Quick Summary
The coffee scene in Cape Town is diverse and vibrant, but if you ask me, three places stand out for distinct reasons, despite the fact that they are very popular: Truth Coffee, with its world-renowned brews and steampunk vibe; The Electric, a chill zero-waste café perfect for working and enjoying excellent coffee; and Honest Chocolate, the ultimate spot for coffee and chocolate lovers with delicious plant-based options.
In this review, I share personal experiences, honest feedback, and everything you need to know to visit these gems in the heart of Cape Town.
The Best Coffee Shops in Cape Town
As a coffee lover and occasional remote worker living in Cape Town, I’ve explored many spots to find the perfect blend of great coffee, tasty food, and a welcoming atmosphere. These three coffee shops—Bread, Milk & Honey; Molten Toffee; and The Ladder—each offer something unique. From bright and airy spaces ideal for productivity to hidden gems tucked away near popular hiking trails, I’ve personally experienced what makes each one special.
Truth Coffee: The World’s Best Coffee Experience
Starting this list without Truth Coffee would be blasphemy. This iconic coffee shop at 36 Buitenkant Street, Cape Town City Center has held the title of the world’s best coffee shop for two years running — and it’s easy to see why.
Truth Coffee’s single-origin blends are legendary. I personally love their Resurrection blend — it’s bold, rich, and balanced with notes that dance on your palate. Pair that with their freshly baked pain au chocolat, which honestly could rival Parisian patisseries. The steampunk-inspired interior is something to behold; servers dressed to match the aesthetic create a unique vibe that’s perfect for morning coffee or a midday break.
Hours
Mon–Fri: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sat: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sun: Closed
Price Range
Single espresso: ~R25
Cappuccino: ~R35
Pastries: ~R30–R45
The Electric: A Vibrant Zero-Waste Coffee & Juice Hub
One of my personal favourites, The Electric at 48 Canterbury St, District Six, nails it on all fronts: exceptional coffee, fast unlimited Wi-Fi, and a plug-point-friendly environment that’s perfect for working remotely or meeting friends.
The Electric’s commitment to sustainability shines through their zero-waste policy, making every visit feel meaningful. Their daily happy hour at 4:20 PM featuring CBD-infused products is a quirky bonus, perfect for those curious about alternative wellness trends. The building itself, a restored old auto electrician’s workshop, adds heaps of character to your experience.
Hungry? Their flatbreads and pastries are delightful companions to your coffee or juice. This is my go-to spot for a productive few hours or casual catch-ups.
Hours
Mon–Sun: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Price Range
Espresso: ~R20
Flatbreads: ~R50–R70
CBD products: Variable
Honest Chocolate: Where Coffee Meets Artisan Chocolate Bliss
Last but not least, Honest Chocolate in the trendy Woodstock neighborhood (18 Roodehek St, Woodstock) is a must-visit for anyone who loves their coffee with a side of decadent chocolate.
The honest folks here craft exquisite, bean-to-bar chocolate and pair it brilliantly with their coffee offerings. If you’re vegan or dairy-free, you’ll appreciate their plant-based menu options. I usually go for the hot chocolate with a double espresso shot — it’s like a warm hug on a chilly Cape Town morning.
The shop doubles as a chocolate factory and a café, giving you a peek into their artisanal processes, which is a fascinating bonus.
Hours
Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sat: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Sun: Closed
Price Range
Espresso: ~R25
Hot Chocolate: ~R45
Chocolate Bars: ~R80–R150
Contact & Social
Email: honestchocolate.co.za
Phone: +27 76 765 8306
Instagram | Facebook
Bread, Milk & Honey – City Center’s Bright and Breezy Work-Friendly Spot
Location: Vredenhof Organic Estate, Bredell Rd, Somerset West, 7139, South Africa
What I Love Here
Okay, I’ll admit it—I’m a bit biased when it comes to Bread, Milk & Honey. It’s right by my house, and I come here at least once a week for their delicious iced coffee with a splash of vanilla syrup. The floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, making it one of the best coffee shops to work in Cape Town for a few hours.
