Following the announcement earlier this month that Toast coffee shop at Lifestyle Centre, Ballito, would be closing in October to make way for a new offering, the partners have decided to extend the life of Toast a little longer and push out the launch of the new venture until next year. Customers can now continue to enjoy their favourite Toast breakfasts, brews and warm hospitality until January 2026.

This change gives the team more time to carefully reimagine the space and prepare for the launch of Bellevue Café Ballito – an exciting new chapter led by local restaurateur Guy Cluver, the visionary behind the iconic Bellevue Café in Kloof, together with his operating partner Claudio Tripepi and Bruce Rencken, owner of Lifestyle Centre and Toast.

Rencken explained that, after careful consideration, the partners have decided to bring a tried and tested local brand to Ballito, rather than a new one. “Toast has been a firm favourite for seven years, and now our patrons can enjoy it for a few months longer before we renovate the space. I’m incredibly excited that we have convinced Guy to introduce Bellevue Café to Ballito – a proven, local and much-loved eatery that will add to the vibrant dining experience we are creating at Lifestyle Centre, the beating heart of Ballito.”

“When we announced Nook Café and Bistro, we had the very best intentions to launch something fresh this November,” said Cluver. “But after much thought, we decided to stay true to what works best – and what our customers have been asking for. Bellevue Café has been at the heart of Kloof’s dining culture for years, and we’re thrilled to be bringing that same timeless, beloved experience to Ballito. By giving ourselves more time, we can ensure the space, the menu and the service are just right.”

Bellevue Café Ballito will carry forward the soul and spirit of the original Bellevue – a relaxed, welcoming café and bistro experience where quality food, exceptional coffee and warm connections come together. The team promises a refreshed space with a coastal touch, but with the same signature Bellevue dishes, wood-fired pizzas, generous salads, seasonal specials and curated wines that regulars have grown to love.

Operating partner, Claudio Tripepi, will be hands-on at Bellevue Café Ballito. “This change of plan excites me even more – we now have the chance to bring an iconic brand with a strong identity to Ballito. Bellevue has a wonderful reputation, and I’m passionate about creating a version here that feels familiar yet fresh, where locals can gather from breakfast through to dinner.”

Suvina Mahadaw, Manager of Toast, shared, “We are so grateful to our loyal customers for the love they’ve shown Toast. My team and I look forward to serving you until the end of January and then carrying this warmth and community into our service at Bellevue Café Ballito!”

Bellevue Café Ballito is set to open its doors in March 2026, marking the beginning of a new, delicious chapter for Ballito.