Franschhoek’s quaint charm extends to its adorable cafes, each offering a unique blend of warmth and indulgence. Nestled in one of the Western Cape’s most famous valleys, amidst vineyards and scenic mountains, these cafes exude a cosy ambiance that beckons visitors to linger.
From the aroma of freshly brewed coffee to the tantalising scent of baked pastries, they provide a sensory delight. Whether sipping on artisanal teas or relishing decadent desserts, visitors can find solace in these havens, perfect for intimate conversations or solitary contemplation.
Cafe Du Vin: A Wine Lover’s Dream Cafe
When it comes to cute cafes in Franschhoek, Cafe du Vin is unusual: its cellar holds over ten thousand bottles of excellent wines.
Found in one of the oldest buildings at the centre of Franschhoek’s main road, Cafe du Vin is sophisticated yet casual and boasts delicious meals paired with excellent customer service.
Cafe du Vin offers an expansive breakfast menu that includes Belgian and French favourites, such as crepes and waffles, as well as a diverse lunch and dinner menu. There is an indoor area that is kept cosy or cool to provide sanctuary from the weather outside and there is also an outdoor dining space with elegant al fresco seating found in front of the cafe.
When: Daily 8am to 10pm
Where: 46 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek
Website: cafeduvin.co.za
Email: info@cafeduvin.co.za
Tel: 021 876 4542
Get Lost Coffee: New Kid on the Franschhoek Block
Get Lost Coffee: New Kid on the Franschhoek BlockGet Lost Coffee is a new cafe that is already proving to be a hit with locals and visitors. It is a family-run coffee shop with simple decor, excellent coffee, delicious pastries and an extraordinarily good menu, all watched over by resident dachshund, Pea.
If you are searching for something different but with a calm and pretty aesthetic, then Get Lost Coffee is where you need to find yourself. Each nook and cranny provides a perfect spot for your next Instagram post with elegant lines and captivating details, such as the curated selection of local crafts to be found in the gift corner.
Get Lost Coffee currently offers a simple breakfast menu, with delicious coffee options, lovely cakes and – according to reviews – the best cheese scones ever. The calmness and simplicity of Get Lost Coffee also make it a great little spot to work from.
When: Daily 7.45am to 5pm (later on Fridays)
Where: Shop 1, Franschhoek Square, 32 Huguenot St, Franschhoek, 7690
Instagram: getlostcoffee
Facebook: Get-Lost-Coffee
Email: getlostcoffeesa@gmail.com
Tel: 072 581 2641
Terbodore Cafe: A Touch of Culinary Creativity
Terbodore Cafe: A Touch of Culinary CreativityIn search of something creative? Then Terbodore Cafe has got your back. Of all cafes in Franschhoek, Terbodore is a sanctuary for culinary creativity.
Its summer menu offers intriguing options, such as a Banana Bread Granola Bowl, Tropical Breakfast Cheesecake, Sardines on Toast, and Spinach & Feta Lentil Tacos. Even the most adventurous of foodies is bound to encounter something new on the menu, which makes the journey of exploring the cafe even more exciting.
Terbodore Cafe has amazing coffee but also offers non-coffee options, such as kombucha, milkshakes, smoothies and a variety of teas. And for the many days of fine weather in Franschhoek, there’s a deck that opens out onto a serene garden.
When: 7am to 5pm
Where: 29A Huguenot St, Franschhoek
Website: terbodore.com
Email: contact@terbodore.com
Tel: 021 876 2731
The Hoek Espresso Bar: A Cosy Little Corner
The Hoek Espresso Bar: A Cosy Little CornerSituated just off the beaten track, The Hoek is the perfect place to escape, sit back, and enjoy a perfect cup of coffee.
The Hoek prides itself on providing a good cup of coffee at an affordable price, making it an ideal retreat to savour artisanal coffee in the picturesque surroundings of the Cape Winelands.
At The Hoek, the art of espresso is elevated to a delightful experience. Whether you’re seeking a meticulously crafted cappuccino, a bold and rich Americano, or a velvety flat white, the skilled baristas ensure that each cup is a testament to their dedication to quality. The aroma of freshly ground beans fills the air, enticing visitors to indulge in the perfect blend of flavour and aroma. Visitors are also welcome to purchase a bag of coffee to take home.
