Categories > Guides and Tips

coffee-shops-cape-town

Get your daily dose of energy at the best coffee shops in Cape Town

| Last Updated: August 2024

In Cape Town, our coffee scene is like a well-blended roast—full of flavour and a bit of fun. Whether you’re grabbing a flat white after a surf or diving into a lively debate about brewing methods, there’s always something exciting brewing.

I’m all about those laid-back spots where you can enjoy great coffee and fresh, tasty bites. Sure, global chains are around, but why settle for less when you can experience the true essence of the city?

Here are the best coffee shops in Cape Town, where every cup is a testament to local passion.

Bootlegger Coffee Company

Media from bootleggercoffeecompany

Website: https://www.bootlegger.coffee/ 

See Locations

When I’m in Cape Town and craving a good cup of coffee, Bootlegger Coffee Company is often my first stop. Their range of coffee includes everything from bold espressos to smooth cold brews, all made from high-quality beans. 

I often find myself drawn to their signature flat white, which features a velvety microfoam and a rich, caramel-like sweetness.

The atmosphere in the cafe is relaxed, with a blend of modern and rustic decor that makes it a comfortable spot to unwind. The space is well-lit, with plenty of seating and free Wi-Fi.

Pro Tip:
Visit the café branch just above Bakoven Beach on the Atlantic Seaboard. It’s the perfect spot to warm up and enjoy a great coffee after a refreshing dip in the chilly ocean.

Coco Safar 

Media from cocosafar

Website: https://cocosafar.com/ 

See Locations

Coco Safar offers a unique experience with its blend of high-quality coffee and elegant atmosphere. 

I particularly enjoy their espresso drinks, which have a distinctively smooth and creamy profile. Aside from coffee, they also offer a range of gourmet pastries and light bites, which complement their coffee well. 

The café’s chic, art-deco-inspired interior creates a sophisticated setting that’s ideal for enjoying a quiet moment or catching up with friends.

Pro Tip:
When visiting the Piazza St John branch, consider taking a refreshing dip in the nearby tide pools at Sea Point. While it might be too chilly for some outside of summer, on warm sunny days, it’s a truly exhilarating experience.

Deluxe Coffeeworks

Media from deluxecoffeeworks

Website: https://www.deluxecoffeeworks.co.za/ 

See Locations

Deluxe stands out with its commitment to top-notch coffee. Their coffee is consistently well brewed, with a notable depth of flavour that varies with each type of bean they use.

I’m a fan of their cappuccino, which has a balanced taste with a creamy texture and a hint of cocoa. Their pastries and light meals are also worth trying, especially their freshly baked croissants.

The shop has a relaxed vibe, with minimalist decor and comfortable seating that encourages lingering. They also provide free Wi-Fi, making it easy to settle in with a laptop or a book. 

Pro Tip:
Choose a seat where you can work comfortably without disrupting others. Keep your belongings tidy and within your space.

Espresso Lab Microroasters

Media from espressolabza

Website: https://espressolabmicroroasters.com/ 

Address: 375 Albert Rd, Woodstock

Phone: +27 21 447 0845

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Thursday – 8 AM to 4 PM

If you enjoy a macchiato and a bit of coffee talk, Espresso Lab is a great spot to check out. I visited their location in Woodstock’s Old Biscuit Mill complex and was impressed by their focus on roasting small batches of carefully sourced beans.

I opted for a cappuccino made with their Costa Rican blend. The cappuccino had a smooth, rich taste with just the right balance of boldness and creaminess.

I noticed the trendy, almost clinical vibe. It’s like stepping into a coffee lover’s lab! The options are laid out on the wall like a coffee lover’s periodic table, with each type clearly labelled.

Pro Tip:
If you’re visiting during the Saturday morning market, be prepared for a bit of a wait. It’s worth it, though. Try to grab a table in the sheltered courtyard for a cosy spot to enjoy your coffee.

Four & Twenty

Media from fourandtwentycafe

Website: https://www.fourandtwentycafe.co.za/ 

Address: 23 Wolfe St, Wynberg

Phone: +27 21 762 0975

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Saturday – 8 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday – 8 AM to 4 PM

Four & Twenty offers a charming village atmosphere that feels both vintage and welcoming. As soon as you walk in, the scent of freshly baked bread, cakes, and pastries fills the air.

Their coffee, especially the cappuccino, is consistently smooth and rich, which pairs perfectly with their delicious pastries. The menu offers a wide range of breakfast and lunch options, but I particularly enjoyed eggs Benedict for breakfast.

