Categories > Guides and Tips
20 Best Breakfast Spots in Johannesburg You Must Try
Do you want to start your day with a delicious and satisfying meal? If so, you need to check out the best breakfast spots in Johannesburg.
Whether you crave classic eggs and bacon, a healthy smoothie bowl, or a decadent croissant, you’ll find something to suit your taste buds.
Here are some of the top places to enjoy the most important meal of the day in the city of gold.
Arbour Café & Courtyard
Website: https://arbourcafe.co.za/
Address: Shop 6 Wrenrose Court, 64 St Andrew St, Birdhaven, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa
Phone: +27 10 753 2007
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 4 PM
- Saturday – 7 AM to 3 PM
- Sunday – 7:30 AM to 3 PM
Arbour Café & Courtyard is a French-inspired oasis that will make you feel like you are in Paris. This charming café serves authentic French galettes made with gluten-free buckwheat flour and filled with fresh, free-range, seasonal ingredients.
In addition to their delicious galettes, Arbour also has a variety of breakfast options, from sweet to savoury. You can enjoy their brioche French toast; avo Benedict; or bacon, cheddar, mozzarella, avo, feta cheese, and basil pesto omelette.
| Pro Tips: If you want to make your weekend brunch extra special, don’t miss their L’Ormarins Bottomless Mimosa Brunch. For only R250 per person, you can enjoy unlimited mimosas and a brunch main of your choice. |
Breezeblock Cafe
Website: https://breezeblock.co.za/
Address: 29 Chiswick St, Brixton, Johannesburg, 2019, South Africa
Phone: +27 78 175 2556
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 7 AM to 4 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 8 AM to 4 PM
Breezeblock is a charming café in old Brixton that feels like the 1970s with colourful blocks outside and cosy space inside. It’s a great place for a calm breakfast or lunch.
The breakfast menu offers dishes like Eggs Mirza, a poached egg dish with Mediterranean flavours, and refreshing wakey smoothies, which are thick and satisfying.
| Pro Tips: Get a free coffee when you purchase a reusable bamboo cup from the cafe. It’s eco-friendly and stylish, and you can reuse it anytime you need a caffeine boost. |
Cafe Billi Bi
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cafebillibi/
Address: Shop G23A, Stoneridge Centre, Greenstone Park, Johannesburg, 1609, South Africa
Phone: +27 11 524 0039
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday – 8 AM to 4 PM
- Sunday – 8 AM to 3 PM
Cafe Billi Bi is a breakfast lover’s paradise, offering a variety of dishes to suit every taste and mood. Whether you want something sweet, savoury, or healthy, you’ll find it here.
Some of their specialities include the corn hotcake breakfast, a fluffy and flavourful treat that will make your mouth water, and the chicken livers with fried egg, a rich and satisfying dish that will spice up your morning.
You can also enjoy their classic omelettes, waffles, and pancakes, or go for their smoked salmon or protein power options for a lighter and fresher meal.
| Pro Tips: If you’re looking for an exciting place to take your kids, check out the Adventure Golf course at Stoneridge Centre where Cafe Billi Bi is located. It’s a great way to spend the school holidays or celebrate a birthday with a different twist. |
Glenda’s
Website: https://glendas.co/
Address: Hyde Square, Corner Jan Smuts Avenue and North Road, Hyde Park, Johannesburg
Phone: +27 11 268 6369
Operating Hours:
- Monday – 7 AM to 5 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday – 7 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 8 AM to 5 PM
Glenda’s is a cosy and elegant restaurant in the lively Hyde Park neighbourhood where you can enjoy a superb breakfast with a variety of choices.
The restaurant features a variety of dishes to satisfy your appetite such as fluffy pancakes with maple syrup and eggs Benedict with hollandaise sauce.
The owner, Glenda Lederle, is passionate about creating delicious dishes with fresh ingredients and a touch of creativity.
| Pro Tips: Explore contemporary African art at the annual Turbine Art Fair held every July. It’s conveniently located in the same building as Glenda’s at Hyde Park Corner. |
Goddess Cafe
Website: https://goddesscafe.co.za/linden-store/
Address: 44 1st Ave, Linden, Johannesburg, 2194, South Africa
Phone: 010 109 8277 or 064 804 3974
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 8 AM to 5 PM
- Sunday – 8 AM to 3 PM
Goddess Café offers breakfast at any time of the day, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the most important meal whenever you desire.
