Top 20 Breakfast in Johannesburg (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Johannesburg, South Africa’s vibrant economic heart, is a haven for breakfast enthusiasts, offering a diverse culinary scene that blends global influences with local flair. From cozy cafés in trendy Parkhurst to elegant eateries in Sandton, the city’s breakfast spots cater to every taste, whether you crave hearty South African classics, French-inspired pastries, or healthy smoothie bowls. This evergreen guide lists the top 20 best breakfast restaurants in Johannesburg for 2025, selected based on guest reviews, menu variety, ambiance, and value. Each venue promises fresh ingredients, exceptional service, and a memorable start to your day. Whether you’re a local, a business traveler, or a tourist exploring the City of Gold, this comprehensive list will help you discover the perfect spot to savor Johannesburg’s finest morning meals.

List of 20 Best Breakfast Restaurants in Johannesburg

1. Salvation Café

  • Location: 44 Stanley Avenue, Milpark, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 9.1/10 (Tripadvisor)

  • Price: R100–R250/person

  • Key Features: Known for its wholesome breakfasts, including halloumi burritos and avocado-hummus toast. Offers gluten-free and vegan options in a chic courtyard setting.

  • Why Visit?: Ideal for a relaxed brunch with friends or family.

2. The Whippet in Linden

  • Location: 71 7th Street, Linden, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 9.0/10 (Joburg.co.za)

  • Price: R80–R200/person

  • Key Features: Famous for buttermilk chicken Benedict and breakfast burritos. Serves top-notch coffee in a trendy, farm-inspired ambiance.

  • Why Visit?: Perfect for early birds and weekend brunch lovers.

3. Le Parc by tashas

  • Location: Hyde Park Corner, William Nicol Dr & Jan Smuts Ave, Hyde Park

  • Rating: 8.9/10 (Topreviews.co.za)

  • Price: R150–R300/person

  • Key Features: French-inspired café with 75 dishes, including ratatouille eggs and bahn mi sandwiches. Pink décor evokes Parisian elegance.

  • Why Visit?: Great for a stylish breakfast with vibrant flavors.

4. Glenda’s

  • Location: Hyde Square, Jan Smuts Ave & North Rd, Hyde Park

  • Rating: 8.8/10 (Minkys.co.za)

  • Price: R100–R250/person

  • Key Features: Offers fluffy pancakes with maple syrup and eggs Benedict. Retro-chic ambiance with fresh flowers and seasonal menus.

  • Why Visit?: Ideal for a cozy, Instagram-worthy breakfast.

5. Nice on 4th

  • Location: 37 4th Avenue, Parkhurst, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 8.8/10 (Getaway.co.za)

  • Price: R80–R200/person

  • Key Features: Famous for egg baskets made of toast, filled with bacon, mushrooms, or avocado. Serves decadent cakes.

  • Why Visit?: Perfect for a hearty, value-for-money meal.

6. Arbour Café & Courtyard

  • Location: Shop 6, Wenrose Court, 64 St Andrew St, Birdhaven

  • Rating: 8.7/10 (Getaway.co.za)

  • Price: R100–R250/person

  • Key Features: French-inspired with brioche French toast and avo Benedict. Known for galettes and a peaceful courtyard.

  • Why Visit?: Great for a laid-back, intimate breakfast.

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7. Voodoo Lily Café

  • Location: 103 Komatie Street, Emmarentia, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 8.7/10 (Thesouthafrican.com)

  • Price: R90–R200/person

  • Key Features: Offers shakshouka with pita and organic oats with honey. Pet-friendly with a dog menu and on-site bakery.

  • Why Visit?: Ideal for families and health-conscious diners.

8. Café Billi Bi

  • Location: Stoneridge Centre, Edenvale, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 8.6/10 (Topreviews.co.za)

  • Price: R80–R200/person

  • Key Features: Specializes in corn hotcakes and chicken livers with fried eggs. Offers healthy and protein-packed options.

  • Why Visit?: Perfect for early risers seeking variety.