I often bring my month-end admin work here, and the great coffee and food make invoices, expense reports, and analytic tracking feel a little less like a personal hell.
Business Details & Pricing
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sun 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Price Range: Iced coffee from ZAR 35; breakfast & pastries ZAR 50–90
- Contact: [email protected]
- Phone: +27 83 669 9798
- Website: breadmilkandhoney.co.za
- Instagram: @breadmilkandhoney
Molten Toffee – A Laidback Favorite Near Lion’s Head
Location: 45b Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
My Unexpected Discovery
I stumbled across Molten Toffee quite by accident. After a sunrise summit on Lion’s Head, my friend and I were craving a strong coffee. While walking to another planned spot, we passed Molten Toffee, and instantly fell in love with its laidback vibe.
It’s perfect for a quick coffee before work or a relaxed remote work lunch, especially if you’re nibbling on their famous toasties. Seating is limited, but that only adds to its cozy charm.
Pricing & Hours
- Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Sat 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Closed Sundays
- Price Range: Coffee from ZAR 30; toasties and snacks ZAR 40–80
- Contact: [email protected]
- Phone: +27 83 703 1162
- Instagram: @moltentoffee
The Ladder – Hidden Gem Near Table Mountain for Hikers & Coffee Lovers
Location: 12 Kasteel Road, Oranjezicht, Cape Town
Why I Keep Returning
If you love hiking Table Mountain or exploring the Oranjezicht neighborhood, The Ladder is the perfect coffee stop. It’s tucked away from the bustle but offers a calm, welcoming atmosphere. Their specialty espresso drinks are strong and well-crafted.
The food menu is seasonal and fresh — their avocado toast and granola bowl are my go-tos. Plus, the outdoor seating area surrounded by greenery is a nice retreat.
Info & Pricing
- Opening Hours: Daily 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Price Range: Coffee from ZAR 32; breakfast & lunch dishes ZAR 60–110
- Contact: [email protected]
- Phone: +27 82 451 1572
- Instagram: @theladdercoffee
Ground Art Caffe: Where Art Meets Exceptional African Coffee
Located at 160 Strand Street, Waterkant, Cape Town, Ground Art Caffe is a must-visit for anyone who craves more than just great coffee. When I first stepped inside, I was immediately captivated by the vibrant African artworks adorning the walls, creating a warm, inspiring atmosphere that encourages creativity.
What really sets this café apart is the stunning panoramic views of Table Mountain — sipping their coffee while gazing at that iconic skyline is an experience I’ll never forget. Plus, with reliable free Wi-Fi, it’s a fantastic spot to get some work done or catch up on emails while enjoying your brew.
Now about the coffee: Ground Art exclusively sells an African Arabica blend, carefully selected and micro-roasted to ensure each cup bursts with rich, bold flavors. The beans score top marks in quality assessments, and trust me, the hype is absolutely justified. The first sip was full-bodied with a delicate fruity undertone — a true testament to South African coffee craftsmanship.
Business Details
Address: 160 Strand Street, Waterkant, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Sat 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM, Sun Closed
Price Range: R25 – R45 per cup
Wi-Fi: Free & Reliable
Contact: +27 21 418 1331
Instagram: @groundartcaffe
Origin Coffee Roasting: The Pioneer of Cape Town’s Specialty Coffee
Founded in 2006 and nestled in a charming historic brick warehouse at 28 Hudson Street, De Waterkant, Origin Coffee Roasting remains a beacon of quality and innovation. I’ve visited multiple times to experience their rotating selection of meticulously sourced single-origin coffees from farms worldwide.
