Having a warm drink has to be the most convenient way to defrost when things get chilly in Cape Town. As much as our beds become harder to leave, we can’t hibernate all winter long, right?
Before you consider behaving like a bear, give one of these weird and wonderful warm drinks a try. Who knows, you might ditch your duvet just to have another…
1. Wildsprout
Wildsprout … sprouted… as a quaint, healthy eatery in the highly underrated suburb of Kenilworth. A few years later, and including a whole pandemic, the flagship store has doubled in size and a second shop has just opened in Constantia. Everything on the menu is seriously delicious (and nourishing), but what’s extra cool is the extensive list of alternative hot drinks. Perfect for winter.
The warm drink we’re keen to try is the Choc Chaga: chaga mushroom; coconut oil; cacao; hemp seeds; coconut blossom sugar; coconut flakes (it’s dairy free).
- Locations: 278 Main Road, Kenilworth / Shop 1, Constantia Village Courtyard, Constantia
- Website: wsprout.co.za

2. Nourish’d Café
Without a doubt one of Cape Town’s top-of-mind vegan, no-waste eateries. This is the perfect spot to grab something a little warm and alternative. They have a good thing going: nothing goes to waste because it’s all so damn delicious.
The warm drink we’re keen to try is the Maca Makin’ Love (‘healthy Horlicks’): homemade almond m*lk; maca; cinnamon; ashwagandha; coconut sugar and a pinch of sea salt (vegan).
- Locations: 177 Kloof Street, Gardens / 186 Lower Main Road, Observatory
- Website: nourishd.co.za

3. Harvest Café
Known as the café that makes the gorgeous papaya-boat brekkie, we’re keen to add something hot to the tab. It’s the ideal spot to visit if you’re looking for an inspiring space to relax while you fill your tummy with beautiful, healthy, vibrant dishes.
The warm drink we’re keen to try is the Bullet Proof Coffee (with a twist): espresso; grass-fed butter; coconut oil; vanilla.
- Locations: Newlands Quarter, 35 Dean St, Newlands / 4 York Rd, Muizenberg
- Website: harvestcafe.co.za

4. Mulberry & Prince
Mulberry & Prince is seriously fit for royalty. Renowned for its fried chicken waffles and ridiculously decadent pancakes, this American-inspired eatery delivers everything with an extra dash of charm. Matcha latte’s have become rather common, but baristas at this local favourite have levelled things up. For starters, your cuppa comes with a kitty/doggo/bear face!
The warm drink we’re keen to try is the Matcha Latte (with a twist): matcha; peppermint leaf; wheatgrass; milk of choice.
- Location: 12 Pepper St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
- Website: www.mulberryandprince.co.za

5. Honest Chocolate
This list would not be complete without some form of hot chocolate. So, we’re heading to the experts at Honest Chocolate for the goods. This indulgent chocolate escape adheres to a bean to bar chocolate ethos. A large portion of their treats are vegan friendly. In the evenings, the Secret Gin Bar opens up behind the Café in the courtyard.
The warm drink we’re keen to try is the Hot Chocolate with a twist: short and dark; Mexican spices; fresh cream; house-made vanilla mean marshmallows.
- Location:64A Wale Street, Cape Town CBD
- Website: honestchocolate.co.za

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Picture: @mrsroxyamas_