Johannesburg, South Africa

Rise and chow: Johannesburg’s 5 best breakfast spots

Southern Africa • Eat & drink • Rise and chow: Johannesburg’s 5 best breakfast spots

The local favourites: Johannesburg’s must-visit breakfast spots

Johannesburg in the morning is something special. The city comes alive with the scent of freshly brewed coffee and the hum of cafés preparing to serve the breakfast essentials. What’s great about Johannesburg’s breakfast scene is how it captures the city’s creative spirit. Menus go beyond the usual suspects. You’ll find jazzed-up shakshuka, french toast plated like art and plant-based breakfast staples that don’t compromise on flavour. Let’s dive into the best breakfast spots in Johannesburg, where mornings are made better, one plate at a time.

Salvation Café

Set in the industrial-chic precinct of 44 Stanley, Salvation Café has been a staple on Johannesburg’s breakfast scene for years. The menu is as eclectic as the space itself, offering unique eats like quinoa porridge, but our ultimate favourite is still their classic eggs benedict: house-made hollandaise, perfectly poached eggs and sourdough with just the right crunch – perfection. We love the courtyard seating, surrounded by greenery – ideal if you like your coffee with a side of sunshine. This spot is very popular over the weekend (because it’s a local favourite!) so arrive early or risk missing out on the best seats!

Salvation Café
44 Stanley Ave
Milpark
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Salvation Café

Goddess Café

If you’re looking for a breakfast spot with a strong sense of personality, Goddess Café is it. This Instagrammable eatery lives up to its name with its dreamy pink decor, floral installations and playful vibe. But make no mistake – the food here is as impressive as the aesthetic. The must-try breakfast dish here is the Goddess Breakfast Platter, featuring avocado, poached eggs, crispy bacon and grilled halloumi. The café’s coffees and juices pair well with the food and the presentation often includes little creative touches. Their cappuccinos come with a touch of sparkle – literally – making your morning coffee a little more magical.

Goddess Café
44 1st Ave
Linden
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Goddess Café

Proud Mary

Proud Mary is a modern, mid-century inspired eatery housed in a New York-inspired building called The Bank, with the renowned Hyde Hotel just upstairs. The interior features tones of oxblood, teal and emerald, complemented by plush fabrics, natural wood finishes, terrazzo and brass. The design creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, with beautiful artwork adorning the walls and designer marble tables – certainly sets the tone for a luxurious breakfast experience. We love the Mary’s Bennys, their take on the classic eggs benedict and their Turkish eggs are also one-of-a-kind! If you like something sweet for breakfast, go for the buttermilk hotcakes – you won’t regret it

Proud Mary
The Bank
26 Cradock Ave
Rosebank
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Proud Mary

Arbour Café

Arbour Café is the local casual hang-out spot, known for their excellent cappuccinos and their leafy courtyard. The courtyard, with its dappled sunlight and quaint ambience, offers an ideal setting to start your day. Other than the seriously good coffee, their breakfast options are amazing – their crêpes and galettes, made with buckwheat flour, are popular options. These gluten-free options come with various fillings – the smoked trout galette is our favourite. If you’re looking to take it slow and enjoy your coffee and breakfast in a charming setting, Arbour Café is a hidden gem worth visiting.

Arbour Café
64 St Andrew St
Birdhaven
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Arbour Café

Breezeblock Café

Located in the heart of Brixton, Breezeblock Café is the neighbourhood’s favourite, praised for their welcoming atmosphere, cool retro aesthetics and creative breakfast menu. The interior and courtyard, designed by artist Justin Brett, feature a succulent garden, fish pond and reclaimed tile mural. The bold geometric designs and pops of color in the decor make it visually striking, but the real draw here is the food. Signature dishes include the Dutch-inspired baked pancakes, Persian-inspired baked eggs and the Mexican huevos rancheros. We’re fans of their homemade banana bread, which comes toasted and generously slathered with butter. Pair it with one of their expertly brewed coffees and you’ve got a winning combination.