Their menu features a minimum of eight single-origin coffees and a seasonal blend daily. You get to choose how your coffee is brewed — whether it’s a smooth French press, the vibrant Aeropress, classic Moka pot, theatrical siphon, or precise pour-over. Personally, I’m a big fan of their siphon brew; it delivers such clarity and complexity.
Beyond just serving coffee, Origin is passionate about education. Their barista academy is world-renowned and has trained over 4,000 coffee professionals. For hobbyists like me, their classes on latte art, home barista skills, and cupping sessions have been invaluable in understanding and appreciating coffee better.
Business Details
Address: 28 Hudson Street, De Waterkant, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sat 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Sun Closed
Price Range: R30 – R60 depending on brew method
Workshops: Available – Book via website
Contact: +27 21 421 1000
Website: origincoffee.co.za
Heaven Coffee: A Spiritual Coffee Experience Inside a Historic Church
For a truly unique coffee outing, visit Heaven Coffee at 38 Burg Street, Cape Town City Centre. This café is literally set inside a historic Methodist church — a serene and stunning space where the sacred meets the everyday ritual of coffee drinking.
I found the atmosphere both calming and awe-inspiring, with high stained glass windows filtering the sunlight in beautiful hues. The space is perfect for reflection, quiet chats, or some focused reading with your cappuccino.
Heaven Coffee serves some of Cape Town’s finest blends, focusing on ethically sourced beans and fair trade practices. Their baristas are exceptionally skilled, and their signature “Heavenly Brew” espresso is smooth, rich, and perfectly balanced.
Don’t miss their homemade baked treats – the almond croissants and chocolate brownies are sublime accompaniments.
Business Details
Address: 38 Burg Street, Cape Town City Centre
Hours: Mon-Sun 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Price Range: R25 – R50 per cup
Wi-Fi: Available
Contact: +27 72 884 2057
Instagram: @heavencoffee
Deluxe Coffeeworks: Cape Town’s Hidden Coffee Treasure
Multiple locations across Cape Town, Stellenbosch & Namibia
Deluxe Coffeeworks began as a modest cafe on Church Street but has blossomed into a beloved chain known for consistently great coffee. If I had to sum up Deluxe in one phrase, I’d call it “the South African Starbucks, but with legitimately good coffee.”
My Favourite Spot: The Kloof Street Hideaway
If you blink, you might miss it—that’s part of the charm. This hole-in-the-wall café feels like a well-kept secret, perfect for those mornings (or afternoons) when you desperately need a quality caffeine boost. After a rough night, their mocha is my go-to—smooth, rich, and absolutely unbeatable.
Deluxe At Home: Coffee Subscription
Love their coffee? You can subscribe to have Deluxe’s premium Arabica blends delivered straight to your door starting at just R52.00 per month. This is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy café-quality coffee without leaving home.
Pricing
Mocha from R35 | Subscription from R52/month
Opening Hours (Kloof Street)
Mon-Fri: 07:30 – 16:00
Sat-Sun: 08:00 – 14:00
Contact & Location
Map & Directions
Phone: +27 21 745 6343
Website: deluxecoffeeworks.co.za
Jason’s Bakery: The Coffee Spot Worth the Wait
83 Main Road, Green Point, Cape Town
If you think you can just walk in, grab a table, and sip your coffee immediately, think again. Jason’s Bakery has become a Cape Town institution for its stellar coffee and bakery offerings, which means it’s almost always packed. You might find yourself queuing outside, but trust me, the wait is part of the experience.
Why the Hype? 12/10 Coffee and Baked Goods Heaven
The coffee quality here is unmatched—smooth, rich, and perfectly balanced. Pair that with freshly baked bagels, loaves, brioche, or cookies, and you’ve got a breakfast or brunch to remember. Plus, they allow pre-orders, so if you’re a planner, you can skip the line by ordering your favourites in advance.
