Set in the sinful part of Long Street (directly opposite Joburg Bar and beside Adult World), this quaint little café – though only open for three days now – has already become the go-to lunch spot for many. Forget plates and mugs, though: this isn’t really a sit-down joint – owners Ayla Solomon and Andrea ‘Andy’ Scott originally envisioned Melt as a takeaway spot which means, though you’re welcome to sit, your sandwich is handed to you already wrapped up to go.

Fast facts

Best for: Light lunches
Parking: Situated along the main road so rather walk or Uber
Average price: R50
Star ratings: Food 4, Service 3, Ambience 4

Food

If you’re struggling to find the café, let your nose guide you. Upon entering, you’re instantly greeted by the comforting scent of grilled cheese. With their small yet simple and delicious menu, there is no right or wrong choice. The Smokey, with smoked chicken, melt mayo, red cabbage slaw, almond flakes and mozzarella (R55) is a genius combination. The chicken is tender and, although slightly lacking the “smokey” factor, still pairs well with the sweetness of the red cabbage slaw.

A photo posted by Melt (@meltcafecpt) on Oct 14, 2016 at 11:28am PDT

Another clever combo is The Salami, with salami, brie, peppadews and mozzarella (R65). The experience is not unlike biting into the perfect slice of pizza, with each ingredient showcased perfectly. Other options include The Classic (R30), The Maple Bacon (R55), or The Roast Beef, with pickles, dijon mustard and caramelised onions (R60). Andy’s personal favourite is The Popper (R40), with jalapeños, cream cheese and cheddar cheese – which ticks all our boxes too,  while Ayla’s is The Fig Blue (R60), with blue cheese, fig preserve, balsamic glaze and mozzarella.

A photo posted by Melt (@meltcafecpt) on Oct 13, 2016 at 7:29am PDT

Bread options include sourdough or rye, and the sandwiches are light – perhaps in the future, accompaniments will be added, making for a filling meal.

Drinks

A reasonable selection of the standard hot and cold drinks are available. There’s almond milk for the hot beverages for the lactose-intolerant.

Service

The owners serve customers themselves and are friendly and welcoming. They’re still ironing out the creases at present, so you might find yourself waiting 15 minutes for your sandwich.

Ambience

The café has a neat and simple design, with a few quirky images on the walls. With not much seating space available, we’d suggest taking your cheesy option to go.

A photo posted by Melt (@meltcafecpt) on Oct 18, 2016 at 10:11am PDT

And…

Free wifi is available and they’ll enthusiastically offer you the password.

Eat Out critics dine unannounced and pay their own way. Read our full editorial policy here.