Gluten-Free Gems in South Africa: A Chic Guide to Johannesburg & Cape Town’s Must-Visit Spots

As someone who lives gluten-free (by need or by choice), traveling can sometimes feel like a culinary scavenger hunt, especially in countries where dedicated GF spots are few and far between. South Africa, as vibrant and flavourful as it is, has definitely been lacking in 100% gluten-free cafés. But fear not: two absolute gems are shining brightly in Johannesburg and Cape Town, and trust me, they are worth every bit of your gluten-free love.

Crumble – Fourways, Johannesburg

If you're in Joburg, Crumble is the spot to put at the very top of your list. I first stumbled across them a few years ago, when they were just a small operation doing magical things with gluten-free baking. Fast forward to today, they’ve blossomed into a full-on café, and honestly? My gluten-free heart could not be happier.

Crumble serves all-day breakfasts (a win already), pizzas, and all the comforting classics you never thought you’d enjoy safely again. On my recent visit, I indulged in their flapjacks and their breakfast special: a dreamy crumpet topped with bacon and scrambled eggs. Let me just say, delicious doesn't even begin to cover it. Soft, warm, golden, and just… everything.

This place is seriously a gluten-free haven doing all the right things. I LOVE this café and cannot wait for my next visit.

Off The Gluten Path – Sea Point & Woodstock, Cape Town

Cape Town is already a feast for the senses, but Off The Gluten Path takes it to a whole new level. And get this, they have two dedicated gluten-free locations: Sea Point and Woodstock. How cool is that?

I spent most of my time at their Sea Point café, where the staff were warm, welcoming, and genuinely proud of their menu (as they should be). Everything is 100% gluten-free, and their offerings bring back nostalgic favourites like pies and biltong, foods many people with coeliac disease rarely get to enjoy.

Their menu is extensive and creative, but I have to highlight a few standouts. The chicken & mayo toastie? Perfection. The spaghetti pancakes? Iconic. Their smoothies? Absolutely to die for. And a fun bonus, my dad declared their hake the best fish he’s ever eaten, which says a lot.

This spot is the real deal, and you absolutely HAVE to visit. It’s more than a café, it’s a celebration of what gluten-free food should taste like.

Final Thoughts

Seeing these dedicated gluten-free cafés grow and flourish is truly exciting. Crumble and Off The Gluten Path are doing remarkable work not only for the gluten-free community, but for South Africa’s food scene in general. They’re delicious, they’re innovative, and they deserve all the support we can give.

Next time you’re in Johannesburg or Cape Town, make these hotspots a priority, your taste buds will thank you.