9. The Fat Zebra

  • Location: 71 7th Street, Linden, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 8.6/10 (Minkys.co.za)

  • Price: R90–R220/person

  • Key Features: Known for perfect poached eggs, creamy mushrooms, and maple crumpet mountains. Cozy Parisian vibe.

  • Why Visit?: Great for a Sunday morning treat.

10. Goddess Café

  • Location: 7th Street, Linden, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 8.5/10 (Foodandhome.co.za)

  • Price: R100–R250/person

  • Key Features: All-pink décor with Turkish eggs and Spanish lattes. Serves breakfast all day.

  • Why Visit?: Ideal for Instagram lovers and all-day breakfast fans.

11. Post Breakfast Lunch

  • Location: 70 Juta Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 8.5/10 (Thesouthafrican.com)

  • Price: R80–R200/person

  • Key Features: All-day breakfast with Nutella flapjacks and grilled chickpeas on ciabatta. Courtyard dining available.

  • Why Visit?: Perfect for late sleepers craving breakfast.

12. Patisserie de Paris

  • Location: 9 Mackay Ave, Blairgowrie, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 8.4/10 (Wanderlog.com)

  • Price: R70–R180/person

  • Key Features: French bakery with baguettes, croissants, and quiche. Charming, dated décor adds authenticity.

  • Why Visit?: Great for pastry lovers seeking a Parisian escape.

13. Second Cup

  • Location: Weltevredenpark, Roodepoort, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 8.4/10 (Joburg.co.za)

  • Price: R70–R180/person

  • Key Features: Offers homemade sourdough and rye bread. Serene smallholding setting with affordable dishes.

  • Why Visit?: Ideal for a tranquil breakfast retreat.

14. Pablo

  • Location: 2 Sandton Drive, Sandhurst, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 8.3/10 (Getaway.co.za)

  • Price: R100–R250/person

  • Key Features: Vibrant spot with granola bowls, eggs Benedict, and mimosas. Known for lively music.

  • Why Visit?: Perfect for a fun, social breakfast.

15. Croft & Co

  • Location: Zoo Lake Area, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 8.3/10 (Wanderlog.com)

  • Price: R80–R200/person

  • Key Features: Offers shakshuka with bacon and full-bodied coffee. Popular with cyclists and runners.

  • Why Visit?: Great for active diners and outdoor lovers.

16. Oregano Bakery & Pantry

  • Location: Dunkeld West, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 8.2/10 (Foodandhome.co.za)

  • Price: R70–R180/person

  • Key Features: Serves bacon and egg brioche and Chelsea buns. Cottage-inspired with a cozy vibe.

  • Why Visit?: Ideal for a quiet breakfast with a book.

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17. Aduna Bistro

  • Location: African Pride Hotel, Melrose Arch, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 8.2/10 (Dineplan.com)

  • Price: R150–R300/person

  • Key Features: Beloved breakfast buffet with classic bistro dishes. Elegant setting with 5-star service.

  • Why Visit?: Perfect for a luxurious morning meal.

18. Breezeblock

  • Location: Melville, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 8.1/10 (Eatout.co.za)

  • Price: R80–R200/person

  • Key Features: All-day breakfast with beans and bangers or eggs Mirza. Artistic courtyard with vegan options.

  • Why Visit?: Great for creatives and vegetarians.

19. La Vie en Rose

  • Location: Killarney Country Club, Lower Houghton, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 8.1/10 (Eatout.co.za)

  • Price: R100–R250/person

  • Key Features: Offers waffles, sandwiches, and wraps in a romantic garden. Known for brunch buffets.

  • Why Visit?: Ideal for family gatherings or special events.

20. Wimpy

  • Location: Multiple locations, e.g., Greenside, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 8.0/10 (Topreviews.co.za)

  • Price: R50–R150/person

  • Key Features: Nostalgic Farmhouse, Lekker, and Mega Breakfasts under R100. Kid-friendly with Playworld areas.

  • Why Visit?: Perfect for affordable, family dining.

Why These Breakfast Restaurants Stand Out

These restaurants were chosen based on:

  • Guest Reviews: High ratings on Tripadvisor, Google Reviews, and local platforms like Joburg.co.za.

