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Welcome to The Old Jail Coffee House
Welcome to The Old Jail Coffee House, a unique dining experience situated in a transformed prison building at 1 Main St, Riversdale, South Africa. Here, history meets culinary delight, where guests can explore fascinating artifacts within old jail cells while enjoying delicious meals. The warm atmosphere promises comfort, complemented by friendly service that enhances your visit. Patrons rave about the superb breakfast options, particularly the exceptional carrot cake, which has garnered a stellar reputation. Whether dining indoors or in the charming garden, The Old Jail Coffee House provides a memorable blend of heritage and flavor, inviting you to savor both the food and the past.
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About
The Old Jail Coffee House
Welcome to The Old Jail Coffee House, a unique gem nestled in the heart of Riversdale, South Africa. Set within the intriguing confines of a former prison, this establishment doesn’t just serve food; it offers an experience steeped in history. As you step through the doors at 1 Main St, you are greeted by an atmosphere that melds nostalgia with culinary delight.
Every visit to The Old Jail Coffee House is an opportunity to explore the remnants of its storied past. Patrons rave about the captivating combination of dining and discovery, where each meal is accompanied by tales of its historical surroundings. Guests can wander through the converted jail cells, which now house a variety of antiques and even creative displays—think LEGO in one cell, adding a playful touch to this otherwise solemn setting.
The Old Jail Coffee House excels in its breakfast offerings. Reviews highlight the mini breakfast as a must-try, with many guests praising its superb execution and the friendly service that enhances the overall experience. One delighted customer shared that the warm atmosphere—enhanced by the charming decor—paired beautifully with a simple yet tasty lunch that left her feeling content and nostalgic.
One dish creating quite the buzz is their carrot cake, acclaimed for its excellence and virtually universally loved. While some ventured into toasted sandwiches that left room for improvement, feedback indicates that other menu items are consistently satisfying. The echoes of clinking cutlery against antique china cups provide a sensory backdrop, transporting diners back in time to an era captured within the very walls of the coffee house.
For families, The Old Jail Coffee House offers a delightful outing where children can roam and learn about the history of the prison. As parents enjoy their meals, kids are captivated by the facts and stories hidden within the old walls, creating a rich and engaging environment for all ages. Whether you are looking for a leisurely lunch or an adventurous journey through the past, this spot invites you to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the Garden Route and embrace the unique charm it has to offer.
So, if you find yourself in the area, do not miss the chance to experience The Old Jail Coffee House. It promises not just a meal, but a flavorful dive into history, craft, and warmth that will linger with you long after you’ve left.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ The old jail has been tastefully converted to a small restaurant, art galleries and antique shops. Every little corner has a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. The lady running the restaurant was delightful, our lunch was simple and tasty. ”
“ Hidden gem of history found on the edge of Riversdale about 50kk from the coastal fishing village of Stilbaai The cells have been converted into small shops selling antiques including paintings. While historically the original gallows are still a grim reminder of its original use as a prison with its own death-row, dotted around the areas where prisoners could walk around, are plants in pots flowering in the sun-shine bring relief to its grim use The tea garden under the trees in a courtyard surrounded by white washed walls and it's accompanying dining area inside the old buildings, is well worth a visit. The menu is simple and fairly priced. Food was fresh, served fairly quickly by a friendly hostess. Definitely worth a second visit. ”
“ A great unusual first time experience having a meal at an old prison building. I'm glad we got to sit outside in a pretty garden because walking around the prison buildings was amazing but made my skin crawl just imagining and learning about the history. Lots to see other than just sitting at a table eating a meal which is great. Inside each jail cell are items for sale. There is even a jail cell with Lego, others have antiques and a variety of other items in others. The food smelled amazing coming in there. Although I didn't try the carrot cake, my family all agreed that it lived up to its reputation for being an excellent carrot cake. Personally, my toasted sandwich, wasn't very good but that was the only thing, everyone else at the table were happy with their food which was more like the breakfast options with bacon and eggs. ”
“ Such a warm and inviting atmosphere and the breakfast is excellent! Full of history too! ”
“ The Old Jail Coffee House is a fascinating spot rich in history! Loved exploring old jail. Had the mini breakfast - absolutely superb. Friendly top - notch service made the visit even better! ”
“ Our kids loved walking around the old jail and asked numerous questions. The old China cups and sauces took me on a nostalgic trip to the past! The keys to the jail put me right back in 1860! Take some time out of your trip up the Garden Route and enjoy a morning/afternoon strolling around the jail. ”