 pm, Saturday 8 am to 4 pm and Sunday 8 am to 2 pm
Address: 101 Bree St, CBD, Cape Town, 8001
Website: https://www.rosettaroastery.com/
Contact Number: 021 447 4099
Ground Art Caffe 🍴
Tucked away in Cape Town’s lively De Waterkant area, Ground Art Caffe is a cool spot where coffee meets creativity. It’s got this chill, light-filled vibe that instantly makes you feel at home. Part coffee haven, part mini art gallery, it’s the perfect place to unwind and escape the city’s hustle. The café takes its coffee seriously, using ethically sourced Ethiopian beans for a brew that’s top-notch. The baristas here are like artists themselves, pouring heart and skill into every cup they make.
Alongside your coffee, you can grab something to eat from their menu, which is all about fresh, simple food that perfectly pairs with your drink. Plus, there’s always something interesting on the walls, thanks to rotating exhibits from up-and-coming artists. What’s also cool about Ground Art Caffe is their focus on going green. They offer a discount if you bring your own cup a little gesture that’s good for the planet. This mix of great coffee, awesome art, and eco-friendly vibes makes Ground Art Caffe a standout in Cape Town’s coffee scene. It’s definitely a spot you don’t want to miss if you’re in town.
Ground Art Caffe Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 7 am to 3 pm, Saturday 7:30 am to 2 pm and Sunday 8 am to 1 pm
Address: 160 Strand St, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001
Website: https://www.groundartcaffe.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 418 1331
Motherland Coffee – St Georges Mall ✊🏻
Motherland Coffee St Georges Mall is a cosy spot right in the centre of Cape Town. You’ll find it in the Mandela Rhodes building, where Wale Street meets St Georges Mall. This café is all about celebrating Africa’s coffee scene, bringing in some of the best beans from across the continent. Every cup they serve is packed with flavour and a touch of African tradition. As soon as you walk in, you’re welcomed by a warm and friendly vibe, blending modern style with cool African touches. It’s the perfect place to chill with a coffee or grab a quick bite.
Plus, it’s a jump-off point for the Cape Town Free Walking Tours, which makes it a magnet for both locals and visitors. Regulars and newcomers alike rave about the cheerful service and top-notch drinks, from rich espressos to tasty pastries. Motherland Coffee at St Georges Mall offers more than just your average coffee run it’s a slice of African hospitality in the busy city, making it a must-visit spot for anyone in Cape Town.
Motherland Coffee Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 7 am to 5 pm, Saturday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm and Sunday 9 am to 4:30 pm
Address: Mandela Rhodes Place, Wale St & Georges Mall, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000
Website: https://www.motherlandcoffee.com/
Contact Number: 069 684 9152
The Electric ⚡
Located in Cape Town’s East City in District Six, The Electric is a cool spot you shouldn’t miss if you’re into good coffee. Once an old auto electrician’s workshop, this place has oodles of character, blending its rustic roots with a chill, welcoming vibe. What’s really neat is their focus on being eco-friendly they’re all about zero waste, which is a big draw if you care about the planet. Their menu is pretty awesome, too. Think fresh juices, nut milk, tasty sandwiches, and some killer bakery treats. A must-try is their Bullet-Proof Coffee, which has gained quite the cult following. They love mixing it up with fresh, creative ingredients, so you’re in for a treat every time you stop by.
But The Electric isn’t just about the food and drinks it’s also about the people. It’s a buzzing place where both locals and visitors come to hang out and connect. Whether you’re meeting up with friends, enjoying a lazy weekend brunch, or just grabbing a quick coffee, this place hits the spot. With its cool setting and tasty offerings, The Electric is definitely a top pick in Cape Town’s buzzing coffee scene.
