Local Flavours & Faces

One of the best ways to discover great food spots is simply to ask the people who live nearby. Hillcrest and the surrounding Upper Highway area are home to a growing mix of cafés, restaurants and relaxed gathering places, from cosy coffee spots to lively venues perfect for meeting friends.

We asked a handful of locals to share some of their favourite places to eat and drink in the area. Their recommendations range from peaceful cafés and beloved bakeries to social weekend hangouts, along with a few dishes they keep going back for.

Derryn: A Peaceful Café Escape

Nestled beside calm waters and framed by lush greenery, Café Sparrow offers a peaceful escape from the everyday rush. "I met a friend for coffee, and we enjoyed a slice of salted caramel cheesecake topped with toasted almonds, soaking in the serene views," Derryn says. The café's relaxed atmosphere makes it an easy choice for a quiet catch-up or slow morning. "The café also has an on-site bakery producing fresh sourdough available for purchase, making it a perfect spot to enjoy good food and take a little treat home."

Cami & Megs: Trying New Things

Hillcrest's new Starbucks has quickly become a fun meeting point for friends. "New Starbucks in town," say Cami and Megs, who recently visited together to try it out. "We were very excited!"

For evening outings or something a little different, they recommend heading to The Black Rabbit. "The mocktails are great!"

They echoed Derryn's recommendation of Café Sparrow, especially for those with dietary requirements. "They cater for intolerances so well," Cami explains. "We had chicken mayos on gluten-free bread, and it was excellent."

Judy: A Long-Time Favourite

"For wonderful service, big smiles, fresh tasty dishes and cosy corners to chat to family or friends, my go-to place is Madeleines," says Judy.

The restaurant, owned by Janet Sawkins and located in Hillcrest's Oxford Village area, has become a much-loved local spot over the years. "This lovely space has fresh, delicious, beautifully presented breakfasts and lunches," Judy explains. "They also prepare amazing baked items: cakes, tarts, muffins and brownies, which are simply the best tea or coffee treats." She also enjoys the warm atmosphere and welcoming staff. "Janet is usually there and always greets customers with a lovely smile."

One of the little touches Judy loves most is walking through the kitchen area to reach the verandah seating. "To see them working and the baked goodies is just lovely."

Quick Foodie Picks

Claire: "Camp Orchards is also lovely." This scenic Shongweni venue has become popular for its relaxed farm setting, markets and casual dining.

Megan H: "We don't go out a lot to eat, but we do have a favourite restaurant, Stretta Café in Hillcrest, which does the most amazing dinners."

Warren: "For breakfast, we always go to Shongweni Club on weekends," he says. "There's always something happening there, mountain biking, show jumping, dressage." He recommends the Saddle Breakfast. "Four sausages, two eggs, toast, mushrooms, tomato, and bacon; and it's around sixty-something rand. Megan had the eggs benedict, which was also really good."

Whether it's a quiet coffee beside the water, a reliable breakfast spot, or somewhere to meet friends for drinks, locals clearly have plenty of favourite places. And with new venues continuing to open across the area, there are always more delicious discoveries waiting around the corner.