You can’t go wrong with the luxurious egg scramble here. It’s one of the many mouthwatering options on the menu like breakfast quiches, the American pancake stack, and brioche French toast.
| Pro Tips: Delta Park is just a 15-minute walk from the cafe, and it offers stunning views of the city skyline, tranquil ponds, and abundant birdlife. You can even rent a bike or a kayak to make your adventure more fun. |
Mikes Heritage House
Website: https://mikesheritagehouse.co.za/
Address: 15 St Andrews Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
Phone: +27 11 484 2688
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 8 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 8 AM to 6 PM
Mikes Heritage House is a beloved establishment in Parktown proudly serving hearty breakfasts since 1982. If you’re in Joburg and on the hunt for a fantastic breakfast spot, this is the place to be.
They offer one of the best South African Breakfasts in town, featuring a hearty platter with eggs, bacon, mushrooms, tomatoes, burger patty, wors, and toast—a true feast for the senses.
If seafood is more your style, we recommend trying the prawn breakfast. Scrambled eggs sit atop a bed of aromatic Thai curry sauce, topped with three perfectly grilled prawns, all served with toast.
| Pro Tips: The restaurant has crayons and pictures to colour for the little ones and a kiddies menu with tasty and healthy options. This is a great way to keep your kids entertained and happy while you enjoy your meal. |
Mugg & Bean
Website: https://muggandbean.co.za/
Address: Level 4 Sandton City, Cnr Rivonia and 5th Street, Sandton, Johannesburg 2146
Phone: +27 82 931 1261
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Tuesday – 7 AM to 6:30 PM
- Wednesday & Thursday – 7 AM to 7 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 7 AM to 9 PM
Renowned for their famous all-day brekkies, Mugg & Bean offers a delightful start to your day. Before you dive into their mouthwatering dishes, you might want to try their selection of giant muffins and pair it with their bottomless coffees.
For those seeking a hearty and satisfying meal, you can indulge in their signature Big Ben Eggs Benedict or South African farm breakfast.
| Pro Tips: If you prefer to craft your culinary masterpiece, explore their build-your-own omelette option where you can customize your dish to suit your preferences. |
Nice on 4th
Website: https://niceon4th.co.za/
Address: 37 4th Ave, Parkhurst, Sandton, 2193, South Africa
Phone: +27 (011) 788 6286
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 7:30 AM to 4 PM
Nice on 4th is a beloved breakfast and brunch spot in Parkhurst, Joburg, known for its delicious morning offerings. Brunch is served daily until 2 PM, ensuring you can enjoy a leisurely start to your day.
Their signature creation, the Half & Half, offers a blend of savoury breakfast and sweet dessert on a single plate. Depending on your mood, you can pick from different options like an egg basket or a crumpet stack.
Nice on 4th also offers a range of other options, such as croissants with various fillings or the refreshing seasonal fruit oat bowl. And if you’re looking for something lighter and healthier, they have you covered with their nutritious breakfast menu.
| Pro Tips: After enjoying a delicious breakfast or lunch at this cosy cafe, don’t miss the opportunity to stroll at Verity Park. It’s a lovely green space where you can relax, admire the scenery, and mingle with other pet lovers. |
Olives & Plates
Website: https://olivesandplates.co.za/
Address: Embassy Towers, 175 Empire Pl, Sandhurst, Sandton, 2196, South Africa
Phone: +27 60 439 1403
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 7:30 AM to 4 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 7:30 AM to 4 PM
Olives & Plates at the Embassy is a hidden gem that serves delicious breakfast dishes. It’s a place where you can enjoy the history and charm of the old WITS Clubhouse, a stunning example of old Dutch-style architecture.
Whether you’re craving their mouthwatering baked eggs with chorizo and feta, their flaky croissants, or their creamy Greek yoghurt with honey and nuts, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds.
Olives & Plates offers a quality dining experience at an affordable price with a variety of options for any occasion. You can relax with a friend, celebrate a birthday, or even book your wedding reception in this spacious and elegant venue.
| Pro Tips: Be aware that parking here can be tricky. The restaurant has a small lot that fills up quickly, so you might have to find a spot on the street and walk a few minutes. |
Oregano Bakery
Website: https://www.oreganobakery.com/
Address: 9 Grafton Avenue, Dunkeld West, Johannesburg
Phone: +27 83 260 6582
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 7 AM to 3 PM
Oregano Bakery & Pantry is a delightful spot for breakfast lovers in Craighall Park. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savoury, they have something to satisfy your cravings.
Their menu offers a variety of delicious dishes made with fresh ingredients, including eggs Benedict, salmon avo toast, and chocolate babka French toast. Additionally, they offer perfectly baked quiches and creamy signature individual milk tarts.
