The Best spots for Coffee Breaks and Light Lunches in Stellenbosch

It’s a misconception that Stellenbosch is a student town where folk only drink wine, for there are as many coffee shops as there are wine estates. In addition to the quantities of wine imbibed by locals and tourists alike, coffee sustains many people who need their morning ‘wake-me-up’ or alternatively a mid-afternoon caffeine jolt. There are many tiny gems hidden in nooks, crannies and alleys, which is what makes exploring Stellenbosch on foot a must. If you do not have the time to travel or to explore, allow us to tell you all about the finest places to enjoy your steaming espresso or frothy cappuccino.

De Oude Bank Bakkerij

Formerly a bank, as you may have guessed, De Oude Bank Bakkerij in Church Street is now a popular bakery. You can pop in on your way home from work to grab oven-fresh ciabattas, baguettes, pretzels and sublime treats. If you have more time, linger to savour a selection of finely prepared dishes or to enjoy your favourite coffee.

 Merkabah

Merkabah in the Brampton Wine Studio in Church Street specialises in wine, coffee, and fun. Here you can discover your hidden artistic talent by doodling on your chalkboard table while waiting for your macchiato. Taking a trip to Merkabah for your coffee with a difference is without a doubt worth “the ride.”

Mill Coffee House

Mill Coffee House, situated on the corner of Dorp and Mill Streets, promises visitors an appetising range of pastries, paninis, wraps and salads to enjoy with a cup of coffee.

 Liza’s Meeting Place

Liza’s meeting place is a vibrant coffee shop and restaurant in Dorp Street where friends meet over frothy cappuccinos. Their motto is “Happiness through food, drinks and wine”.

Melissa’s

Melissa’s is a retail store with coffee shops scattered all over the Western Cape. Not only are they a coffee shop and restaurant, you are also able to shop for uniquely South African products as well as fresh organic produce, all under one roof.

The Blue Crane And The Butterfly

The Blue Crane and The Butterfly is a worthy stop. This coffee shop is always bustling with activity, from students to mom’s and their children. What’s wonderful about this coffee shop is that it has a slight European feel to it. Try their delicious Parma Ham, Fig Relish, Basil and Brie sandwich; we hear they’re the best around.

Taste Bud Food Pantry and Eatery

Those who have a sweet tooth will find this coffee shop in Ryneveld Street irresistible. There’s a to-die-for selection of freshly baked cakes, and on cold wintery days, a warm waffle drizzled with syrup will keep the chills away. Alternatively, if you feel your stomach growling ferociously during lunchtime, you’ll be happy to hear that they serve delicious savoury meals too.

The Birdcage 

If you think this is a pet shop, you’re definitely mistaken. At the Birdcage, you’ll find yourself in cupcake paradise. Do yourself a huge favour and pay them a visit to admire the beautiful cakes and pretty sweet treats on display. You’ll end up tasting at least some of them. You’ll find The Birdcage on the corner of Andringa and Victoria Streets, opposite the HB Thom Theatre.

Hӓzz Coffee

Hazz Coffee at 32 Ryneveld Street promises the best quality coffee from Latin America and Africa. Here, coffee is lovingly brewed in their state-of-the-art La Marzocco espresso machine. You won’t find fancier than that!

Katjiepiering

Katjiepiering is a tea garden in the beautiful botanical gardens. Sit under shady old oaks after a stroll through the peaceful garden then enjoy a good old-fashioned cup of coffee accompanied by a whopping slice of delicious carrot cake.

Bonne Esperance is in walking distance of all these coffee shops, after a few hours of exploring the historical streets of Stellenbosch why not pop in and have a steamy espresso to recharge your batteries.