Operating under the auspices of local chain Protea, this property supports the Breakwater campus of the University of Cape Town's Graduate Business School. As a result, the mood is heavily corporate-minded, and sporting a stiff upper lip is the only way to survive in this place. In fact, the school is adjacent to the hotel, lending an academic formality to staffers' attitudes.
Originally a prison designed to house the inmates constructing the nearby Table Bay hotel, this property has spiffed itself up to welcome higher-paying guests (although not by all that much,
considering the modest rates). Still, many reminders of its former jailhouse days remain, such as the unfortunate treadmill designed to keep inmates moving on a perpetually rotating staircase.
The modern cafe prides itself on speedy service without sacrificing innovative fare and serves a rapid business lunch each day. In the evening, locals flood the scene to partake in the trendy menu and show out-of-towners this historic place. The more casual Stonebreakers restaurant is a self-proclaimed do-it-yourself affair where diners partake in the buffet three times 
daily. The bar competes with the numerous establishments on the waterfront.
As expected, the meeting facilities here are top-notch, supporting groups as large as 250 in modern classroom surroundings. Wireless high-speed Internet access is available in public areas. Protected parking is offered and appreciated, since many visitors are locals attending functions here.
Air-conditioned rooms are plain yet restful, with simplistic furnishings such as wooden beds, TVs, radios and coffeemakers. Fading fabrics and smallish windows do little to add appeal. The baths could use some upgrades to repair the wear and tear they get from constant turnover. Not all rooms offer private baths, so modest guests should prepare to pay more.
This budget offering is a pleasant alternative to the larger lodgings near the waterfront and brings guests closer to the action at less than half the price.
