Although it may be tempting to bury yourself under the covers on a morning off, these 10 breakfast hotspots will lure you out of bed and make an early wakeup call worthwhile. On your way to work? They’ll be more than happy to have you stop by for a quick cup of coffee to energise you for the day ahead.
1 Chocolat Bistro
Enter a chamber of luxurious French-inspired decor, reminiscent of a bygone era, when you visit Chocolat Bistro. They also have a charming porch where you can unwind beneath their ‘tree of life’ as you devour a savoury pancake or toasted sarmie. Drop off the kids at the play zone next door to guarantee a stress-free morning.
OF NOTE
When Monday to Friday 7 am – 10 pm; Saturdays 8 am – 10 pm
Where 46 Oxford Street, Durbanville
Contact +27 21 975 2426, [email protected], chocolatbistro.co.za
2 The Birdcage
This Stellenbosch eatery is just as pretty as its breakfasts are tasty. Take a seat at a whitewashed wooden table to savour their coconut bread with eggs cooked your way. The vintage crockery and printed scatter cushions are a vision to behold and, best of all, are for sale! Did we mention that they also bake the most beautiful wedding cakes?
OF NOTE
When Monday to Friday 9 am – 5 pm; Saturdays 9 am – 1 p
Where 5 Aan de Gragt Building, Plein Street, Stellenbosch
Contact +27 21 882 9790, [email protected], birdcageteabar.com
3 C’est La Vie
This little boulangerie feels like a home away from home thanks to the personalised service and intimate vibe. Their artisanal sourdough breads and baguettes will melt in your mouth and their decaf cappuccino has been dubbed the best in the Western Cape. With its close proximity to Fish Hoek beach, it’s the perfect place to retreat to after a refreshing swim.
OF NOTE
When Tuesday to Sundays 7:30 am – 3 pm
Where 2A Recreation Road, Fish Hoek
Contact +27 83 676 7430, [email protected], Facebook
4 The Gardener’s Cottage Restaurant & Coffee Shop
If breakfast beneath a canopy of greenery sounds like your idea of a sublime start to the day, this old-world spot will be your go-to coffee pitstop. Located on the historic Montebello Estate, their salmon and scrambled eggs on a toasted croissant is simply divine. We recommend their chocolate brownies as the perfect sweet treat to finish off your meal.
OF NOTE
When Tuesday to Friday, 8 am – 4:30 pm; Saturdays and Sundays 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Where 31 Newlands Avenue, Newlands
Contact +27 21 689 3158, [email protected], montebello.co.za
5 Batavia Café
Festooned with a splash of electric blue paint, the strictly halaal Batavia Café perfectly complements the surroundings of Bo-Kaap’s Cape Malay Quarter. Their menu boasts not only traditional brekkie options, such as French toast but healthier options like green juice too. Before you leave, you could bag a few locally hand-made trinkets.
OF NOTE
When Monday to Friday 8 am – 5 pm; Saturdays 8 am – 3 pm; Sundays 8 am – 2 pm
Where 114 Rose Street, Bo-Kaap
Contact +27 21 300 5904, [email protected], Facebook
6 Café Des Arts
Unlike many other Franschhoek establishments, this café is not a place for fine dining. Expect uncomplicated yet wholesome meals to be served in a rustic setting minus the silverware and fancy tablecloths. Their chalkboard menu has a list of about 10 items and is updated frequently depending on the season and freshness of ingredients.
OF NOTE
When Breakfast is served daily from 9 am – 12 pm
Where 7 Reservoir Street West, Franschhoek
Contact +27 21 876 2952, [email protected], cafedesarts.co.za
7 Giulio’s Café
Feel the warmth of the Italian people as you step into this corner cafeteria, opened by a young guy who followed his passion for the culinary arts. Having been trained by the esteemed Jamie Oliver, you can rest assured that his dishes are to-die-for. Tuck into La Nicoletta, a poached egg meal with Parma Ham, or just nibble on a chocolate croissant.
OF NOTE
When Monday to Friday 7 am – 4 pm; Saturdays 8 am – 12.30 pm; Public holidays 8 am – 12.:30 pm
Where 16 Corner of Loop Street and Riebeek Street, CBD
Contact +27 418 6304, [email protected], giulios.co.za

A favourite amongst Southern Suburbs locals, the strictly halaal Pearl Spoon dishes up top-notch breakfasts, many of which are made with sumptuous salmon. Try their breakfast sandwich or breakfast salmon wrap but if you’re in the mood for the ultimate morning indulgence, feast on the Norwegian breakfast.
OF NOTE
When Monday to Saturdays 8 am – 5 pm; Sundays 8 am – 12 pm
Where 34 Belvedere Road, Claremont
Contact +27 839 2692, Facebook
9 Folk Coffee Anthropology
A trip to Folk Coffee Anthropology is not just about grabbing a bite. It’s a cultural experience of bonding with community members while enjoying scrumptious delicacies. Fancy yourself a coffee connoisseur? You’re in luck since they’re an exclusive retailer of Iberatal Espresso Machines and Espresso Concepts Coffee.
OF NOTE
When Monday to Friday 7 am – 7:30 pm, Saturdays 8 am – 3 pm
Where Shop 4 Touchstone House, 7 Bree Street, CBD
Contact +27 21 276 1795, folkcoffee.co.za
10 Bean in Love
Settled under a giant oak tree, this family-owned outlet is an inviting space with a vibrant atmosphere. They pride themselves on their wide range of coffee beans named after Latin American countries, such as Colombia and Guatemala. To top it off, you’ll also stumble upon a selection of floral gifts and jewellery.
OF NOTE
When Monday to Friday 7 am – 5 pm; Saturdays 8 am – 2 pm
Where 287 Main Sreet, Paarl
Contact +27 21 872 0987, [email protected], beaninlove.co.za
Photography Courtesy images