The African Voyager

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Top brews: the 5 best specialty coffee shops in Stellenbosch

Southern Africa • Eat & drink • Top brews: the 5 best specialty coffee shops in Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch’s best specialty coffee shops

We’ve always believed that a good coffee shop is more than just a place to grab a caffeine fix – it’s where mornings start, conversations flow and sometimes, where you find a quiet moment to yourself. In Stellenbosch, the coffee scene is full of personality, with each café offering its own twist on what makes a great cup of coffee. From baristas who know your order before you even ask, to spaces that feel like a second living room, these spots are all about making you feel right at home. So, let’s take a stroll through our favourite spots that serve more than just coffee – they serve up a slice of daily life that’s just too good to miss.

Ya-Ya Café

Ya-Ya Café is a Stellenbosch favourite, effortlessly blending a laid-back vibe with an impressive coffee game. Their skilled baristas know their craft, serving up everything from a classic flat white to an adventurous matcha latte. We love their signature cold brew, which is a must-try on a hot day. For a perfect pairing, try one of their freshly baked pastries or a hearty brunch option – the avo toast is a winner. The café’s interior is inviting and minimalist, with earthy tones and ample sunlight pouring in, making it an ideal spot to catch up with friends or get some work done.

Ya-Ya Café
8 Dorp St
Stellenbosch
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Ya-Ya Café

Meraki Café

The name Meraki means to do something with soul, creativity or love and this café truly lives up to its name. It’s bright and airy, with rustic wooden tables, pops of greenery and a vibe that instantly makes you want to stay a while. We love how they craft each coffee with care, if you’re up for something special, their cortado strikes the perfect espresso-to-milk balance – smooth and flavorful without being overly rich. And then there’s the food: light, fresh and downright delicious. Their carrot cake, with its generous frosting is also a treat worth trying.

Meraki Café
43 Church Street
Stellenbosch
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Meraki Café

Republique Coffee

Republique Coffee is where you go when you’re serious about your caffeine fix. This café takes its coffee seriously, with a focus on ethically sourced beans and precision brewing techniques. Their espresso is rich and robust, while the pour-overs highlight the intricate flavours of their single-origin beans. The knowledgeable baristas are always happy to chat about the coffee-making process, so if you’re serious about all things coffee, be sure to visit this spot. The café has old-school character, filled with mismatched chairs, rustic wooden tables and a warm, lived-in feel that invites you to settle in. Vintage coffee paraphernalia and quirky decor add a personal touch, making it clear that this place is all about the coffee, not the frills.

Republique Coffee
19 Andringa St
Stellenbosch
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Republique Coffee

Deluxe Coffee Works

Deluxe Coffee Works is a well-known name in the South African coffee scene and their Stellenbosch location does not disappoint. This café is all about quality and simplicity, focusing on delivering the best coffee experience possible. The beans are sourced from top producers around the world and roasted to perfection in-house. The café interior has an industrial feel, with exposed brick walls accented with black tile and wooden countertops that give it a gritty, urban vibe. It’s small and intimate, with a few bar stools and communal tables that encourage conversation. The atmosphere is lively, often buzzing with the sound of the espresso machine and upbeat music in the background.

Deluxe Coffee Works
Ou Strandpad Rd
Stellenbosch
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Deluxe Coffee Works

Hygge Hygge

Pronounced ‘hoo-gah’, Hygge Hygge embraces the Danish concept of cosiness. This café nails it with soft lighting, warm wooden accents and comfy seating that just invites you to stay a little longer. Their coffee menu is simple but spot-on, featuring beans from local roasters. Their baristas are passionate about their craft, serving up consistently great coffee with a smile. The menu also features a selection of homemade pastries and light meals, all made with fresh, local ingredients. We’re suckers for their cinnamon rolls – baked fresh and oozing with just the right amount of spice and sweetness; they’re the perfect companion to a hot cappuccino.