When: Mon to Sat 7am to 3pm | Sun 8am to 3pm
Where: Resevoir Street, Franschhoek
Facebook: www.facebook.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com
Tel: 079 451 3019
The Garden Cafe: Family-Friendly
The Garden Cafe is a family-friendly breakfast and brunch spot that offers rosé all day and great lunch options.
This cosy and cute coffee shop with bistro-style foods also provides two playgrounds for kids to play. A special treat to try at this cafe is the ‘Bee Sting’: a custard slice of heaven drizzled with honey on top.
On the menu, you’ll find shakshuka, salmon toast, and various bowls for you to try out. They also offer free tastings and live events, which they announce on their Instagram page along with various seasonal specials.
When: Daily 8am to 5pm
Where: 62 Huguenot St, Franschhoek
Facebook: thegardencafe
Instagram: garden.cafe.sa
Tel: 076 708 8827
Smitten: A Destination amongst Cafes in Franschhoek
Smitten: A Destination amongst Cafes in FranschhoekBorn out of a shared passion for food, Smitten is the love child of veteran TV anchor and broadcaster, Imraan Vagar, and chef and host of ‘Geure Uit Die Vallei’ on SABC2, Chris Smit.
Located at The Yard, a picturesque and charming oasis of tranquillity in the centre of Franschhoek town, Smitten is a combination of a restaurant, a deli shop, a bakery and a bar. Regional produce, seasonal ingredients and unpretentious food at affordable prices all form part of the daily dining experience at this destination restaurant and popular village hangout.
Smitten offers an appetizing selection of hot and cold breakfasts, deliciously varied lunch offerings – and afternoon tea and cocktails, aperitifs and bite-sized nibbles. They are currently not open for dinners and they do not take reservations. Walk-ins are encouraged and service is on a first-come, first-served basis.
When: Mon to Sat 8am to 5pm | Closed on Tues | Sun 8 am to 4pm
Where: The Yard Centre, 38 Huguenot St, Franschhoek
Website: www.smittencafe.co.za
Email: info@smittencafe.co.za
Tel: 021 300 1508
La Motte Artisanal Bakery & Garden Café: An Air Of France
This charming day-time spot celebrates bread in all its original beauty with a wonderful daily variety of freshly-baked options from the on-site wood-fired oven, available to purchase and take home while simultaneously forming the basis of the delicious seasonal menu.
Enjoy beautiful breakfasts, lunchtime options and tempting patisserie at this cosiest of cafes in Franschhoek which offers both intimate indoor and outdoor seating. Guests are welcome to explore the gardens with ancient oaks, stretched lawns, tranquil ponds and farm-yard-inspired playgrounds for young ones.
Other than enjoying the serene gardens or a relaxed meal, guests can buy bread and patisserie to take home, browse a skilfully curated selection of lifestyle items and gifts or opt for a wine tasting experience in the Historic Cellar next door.
When: Wed to Sun 8am to 4pm | Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
Where: La Motte Wine Estate, Franschhoek
Website: la-motte.com
Email: bakery@la-motte.co.za
Tel: 021 876 8825
Le Parfum Café: A Haven For Perfume Lovers
Franschhoek may be renowned for its world-class cuisine and excellent wines, but it is also the home of the first perfume museum in Africa. The charming and unique Le Parfum Café is located beside a perfumery making it the go-to spot for perfume lovers visiting Franschhoek.
Using the highest-quality fragrances from around the globe, these specialist scent creators produce sweet-smelling serums free of any harsh undertones associated with low-quality chemical-based scents. The intimate setting fused with luxurious scents makes this one of the most fragrant cafes in Franschhoek.
What better way to enjoy summer in the Cape Winelands than to relax surrounded by the picturesque setting at Kumanov Perfumery – a perfect place for a day trip or a weekend getaway from the bustling city.
When: Daily 9am to 5pm
Where: 2 Huguenot St, Franschhoek
Facebook: Le-Parfum-Café
Email: dimo_kumanov@yahoo.com
Tel: 074 121 0012