Oregano Bakery & Pantry has a lovely ambience that makes you feel welcome and relaxed. The decor is rustic and charming with wooden tables and chairs, soft lighting, and colourful cushions.
| Pro Tips: If you need a cosy place to work online, they have free Wi-Fi for customers. Just check their menu for the password. |
Pablo Sandton
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pablosandton/
Address: MINT Hotel 84 on Katherine Hotel Lobby, 84 Katherine St, Sandton, 2031, South Africa
Phone: +27 83 260 6582
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 6 AM to 11:30 PM
Pablo is a lively spot at The Mint Hotel where you can find a variety of breakfast dishes, from classic eggs Benedict to healthy granola bowls. Their menu extends beyond breakfast, exploring flavours from the Mediterranean and the Middle East.
Pablo has a cosy and stylish atmosphere with a teal and rust colour scheme, comfy seating options, and outdoor dining on the patio and pool terrace. And don’t miss their refreshing mimosas and cool music from their resident DJ.
| Pro Tips: Consider booking accommodation at the MINT Hotel, as it is located in the same building and offers access to the same facilities and services. |
Pantry by Gemelli
Website: https://pantrybygemelli.co.za/
Address: 0A Muswell Rd S, Bryanston, Sandton, 2191, South Africa
Phone: +27 78 048 1188
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 7 AM to 4:30 PM
- Thursday to Sunday – 7 AM to 5:30 PM
Pantry in Bryanston is the prep kitchen for Gemelli Cucina Bar, one of the best Italian restaurants in town. It serves up an amazing all-day breakfast menu that has something for everyone.
This brunch spot offers classic favourites like homemade granola and avocado toast made with fresh ingredients. But the star of the show is their breakfast burger, dubbed The Problem, boasting bacon, egg, and cheese on a brioche bun.
To complement your meal, you can choose from their selection of fresh fruit juices and herbal teas, or treat yourself to a cup of Manaka coffee, which is roasted locally and ethically sourced.
| Pro Tips: Stop by Cycle Lab Bike Park, which is just a 3-minute drive away from Pantry by Gemelli. You can enjoy some outdoor fun and exercise on the bike trails or rent a bike if you don’t have one. |
Salvation Cafe
Website: https://www.salvationcafe.co.za/
Address: 44 Stanley Ave, Milpark, Johannesburg, 2092, South Africa
Phone: +27 11 482 7795
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 8 AM to 4 PM
Salvation Cafe is a trendy breakfast spot that serves a unique menu with a perfect balance of sweet and savoury flavours.
One of their most popular dishes is the mince and poached eggs, which comes with avocado and salsa on the side. You should also try their delicious French toast with bacon and syrup, a classic combination that never disappoints.
The cafe prides itself on using fresh and healthy ingredients, such as free-range eggs chicken and grass-fed beef. The cafe’s menu takes inspiration from global cuisine, reflecting the owner’s travels around the world.
| Pro Tips: You won’t regret ordering their Belgian hot chocolate, which is divine and rich. It’s the perfect drink to warm you up on a chilly morning. |
Second Cup
Media from chanellegalanakis
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SecondcupDeli/
Address: 1159 John Vorster Rd, Glen Dayson A.H, Roodepoort, 1709, South Africa
Phone: +27 11 679 4665
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 8 AM to 5 PM
Second Cup in Roodepoort offers a cosy breakfast spot in Weltevredenpark, away from Johannesburg’s busy streets. With a calming atmosphere, it’s perfect for a peaceful morning meal.
Their menu has tasty breakfast choices, including homemade bread that adds a special touch. What’s great is that Second Cup is affordable, so you can enjoy a nice breakfast without spending too much.
| Pro Tips: Head over to Honeydew Village, a shopping mall with stores like Woolworths, Wellness Warehouse, and more. It’s just a 5-minute walk away from the cafe, and you’ll find everything you need for your daily essentials or a treat for yourself. |
Spilt Milk
Website: https://www.spiltmilksocial.cafe/
Address: 1 7th St, Melville, Johannesburg, 2092, South Africa
Phone: +27 11 679 4665
Operating Hours:
- Monday & Tuesday – 8 AM to 5 PM
- Wednesday to Saturday – 8 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 8 AM to 3 PM
Spilt Milk is a charming cafe in Melville that offers a variety of delicious breakfast dishes in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The café menu includes classic eggs Benedict, French toast, and croque madame.
With two distinct seating areas, you can pick between the busy front terrace with street views and the calm, sunny courtyard at the back for a relaxing breakfast or lunch.
But what makes Spilt Milk stand out is the friendly and attentive staff. They work as a team to ensure that you have a great experience, and they will greet you with a smile and remember your name.
| Pro Tips: If you’re looking for a cosy and productive place to hang out with your friends, check out the backyard sitting area at the cafe. You’ll love the laid-back vibe, the comfy seats, and the fast Wi-Fi with charging ports. |
Spur Steak Ranches
Website: https://www.spursteakranches.com/za
Address: Shop L201, Cresta Centre Beyers Naude Dr Johannesburg
Phone: +27 11 476 8925
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 8 AM to 10 PM
Spur Steak Ranches offers both delicious steaks and ribs as well as satisfying breakfast options, catering to a variety of tastes.
