It’s easy to get caught up in the hype of a new establishment, especially when everyone and their aunty’s best friend seem to be rushing to its doors.
A few months ago, one such hype spot popped up in De Waterkant in a soft yellow building along a cobbled road.
De Waterkant’s jubilant visuals paired with aesthetic treats and a cafe that looked like something out of Architecture Digest soon took over Cape Town TikTok. The source? Cafe Chiffon.
But is the Japanese gem serving up decadence worth the hype or just a catfish? I decided to see for myself, writes Cape {town} Etc’s Ashleigh Nefdt.
The first thing to know before making a stop at Cafe Chiffon is that it is not for those who love large open spaces. Nestled in natural and soft tones, the layout and design give the illusion of space, but it is, at the heart quaint.
With only a handful of tables and a counter seating option at the back, this pocket-sized cafe is perfect for those who enjoy a cosy cafe experience but bears the burden of having only so many spaces for many curious cafe-goers. Nonetheless, the space is truly beautiful with the element of care evident in every corner.
Managing to get a table, I did what I do to test the quality of any cafe – I tried the coffee. I am a firm believer that you can tell a lot about a place from the care they take in serving a cuppa. What Chiffon lacks in size, it makes up for in servings and the vanilla-infused cappuccino was certainly competition for some of my beloved go-to’s.
If you’re struggling to find a concrete menu for Chiffon, there’s a good reason – it’s constantly changing. The desserts on offer were as gorgeous as the pictures, boasting intriguing designs and colours. The Japanese cheesecake could’ve stepped right out of a Disney movie, but still, a handsome-looking cake can’t emulate good taste, so it was time to put my eyes away and allow my stomach to test the proof in the pudding.
I opted for a Japanese macaroon and the Earl Grey Chiffon Cake, one of Chiffon’s best sellers. From the smell and texture of the delights alone, I had an inkling that the assignment would be passed.
The cake was as soft as a cloud on your tongue, oozing the essence of Earl Grey Tea in cake form. If you love a good tea and cake serving, I guarantee that the two world’s marriage in one bite is just as perfect.
Rich, and soft as marshmallow with a zestful exterior, the macaroon could give those I’ve tried in France a run for their money. Don’t be deceived by the size either, these oyster-like treats are wonderfully filling.
The staff are well busy, but never leave a customer longing longingly for assistance. In terms of Cape Town prices, Cafe Chiffon is pretty competitive. The service was prompt and the ship well run, which only added to a list of reasons that keep people coming back – and I am now one of them.
See for yourself:
- Where: Old Cape Quarter | 72 Waterkant Street | De Waterkant
- Times: Mon-Sat: 7:30am – 17:30pm | Sundays: Closed
- Website: cafechiffon.cpt
Also read:
Is one of the most expensive burgers in Cape Town worth it? Burger & Lobster review
Picture: @cafechiffon.cpt
