In a city that is constantly buzzing, you may want to escape to a quiet place from time to time to catch up on some work or study for an exam. Whether you prefer a shady garden spot or a cosy coffee shop, these quiet spots around Cape Town will help you focus when you need to.
The Company’s Garden is an ideal spot to get away from the bustle of the city. Find a quiet spot in the shade of magnificent-old trees or on the manicured lawns in the sun, and enjoy the tranquil environment of the city’s oldest garden. There’s a WiFi hotspot close to the Company’s Garden Restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat if you’re feeling peckish. The charming restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, and it serves a good selection of contemporary cuisine and wine.
Centrally located close to the CTICC and V&A Waterfront, Grind 4Truth Coffee is an off-shoot of the inimitable Truth Coffee shop over in the East Precinct. The décor and vibe is a lot more pared down here compared to its counterpart, but the coffee and food is no less than great. A nice quiet place for work or an informal business meeting, there is a range of indoor and outdoor seating.
This charming restaurant, situated in The Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, is a delightful place to hit the books and admire the beautiful surrounds as you enjoy breakfast, lunch, or tea. The Tea Room offers a wide selection of freshly baked goods, salads, and light meals. You can also opt to set down a picnic blanket in the expansive gardens and enjoy the peace and quiet.
Field Office has an avid following of freelancers and young-professional patrons, with four branches located in hotspots around the city. They offer a selection of top-notch breakfast dishes, deluxe coffee, and free Wi-Fi. They also support local artists by exhibiting their work.
Those who love good coffee, delicious food, and the sea, stop by Bootlegger Coffee Company in Kalk Bay. Situated within walking distance of the famous working harbor, the café has indoor and outdoor seating allowing you to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and partial sea views. Be sure to arrive before 8:30 am when freshly-roasted coffee still goes for R15 per cup. There’s also free Wi-Fi.
Situated opposite the Grand Parade in the city center, the Cape Town Central Library is the largest library in the city. It offers an inspiring space to study, work, and meet new people. Take out your laptop and get down to business amid the rows of books or use one of the library’s computers. They offer complimentary Wi-Fi and internet access.
Counted as one of Cape Town’s architectural gems, this grand Edwardian building dates back to 1913. Today, it is an annexe of the National Library of South Africa, which promotes a culture of reading and writing in the city. Soak up history in the central reading room replete with a magnificent domed ceiling.
Spend a day working high above the city at the summit of Table Mountain. The Cableway company’s free Wi-Fi lounge affords spectacular views over the city and Atlantic Ocean and also offers a selection of light meals and beverages from a take-away counter. There are plug-and-USB points throughout the lounge and a range of seating options including high tables, stools, and couches.
Situated inside the trendy Woodstock Exchange, Superette provides a light-and-airy space with bright furniture and free Wi-Fi. Find a perch at one of the window-side counters or at a table, and catch up on some work or meet with friends. They serve delicious farm-style breakfasts, lunches, and craft beer on tap.
Book Lounge is a cosy-corner bookstore located in the city’s Fringe District. The store’s inviting atmosphere and eclectic selection of books will keep you occupied and relaxed for hours on end. There’s also a lounge area and small coffee shop downstairs with a selection of tasty snacks and hot and cold drinks.
