Nestled at 54 Main Road in the picturesque suburb of St James, Cape Town, Folk Café St. James stands as a vibrant culinary hub that perfectly blends laid-back coastal charm with a contemporary dining experience. This café invites food lovers, families, and even their four-legged friends to enjoy an expansive menu set against the backdrop of stunning sea views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Folk Café offers an impressive variety of dishes that cater to diverse dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free options, ensuring everyone can indulge without compromise. Whether you're craving woodfired pizzas, wholesome breakfast selections, or delicate desserts like their beloved carrot cake and light cheesecake, this café’s menu is thoughtfully crafted to satisfy both health-conscious patrons and those with a sweet tooth.
Coffee lovers will delight in expertly brewed cortados and a variety of classic coffee offerings, while cocktail enthusiasts can sip on carefully crafted drinks that complement the café’s vibrant vibe.
Folk Café St. James shines as a community spot where families feel right at home. The spacious garden features a play gym and swings, supervised by a child minder on weekends, making it a perfect venue for parents to relax while their little ones play safely. Additionally, dogs on leads are warmly welcomed, enhancing the café's inclusive and friendly spirit.
With outdoor seating that captures the fresh coastal breeze and ample free parking options, visitors can enjoy unhurried lunches, brunches, or dinners in a relaxed and scenic setting.
Patrons consistently praise Folk Café’s quality food and welcoming vibe. The carrot and almond lemon cakes receive special mentions for their perfect balance of moistness and sweetness. Coffee lovers appreciate the well-crafted cortados, and families often highlight the kid-friendly playground and attentive service. Some guests note that while cocktails can be on the pricier side and service occasionally varies in speed, the overall atmosphere and delicious offerings make it a must-visit spot in St James.
- What are the operating hours of Folk Café St. James? The café operates from Monday to Saturday, 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and on Sundays from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
- Is there a play area for children? Yes, the café features a spacious garden with a play gym and swings, supervised by a dedicated child minder on weekends.
- Do they offer vegan and gluten-free options? Yes, the menu includes a variety of vegan and gluten-free dishes.
- Is the café dog-friendly? Yes, dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a lead at all times.
- Do they accept credit and debit cards? Yes, the café accepts both credit and debit cards.
Nestled behind the iconic St. James tidal pool in Cape Town, Folk Café St. James has swiftly carved out a special place in the hearts of locals and travelers alike. Since opening in 2019, this vibrant café has become synonymous with relaxed beachfront dining, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a welcoming community vibe.
Folk Café St. James opened its doors in 2019 and immediately distinguished itself with a spacious garden setting that invites diners to unwind and savor Cape Town’s coastal atmosphere. The café’s dedication to quality and community quickly made it a hotspot for food enthusiasts and families seeking a kid-friendly environment.
In 2020, Folk Café elevated its ambiance by introducing live music performances on weekends, adding a dynamic layer to the dining experience. This move not only enriched the café's cultural offerings but also strengthened its appeal as a social hub where guests can enjoy great food, music, and ocean views all in one spot.
Recognizing the needs of families, Folk Café introduced a dedicated child minder in 2021 to supervise the kids' play area during weekends, ensuring parents could fully relax while their children enjoyed a safe and engaging space. The café’s commitment to family-friendly dining is one of its standout qualities.
Further expanding its community offerings in 2022, the café enlarged its deli shop to provide a broader selection of fresh produce and snacks, emphasizing its role not only as a place to eat but also as a local source of high-quality ingredients and artisanal products.
- Locally sourced ingredients contribute to fresh and flavorful dishes.
- Spacious garden and kids’ play area make it perfect for families and groups.
- Live music weekends add vibrant entertainment to the dining experience.
- Expanded deli shop offers fresh produce and artisanal snacks for takeaway.
Nestled along the picturesque shores of St. James, Cape Town, Folk Cafe St. James is a vibrant spot that perfectly blends a laid-back coastal vibe with exceptional culinary offerings. This charming venue captivates visitors with its stunning sea views, creating an ideal backdrop for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. Whether you're a local foodie, a digital nomad seeking an inspiring cafe, or a family on a day out, Folk Cafe delivers a memorable dining experience.
One of the cafe's biggest draws is its family-friendly atmosphere, complete with a dedicated kids' play area that allows parents to relax while the little ones have fun. Animal lovers will appreciate that dogs on leashes are warmly welcomed, making it a perfect spot for pet owners. The menu is delightfully diverse, catering to various dietary preferences by offering vegan and gluten-free options alongside hearty woodfired pizzas and healthy deli selections.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, Folk Cafe regularly hosts live music performances on weekends, infusing the space with energy and a communal spirit. Visitors praise the quality of their coffees and cocktails, noting the perfect balance of flavors and craftsmanship. Outdoor seating options allow diners to soak in the refreshing sea breeze and scenic surroundings while enjoying their meals.
While Folk Cafe shines in many areas, some guests have reported inconsistent service and occasional delays in food preparation, especially during busier times. The indoor seating space can feel limited when the cafe is at peak capacity, which might affect your comfort if you prefer indoor dining. Additionally, patrons should note that Folk Cafe does not allow BYO (Bring Your Own) alcohol, so beverages must be purchased on-site.
- Pros - Charming setting with sea views, family-friendly amenities, diverse menu including vegan and gluten-free, lively weekend music, and dog-friendly environment.
- Cons - Reported inconsistent service, occasional food preparation delays, limited indoor seating at busy times, and no BYO alcohol policy.
