As a self-confessed lover of breakfast and brunch, I’ve woken up in the city far too many mornings and wondered where the most serenely beautiful breakfast venues are in Cape Town.

Now, I’m by no means an eggs Benedict fundie nor a croissant critic – it’s more about atmosphere and views for me – and I’ve often felt utterly lacking in imagination. Where are those charming venues that offer that Mother City magic? Sure, Cape Town heaves with frenetic espresso kiosks and buzzing coffee shops, but where are those epic weekend morning breakfast havens?

Knowing how many breakfast enthusiasts there must be out there, I’ve compiled a list of serene breakfast spots which all offer outdoor dining, a dollop of nature and a sense of peace within 15 minutes drive of the city.

The Roundhouse/Rumbullion, Camps Bay

The Roundhouse is nestled between a thicket of trees on the slopes of the Glen in Camps Bay, between mountain and sea, and is a favoured venue for celebrations and lingering weekend dining. Rumbillion is the name given to the more relaxed al fresco breakfast and lunch area set out on lush lawns, with views of the ocean. The breakfast menu offers delights such as Eggs Benedict with an English muffin and hollandaise, or French toast and roasted bananas with toasted pecans.

Address: Round House Road (off Kloof Road), The Glen, Camps Bay, Cape Town. Phone: 021 438 4347

Opening Hours: The Rumbillion Lawns (Summer Season only from 1 October – 30 April): Breakfast (Friday – Sunday 09h00 – 11h30)

Rhodes Memorial Restaurant and Tea Garden – Southern Suburbs

A Cape Town stalwart, the restaurant at Rhodes Memorial is positioned on the slopes of the Newlands mountainside, offering sweeping views of the suburbs. The breakfast menu impresses, with offerings such as delectable Flapjacks, served with banana, strawberries and syrup, or a full English with all the trimmings.

Address: Rhodes Memorial. Phone: +27 21 687 0000

Opening hours: 9am – 5pm, 7 days a week

Fraiche Ayres – Rosebank

Fraiche Ayres is one of those tucked away gems that I just adore. Located within the lush confines of one of the Southern Suburb’s longest standing plant nurseries, the restaurant is a place of tranquillity and beauty.

Address: Starke Ayres Garden Centre, Liesbeek Parkway, Rosebank. Phone: (021) 686 6004

Opening hours: Open Monday to Sunday – 8.30am to 4.45pm

Oranjezicht City Farm Market – for Saturday morning breakfast

The Oranjezicht City Farm is a beautiful initiative, whereby fresh vegetables, fruit and herbs are grown by the community, for the community. The produce is sold at the outdoor market on Saturdays, along with goods from other traders that compliment the overall theme, including fresh juices, honey, eggs, bread, nuts and a range of other goodies. The profits go towards funding the farm.

Address: Oranjezicht City Farm, Sidmouth Avenue, Cape Town. Phone: Sheryl 083 628 3426 or Kurt 083 508 1066

Opening hours: 08h00 to 16h00

The Gardener’s Cottage – Montebello, Newlands

Set in the original gatekeeper’s home under the shade of old camphor trees, The Gardener’s Cottage in Montebello is not only a tranquil and beautiful eatery – it also promises culinary delights.

Address: 31 Newlands Avenue, Newlands. Phone: 021 689 3158

Opening hours: Weekdays: 08:00 – 16h30. Weekends & Public Holidays: 08:30 – 16:30. Closed Mondays

Little Stream

I’m almost loath to divulge these 7 acres of magic, but I couldn’t leave it out, as Little Stream reminds me of The Secret Garden – an idyllic, verdant estate in Klein Constantia. Breakfast is an absolute treat, so spoil yourself and start your day off with a huge helping of bliss.

Address: Klein Constantia Road, Constantia, Cape Town. Phone: 021 794 3413

Opening Hours: Tue – Sun 8:00 – 17:00 summer. Tue – Fri 9:00 – 17:00 winter. Sat – Sun 8:30 – 17:00 winter

Bascule at Cape Grace – Brunch

Set amongst bobbing yachts in the V&A Waterfront yacht basin, Bascule has to be one of the most gorgeous brunch venues in Cape Town. Serving expertly made coffee and sumptuous breakfasts, Bascule is a luxurious way to start any day. On colder mornings, the dark wood dining area makes for an opulent shelter, offering views of the yachts anchored in the basin.

Address: West Quay Road, Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town 8001. Phone: 021 410 7100

Opening hours: 10:00 until late, 7 days a week.

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