Just two streets up from the well-known Cape Quarter shopping centre in De Waterkant, one of the oldest parts of Cape Town, lies an unassuming, hidden gem called Café Charles. Neatly tucked away in the shade of an over hundred year old Brazilian Red Peppercorn tree, on the corner of Dixon and Waterkant Street, Café Charles entices you in with satisfying aromas of freshly brewed artisan coffee, free-range bacon and eggs, and crisp oven-baked croissants... and that's just the beginning!

Outdoor seating under the old peppercorn tree provides a beautifully shaded, relaxing space to eat, drink, meet and mingle. Sip on a velvety double-shot flat white, or delight in a glass (or two) of one of our small-batch boutique wines, while enjoying the soothing background sounds of the garden fountain. Go up a few steps onto the wrap around balcony of the historic early 18th Century Georgian style building for more bench seating shaded by umbrellas.

A modest interior, classic furnishings and an authentic fireplace creates a quaint and cosy setting for coffee, conversations, and creative contemplations. Winter evenings are well spent here, savouring delectable dinner dishes in front of the fire. As for summer time, enjoy full sunshine and refreshing mimosas over brunch on the open air roof deck!

The café owners are very much in touch with the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle and focus on being ingredient conscious when it comes to the menu, with they themselves preferring to steer clear from foods containing added refined sugars and preservatives. This food philosophy is expressed throughout the menu, prioritising healthier eating options with many dishes and ingredients being free-range, gluten-free, refined sugar free, preservative free, organic, biodynamic AND most importantly, locally sourced and produced.

Besides the menu, the best part is our core team: humble, authentic, attentive, friendly, and enthusiastic in ensuring our guests receive the warmest welcome and best service possible. Without them, there would not be this unique, calming spot in the midst of the city chaos!