The Gardeners Cottage Restaurant
Breakfast and brunch restaurant with garden setting in Rondebosch
About The Gardeners Cottage Restaurant
Dining under ancient camphor trees in Rondebosch's Montebello Design Centre creates an unforgettable garden setting. The Gardeners Cottage is consistently praised for its Eggs Benedict, fresh-baked sourdough, and homemade cakes available from the on-site deli. Known for unhurried service and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for lingering over breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea.
Customer Reviews
What customers say
- Exceptional outdoor garden setting under ancient camphor treesMultiple reviewers highlight the lush, tranquil garden atmosphere with trees, natural surroundings, and peaceful ambiance as a primary draw. Described as a 'secret garden' and 'lovely spot' nestled in nature.
- Friendly, attentive, and accommodating staffReviewers consistently praise staff for being gracious, kind, helpful, and attentive. Staff remembered returning customers and their orders. Pet and child-friendly approach noted.
- High-quality breakfast and brunch offerings, especially Eggs BenedictEggs Benedict (with salmon and mushroom variants) frequently mentioned as well-executed and satisfying. Fresh, wholesome ingredients with generous portions. Breakfast menu centers around eggs with choice of breads.
- Fresh, well-prepared cakes and baked goods available for purchaseReviewers mention berry cheesecake, chocolate cake (weekends only), scones, and fruit parfaits as delicious. Homemade granola, sourdough, and bagels available from deli. Some inconsistency noted with carrot cake.
- Relaxed, unhurried dining experience ideal for lingeringDescribed as a 'slow eating location' with a relaxed atmosphere. Reviewers note it's a place to unwind, catch up with friends, or enjoy with a book. Not rushed or hurried service.
- Popular venue requiring advance reservations, especially during peak timesMultiple reviewers note the restaurant is very popular and difficult to access without reservations. Parking can be tight on weekends. Early arrival recommended.
Adi Al Owaifeer
The Gardener’s Cottage in Newlands is a lovely spot for breakfast, and our visit left a genuinely good impression. We arrived at 9 AM without a reservation — not ideal, I know — but the staff were gracious enough to seat us at a well-positioned table that was only reserved from 10:30, which gave us a comfortable window to enjoy the morning. The breakfast menu centers around eggs, served with your choice of sourdough, bagel, or plain bread. I had the Eggs Benedict with salmon, which I’d wholeheartedly recommend — well-executed and satisfying. We also tried the cheese omelette, another solid choice. The only caveat worth mentioning is the price point, which sits on the higher end for breakfast. That said, the quality, the setting, and the hospitality justify it if you’re looking to treat yourself to a proper morning meal. If you’re in the Cape Town area near Newlands and want a fine, unhurried breakfast in a pleasant atmosphere, The Gardener’s Cottage is worth a visit — reservation recommended.
Charlene Engelbrecht
Stunning place to come to! Food was amazing and very well portioned! Staff were so kind and helpful. The whole ambiance of the place was a 10/10! I had my doggy with me and the staff immediately pointed out the water stations for her. They were so accommodating! Definitely made my list of places to visit again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does The Gardeners Cottage in Rondebosch take reservations?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially during peak times and weekends. You can book by emailing bookings@gardenerscottage.co.za or calling 021 689 3158. The restaurant is popular and can fill up quickly, so advance booking ensures you secure a table in the garden.
What is The Gardeners Cottage in Rondebosch known for?
The restaurant is renowned for its exceptional garden setting beneath ancient camphor trees, creating a tranquil natural canopy. The Gardeners Cottage has been nominated for years as one of Cape Town's best breakfast destinations, with signature dishes like Eggs Benedict, fresh baked goods, and a relaxed atmosphere ideal for lingering over coffee or brunch.
Is The Gardeners Cottage in Rondebosch pet-friendly?
Yes, The Gardeners Cottage welcomes pets and provides water stations for dogs. The garden setting makes it a comfortable environment for dining with your furry companions, and staff are known for being accommodating to both pets and their owners.
Can you buy cakes and bread from The Gardeners Cottage in Rondebosch?
Yes, the on-site deli sells homemade cakes, preserves, granola, freshly baked sourdough, and bagels. The Gardeners Cottage offers online ordering for collection, making it convenient to take home artisan baked goods and other retail products prepared fresh on-site.
Is The Gardeners Cottage in Rondebosch suitable for group bookings and celebrations?
Yes, the venue is well-suited for gatherings, birthday celebrations, and group bookings. The garden setting under the ancient camphor trees provides a distinctive atmosphere for special occasions. Contact bookings@gardenerscottage.co.za to arrange your group event.
What breakfast options does The Gardeners Cottage in Rondebosch offer?
The Gardeners Cottage specializes in an eggs-focused breakfast menu featuring Eggs Benedict (available with salmon or mushroom variants), omelettes, and fruit parfaits. Guests can choose from sourdough, bagels, or plain bread, and the menu emphasizes fresh, wholesome ingredients with generous portions.
Does The Gardeners Cottage in Rondebosch have parking available?
Yes, on-site parking is available at The Gardeners Cottage. However, parking can get tight during weekends, so arriving early or using your reservation time wisely is recommended, especially during peak hours.
What makes the garden setting at The Gardeners Cottage in Rondebosch special?
The restaurant is nestled within Montebello Design Centre and features dining under ancient camphor trees that create a distinctive natural canopy. Reviewers describe it as a 'secret garden' with lush, tranquil surroundings—a peaceful escape integrated with local artists' products and a garden nursery, making it a unique destination in Rondebosch.