The Electric Opening Hours: Monday to Tuesday 8 am to 7 pm, Wednesday 8 am to 5 pm, Thursday to Friday 8 am to 7 pm and Saturday 9 am to 2:30 pm
Address: 48 Canterbury St, District Six, Cape Town, 7925
Website: http://www.the-electric.com/
Contact Number: 079 809 1542
Liquorice & Lime 🍋
Liquorice and Lime, sitting pretty on Kloof Street in the Gardens, Cape Town, is a go-to spot for coffee lovers and foodies. This café is all about good vibes, with a relaxed and quirky setting that invites you to kick back and enjoy a great cup of coffee. The funky interior gives the place a unique feel, perfect for those lazy afternoons or a quick caffeine fix on the go. When it comes to the menu, Liquorice and Lime doesn’t disappoint. They’ve got everything from tasty breakfast bites to satisfying lunch options. Whether you’re in the mood for a deli-style meal or just grabbing something to-go, this place has you covered.
Plus, the friendly staff really make the experience special, always ready with a smile and quick service, whether you’re there for a speedy coffee run or a relaxed brunch with friends. All in all, Liquorice and Lime is more than just a café it’s a little slice of Cape Town’s coffee culture. For anyone on the hunt for the best coffee shops in the city, this spot tops the list, with its mix of great food, inviting atmosphere, and outstanding service.
Liquorice & Lime Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 7 am to 5 pm and Saturday to Sunday 7 am to 4 pm
Address: 162 Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001
Contact Number: 021 423 6921
Four & Twenty Cafe 🚲
Situated in Chelsea Village, Wynberg, Four & Twenty Café is a must-visit spot in Cape Town for coffee lovers. This café is known for its warm vibe and tasty, French-inspired food. It’s the kind of place where you can relax with a great cup of coffee and enjoy a yummy all-day breakfast. The friendly staff and cute interior make it a favourite. What makes Four & Twenty extra special is their pantry filled with delicious treats. From big, satisfying lunches to sweet pastries, there’s always something new to try. The daily specials, written on a blackboard, keep things fresh and exciting like you’re discovering something new every time you stop by.
Located in the Southern Suburbs, Four & Twenty Café isn’t just about good food and coffee, but also about the whole experience. It’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to enjoy a laid-back atmosphere with top-notch eats. So if you’re a local or just in town for a bit, it’s a place you won’t want to miss for an authentic Cape Town café experience.
Four & Twenty Cafe Opening Hours: Monday to Tuesday 8 am to 5 pm, Thursday to Saturday 8 am to 5 pm and Sunday 9 am to 4 pm
Address: 23 Wolfe St, Wynberg, Cape Town, 7800
Website: https://www.fourandtwentycafe.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 762 0975
Pauline’s 🥄
Pauline’s Coffee Shop is a great spot in Cape Town. Located in the lively areas of Sea Point and Green Point, this café is all about great coffee and a welcoming vibe. It’s known for its clean, stylish design thanks to Master Studio, creating a chill space where you can really enjoy your cup of joe. At Pauline’s, they take their coffee seriously. They serve up a range of drinks made from locally roasted beans, perfect for anyone who appreciates a good brew. Their menu isn’t just about coffee, though.
They offer tasty bites like miso butter mushrooms on toast and creamy burrata, making it a great spot for a light meal alongside your drink. Open every day, Pauline’s in Sea Point gives you extra time to grab a coffee during the week. Over at Green Point, the café makes it easy to drop by whenever you need a caffeine fix. Whether you’re kicking off your morning or taking a break in the afternoon, Pauline’s is the perfect place to enjoy some of the best coffee around.
Pauline’s Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 7 am to 4 pm, Saturday 8 am to 3 pm and Sunday 8 am to 2 pm
Address: 277 Main Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8005
Website: https://paulinescoffee.com/
Contact Number: 021 205 4466
Deluxe Coffeeworks – Kloof Street 🥐
Deluxe Coffeeworks is a must-try coffee shop on Kloof Street this place is all about fresh, top-notch coffee that draws in both locals and travellers. As soon as you walk in, the simple yet cosy vibe and the amazing smell of roasting beans hit you. What sets Deluxe Coffeeworks apart is their straightforward approach. They aren’t bogged down with super fancy drink menus; instead, they focus on nailing the basics just right. Whether you’re into espressos or prefer a smooth latte, every sip here is a real treat because they genuinely care about their coffee quality.