I also love their deli section, where you can find everything from cured meats and farm cheeses to locally crafted gins.

Pro Tip:
Plan to visit around lunchtime and try the katsu-style chicken stack. The hint of Sriracha adds just the right amount of kick.

Giovanni’s Deliworld

Media from giovannisdeliworld

Website: https://giovannisdeliworld.co.za/ 

Address: 103 Main Rd, Green Point

Phone: +27 21 434 6893

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 7:30 AM to 8 PM

Giovanni’s Deliworld is a fantastic spot that feels like a slice of Italy right here in Cape Town. I love starting my visit with one of their expertly made espressos. It’s strong and aromatic, giving me just the right boost for the day. 

What really makes Giovanni’s stand out is their build-your-own sandwich station. You choose your bread, pick out your favourite cheeses and meats, and then get to enjoy a freshly made sandwich. 

Their deli also offers great options for a quick meal, like hearty lasagna and tasty meatballs, as well as a variety of ready-made pasta dishes and salads. Plus, their selection of imported snacks is a nice bonus.

Pro Tip:
Grab some of their delicious paninis, fresh salads, and vegan-friendly meals for a picnic. Green Point Urban Park is just around the corner, offering picnic areas with tables and benches.

Ground Art Caffé

Media from groundartcaffe

Website: https://www.groundartcaffe.co.za/ 

Address: 160 Strand St, De Waterkant

Phone: +27 21 418 1331

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 3 PM
  • Saturday – 7:30 AM to 2 PM
  • Sunday – 8 AM to 1 PM

Ground Art Caffé is a charming spot on the edge of De Waterkant and the Bo-Kaap, where coffee and creativity come together beautifully.

I often go for their macchiato, which has a bold espresso flavour balanced with a touch of creamy froth. Their food menu offers a range of options, from health-focused breakfast plates to hearty paninis and hand-rolled bagels.

One of my favourite things to do here is to enjoy a coffee while taking in the lovely mountain views. The café also features a dedicated art wall that showcases works from local artists, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the visit.

Pro Tip:
Take some time to explore the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighbourhood nearby. The colourful houses and rich cultural history make it a must-see stop just around the corner.

Hans & Lloyd

Media from thehansandlloydcoffeeco

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hansandlloydcoffeeco/ 

Address: 13 York Rd, Muizenberg

Phone: +27 21 035 1731

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 7 AM to 4 PM

Hans & Lloyd is my go-to spot when I’m in Muizenberg, especially after spending time on the beach. The café’s laid-back vibe is perfect for relaxing with sandy feet, and the sea views are just a bonus. 

Their cafe mocha is my favourite. It’s a comforting blend of rich espresso and velvety chocolate, topped with a smooth layer of steamed milk that makes it just the right mix of sweet and strong.

I also love their all-day breakfast menu, especially the bacon butty, which is hearty and satisfying after a morning in the waves.

Pro Tip:
Take the time to explore nearby Muizenberg Beach. It’s a great spot for a stroll along the beach or catching some waves after enjoying your coffee.

Honest Chocolate

Media from agirlnamedcassidy and honestchocolate

Website: https://honestchocolate.co.za/honest-chocolate-cafe/ 

Address: 64A Wale Street

Phone: +27 76 765 8306

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Thursday – 9 AM to 6 PM
  • Friday & Saturday – 9 AM to 9 PM
  • Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM

Honest Chocolate is a spot I often visit when I’m craving something sweet with my coffee. The café has a cosy, rustic atmosphere that makes it easy to relax. 

I love ordering their ‘Intense Hot Chocolate’ when I’m in the mood for something a bit different. It’s rich and thick with a deep cacao flavour, and it’s amazing paired with one of their hand-made bonbon truffles.

Another thing that makes this place special is their bean-to-bar dark chocolate, which has a rich, deep flavour that’s not too sweet. 

Pro Tip:
Visit with friends so you can sample a bit of everything on the menu!

I Love Coffee

Media from ilovecoffeegroup

Website: https://www.ilovecoffeegroup.co.za/ 

Address: 103 Garfield Rd, Claremont

Phone: +27 21 671 0008 

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 4 PM
  • Saturday – 8:30 AM to 2 PM

I Love Coffee is a café with a mission. What stands out to me is their commitment to employing and empowering the deaf community, which adds a meaningful layer to your visit.