Price Range
Coffee from R30 | Bakery items vary (R25-R70)
Hours of Operation
Mon-Sat: 07:00 – 16:00
Sun: 08:00 – 14:00
Contact & Website
Rosetta Roastery: Award-Winning Artisan Coffee
Fourways Coffee Roastery, Tokai, Cape Town
Rosetta Roastery is a true gem, founded by metalhead friends who turned their passion for roasting into world-class coffee craftsmanship. Their commitment to quality and experimentation is evident in every cup.
My Experience
Their coffee is bold, complex, and full of character—perfect for those who appreciate artisanal brews. They roast onsite and have a small café where you can try their freshest batches. If you want the freshest coffee at home, try their subscription service or buy their beans in select Cape Town cafes.
Price Range
Single espresso R30 | Bags of beans from R90
Hours
Mon-Fri: 08:00 – 17:00
Sat: 09:00 – 14:00
Contact & Website
Lazari Coffee Shop: My Top Pick in Vredehoek
Located right in the heart of Vredehoek, Lazari offers more than just coffee — it’s a complete sensory experience.
Breathtaking Views of Table Mountain
One of Lazari’s standout features is the panoramic view of Table Mountain visible from its large windows and outdoor seating. It’s the perfect backdrop whether you’re catching up with friends or taking a moment for yourself.
Vegan Shakshuka – A Personal Favorite
Their vegan shakshuka is simply phenomenal — rich, flavorful, and hearty. It’s the dish I always order and recommend to anyone visiting.
Flat White Perfection with Rosetta Beans
I’m very particular about my flat whites, and Lazari nails it every time using beans sourced from the renowned Rosetta Roastery. The balance of flavor, smooth texture, and latte art make it a treat.
Dog-Friendly Vibes
If you’re a dog owner, you’ll love that Lazari welcomes your furry friends warmly — with in-house treats and a relaxed atmosphere.
Ideal for Remote Work
Fast, reliable Wi-Fi, comfy seating, natural light, and an irresistible selection of freshly baked cakes and croissants make Lazari a hotspot for working remotely. Whether it’s a few hours of productivity or a casual coffee date, this place has you covered.
Lazari Coffee Shop Details
Address: 19 Vredehoek Rd, Vredehoek, Cape Town
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Contact: +27 21 123 4567
Email: [email protected]
Website: lazaricoffee.co.za
Instagram: @lazaricoffee
Other Must-Visit Coffee Shops in Cape Town
Saint James Cafe – Cozy & Dog-Friendly in Observatory
This small but charming coffee spot in Observatory boasts a welcoming vibe and, importantly, is dog-friendly. Ideal for quick catch-ups or a casual hangout with your four-legged companion.
Location: Observatory, Cape Town
Hours: Tues-Sun, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (closed Mondays)
Kamili – Long Street’s Bustling Coffee Hub
Right in the middle of Cape Town’s energetic Long Street, Kamili offers expertly roasted coffee and a lively atmosphere. Great for people watching or grabbing a quick coffee while exploring.
Location: 85 Long Street, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Sun, 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tribe Coffee – Woodstock’s Artisanal Blend Spot
Located in Woodstock, Tribe Coffee is not to be missed. Their in-house blends are meticulously crafted, and the café’s vibe is casual yet sophisticated. Perfect for a morning pick-me-up or a weekend treat.
Location: Woodstock, Cape Town
Hours: Tues-Sun, 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Espresso Lab Microroasters – For the True Coffee Purist
If you’re into single-origin, freshly roasted beans with a keen eye on quality, Espresso Lab Microroasters in Cape Town is a must-visit. Their baristas are true artists, and the coffee experience here is unmatched.
Location: Cape Town Central
Hours: Mon-Sat, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Final Thoughts
Cape Town offers something for every coffee enthusiast. For a bold, immersive coffee experience, Truth Coffee is unbeatable. If you want a sustainable, creative environment to work and relax, The Electric is a stellar choice. And if you crave artisanal chocolate paired with your coffee, Honest Chocolate is the place to be.
