In order to write you this post, I have had to sacrifice my
waistline for the greater good; strangely enough it’s a price I was willing to
pay – I guess I’m just a nice person. Here, I explore Cape Town’s bakeries: the
sites of many a guilty pleasure, the nemesis of the diet and the stuff of
legends.
As I sat in Olympia Café one day, having an epic stare down
with a rich, freshly baked, triple chocolate brownie, I started thinking about
all of the many incredible bakeries located around Cape Town, each offering a
unique, arty vibe and delectable treats. I decided to start exploring the
numerous hot spots available and seeing for myself why Cape Town is the home of
the perfect pie and cream puff. The brownie won by the way.
I may as well start at the source – oh Olympia Cafe, you do
terrible things to me, from the moment I walk through your doors I become
transfixed by the smell of huge crispy croissants stuffed with mushrooms and
cheese, freshly-made ciabatta, biscuits covered in an icing sugar snow and of
course, the decadent brownies, which are still gooey on the inside, just the
way I like them.
The trendy café is located in the buzzing, seaside town of
Kalk Bay and is constantly busy, loved by locals and visitors alike. The quirky
décor and infectious upbeat atmosphere, coupled with the high-quality food, is
a winning recipe, which most people, including myself, simply can’t get enough
of.
Charly’s Bakery is an institution in Cape Town; a household
name to locals and a must-see attraction on most visitors’ bucket lists. The
cakes are works of art – decadent, intricate and exquisite; they range from
four tiered, awe-inspiring wedding wonders, covered in delicate piping and
handmade flowers, to perfect cupcakes, with brightly coloured icing and cute
messages to suit any occasion. The rich mud cake generously lathered in
chocolate sauce and the mouth-watering chicken and lemon pie with flaky,
buttery pastry are my two favourites.
The Queen of Tarts makes elaborate, delicious cakes of all
shapes and sizes, transporting you to a sugary fantasy world. You can choose
from the tempting breakfast and lunch menus and tuck into delectable treats
such as French toast served with camembert and balsamic reduction, as well as
an enticing range of savoury tarts accompanied by a fresh, crisp salad.
Jason Bakery is one of the most fashionable bakeries in
town, catering to the city’s busy professionals with scrumptious sandwiches,
pastries and quiches, as well as a selection of home-made artisan breads.
Captain Bread is there to welcome you to the bustling little bakery, which will
enchant you with its elegant decorations and irresistible baked goods – do
yourself a favour and try the New York cheesecake.
Knead is a chain of bakeries found all around Cape Town,
known for its laid-back, relaxed atmosphere, excellent service and homemade
delights. I ordered a delicious chicken sandwich with red pesto, on sour dough
bread, followed by a little slice of carrot cake heaven. Although my meal was
superb, I experienced a mild bout of food envy when I glanced at the woman next
to me who was eating a tasty looking pizza, covered in avo, camembert and fresh
rocket. Knead is also known for its breakfasts, with a number of tempting
selections on offer.
This is by no means a comprehensive list – Caveau, Limnos,
Tribecca and Escape Café are also renowned for their tantalizing homemade
morsels, each offering a wonderful selection of cakes and pastries.
Whether you are a local or staying in a Cape Town holiday rental or self-catering accommodation option, make sure you take yourself on
your own private tour of Cape Town’s best bakeries.
