There’s something about Muizenberg that feels like a mini escape. The salt in the air, the coastal hum, and that irresistible sense of seaside slowness. It’s that perfect in between of relaxed and awake. I mean, first of all: location, location, location! The ocean is your backyard, in my case, my front yard. I am so grateful to call this place my home. What more could you ask for? Well, that’s what makes Muizenberg special. It delivers even more than you could have ever expected. It isn’t just pretty on the eyes, but it’s full of personality, and that’s thanks to the people within the community and all the hidden gems around. Of course, as a foodie, I find myself out and about at restaurants all the time. I have tried most, if not all, the restaurants the area has to offer, and my constant favourite has to be Harvest. From the delicious food and coffee, to the incredibly friendly staff and warm atmosphere, it really has it all. The space itself is light filled, open, airy, and effortlessly grounded. That perfect mix of surf town casual and cafe chic. I love the natural wood, hanging greenery, warm lighting, and earthy tones. It gives off that energy of an island holiday, especially since it’s almost summer. Another bonus is that they have outside seating, perfect for the warmer months to come!

“It feels like a breakfast you’d eat on holiday, sitting in the sun, with not a care in the world.”

Since I am approaching my two year single mark (WHOOP WHOOP), I have decided that I am going to take myself out on a solo date every week, and what better place than Harvest Cafe! It’s the perfect place to sit back and relax. Whether you’re sitting outside with the sun rays shining down on you, or finding a comfy corner inside to read a book, people watch, or just listen to some music. I must add, they do have great Wi-Fi. Do with that what you will. Anyway, back to my solo dates, I have made it my mission to try everything on the menu, one meal at a time. Because if you’re going to do it, you might as well do it right, right? The menu walks the line between healthy and hearty. There are smoothie bowls, wraps, bagels, breakfasts, and more. Yes, I am going to be busy and I am so excited! Everything is fresh, generous, and wholesome, just the way I like it. 

This week I went for the Into the Blue smoothie bowl, and honestly, I get why it’s a local go to. From the moment this beauty landed on my table, I knew I was in for something special. The presentation was 10/10. The bowl was big, bright, and beautiful. What’s there not to love? The contrast of the creamy green spirulina against the golden granola and vibrant fruit makes it almost too pretty to eat (almost). No, I didn’t make a mistake. Yes, it was green. Why? Blue spirulina is hard to come by at the moment, but not to worry because it is still absolutely delicious and green has as many, if not more nutrients than the blue. Now you know, thank you Google! The smoothie base’s texture was exactly how I love it, thick, creamy and smooth with just enough body to hold its shape. Not icy, not watery, and not so cold that it shocks your taste buds. It’s that perfect middle ground where every spoonful feels lush and satisfying, filling without feeling heavy. Flavour wise, it’s sunshine in a bowl. The mango and banana create a naturally sweet, velvety base, while the lime and orange keep it fresh and bright. You can taste the cashew butter and vanilla adding nuttiness and warmth. The spirulina then gives that signature earthy note that balances the sweetness and richer flavours beautifully. Now for my favourite part, the granola. Harvest makes the best one, in my opinion. It is toasty, golden, and ever so slightly chewy. What sets it apart for me is that warm maple meets cinnamon flavour that instantly makes you slow down and savour. It tastes as good as a hug from a loved one feels, you just can’t beat it. Then for the other toppings, the coconut flakes add crunch and a gentle tropical flavour, while the berries and banana slices bring freshness and natural sweetness to each bite. Overall, this bowl is the epitome of balance. It’s rich but refreshing, indulgent yet wholesome. It feels like a breakfast you’d eat on holiday, sitting in the sun, with not a care in the world.

This was the perfect start to my solo date series. A little moment to myself, surrounded by good energy and even better food. If this is how the story begins, I can’t wait to see where the next chapters take me. And honestly, what a start, this might just be the best smoothie bowl I’ve had in Cape Town, and it happens to be right on my doorstep. Lucky me.

Thank you Harvest Cafe, till next time!