A single forkful of carrot cake delivers a divine blend of spice and sweetness. The moist and tender crumb offers a combination of density and fluffiness, the chopped walnuts or pecans add a satisfying crunch and the chewy sultanas infuse bursts of fruity sweetness to the cake’s composition.
Several of Cape Town’s culinary establishments, as chosen by Cape {town} Etc readers, have perfected the artistry of combining the natural sweetness of grated carrots with the subtle notes of cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves.
But before we get into it, check out the top things to do in George.
Here are 10 Cape Town restaurants that serve out-of-this-world carrot cake:
1. Naked Coffee, Sea Point
With coffee at the heart of this eatery’s mission, Naked takes pride in its single-origin beans, sourced from El Salvador and hand-roasted in small batches. With flavours like caramelised brown sugar-coated orange peel, honey, bittersweet cocoa, milk chocolate and coconut, Naked Coffee does far more than just provide a buzz.
Beyond the coffee and tasty menu offerings, Naked’s freshly baked goods are simply superb, particularly its signature banana bread and carrot cake. These treats are reason enough for Atlantic Seaboarders to incorporate Naked into their daily routine, adding an extra layer of delight to their day.
- Location: 2 Wisbeach Road, Sea Point, Cape Town
- Times: Monday to Saturday, 7am to 5:30pm | Sunday, 7am to 3pm
- Contact: 021 433 1648
- Website: linktr.ee/naked_coffee
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If you ever find yourself in Johannesburg, be sure to check out The 20 Best Restaurants in Midrand.
2. Chardonnay Deli, Constantia
Chardonnay Deli is located in a charming old farmhouse-style building near Groot Constantia, along a historic route that also houses the original police station and the commander’s house. Its convenient location makes it easily accessible to residents in nearby suburbs, and it offers a tranquil and relaxed alternative to the ever-bustling Constantia Village Centre.
Step inside Chardonnay Deli and enjoy a cup of coffee, freshly squeezed super juices or a glass of wine while browsing its collection of handmade home items.
Allow the aroma and taste of freshly baked artisan goods, including the renowned homemade carrot cake, to intrigue your senses as you immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the surrounding valley.
- Location: 87 Constantia Main Road, Constantia, Cape Town
- Times: Monday to Sunday, 7am to 6pm
- Contact: 021 795 0606 | [email protected]
- Website: chardonnaydeli.co.za
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3. Wildsprout, Kenilworth
Wildsprout was founded on a deep passion for promoting a healthy lifestyle and the firm belief that everyone, regardless of dietary requirements, deserves access to nourishing food. Wildsprout proudly houses its café and grocery store in the vibrant heart of Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs, in the pretty neighbourhood of Upper Kenilworth. A second Wildsprout has recently opened in Constantia.
Its menu offers a wide variety of options, including salads, sandwiches, wraps and burgers, or you can indulge guilt-free in its handmade sweet treats, which are free of artificial additives and preservatives.
Wildsprout is committed to meeting a wide range of dietary needs and preferences, including gluten-free, dairy-free, sugar-free, vegan and banting options, so anyone will be able to enjoy a carrot cake cupcake.
- Location: 278 Main Road, Kenilworth, Cape Town
- Times: Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm | Saturday and Sunday, 8:30am to 3pm
- Contact: 078 576 6124
- Website: wsprout.co.za
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4. Tashas, Constantia
The first Tashas café opened its doors in 2005, inspired by a visionary dream to revolutionise South African dining. Natasha Sideris wanted to capture the essence of her favourite childhood memories and turn them into a lifestyle café that would redefine the concept of daytime dining.
Tashas’ interiors exude charm while also fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere that encourages social interaction, drawing inspiration from the lavish and trendy cafés found in Paris, New York and London.
Quality ingredients are the foundation of exceptional meals in the culinary world, a philosophy deeply ingrained in Tashas’ ethos. Tashas never compromises on quality or freshness when sourcing ingredients, and it takes pride in preparing everything to order, avoiding pre-prepared dishes.
This dedication ensures that each meal is uncomplicated, remarkably fresh and always delicious.
- Location: 278 Main Road, Kenilworth, Cape Town
- Times: Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm | Saturday and Sunday, 8:30am to 3pm
- Contact: 078 576 6124
- Website: wsprout.co.za
5. Starlings Café, Claremont
One of Cape Town’s most charming cafés is hidden behind a well-kept hedge on Belvedere Road. You’ll first find yourself on the veranda of an old suburban house, and as you enter, you’ll find a bustling café made cosy by its wooden-floored interiors, eclectic decor and some of the warmest hospitality.
Its courtyard embodies idyllic, leafy suburbia, with birdsong accompanying breakfasts and lunches and some of Cape Town’s best coffee.
