By Anke Maritz
Stellenbosch is so much more than just a town of students. It’s a place where you meet new people, engage in different conversations, and connect with like-minded individuals. Whether connection happens through coffee dates, run clubs, or even a night out club-hopping, Stellenbosch is exactly the place for that. It might be a small town, but it certainly never fails to fulfill your needs and exceed your expectations with the great variety of places to see and things to do.
Coffees and cakes
For the coffee lovers and daytime explorers, here are a few must-see coffee shops in the heart of Stellenbosch:
Meraki is probably one of the most aesthetically-pleasing cafés in Stellenbosch. Situated in the beautiful Church Street, Meraki offers something for everyone; from breakfast, iced coffees and cake, to dinner, champagne, and wine. Whether you want to meet up with friends for cake and coffee, have breakfast with your parents on the weekend, or schedule a study date with yourself, this spot will certainly satisfy all of your needs and will quickly become one of your go-to spots in town. If you are looking for the ultimate morning study session, make sure to pop in between 7am and 9am for their early bird specials and discounted coffees!
Another famous coffee shop in Stellenbosch is La Coco C Food Purveyors. Although small and often crowded (proving just how popular they are), La Coco offers it all. Not only do they offer an all-day breakfast menu, but they also serve numerous healthy and nutritious options for lunch. Trying their famous Lotus Biscoff Cheesecake is mandatory.
It is a well-known fact that the library can get extremely busy during the semester, which is why Ryneveld Street has become quite popular among the students of Stellenbosch. Ryneveld Street consists of various cute coffee shops including Monarch Coffee Cartel, Plato, and Vadas Bakery, which makes for the perfect spots to sip on a Flat White or Americano while being productive. Each spot, with its interior being visually appealing in its own way, has Wi-Fi availability and offers great coffee and pastries to keep you focused during those crunch time hours.
Finally, Stellenbosch welcomed a new kid on the block: all the way from Franschhoek, Motherdough has finally arrived in Church Street. If you love coffee and pastries, then this surely is the spot for you! Beautifully decorated with plants, Motherdough is unquestionably exceeding expectations regarding the aesthetic. Plants, coffee, pastries – what more could you possibly want?
What Stellies brings to the table
While drinking coffee and eating pastries are great, having some dinner spots in mind will always come in handy. Here are some of the best restaurants in Stellies.
First up is the beauty of Italian cuisine. If anything, there is one thing that Sofia’s, Vendetta’s Pizzeria, and Rome in a Bite have in common: Amazing Italian food! It’s no secret that the students of Stellenbosch love pizza and pasta, which explains why these restaurants are always buzzing with conversation and laughter. Although everyone of these restaurants offers a different take on pizza, they all taste incredibly delicious in their own unique way. If you ever plan on visiting these restaurants, it is important to make a booking in advance – book now or cry later!
While everyone has their go-to spots in Stellenbosch, this little town might surprise you more than you’d expect. Buried in Dorp Street lies the wondrous hidden gem, Petites Bulles. Petites Bulles is the ideal hangout spot if you are looking for something more classy and less crowded. Serving up delicious cocktails and wine alongside some live music, this place will very quickly captivate your heart. As you take a seat, you will feel as though you are in another country while you sip on a glass of bubbles. Pure bliss.
Last but not least, we have the jack of all trades, Java. Java is known for offering anything you can think of – burgers, pizzas, pasta, wraps, and more. This restaurant is also famous for their specials, whether it is a burger or wrap special, or even a 2-for-1 pasta deal. There is always something special to look out for.
A little sweetness
If you are not someone that is particularly fond of going out to wine and dine or if you simply fancy a sweet treat after dinner, Kristen’s Kickass Ice Cream or Moro Gelato are two of the most famous ice cream spots in Stellenbosch. Both ice cream spots are great options – it just depends on what you’re craving.
Have a DJOL
Not sure how you’re ever going to visit all these places on a student budget? Luckily, Stellenbosch is filled with specials all around town. Simply download the student app, DJOL, where you’ll find a variety of daily specials from the best restaurants in Stellies – all in one place.
