Jessy’s Waffles, the new dessert café in Dunkley Square, Gardens, that has every vegan and gluten-free foodie buzzing!

Image by Jemma Wilensky
Jessy’s Waffles started out as a waffle business selling yummy treats at food markets on the weekends. Eventually the small business became so popular that the owner, Jessy Berry, just couldn’t run it from her kitchen any longer. And so, 24-year-old Jessy Berry, opened Jessy’s Waffles, a completely vegan and gluten-free restaurant, in February 2018.
After tasting three of Jessy’s awesome desserts I can happily say that all my expectations were exceeded. The Queen of Hearts waffle had a crunchy exterior and a soft fluffy middle. Dripping with maple syrup and covered in fresh, delicious berries, this waffle was so yummy I couldn’t believe it. You can also order your waffles with a side, such as ice cream and extra chocolate sauce.
What is so awesome about Jessy’s Waffles is that they only use locally sourced ingredients for their food. They even support other small local business when sourcing things such as ice cream. Jessy’s Waffles ice cream comes from the much-loved vegan ice cream shop, Unframed Ice Cream.
The other two desserts I tried were the Queen of Hearts flapjacks and the Dirty Chai Stack flapjacks. As much as the waffles impressed me, the flapjacks did that and more. I couldn’t believe that they were not only gluten-free but also vegan. The flapjacks were fluffy, light, and drenched in their unique sauces. My personal favourite out of all three desserts was the Dirty Chai Stack.

Image taken from Jessy’s Waffles Instagram page
I had the pleasure of tasting Jessy’s food with my dearest mom and sister (both who are not gluten intolerant) and their reactions to the food were even more wonderful than mine. Neither of them could believe that something gluten-free and vegan could taste so delicious. Needless to say they were very impressed.
Jessy’s Waffles is very much aware of the current water crisis in Cape Town, and in response are serving everything in containers that are made of biodegradable materials, as to eliminate water wastage in washing dishes. This is not only a good way to help reduce water usage, but it is also environmentally friendly as the containers are not made of plastic.

Image taken from Jessy’s Waffles instagram page
Where: This gorgeous plant based and gluten-free restaurant can be found in Dunkley Square, Gardens, Cape Town.
Tip: If you know you cannot eat a lot, order the half portion of Waffles, they are HUGE. Also follow Jessy’s Waffles on Instagram for updates on their “Waffle of The Week”. Instagram link: https: https://www.instagram.com/jessyswaffles/?hl=en
The bill: waffles full portion can cost anything up to R86 (can be more depending on how many toppings you add), and the half portions are around R47-R68. Smoothie bowls are between R53 and R55, and coffee is available from as little R19, with milk alternatives such as soy and almond milk options at an additional cost.
specials: Weekday specials include morning coffee from 9-10:30 for R15, and if you order waffle and coffee you get R10 off your bill. Another awesome special is that on a Wednesday, with any waffle or flapjack you order, you can get soft serve for as little as R12.
Opening Times: Monday–Friday: 9am–6pm, Saturday: 9am–9pm. Another perk is that Jessy’s Waffles is open from 9-9 on a Saturday, so whether you’re in the mood for a scrumptious breakfast or mouth-watering dessert, Jessy’s Waffles is open all day for that weekend treat.