Cape Town and the Winelands are not just about breathtaking landscapes and world-class wines—they are also home to some of the finest artisanal bakeries. With crusty sourdough loaves, buttery croissants, and decadent pastries, these bakeries showcase the passion and craftsmanship of their bakers. With personal anecdotes, practical tips, and all the details you need to plan your visit, I take you on a delicious tour of the 10 best artisanal bakeries in the region.
1. La Motte Artisanal Bakery and Garden Café
Where Tradition Meets Innovation
There is no doubt that this bakery is a must-visit for anyone who loves bread, and is located on the picturesque La Motte Wine Estate in Franschhoek. With wood-fired ovens, carefully sourced flours, and slow-fermented doughs, Markus Farbinger (of the famed Île de Pain bakery) and Ricardo Slawers, the resident baker, make magic in the kitchen.
What to Try:
- The ‘Motte’ organic sourdough (a fan favorite).
- Divine mosbolletjies during harvest season.
- Pasteis de nata and a range of patisserie.
Personal Experience:
“I still remember the first time I bit into their ciabatta—chewy, crusty, and perfectly balanced. Paired with a glass of La Motte’s Sauvignon Blanc, it was pure bliss.”
Good to Know:
- The café’s all-day menu features scrambled eggs on croissants, eggs Benedict on brioche, and hearty open sandwiches.
- The historic Jonkershuis setting, with its glass walls and shaded lawns, is perfect for families.
Details:
- Opening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 8am – 4pm (kitchen closes at 3pm).
- Contact: 021 876 8825, [email protected].
- Location: La Motte Wine Estate, R45, Franschhoek.
2. C’est La Vie
French Flair in Fish Hoek
This charming French-inspired bakery café, just a stone’s throw from Fish Hoek Beach, is a local gem. Owner Jo Hill has created a haven for bread and pastry enthusiasts, with two locations: the bakery for fresh loaves and pastries, and the café for leisurely meals.
What to Try:
- White sourdough pain de campagne.
- Flaky croissants and cinnamon sticks.
Personal Experience:
“The aroma of freshly baked bread hit me as soon as I walked in. I couldn’t resist grabbing a pain au chocolat—it was buttery, flaky, and utterly divine.”
Good to Know:
- Jo’s nephew, Brett Nortier, now runs Rosemead Artisan Bakery in Yzerfontein.
Details:
- Opening Hours: Bakery – Wednesday – Sunday, 7:30am – 12pm; Café – Daily, 8am – 4pm.
- Contact: 083 676 7430, [email protected].
- Location: Bakery – 2A Recreation Road, Fish Hoek; Café – 24 Beach Road, Fish Hoek.
3. Motherdough
Sourdough Magic in Franschhoek
Meet Alfonsina, a 105-year-old sourdough culture that’s the heart and soul of Motherdough. This Franschhoek bakery, born during lockdown, has quickly become a favorite for its naturally fermented breads and pastries.
What to Try:
- Bomboloni and maritozzi (Italian pastries).
- Sourdough brownies and savoury pies.
Personal Experience:
“Alfonsina’s sourdough pizzazz is real—I’ve never tasted bread with such depth of flavor. The bomboloni was a sweet, pillowy delight.”
Details:
- Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday, 8am – 5pm; Sunday, 8am – 3pm.
- Contact: [email protected].
- Location: Corner Main Road & De Wet Street, Franschhoek.
4. Jason Bakery
Green Point’s Pastry Paradise
Jason Lilley, aka “Captain Bread,” is the genius behind this Green Point institution. Known for his almond croissants and creative pastries, Jason Bakery is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
What to Try:
- Almond croissants and milk tart brioche doughnuts.
- Daily specials like the crookie (croissant + cookie).
Personal Experience:
“I joined the queue at 7am and it was worth every minute. The almond croissant was a masterpiece—crispy, buttery, and perfectly balanced.”
Details:
- Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday, 7am – 3pm; Sunday, 8am – 2pm.
- Contact: 021 433 0538, [email protected].
- Location: 83 Main Road, Green Point, Cape Town.
