Not only is Cape Town filled with exciting flavours; but it accompanies them with gorgeous views and infectious atmospheres, taking a simple dinner and transforming it into an experience.
With the summer season blowing in, the city is creeping out of hibernation and into its busy & bustling life – so we’ve compiled a list of all the trendiest places to dine, whether you’re looking to join the vibe or find solace away from it.
This Cape Town favourite exudes playfulness and luxury. Nestled on a private beach along the shoreline, Locals and tourists alike can enjoy sundowners and relaxed fine-dining while overlooking notorious Cape Town landmarks such as Signal Hill, Table Mountain, Green Point Stadium and Robben Island.
Grand offers a choice of five bars, ocean-view decks and on-beach dining, with a menu that boasts seafood, meat dishes, greek cuisine, salads, burgers, pizzas and pasta.
LOCAL TIP: Their Sunset Sundays with a DJ, are the perfect way to end the weekend.
Kloof Street House is set in a breath-taking Victorian-style villa filled with richly furnished dining rooms and surrounded by an abundant garden. Diners come here to escape the modern rush of city and lose themselves by time-traveling through the decor.
The menu promises responsibly sourced produce harnessed in an eclectic array of dishes, including seafood, free-range meat, salads, soups and pasta. They also offer a variety of cocktails including classics and inspired fusions.
LOCAL TIP: Cosy up in the library for that special date night. It doesn’t get much more romantic than this.
Janse & Co is a casual fine dining restaurant situated in Cape Town’s iconic Kloof Street that offers an enriching experience for both tourists and locals alike. Guests can choose their tasting menu between three courses, each emphasising fresh, seasonal and ethically-sourced ingredients ensuring that every dish is both consciously created AND delicious. Maintaining this local theme, their wine menu also introduces boutique wineries and winemakers of the Western Cape.
LOCAL TIP: They have a huge selection of proudly South African Gin.
Situated in Bantry Bay, Stepbrothers was built upon a long-time friendship – and this reflects in the restaurant’s cosy atmosphere and hearty food. Cooked nonna style – ‘granny-style’ – the authentically Italian menu shines through its homemade pasta and pizza dishes. They otherwise offer breakfasts, antipasto platters, insalata, meat dishes and Roman-style pizza.
LOCAL TIP: The thinnest pizza crusts and authentic Italian food!
This steakhouse and bar celebrates meat in all it’s many forms. Cowboys & Cooks offers an imaginative approach both on the grill – with dishes such as roasted marrow bone and ostrich steaks – and on at the bar, where they serve up a medley of incredible signature cocktails.
The meat at Cowboys and Cooks’ is sourced from free-range, grass-fed animals. They preach and practice this farm-to-plate method as they believe that it provides the best flavor possible, and you can taste it!
LOCAL TIP: One of Cape Town’s latest hotspots. Bound to be a hit!
The Terrace at D’aria is a modern gem nestled in the heart of the northern suburbs. The amazing glass-styled restaurant and outdoor terrace make for a tranquil and elegant setting. Its menu is small but proves to adhere to quality-over-quantity as every dish is wonderfully flavourful.
LOCAL TIP: Amongst its wide array of cocktails, The Terrace’s gin-based drinks have proven to be a particular favourite.
This wine estate, located just below Constantia Nek, undoubtedly has one of Cape Town’s best views. It overlooks picturesque vineyards and mountain silhouettes that will take your breath away.
Constantia Glen’s pride is its wine and therefore offers an incredible wine tasting experience that is paired with delicious meat and/or cheese platters or a main course. This is the perfect place for sundown dining or weekend lunch dates.
LOCAL TIP: Try their Flagship wine, Constantia Glen FIVE. A classic Constantia blend of the five archetypal Bordeaux varieties – Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. We promise, you will not regret it!
Renowned for its unbelievable cocktail alchemy, Cause Effect Cocktail Kitchen & Cape Brandy Bar draws its inspiration for its speciality drinks from Cape Town’s fynbos, oceans, vineyards and mountains. Situated in Cape Town’s iconic waterfront district, it offers a thrilling and upbeat vibe. Snack on canapes and sharing platters while enjoying one of their playful drinks.
LOCAL TIP: If cocktails are your thing, this is your place!
Sheltered by stone pines and cradled by the rump of Table Mountain National Park, The Lawns at The Roundhouse takes full advantage of its location as a chilled all-day restaurant. The outside space opens out to a view of the Twelve Apostles and Atlantic, and the menu is filled with comfort food.
LOCAL TIP: Look out for their local goods markets.
A national monument settled within the walls of› The Roundhouse. At this little-known gem chef Ryan and his team have created an exceptional dining experience by combining both modern and classical cooking techniques.
Salsify has two dining areas. The “Leather Lounge” exudes comfort and opulence in a leather-clad room with a fireplace, and the “Sea Room” provides more modern furnishing that provides a sense of old-world charm.
LOCAL TIP: Cape Town’s best kept secret! Recently awarded one of South Africa’s top 10 restaurants in the 2019 Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Restaurant Awards.
Thali brings their own interpretation of Indian food from all regions and styles to Cape Town. Like their warm flavours, their restaurant is cosy and comforting and staff welcoming.
Their menu is served over three courses, starting with milder flavours and working up to the hotter curries to finish.
LOCAL TIP: The Butter chicken is to die for!