Starlings is renowned for its exceptional interpretation of classic desserts, offering a cheesecake and carrot cake experience that transports you to a world of comfort and indulgence.
- Location: 94 Belvedere Road, Claremont, Cape Town
- Times: Monday to Friday, 7am to 5pm | Saturday, 8am to 3pm
- Contact: 072 051 0491
- Website: starlings.co.za
6. Table Seven at Paradise Road, Newlands
Paradise Road is a dynamic platform for collaborating with like-minded individuals who share its core values, and Table Seven emerged as a testament to the profound connection it envisions between food, lifestyle and home within this collaborative framework.
Located in Newlands, this cafe presents an array of delicious options that are ideal for savouring as a satisfying meal or indulgent treat at any time of day, with an exquisite range of bread, pastries and cakes.
- Location: 94 Belvedere Road, Claremont, Cape Town
- Times: Monday to Friday, 7am to 5pm | Saturday, 8am to 3pm
- Contact: 072 051 0491
- Website: starlings.co.za
7. Kleinsky’s Delicatessen, Sea Point
Kleinsky’s Delicatessen is a popular Jewish-style deli in Sea Point. It is a family-run establishment known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly service, making it ideal for a quick bite or a leisurely brunch with friends.
Kleinsky’s is well-known for its excellent bagels, sandwiches and savoury treats, but don’t overlook its selection of sweet treats. The carrot cake, in particular, embodies everything one could want in this classic confectionery masterpiece.
- Location: 33 Derry Street, Vredehoek, Cape Town
- Times: Monday to Wednesday, 6:30am to 5pm | Thursday and Friday, 6:30am to 8pm | Saturday, 7:30am to 8pm | Sunday, 7:30am to 3pm
- Contact: 021 201 1229 | [email protected]
- Website: bootlegger.coffee
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8. Bootlegger Coffee Company, Vredehoek
Pieter Bloem, De Waal Basson and Antonie Basson, three inseparable friends, founded Bootlegger Coffee Company in 2012. Since then, the brand has thrived, expanding its presence across multiple locations in Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Bootlegger’s original blend features nuanced notes of toasted hazelnut, caramel and a touch of dark chocolate. This outstanding blend exemplifies the brand’s dedication to perfection in every cup.
Bootlegger promises an exceptional culinary experience in addition to the coffee, with each of its branches offering a selection of honest, flavourful dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Location: 33 Derry Street, Vredehoek, Cape Town
- Times: Monday to Wednesday, 6:30am to 5pm | Thursday and Friday, 6:30am to 8pm | Saturday, 7:30am to 8pm | Sunday, 7:30am to 3pm
- Contact: 021 201 1229 | [email protected]
- Website: bootlegger.coffee
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9. La Cuccina, Newlands
After 18 years, La Cuccina has seen many changes, but its unwavering essence remains, both at its original Hout Bay location and at the newly opened Josephine’s Mill in Newlands. A deep commitment to bringing joy to people through food is at the heart of its philosophy.
La Cuccina takes great pride in working with a variety of small, local, artisan food producers who exert an abundance of passion and energy in creating these exceptional ingredients, from the devoted beekeepers and skilled meat curers to the talented cheese makers and the restaurant’s sole supplier of free-range chicken and eggs.
La Cuccina cooks with the intention of nourishing, sharing and delighting with the same care and love as a home-cooked meal shared with family and friends. Each dish is lovingly prepared by hand, using only the best and freshest ingredients.
This eatery offers an extensive menu of wholesome, restaurant-quality offerings, from beloved sweet classics, like their moist carrot cupcakes, to savoury home-style meals made with a creative twist.
- Location: 13 Boundary Road, Newlands, Cape Town
- Times: Monday to Saturday, 7:30am to 5pm | Sunday, 8am to 4pm
- Contact: 021 687 0099 | [email protected]
- Website: lacuccina.co.za
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10. Long Cafe’ at The Vineyard, Newlands
The Vineyard is known for delighting esteemed guests and is renowned as one of South Africa’s most cherished hotels. Its top priority is to provide exceptional service, followed by delectable cuisine, gardens with captivating views of Table Mountain’s eastern slopes and seamlessly blending contemporary interior design with luxurious amenities.
The Vineyard’s Long Cafe’ holds itself to the same standards. Allow the aromatic allure of freshly roasted coffees sourced from around the world to invite you in, and its menu of delicious pastries, bagels, breakfast selections and classic cakes will keep you coming back.
- Location: Colinton Road, Newlands, Cape Town
- Times: Monday to Sunday, 7am to 3:30pm
- Contact: 021 657 4500 | [email protected]
- Website: vineyard.co.za
If you ever find yourself in Johannesburg, be sure to check out The 13 Best Maboneng Restaurants.
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Written by Sarah du Toit for Cape Etc.
Feature image: Getty