I usually go for their cappuccino, which is rich and smooth, but the real treat is their butter chicken pie. The pastry is incredibly flaky, and the filling is full of flavour, with tender chicken and just the right amount of spice. 

There’s a guide at the till to help you place your order in sign language, which makes the experience more interactive and meaningful. 

Pro Tip:
Take a moment to learn some basic sign language. It’s a great way to connect with the staff, most of whom are deaf or hearing-impaired, and it adds to the unique and inclusive experience at this café.

Jason Bakery

Media from jasonbakerycpt

Website: https://jasonbakery.com/ 

Address: 83 Main Rd, Green Point

Phone: +27 21 433 0538

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Saturday – 7 AM to 3 PM
  • Sunday – 8 AM to 2 PM

Jason Bakery is a spot I can’t resist, especially when I’m in the mood for something indulgent. While their coffee is always a solid choice—smooth and perfectly balanced—I come here mainly for the food.

The ‘Doughssants’ are a personal favourite, with a new flavour every month that keeps things interesting. It’s a cross between a doughnut and a croissant, with layers of buttery pastry and a delicious filling that’s hard to resist.

The place is always bustling, whether you’re grabbing something to go or waiting for a table, and the vibe is lively, especially with locals who know to pre-order their favourite pastries. 

Pro Tip:
Stroll along the nearby seafront promenade. It’s a great way to enjoy the ocean views and explore the art installations along the way.

Origin Coffee Roasting

Media from origincoffeesa

Website: https://originroasting.co.za/ 

Address: 28 Hudson St, De Waterkant

Phone: +27 21 421 1000

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 4 PM
  • Saturday – 8 AM to 3 PM
  • Sunday – 8 AM to 2 PM

Origin Coffee Roasting is one of Cape Town’s pioneers in artisanal coffee, and it’s a spot that’s hard to miss if you’re serious about your brew. It’s housed in a historic brick warehouse that adds a rustic charm to your coffee experience. 

When I visited, I sat at the brew bar to explore their different methods and tried a Kenyan Riakiberu hand-poured through a Hario V60. The coffee had a rich, complex flavour, and it was fascinating to watch the brewing process up close.

Origin also offers a good daytime menu with light meals. I tried the brunch shakshuka, and it was a hearty and satisfying dish that paired well with my coffee. 

Pro Tip:
To fully enjoy your coffee and benefit from it, avoid drinking it on an empty stomach. Pair your coffee with a hearty breakfast to prevent stomach discomfort and make the most of your morning brew.

Park Café

Media from parkcafect

Website: https://parkcafect.co.za/ 

Address: 1056 Bill Peters Dr, Green Point

Phone: +27 87 759 4652 

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 8 AM to 5 PM

Park Café is a hidden gem that I love for its relaxed vibe and quality coffee. Tucked away in a quiet corner, it’s the kind of place where you can easily spend a couple of hours without noticing the time go by.

I usually opt for their cappuccino, which is rich and creamy with a slightly sweet taste that doesn’t overpower the coffee’s natural flavour. The café also offers a range of light meals and snacks, like their avocado toast, which is fresh and satisfying.

The atmosphere is cosy and welcoming, with a few tables inside and a small outdoor seating area for sunny days. It’s also child-friendly and pet-friendly, making it a great spot for parents with kids and for dog owners looking for a peaceful coffee break.

Pro Tip:
Download the Rideaway app for a convenient bike ride through the park and along the promenade after your visit to the cafe.

Rosetta Roastery

Media from rosettaroastery

Website: https://www.rosettaroastery.com/ 

Address: 101 Bree St, CBD

Phone: +27 21 447 4099

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 4 PM
  • Saturday – 8 AM to 4 PM
  • Sunday – 8 AM to 2 PM

Rosetta Roastery is a popular coffee spot, and their small café inside The Yard, a pan-Asian restaurant in the Silo District, is no different. Here, you can enjoy a range of single-origin coffees and taste their micro-roasted beans.

When I visited, I was immediately welcomed by the barista who was keen to share insights about their coffee. I found it fascinating to learn about their beans from Myanmar while enjoying a pour-over brew. 

They also had a Kyoto-style cold brew on offer, served over ice cubes. It was refreshing and smooth, making it a great choice for those who enjoy black coffee.

Pro Tip:
Make sure to also check out the nearby Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art, just across the street. It’s a must-visit in the city and offers an impressive collection of contemporary African art.

