When you’re up with the lark on a crisp Highveld morning consider the following early breakfast options as you watch the city wake up and put on her makeup.

The Elm Tree Restaurant (Sandton)

You could be forgiven for not knowing about this little gem yet. The Elm Tree Restaurant is nestled in the courtyard of the Serene Hotel in the heart of Sandton. The name sprouts from the fact that it is literally situated in the shade of a handsome Elm tree in the hotel courtyard. Breakfast is ready by 6:30 am. Business people in the vicinity favour this tranquil spot to prep their day or meet with clients or colleagues. The free parking and free WiFi is simply a bonus.

The Fat Zebra (Linden)

They serve a Vegetarian and Vegan-friendly menu here. Try the Halumi Benedict or one of their famed pizzas. The Fat Zebra has prompt service, if you never wait for anything too long. Essential for the start of an efficient day.

 

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Salvation Café (44 Stanley Street)

If your weekend needs fuel for a shopping excursion, then start at 44 Stanley Street. Sit in the inviting courtyard to people-watch to your hearts content. This is an especially vibrant weekend vibe.

 

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Flames Restaurant, Four Seasons Hotel (Westcliff)

You have to be in a celebratory mood to enjoy an early morning breakfast overlooking the canopy of the largest man-made forest in the world. The spread that they put on at Flames restaurant is simply spectacular! The buffet is a celebration in and of itself. This is arguably one of the more chic breakfasts in Jozi. Some people are overwhelmed when faced with so many delisciously decadent options, but the connoisseurs keep it elegant. Have another serving of salmon and wash it down with some Champaign. Breakfast is served from 6:30am to 11:00 am and R550-00 buys you a seat at this top of the morning breakfast table in the City of gold!

 

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Arbour Café and Courtyard (Birdhaven)

Breakfast is served from 7am in this leafy green courtyard daily. The restaurant is a French Crêperie where you can indulge in the best coffee and a range of sweet and savory baked goods. Surrounded by beauty and filled with deliciousness is a good way to start the day. Bon Appetit!

 

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Food Lover’s Eatery (Braamfonfein)

If you have a meeting or work duties that take you into the city, then consider having breakfast at the Food Lovers eatery in Braamfontein. You are spoiled for choice from early in your day. Good coffee and various fresh and healthy selections abound in this eatery.

Father Coffee (Kramerville)

Start the morning right when visiting the design hub of Kramerville. Father Coffee is open during the week from 7:30am to 5pm. Get the right roast for you together with a sandwich or muffin and you are set to shop to your heart’s content and to decorate your home in a fed and happy state.

 

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Motherland Coffee (Rosebank)

Right in the warm heart of Rosebank, Motherland offers a welcoming port for an early morning cuppa and a hearty sandwich, croissant, brownie or muffin.

 

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The Whippet (Linden)

The Whippet is a reliable Linden institution. One can even say that it embodies the spirit of Linden. There is a sense of community. The food, in their own words, “is simple”, but lovingly made. The Whippet is open daily from 7am (8am Sundays). The menu receives a seasonal update, but one can always find the most popular breakfast options on the menu. For a feeling of home, visit the Whippet.

 

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Have we missed your favourite early bird spot? Tell us all about it in the comments section.