Long Street, Cape Town’s vibrant party strip, has a new resident—one that’s bringing a spoonful of nostalgia to the heart of the city. Why So Cerious?, South Africa’s first all-day cereal café and bakery, is the brainchild of the Bodhania family: mother-and-sons trio Shaakira, Nabeel (22), and Yusuf (17).
Their mission? To serve joy, one bowl at a time.
A Sweet Dream Takes Shape
The inspiration for Why So Cerious? came from the family’s travels across Europe and the Middle East, where dedicated cereal cafés have long been a novelty. Recognizing a gap in the South African market, the Bodhanias decided to bring the experience home.
Opening its doors in December 2024, the café quickly became a Long Street favourite, offering an unexpected late-night indulgence alongside bars and fast-food joints. With a menu built on nostalgia, it taps into a universal childhood memory—Saturday mornings spent in front of the TV, a colourful cereal box in hand, and not a care in the world.
A Name with Meaning
The café’s playful name is both a nod to pop culture and a deeply personal tribute. Inspired by Heath Ledger’s iconic Joker line in The Dark Knight, Why So Cerious? carries special significance for the family. It was a phrase often repeated by Shaakira’s late daughter, and when it came time to name the café, it felt like the perfect fit.
To tie it back to the concept, the family swapped the “S” for a “C,” blending their love for nostalgia with a touch of whimsy.
A Nostalgic Menu with a Modern Twist
At Why So Cerious?, childhood favourites meet creative new treats. The café offers a curated mix of local and imported cereals, from classics like Frosties and Fruit Loops to hard-to-find international gems like Oreo O’s and Cap’n Crunch.
But the menu goes beyond just cereal bowls. House-baked croissants, éclairs, and cereal-infused cupcakes are made fresh in small batches throughout the day. One standout creation—the ice cream burger—has quickly become a customer favourite. Featuring a toasted brioche bun filled with ice cream and cereal, it delivers a contrast of textures and temperatures that keeps people coming back.
Balancing Generations, Building a Business
The café is a true family affair. Shaakira brings her experience as co-founder of Bake It Yourself, a popular online baking business. Nabeel focuses on strategy and growth, while Yusuf balances his matric studies with shifts at the café, handling everything from prepping pastries to fine-tuning new menu items.
The blend of perspectives—combining traditional know-how with modern trends—has been key to their success. The result? A café that feels both familiar and fresh, bridging generational tastes while offering a unique, nostalgic experience.
Overcoming Challenges, Looking Ahead
Running a cereal café in South Africa comes with its own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to sourcing imported cereals. Stock fluctuates due to shipping delays, meaning the menu is constantly evolving.
Despite this, the café’s popularity has soared, and the family has already received multiple franchise enquiries. While their immediate focus is on strengthening the supply chain, expansion is firmly on the horizon. Plans for additional locations—starting with more Cape Town outlets and eventually reaching Johannesburg—are already taking shape.
More Than Just a Café
At its core, Why So Cerious? isn’t just about cereal—it’s about creating moments of joy. From the nostalgic flavours to the playful atmosphere, the café offers a space where people can relive childhood memories or simply indulge in something fun and unexpected.
Whether it’s a late-night sugar fix, a throwback to simpler times, or curiosity about the famous ice cream burger, Why So Cerious? makes every visit feel like Saturday morning all over again.
Visit Why So Cerious: 263 Long Street, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 8 AM – 11 PM