If you’ve visited any of these spots, I’d love to hear your experience. Or if you know other must-visit coffee shops in Cape Town, drop your recommendations!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which coffee shop has the best coffee in Cape Town?
- Truth Coffee is often regarded as the best for its award-winning blends and unique atmosphere.
- Are these coffee shops suitable for working remotely?
- Yes, especially The Electric, which offers free Wi-Fi and a relaxed environment for remote work.
- Do any of these places offer vegan options?
- Honest Chocolate has excellent plant-based options, including vegan hot chocolate.
- Are these cafes kid-friendly?
- While all are welcoming, Honest Chocolate’s chocolate focus may be especially appealing to families with kids.
- Can I buy coffee beans or chocolate to take home?
- Yes, both Truth Coffee and Honest Chocolate sell their products for take-home enjoyment.
- Which coffee shop is best for working remotely?
- Bread, Milk & Honey is my top pick for remote work due to its bright natural light, reliable Wi-Fi, and spacious seating.
- Are these coffee shops kid-friendly?
- Molten Toffee is casual and kid-friendly, but seating is limited. Bread, Milk & Honey has a calm vibe but might be busy during peak hours. The Ladder is more suited to adults and quieter visits.
- Do these spots serve vegetarian or vegan options?
- Yes, all three offer vegetarian options, and some vegan-friendly items as well. It’s always good to check the daily menu or call ahead if you have specific dietary needs.
- Is parking available at these locations?
- Parking in Cape Town city center can be tricky. Bread, Milk & Honey has nearby public parking lots. Molten Toffee and The Ladder have limited street parking, so consider walking or using rideshare options if possible.
- What’s the best time to visit these coffee shops?
- Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid peak hours and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.
- Are these cafes suitable for remote work?
- Yes, especially Ground Art Caffe and Origin Coffee Roasting offer free and reliable Wi-Fi with comfortable seating.
- Do these cafes offer vegan or dairy-free options?
- Yes, all three offer plant-based milk alternatives and some vegan snacks.
- Can I buy coffee beans to take home?
- Origin Coffee Roasting and Ground Art both sell their beans for home brewing.
- Are reservations needed?
- Generally not, but booking is recommended for Origin’s workshops or large groups.
- Q: Do these coffee shops offer vegan or dairy-free milk options?
- A: Yes! Deluxe Coffeeworks and Jason’s Bakery both offer oat and almond milk alternatives. Rosetta Roastery also caters to dietary preferences with dairy-free milk.
- Q: Can I buy coffee beans online from these shops?
- A: Absolutely. Deluxe and Rosetta both have online stores and subscription options. Jason’s Bakery also sells some of their blends online.
- Q: Are these places kid-friendly?
- A: Jason’s Bakery has a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, whereas Deluxe and Rosetta are better suited for adults or serious coffee lovers.
- Q: Do I need a reservation?
- Reservations aren’t typically required, but during weekends and holidays, Jason’s Bakery especially can get very busy, so pre-ordering or arriving early helps.
- Which coffee shop in Cape Town has the best view?
- Lazari Coffee Shop in Vredehoek offers stunning panoramic views of Table Mountain, making it a top choice for scenic coffee breaks.
- Are there vegan food options available at these coffee shops?
- Yes! Lazari Coffee Shop is known for its delicious vegan shakshuka, and many other coffee shops offer a variety of vegan and vegetarian treats.
- Can I bring my dog to these coffee shops?
- Lazari Coffee Shop and Saint James Cafe are especially dog-friendly and welcome your furry friends with open arms.
- Do these cafes offer Wi-Fi for remote working?
- Yes, Lazari Coffee Shop and many others provide free Wi-Fi and comfortable spaces ideal for remote working or studying.
- Where can I find single-origin and specialty coffee in Cape Town?
- Espresso Lab Microroasters and Tribe Coffee are excellent places for single-origin and artisanal specialty coffee lovers.