Siki’s Koffee

Media from sikis_koffee

Website: https://sikiskoffee.co.za/ 

Address: 7 Ntaba St, Village 1 South

Phone: +27 82 369 8229

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 5 PM
  • Saturday – 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM

Siki’s Koffee is a community-driven spot that offers great coffee and connections. Sikelela Dibela, the owner, has created a welcoming spot where locals and visitors alike come together over a good brew.

I love the variety of African coffees they serve, particularly their blend of Ethiopian, Kenyan, and Burundian beans. Each cup is rich and full of character, with distinct notes that reflect the origins of the beans. 

The café has become a social hub for entrepreneurs and activists, offering a genuine slice of community life in one of Cape Town’s more underrepresented areas. 

Pro Tip:
Remember that tipping generously is appreciated and contributes significantly to a barista’s income. 

Sonder Café

Media from sondercafecapetown

Website: https://www.sonderobz.com/ 

Address: 79 Lower Main Rd, Observatory

Phone: +27 83 394 6672

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 7:30 AM to 4 PM
  • Saturday – 8 AM to 3 PM

Sonder Café is a charming spot, where you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere surrounded by books, vintage treasures, and local art. It’s a great place to stop for a high-quality coffee while exploring the quirky streets of the area.

I tried their red cappuccino, which uses rooibos instead of espresso. It was smooth and subtly sweet, offering a unique twist on the traditional cappuccino.

The café also serves light meals, and my favourite is the Bohemian Wrapsody. It includes tzatziki, grilled chickpeas, rocket, sundried tomato, cucumber, feta, and avocado on toasted wholewheat bread. 

Pro Tip:
Take advantage of the cosy atmosphere by picking out a book from their collection to enjoy with your coffee. 

Starlings

Media from starlingscafe

Address: 94 Belvedere Rd, Claremont

Phone: +27 72 051 0491

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 4 PM
  • Saturday – 7 AM to 3 PM

Starlings is a little off the beaten path, but it’s worth the visit for its charming setting and quality coffee. The café is nestled in a garden, which gives it a peaceful, almost secluded feel.

I usually order their flat white, which has a creamy consistency and a balanced flavour. Another favourite is the curried mince on toast—a dish with a comforting, spiced kick that’s quite different from the usual café fare. 

The outdoor seating is particularly lovely on a sunny day, with tables set among the greenery. 

Pro Tip:
The cafe doesn’t take reservations, so be prepared to wait, especially if you prefer to sit outside. Arriving early can help you snag a spot and enjoy their relaxed atmosphere without too long of a wait.

The House of Machines

Media from thehouseofmachines_cpt

Website: https://thehouseofmachines.com/ 

Address: 84 Shortmarket Street

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 2 AM
  • Saturday – 9 AM to 2 AM

The House of Machines is a unique blend of coffee shop, bar, and motorcycle workshop. The vibe is edgy and creative, with a mix of industrial and vintage decor.

I always go for their Americano, which is strong and bold, with a smooth finish. They also serve some great cocktails if you’re in the mood for something stronger later in the day. 

While the house negronis are renowned in the evening, the coffee during the day stands out for its quality and simplicity. 

Pro Tip:
If you’re visiting on a Tuesday, be sure to catch their weekly Songwriters Fest from 8 PM to 11 PM. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy live music while sipping on a well-crafted coffee or cocktail.

Truth Coffee Roasting

Media from truthcoffee.capetown

Website: https://truth.coffee/ 

Address: 36 Buitenkant Street

Phone: +27 21 201 7000

Operating Hours:

  • Monday – 7 AM to 6 PM
  • Tuesday to Saturday – 7 AM to 10 PM
  • Sunday – 8 AM to 4 PM

Truth Coffee Roasting is known for its steampunk-inspired decor, transforming a century-old warehouse into a striking blend of vintage and industrial aesthetics. 

Their Resurrection blend is fantastic for a flat white with its chocolatey notes, while the DDT blend offers a deep, rich flavour perfect for an Americano. I particularly enjoyed the Vengeance blend for a pour-over. It has a rich, nutty taste that’s quite satisfying. 

The space has leather bar counters, intricate tin ceilings, and coffee-making equipment like ‘The Colossus,’ a 1947 Probat roaster. Another highlight is ‘Professor Jones’ Fabulous Coffee Bean Contraption,’ a giant blender that adds to the café’s charm.

Pro Tip:
Be aware that asking for sugar here is frowned upon. Instead, savour the natural flavours of their expertly roasted single-origin coffees.
Related topics