How long does it take to walk Bree Street?

The walk itself takes about 20 to 30 minutes at a steady pace. However, to truly enjoy the stops like Culture Wine Bar and Honest Chocolate, you should budget between 2 to 3 hours.

Is it safe to walk in Cape Town City Bowl?

Bree Street is one of the most well-traveled and active streets in the city center. While generally safe during the day and during busy nightlife hours, it is always recommended to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

What is First Thursdays in Cape Town?

First Thursdays is a monthly cultural event where art galleries and cultural attractions in the City Bowl stay open late. Bree Street becomes a central hub for this event, with thousands of people exploring the street on foot.

Can I do this walk on a weekend?

Yes, though Saturday afternoons are quieter and some bakeries may close early. Weekdays and Thursday evenings are the most vibrant times to experience the full energy of the neighborhood.

Are there vegetarian options on this food walk?

Absolutely. Most stops on this route, including Honest Chocolate and Jason Bakery, offer extensive vegetarian selections. The wine and cocktail bars also provide diverse menus that cater to various dietary preferences.

Is Bree Street accessible for strollers?

Yes, the route follows standard city sidewalks which are generally stroller-friendly. Be mindful that the courtyard at Heritage Square has some historic cobblestones that can be a bit bumpy.

Where can I find the oldest grapevine in Cape Town?

The oldest fruit-bearing vine is located in the courtyard of Heritage Square, at the corner of Bree and Shortmarket Streets. It was planted in 1771 and still produces Chenin Blanc grapes.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Bree Street is widely considered the culinary spine of Cape Town, a vibrant stretch where 18th-century heritage meets the cutting edge of modern South African gastronomy. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the City Bowl’s most famous neighborhood at your own pace, moving from historic squares to hidden chocolate courtyards and world-class cocktail bars. As you begin your self-guided adventure, you will discover why this street has become the heartbeat of the city’s 'First Thursdays' culture and a magnet for local foodies and international travelers alike. This walking route is designed for those who want to skip the rigid schedule of a traditional walking tour Cape Town and instead dive deep into the local scene independently. You’ll start at Heritage Square, home to the oldest fruit-bearing vine in the Southern Hemisphere, before weaving through a curated selection of artisanal stops. From the curated wine lists of boutique bars to the ethical bean-to-bar philosophy of local chocolatiers, the route highlights the diversity of the Cape’s flavors. What makes this neighborhood stroll special is its ability to blend history with a contemporary vibe. You’ll see beautifully restored Cape Dutch and Georgian architecture housing some of the continent's best restaurants. Whether you are looking for a morning coffee run or an evening of sophisticated cocktails, Bree Street offers a sensory experience that defines modern Cape Town. While a guided tour Cape Town might rush you through these spots, this audio walk allows you to linger over a glass of Chenin Blanc or wait for a fresh batch of doughssants. By the time you reach the final stop, you will have experienced the best of the city’s food, nightlife, and urban culture in one seamless journey. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

The 18th-century Heritage Square and its historic grapevine

Boutique wine tasting at Culture Wine Bar

Artisanal, ethical treats at Honest Chocolate Cafe

Creative mixology at the speakeasy-style Orphanage Cocktail Emporium

The vibrant street life and architecture of Bree Street

Famous local pastries and 'doughssants' at Jason Bakery

Tour Stops (6)

Heritage Square

Start exploring with Zigway here at Heritage Square, a beautifully restored block that dates back to the 1770s. This square is a rare survivor of the city's early architectural history, featuring a mix of Cape Dutch and Georgian styles. The real star here is hidden in the central courtyard: a grapevine planted in 1771 that still produces grapes today, making it the oldest fruit-bearing vine in the Southern Hemisphere. This spot perfectly encapsulates the Bree Street vibe—respecting the deep roots of the past while creating space for modern Cape Town life to flourish. Take a moment to admire the heavy timber doors and cobbled paths before we head into the modern culinary scene.

Culture Wine Bar

Next on our neighborhood stroll is Culture Wine Bar, a temple to the vine curated by renowned chef Matt Manning. South Africa's wine heritage is world-famous, and this stop brings the best of the Cape Winelands right into the heart of the City Bowl. The selection here focuses on 'real' wines—think small-batch producers, organic practices, and unique varietals that you won't find in a standard supermarket. The interior, with its exposed brick and sleek finishes, reflects the sophisticated yet accessible nature of the local wine scene. It is a fantastic place to sample a glass of Swartland Chenin Blanc or a Hemel-en-Aarde Pinot Noir as you soak in the urban atmosphere.

Honest Chocolate Cafe

As you continue your walking route, prepare for a sweet intervention at Honest Chocolate Cafe. This isn't just a candy shop; it’s an artisanal hub dedicated to ethical, bean-to-bar chocolate making. They use organic cacao sourced from responsibly managed farms in Tanzania, avoiding artificial flavorings or preservatives. If you look closely at the back of the cafe, you might find a 'secret' courtyard that feels worlds away from the city bustle. Note that the offerings here change seasonally, with creative chocolate-based desserts and drinks that highlight the pure flavor of the bean. It’s a favorite local haunt for those who appreciate the slower, more intentional side of Cape Town's food culture.

Orphanage Cocktail Emporium

Transitioning into the evening vibe, we arrive at Orphanage Cocktail Emporium. The name is more than just a quirky brand; it’s a tribute to the St. Paul’s City Mission Orphanage that once stood nearby, which cared for children during the 1918 flu epidemic. Today, this spot is a masterclass in mixology, known for its moody lighting and inventive 'elixirs.' The menu often features ingredients like local fynbos, rooibos, and specialized bitters. While the cocktail list is subject to change, the commitment to craft and the speakeasy atmosphere remain constant. It is a cornerstone of the Bree Street nightlife scene, where history and modern celebration collide.

Bree Street

Now, take a slow walk along the main artery itself. Bree Street was originally named for its width ('Bree' means 'wide' in Dutch), designed to allow ox-wagons to turn around easily. Today, that width provides ample space for the sidewalk cafes and boutiques that define the area. This street is the epicenter of 'First Thursdays,' a monthly cultural event where galleries and eateries stay open late, turning the entire neighborhood into a massive street festival. As you walk, look up at the varied facades—you’ll see everything from Victorian balconies to brutalist concrete, all housing the creative energy that makes Cape Town a global design capital.

Jason Bakery

We conclude our self-guided adventure at the legendary Jason Bakery. Known for its 'Captain Bread' persona, this bakery reached cult status for its 'doughssant'—a croissant-donut hybrid that changes flavor every week. While the original Bree Street storefront has evolved over the years, the spirit of artisan baking remains a neighborhood staple. Please note that bakery locations and hours can be quite specific, often closing once the day’s fresh bakes are sold out. Whether you're here for a sourdough loaf or a specialty pastry, it represents the high standard of craftsmanship that has made this street a destination for food lovers from across the globe.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk along Bree Street is the premier choice for food lovers. This route covers approximately 1.5 kilometers and features the city's most acclaimed wine bars, bakeries like Jason Bakery, and artisanal chocolate shops.