I have this theory. Now, it might not land me a Nobel Prize or shake up the world of science, but it’s something I think Elite Traveler readers might appreciate. Unless I’m keen to max out both my calorie count and my frequent flyer miles, I’ll just say it: The southern hemisphere does brunch better.
Think about it: coffee dates in Sydney, acai bowls in Brazil. But the true heavyweight of the brunch world? Cape Town.
There’s something about this city that transforms even the simplest avocado toast into a gastronomic masterpiece. From chic cafés tucked away in hidden corners of the city to bustling spots with panoramic views of the ocean, the best brunch in Cape Town isn’t just a bite to eat; it’s a full-on occasion – and it suddenly makes sense why they say breakfast is the most important meal of the day.
Whether you’re recovering from a night out or just casually lounging with a flat white, Cape Town’s brunch spots cater to all moods, tastes and Instagram feeds. So, if you’re lucky enough to find yourself in this culinary haven, here’s a roundup of the best brunch spots in Cape Town.
[See also: The Best Hotels in Cape Town]
Oasis at Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel
The name says it all – Oasis at Mount Nelson is an elegant, serene escape from the city’s buzz. Nestled within the iconic pink walls of the Mount Nelson hotel, on a Sunday morning this spot delivers a brunch experience as timeless as the property itself. The lush garden setting, combined with impeccable service, creates an atmosphere that’s both luxurious and relaxed, perfect for a lazy weekend brunch.
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Their buffet-style spread is the stuff of dreams. Freshly baked pastries, artisanal cheeses, smoked salmon and an array of vibrant salads make for a colorful and satisfying start. But the real highlight? The made-to-order dishes like eggs Florentine and Belgian waffles that are as beautifully presented as they are delicious.
While the food is the star, brunching at Oasis also means indulging in the peaceful surroundings. On Sundays, a jazz bar takes over the pool club – so you can relax as palm trees sway gently overhead and the distant hum of the city fades into the background. If you’re in the mood to linger, grab a glass of bubbly and enjoy Cape Town’s best-kept secret: the simple joy of doing absolutely nothing in the perfect setting.
belmond.com/mount-nelson-hotel
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Starlings
The original Starlings café in Claremont was, and to an extent still is, a local secret. Hidden behind a large hedge on the quiet Belvedere Road, it is a wonder how anyone found this quaint spot.
Once it was discovered, people kept coming back for more and more. The eggs Benedict is renowned for being one of the best in the city and the selection of fresh juices is out of this world.
Now, Starlings has gone somewhat mainstream by opening up a café in the Labotessa Hotel, a luxury resort set in a beautiful 17th-century building – and Starlings blends into it perfectly. Diners can enjoy an all-day breakfast menu, including the famous eggs Benedict and freshly made juices before heading out to experience the local shopping.
Harvey’s at The Winchester Hotel
Turn brunch into a formal affair at the luxurious Winchester Hotel, where every Sunday, the hotel’s Harvey’s Bar puts on a generous selection of culinary delights to a backdrop of live jazz.
The appropriately named Jazz Brunch includes a Sunday newspaper and a glass of sparkling wine on arrival. Guests are invited to sit in the tranquil shaded courtyard, offering respite from the sounds of the city and the heat of the sun. There is a wide selection to choose from at the brunch buffet including fresh pastries, cheeses, traditional breakfasts and even sushi. To top it off, there is also a selection of decadent desserts.
Renowned artists have strutted their stuff at this popular event and brunches can book up well in advance for popular performers.
Azure Restaurant at The Twelve Apostles Hotel
If you’re the type who prefers your eggs with a side of jaw-dropping ocean views, brunch at The Twelve Apostles Hotel is the perfect spot. Situated on the dramatic coastline just outside Cape Town, this luxurious hotel pairs panoramic views of the Atlantic with a seafood-focused brunch that highlights the day’s freshest catches.
From oysters and prawns to locally sourced line fish, the seafood selection here is as impressive as the view. The spread is complemented by a selection of lighter, garden-fresh salads and indulgent desserts. Whether you’re sipping on a mimosa or simply soaking in the salty sea breeze, brunch at The Twelve Apostles is as much about the setting as it is about the food. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds, leaving you wondering which is more satisfying – what’s on the plate or the horizon you’re staring at.
The Pot Luck Club
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Widely considered to be one of Cape Town’s coolest restaurants, The Pot Luck Club is further evidence of the culinary genius of top chef Luke Dale-Roberts. While he pushes the boundaries of molecular gastronomy at his restaurant The Test Kitchen, here Dale-Roberts offers a more approachable menu whilst maintaining the highest quality.
The Sunday brunch is an eclectic affair and consists of a collection of dishes served on a platter. Diners begin with the ‘Salty’ platter including fresh oysters and buffalo mozzarella with hazelnuts and Parma ham. Next is the ‘Sweet’ platter, then an ‘Umami’ selection and an appropriate ‘Sweet Ending.’
Although the food itself is reason enough to visit, there is also an option to upgrade to bottomless sparkling wine and a DYI Bloody Mary station. To top it all off, the restaurant’s location at the top of The Silo hotel means it boasts 360-degree views of Cape Town, making it arguably the most scenic dining spot in the city – and certainly one of the best spots for brunch in Cape Town.
Loading Bay
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For the ecologically-minded, Loading Bay is the place to be. This unassuming but intimidatingly cool concept store might not strike you as the spot for one of the best brunches in Cape Town – if you’re hunting for trendy skincare and artisanal perfumes, however, you’re definitely in the right place. But don’t be fooled: you’d be missing out if you skipped the food.
This contemporary brunch spot not only boasts a wide selection of holistic offerings but implements a strict ‘ground-to-plate’ philosophy. They only use suppliers who support the three pillars of regenerative farming: soil health, animal welfare and social fairness.
The menu includes delectable options like the popular Breakfast Burger, made with bacon, egg, cheese and grilled banana. Lighter choices include grain and nut bowls as well as plant-based dishes.
What sets Loading Bay apart from the rest isn’t just the food. The space doubles as a boutique, allowing diners to browse high-quality, ethically-conscious clothing brands before and after their meal.
Mulberry & Prince
Cornel Mostert and Cynthia Rivera cut their culinary teeth working in some of the best restaurants in New York, Chicago and Copenhagen before returning to Cape Town to open Mulberry and Prince.
An ode to their experiences in the US, the Sunday brunch is stacked full of American comfort food made with high-quality ingredients. Choose from the big plates such as the BreakFEAST, which includes everything one could hope for in a cooked brunch.
Alternatively, head to the sweet section for some of the best French toast you’re likely to get in Cape Town or the delectable salted caramel apple pie waffle for a twist on an all-American classic. Add on bottomless mimosas to make this stylish brunch a celebratory affair.
[See also: The Best Restaurants in Cape Town]
