From cosy coffee shops and bustling brunch spots to family-run tearooms and hidden gems serving the perfect slice of cake, cafés play a huge role in our communities.

They are places where friends catch up, families gather, and people take a well-earned break from busy days.

Now it's time to celebrate the cafés that go the extra mile.

Bev Botha owner of the Travelling Cupcake with her Café of the Year 2025 award. (Image: Daniel Quina Brito)

In 2025, The Travelling Cupcake was crowned the winner. Bev Botha, owner of the café, said: "It feels amazing; we are really grateful because I know that customers would have gone out of their way to vote for us, so it really means a lot."

We're inviting readers to nominate their favourite cafés for our Café of the Year 2026 competition.

Whether it's the friendly service, exceptional food, outstanding coffee or the warm welcome that keeps you coming back, we want to hear about the places you think deserve recognition.

Nominations will remain open until September 14.

After this date, we'll compile a shortlist of the most popular venues before opening the competition to a public vote.

Readers will then have the chance to decide who takes home the title.

To nominate your favourite, fill out the online form.

Last year's winner is not eligible to enter this year's competition