You can enjoy a diverse breakfast menu available until 11 AM daily, featuring classic dishes like the Cheddamelt Breakfast or the Ranch Breakfast. Their menu offers a variety of flavorful options including eggs, meats, mushrooms, chips, and toast.
If you’re watching your carbs or following a vegan diet, don’t worry. Spur has you covered with their carb-conscious and vegan-friendly breakfasts such as scrambled tofu on toast, fruit salad with yoghurt and granola, or a veggie wrap.
| Pro Tips: You can get more benefits from Spur Steak Ranches with the Family Club App. Just register, add your children, and get free goodies with every kids’ meal, a special birthday kids’ meal, and automatic entries to Spur kids competitions! |
Le Parc by Tashas
Website: https://www.leparcbytashas.com/
Address: Shop L201, Cresta Centre Beyers Naude Dr Johannesburg
Phone: +27 11 325 5024
Operating Hours:
- Monday & Tuesday – 7 AM to 8 PM
- Wednesday to Saturday – 7 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 7 AM to 6 PM
Le Parc by Tashas is a French-inspired restaurant that offers a variety of dishes, all freshly prepared. The cafe decor is elegant and fun with a pink colour scheme and bold patterns that evoke Annabel’s in London.
With a menu boasting 75 dishes, including 20 classics and 55 new French-inspired creations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. You can try tasty treats like ratatouille eggs with crispy brinjal or Tasha’s take on a bahn mi sandwich.
| Pro Tips: If you love art, you’ll be happy to know that Cherie De Villiers Fine Art Gallery is just at the same mall as Le Parc. You can enjoy a delicious meal at the cafe and then browse the gallery’s collection of contemporary South African artists. |
The Whippet
Website: https://thewhippetcoffee.com/
Address: 34 7th St, Linden, Randburg, 2104, South Africa
Phone: +27 79 711 5604
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 7 AM to 4 PM
- Friday – 7 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday – 8 AM to 5 PM
- Sunday – 8 AM to 2 PM
The Whippet is renowned for its trendy ambience, which makes Linden one of the hippest places to visit.
As soon as the sun rises, the cafe welcomes its guests with delicious breakfast options, such as the potato rosti breakfast with poached eggs and homemade hollandaise sauce.
Additionally, their top-notch coffee and tea selection complements the freshly made cafe-style dishes perfectly.
| Pro Tips: While you’re in the vicinity, explore 7th Street after your breakfast. You’ll find amazing shops like Arthur Bale’s where you can buy fabrics of all kinds and many more that sell unique items, from records to retro clothes to quirky souvenirs. |
UpCycled Cafe
Website: https://upcycledcafe.co.za/
Address: Atlas Junction A0, Edel Rd, Beyers Park, Boksburg, 1459, South Africa
Phone: +27 11 029 0089
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 9 AM to 6 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 9 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 9 AM to 4 PM
Upcycled Café is a restaurant in Boksburg that’s part of Lazeeza’s Bakery. The restaurant has unique recycled decorations and serves delicious food with interesting flavours, like mango and chicken combos.
You can also enjoy classics like toasted steak sandwiches and tasty pizzas. With a wide menu and friendly service, it’s a place you’ll want to visit again and again.
Plus, they have a bakery right there with yummy treats to take home.
| Pro Tips: Give Fillet Box and Spicy Chicken and Mayo Melt a try at the cafe! They’re renowned for their burst of flavours and fresh ingredients, reflecting the care and passion of the chefs behind each dish. |
Wimpy
Website: https://wimpy.co.za/
Address: Corner Greenhill &, Greenside, Barry Hertzog Ave, Emmarentia, Johannesburg, 2195, South Africa
Phone: +27 11 486 3317
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 7:30 AM to 6 PM
- Friday – 7:30 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday – 8 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 8 AM to 8:30 PM
Wimpy offers nostalgic breakfasts and family-friendly dining, perfect for any time of day. With a Playworld for kids to enjoy safely, parents can savour delicious meals together.
You can choose from their famous Farmhouse Breakfast, Lekker Breakfast, or Mega Breakfast, all for less than R100. Or, if you prefer something lighter, you can try their sweet chilli chicken wrap or the fully loaded Dagwood.
| Pro Tips: If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to keep your kids entertained while you enjoy your meal at Wimpy, check out their digital library. You’ll find stories that reflect the diversity and richness of South Africa in all 11 official languages of the country. |
