by Heidi Olivier
Craving something warm, flaky, and unapologetically buttery for breakfast, brunch, or that 3 pm slump? A good croissant doesn’t just solve hunger; it restores optimism for the day. Across Johannesburg, bakeries are producing golden, shatter-crisp layers that leave a trail of pastry flakes you’ll legitimately consider saving for later. From classic plain and perfectly frangipane-filled almond to pistachio creams and savoury options that pass for lunch, this city takes its pastry seriously. We’ve tracked down the best croissants in Johannesburg. Consider this your cue to keep reading.
De Baba Eatery
This spot shot into virality last year, so we had to go see it for ourselves at their brand new spot at 27 Boxes. Our response? “Oh my word!” out of each of our mouths. Gochujang and cheese. Honey and feta. A plain croissant split open and absolutely loaded with Nutella. At De Baba Eatery, the croissant menu refuses to play it safe. Each batch is baked fresh, feather-light, and layered with care (and butter!) you can taste in every bite. The flavour combinations lean bold and slightly rebellious; they're the sort that make you pause mid-chew and nod in approval. As one delighted Joburger declared on Instagram, “The best croissants in JHB by far. Like eating air. If you have not been, get there immediately.” Honestly, we wouldn’t argue.
Details: 76a 4th Ave, Melville, Johannesburg, 2109 | 078 085 4489 | www.debaba.co.za
Old Ducky French Café
We love the name, and we love the croissants. Old Ducky French Café in Fourways has an interesting history, and the owner ‘Ducks’, Freda and Marina, have put their international culinary careers to good use. Old Ducky has become a local sensation with their croissants and impressive menu; their plain, chocolate, and almond marzipan croissants are served with butter and a selection of tasty jams. Everything is made from scratch, and nothing is ever reheated in a microwave. Pop in and say hi to the “Ducks” while you enjoy some of Joburg's best French cuisine.
Details: Shop GF22, Pineslopes Shopping Centre, Corner The Straights Avenue and Witkoppen Rd, Fourways | 011 568 5378 | [email protected] | https://oldducky.com/
The Argentinean
The Argentinean is famous for its croissants. F.A.M.O.U.S! Their stellar reputation is built on butter, patience, and word of mouth, since they’re not too active on social media. This Linden bakery offers plain croissants with delicate, honeyed layers, massive almond croissants dripping with frangipane, and chocolate-filled beauties that demand both hands and a moment of silence. The tables spill onto the pavement, the coffee flows, and the raving crowd on Instagram does the rest. It’s dog-friendly too, which means your pooch can lounge in the sunshine while you negotiate, very seriously, over the final flaky crumb.
Details: Cnr 4th Avenue and 7th Street Linden | 011 888 9759
Pret A Manger
Pret A Manger, for those not in the know, is an international chain that opened their first South African branch in Rosebank in 2025. Melrose Arch followed soon after, and the wait was definitely worth it. Pret's croissants have garnered great reviews on social media, so of course, we had to put them to the test. The almond croissant was the first to get our attention, but there are also the Pain Au Chocolate and classic butter croissants to choose from. The croissants are baked fresh throughout the day using locally sourced ingredients, so grab a cuppa of the good stuff (organic coffee) to go with this sweet delight.
Details: The Zone@Rosebank – Shop G27, 177 Oxford Rd, Rosebank | Melrose arch – 4th, Melrose Arch, 54, 2196 Melrose Blvd | [email protected] | Pret A Manger
Fournos
Fournos is one of those bakeries that feels woven into Joburg life. With 22 stores across Johannesburg and Pretoria, it’s less a quick stop and more a standing community ritual, always full of families enjoying quality time together and professionals meeting to talk business. When it comes to croissants, your order really depends on your mood. Almond, cheese, chocolate, cinnamon and raisin, and plain are all solid contenders. Then there’s the showstopper: the custard-filled croissant, generously piped and gloriously messy in the best way. Fournos has been voted the Best Bakery for the last 26 years by the Best of Joburg Readers’ Choice Awards. Best you go grab that custard-filled croissant.
Details: Head office: Cnr Jan Smuts Ave and Bompas Rd, Suite 252, 2nd Floor, Dunkeld West Shopping Centre, Dunkeld | 011 771 2500 | [email protected] | Fournos Home - Fournos
PAUL
How does a croissant au saumon sound? Perhaps a croissant brouillé au saumon or a croissant jambon fromage if you’re feeling fluent in French café culture. PAUL French Bakery and Restaurant brings a slice of Paris to Johannesburg, and yes, the croissants are properly magnifique. From a classic almond croissant to elegant savoury creations that we South Africans likely can’t pronounce too lekker, this artisanal patisserie and restaurant delivers buttery layers with unmistakable French flair, any time of day. PAUL is dedicated to upholding high standards when it comes to the nutritional profile of all offerings on the menu. As such, they’ve removed palm oil, artificial colourings, and numerous additives from all their recipes. They have branches in Bryanston, Midrand, Morningside, Linksfield, and Melrose Arch.
Details: https://www.paulsa.co.za/#location for your nearest branch and telephone number | https://www.paulsa.co.za/
Johannesburg isn’t short on bakeries and cafés turning out exceptional croissants. In fact, the city’s pastry scene runs deep, and we’ve only skimmed the surface with a few standouts that have earned glowing reviews and devoted fans. Consider this your official permission slip. Get your hands on something golden, flaky, and cloud-like. It’s never a bad idea.
