Sonder Cafe

Sonder Cafe is a vintage-style coffee shop on Lower Main Road in Observatory, serving New York-style foods including bagels alongside coffee and art. The cafe opened in January 2021 around a simple idea: that connection matters, even between strangers, and that coffee, music, art and games are a way to build it.

The space leans into its vintage aesthetic, with decor that feels more like a comfortable kitchen nook than a conventional coffee shop and vintage knick-knacks dotted throughout, plus a chessboard set out for anyone who wants a game with their coffee. Sonder also runs a second location in Bo-Kaap, and the Observatory space can be hired out for private functions and events. It suits regulars looking for a relaxed, characterful spot to linger over coffee, bagels and conversation in Observatory.