The shop’s chill atmosphere, along with its great tunes and friendly energy, makes it a favourite hangout for anyone looking for a cool, relaxed spot. Even though it’s pretty popular, it keeps a great feel that’s perfect for meeting up with fellow coffee fans and creatives. Deluxe Coffeeworks on Kloof Street is definitely one of the coolest coffee spots in Cape Town you gotta check out.
Deluxe Coffeeworks Opening Hours: Monday 7 am to 4 pm, Tuesday 7 am to 1 pm, Thursday to Friday 7 am to 4 pm and Saturday 8 am to 1 pm
Address: 8 Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001
Website: https://deluxecoffeeworks.co.za/
Contact Number: 060 871 6561
Bootlegger – Century City ☕
Bootlegger Coffee Company in Century City is a great spot if you’re a coffee lover hanging out in Cape Town. You’ll find it at Shop 5, 5 Esplanade Rd, perfectly located in the lively Century City area. This café isn’t just about the coffee; it’s a great place to kick back and relax with its park-like views that make your coffee time extra chill. What sets Bootlegger apart is their dedication to top-notch quality. They brew every cup using 100% Rainforest Alliance Certified beans, which means you’re getting great coffee and supporting sustainable practices.
The menu has something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for a classic espresso or something with a twist. Plus, the staff makes you feel right at home with their warm smiles and great service. Bootlegger also has a fun, artsy vibe. They often have local artists performing, adding a cool vibe to your coffee outings. It’s more than just grabbing a coffee; it’s about enjoying some local culture and feeling part of the community. Bootlegger Century City definitely deserves a spot on your list of must-visit coffee shops in Cape Town.
Bootlegger Opening Hours: Monday to Wednesday 6:30 am to 5 pm, Thursday to Friday 6:30 am to 9 pm, Saturday 7:30 am to 9 pm and Sunday 7:30 am to 5 pm
Address: Shop 5, 5 Esplanade Rd, Century City, Cape Town, 7441
Website: https://www.bootlegger.coffee/
Contact Number: 021 201 6811
Crankshaft Cafe Classic Car Coffee Bar 🚗
If you’re in Cape Town and love both coffee and classic cars, Crankshaft Cafe Classic Car Coffee Bar is a spot you don’t want to miss. Right inside the Laude Classic Cars dealership on 120a Buitengracht Street, this cool cafe mixes fantastic brews with a showroom full of stunning vintage cars. Walking into Crankshaft Cafe is like stepping into a dream for anyone who appreciates a good latte with a side of automotive history. The place has a laid-back vibe, where you can chill with top-notch coffee and tasty pastries, all while surrounded by gleaming examples of automotive art. Not to mention, their breakfast menu comes with a fun car-themed twist!
The place isn’t just about coffee and cars it’s about the whole experience. With its charmingly quirky decor like chandeliers hanging above sleek Bentleys, it’s perfect for a casual hangout or hosting a small event. Whether you’re a long-time car lover or just in it for the coffee, Crankshaft Cafe offers something special that sets it apart from other coffee shops in Cape Town. It’s definitely a stop you’ve got to make while in the city.
Crankshaft Cafe Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9 am to 4:30 pm and Saturday 9 am to 1 pm
Address: 120a Buitengracht St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000
Website: https://www.laudeclassics.com/crankshaft-cafe-coffee-bar/
Contact Number: 061 232 5967
As you wrap up your coffee journey in Cape Town, it’s easy to see why the city is a top spot for coffee lovers. With a mix of cosy corners and buzzing cafés, Cape Town serves up a little magic in every cup. Whether you’ve soaked in the energy of a busy street café or found a quiet hideaway, each one of the 10 places on this list offers its own taste and vibe. So, whenever you’re in this awesome city, remember there’s always a new café to check out and another great cup waiting for you.