5. Olympia Café and Bakery
Kalk Bay‘s Coastal Gem
Overlooking Kalk Bay Harbour, Olympia Café and Bakery is a beloved institution. Whether you’re here for a flaky croissant or a hearty meal, the warm atmosphere and stunning views make it unforgettable.
What to Try:
- Flaky croissants and cinnamon twists.
- Ciabatta for mopping up sauces.
Personal Experience:
“Sitting on the terrace with a cappuccino and a croissant, watching the waves crash—it doesn’t get better than this.”
Details:
- Opening Hours: Café – Daily, 7am – 9pm; Bakery – 6:30am – 7pm.
- Contact: 021 788 6396, [email protected].
- Location: 134 Main Road, Kalk Bay, Cape Town.
6. The Foodbarn Deli Shop
Noordhoek’s Culinary Star
Chef Franck Dangereux’s Foodbarn Deli Shop is a treasure trove of artisanal breads, pastries, and ready-cooked meals. It’s a must-stop on any Cape Town food tour.
What to Try:
- Croissants and pain au chocolat.
- Olive sticks and fougasse à l’huile.
Personal Experience:
“I grabbed a croissant for the road and ended up eating it in the car—it was that good.”
Details:
- Opening Hours: Daily, 8am – 8pm.
- Contact: 021 789 1390, [email protected].
- Location: Corner Main Road (M6) and Village Lane, Noordhoek.
7. South Yeaster
Hout Bay’s Sourdough Haven
This sibling-run bakery is a hidden gem, known for its naturally leavened breads and butter-rich croissants.
What to Try:
- Almond croissants and kimchi gruyère croissants.
- Sourdough baguettes.
Personal Experience:
“The almond croissant was a revelation—flaky, buttery, and packed with flavor.”
Details:
- Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 8am – 4pm.
- Contact: [email protected].
- Location: 4 The Promenade, Hout Bay.
8. Proof Bakery
Salt River’s Hidden Gem
Proof Bakery supplies some of Cape Town’s best guesthouses and delis, but their Claremont store is where you’ll find their full range of breads and pastries.
What to Try:
- The crookie (croissant + cookie).
- Chocolate mousse croissant.
Personal Experience:
“The crookie was worth the hype—decadent, gooey, and utterly indulgent.”
Details:
- Opening Hours: Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm; Saturday, 8am – 2pm; Sunday, 8am – 1pm.
- Contact: [email protected].
- Location: Belvedere Square, Claremont.
9. Backerei
German Tradition in Somerset West
This family-run bakery uses a 12-generation-old sourdough starter to create robust, flavorful loaves.
What to Try:
- Signature sourdough bread.
- Almond and sesame loaf.
Personal Experience:
“The pretzel twists were a delightful surprise—crispy, salty, and addictive.”
Details:
- Opening Hours: Monday – Friday, 8am – 4pm; Saturday, 8am – 2pm.
- Contact: [email protected].
- Location: Shop 4B, Corner 1 Dirkie Uys and 149 Main Road, Somerset West.
10. Oswald’s Bakery
Gardens’ Hidden Treasure
Tucked away behind Kloof Street, Oswald’s Bakery is a hidden gem known for its sourdough breads and pastries.
What to Try:
- Cinnamon twists.
- Sourdough croissants (weekends only).
Personal Experience:
“The cinnamon twists were a revelation—soft, sweet, and perfectly spiced.”
Details:
- Opening Hours: Monday – Friday, 7:30am – 5pm; Saturday, 7:30am – 2pm.
- Contact: 064 028 3554, [email protected].
- Location: 29 Union Street, Gardens, Cape Town.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit these bakeries?
Early mornings are ideal, especially on weekends when popular items sell out fast.
2. Are these bakeries family-friendly?
Yes, most offer kid-friendly menus and relaxed atmospheres.
3. Do they cater to dietary restrictions?
Many offer gluten-free and vegan options—check their menus or call ahead.
Final Thoughts
Cape Town and the Winelands are a bread lover’s paradise, and these 10 bakeries are just the beginning. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, make sure to add at least a few of these spots to your itinerary.
Disclaimer:
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors, such as price, cost, time, and location. For the most accurate information, please refer to the official Instagram, Facebook, phone numbers, addresses, and map links provided.
Bon appétit!