  • Menu Variety: From classic eggs Benedict (Glenda’s) to innovative ratatouille eggs (Le Parc by tashas).

  • Ambiance: Cozy (Oregano), trendy (The Whippet), or elegant (Aduna Bistro).

  • Value: Budget-friendly (Wimpy, Second Cup) to upscale (Le Parc, Aduna).

How to Choose the Right Breakfast Spot

  • Preference: Traditionalists will love Wimpy’s Farmhouse Breakfast; adventurers can try Pablo’s granola bowls.

  • Budget: Wimpy and Patisserie de Paris offer meals under R150; Le Parc and Aduna cater to luxury dining.

  • Location: Sandton (Pablo, Aduna) and Hyde Park (Glenda’s, Le Parc) for urban access; Roodepoort (Second Cup) for suburban calm.

  • Occasion: Salvation Café for casual brunches; La Vie en Rose for events; Goddess Café for Instagram-worthy vibes.

Tips for Enjoying Breakfast in Johannesburg

  • Book Ahead: Popular spots like The Whippet and Glenda’s get busy, especially on weekends. Use Dineplan or call to reserve.

  • Visit Early: Avoid peak hours (9–11 AM) at Nice on 4th or Salvation Café for a quieter experience.

  • Check Specials: Some restaurants, like Post, serve breakfast all day, perfect for late risers.

  • Explore Dietary Options: Voodoo Lily and Breezeblock offer vegan and gluten-free dishes.

  • Pair with Activities: Combine breakfast with shopping at Rosebank Mall (near Le Parc) or hiking at Melville Koppies (near Breezeblock).

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Best Areas for Breakfast in Johannesburg

  • Linden: Home to The Whippet, Goddess Café, and The Fat Zebra. Trendy and foodie-friendly.

  • Hyde Park: Hosts Glenda’s and Le Parc by tashas. Upscale with easy mall access.

  • Parkhurst: Nice on 4th and The Station offer vibrant, walkable dining.

  • Sandton: Pablo and Aduna Bistro provide luxurious options near business hubs.

  • Milpark: Salvation Café offers a chic, central brunch spot.

Things to Do Near These Restaurants

  • Cultural Sites: Visit the Apartheid Museum (near Milpark) or Constitution Hill (near Braamfontein).

  • Shopping: Hyde Park Corner (near Glenda’s) and Sandton City (near Pablo) for retail therapy.

  • Nature: Explore Emmarentia Dam (near Voodoo Lily) or Johannesburg Botanical Garden (near Linden).

  • Nightlife: Enjoy bars on 7th Street in Melville or 4th Avenue in Parkhurst post-breakfast.

Safety and Practical Tips

  • Safe Dining: Linden, Hyde Park, and Sandton are secure; use Uber for evening travel.

  • Best Time to Visit: November to February for pleasant outdoor dining (20–25°C).

  • Reservations: Book via restaurant websites or Dining-OUT for busy spots like Le Parc.

  • Dietary Needs: Many restaurants (Salvation, Voodoo Lily) cater to vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best breakfast restaurant in Johannesburg?

Salvation Café is top-rated for its diverse menu and chic ambiance, followed closely by The Whippet for trendy, farm-inspired dishes.

Are there budget-friendly breakfast spots in Johannesburg?

Wimpy, Patisserie de Paris, and Second Cup offer delicious meals under R150/person.

Which restaurants serve breakfast all day?

Post Breakfast Lunch and Goddess Café are known for all-day breakfast menus.

Are there vegetarian or vegan breakfast options in Johannesburg?

Voodoo Lily, Breezeblock, and Salvation Café offer extensive vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s top 20 breakfast restaurants offer a delightful range of experiences, from Salvation Café’s wholesome brunches to Le Parc by tashas’ French-inspired elegance. Whether you’re in trendy Linden, upscale Hyde Park, or vibrant Sandton, these spots deliver fresh, flavorful meals for every budget. Book early, explore dietary options, and pair your breakfast with Jozi’s cultural or shopping attractions for a perfect morning. Check platforms like Tripadvisor or Joburg.co.za for the latest menus and deals to plan your next breakfast adventure in the City of Gold.