Cape Town Foodie Guide: The Best Places to Eat in Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a foodie heaven. In fact, it’s widely considered one of the best places in the world to eat.

The food in South Africa, and Cape Town especially, is strongly influenced from the many cultures and nationalities that call SA home. In Cape Town specifically, there is a strong Malay influence, but you can also find excellent spots serving up everything from the freshest local seafood, to Mozambican to cool vegan brunch spots. Then there are some seriously great food halls, such as Time Out Market, and of course, some of the best Michelin-starred fine dining, Cape Town has it all.

On each visit to Cape Town, I go armed with a list of places I want to try so I can now say I’ve been to quite a few. So here’s where to find the best food, coffee and drinks in Cape Town.

Best Places to Eat in Cape Town

Best Restaurants for Dinner in Cape Town

Mama Africa

This eclectic restaurant, located on Long Street in the heart of Cape Town city centre is a must-visit. Established just after the end of apartheid in 1995, this restaurant delivers the best Southern African food in Cape Town. Try the Zimbabwean Dovi, a chicken dish in a mild peanut sauce or Mama’s bobotie. The atmosphere is fun and vibey, with live music most evenings. There is also a curio shop where we bought some lovely art. Reservations are recommended.

• Website: https://www.mamaafricacpt.com/
• Address: 178 Long Street, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

Beluga

So many people told me I had to go to Beluga for sushi before I first went to South Africa. And wow they were right, the sushi platters here were incredible. I could have eaten here every night!

The restaurant is actually Euro-Asian fusion and the menu is really extensive. It’s located within the Waterfront area and has a huge outdoor seating area in a very pretty square. Not a bad idea to reserve a table beforehand.

• Website: https://beluga.co.za
• Address: 1st Floor, Cruise Terminal, Duncan Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

Kloof Street House

Located along Kloof Street is this wonderful resturant, unmissable for its numerous fairy lights. Whether you want to enjoy a Sunday Roast, drinks with friends or a romantic dinner, Kloof Street delivers.

• Website: http://www.kloofstreethouse.co.za
• Address: 30 Kloof Street Gardens, Cape Town

Time Out Market

On my most recent visit, I completely went crazy for Time Out Market in Cape Town. The foodie options are excellent and the atmosphere is just the right level of buzz but also calm enough for you to savour your food. I particularly have found some Time Out Markets (such as Lisbon) to be just too busy.

I highly recommend the Karoo lamb curry from Barakat. and the fried bao buns from How Bao Now. Both dishes were so, so delicious.

Website: https://www.timeout.com/time-out-market-cape-town

Address: Old Power Station, Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, 7806 in Cape Town, South Africa

The Potluck Club

Considered one of the coolest spots in the City, the Potluck Club features on most lists of the best places to eat in Cape Town. Located in hipster Woodstock, it’s worth visiting to sample its eclectic menu from around the world. Definitely make a reservation beforehand.

• Website: http://thepotluckclub.co.za
• Address: The Silo, The Old Biscuit Mill, 373-375 Albert Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town, 7915, South Africa

Best Brunch and Breakfast Spots in Cape Town

Kauai

Kauai is a health cafe chain located all over South Africa. It’s certainly not unique to Cape Town, but if you’re looking for a dependable spot for great smoothies, coffees, wraps and healthy bites – hit up Kauai. My favourite is located in The Point Mall shopping centre in Sea Point. I loved to pick up a smoothie there and then head down to the promenade for a walk.

• Website: https://www.kauai.co.za
• Address: Regent Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8060, South Africa

The Oranjezicht Market

This is the best farmers market experience you may ever have. The market was established by the Oranjezicht City Farm in 2013 and relocated to Granger Bay within the V&A Waterfront neighbourhood a few years later.

Now, this farmers market has become the largest of its kind in Cape Town, attracts 6,000 to 9,000 visitors each weekend. Supporting over 40 local farmers and 80 artisanal food traders, it is also home to host a beautiful homemade goods ranging from ceramics to clothing.

Website: https://ozcf.co.za/ozcfmarket/

Address: Haul Road, Granger Bay Blvd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

Best Coffee Shops in Cape Town

Espresso Lab Microroasters

Situated on the ground floor of The Old Biscuit Mill in the hip district of Woodstock is this excellent roastery and coffee shop. I think Espresso Lab has some of the best coffee in South Africa. They source their coffee beans from fully traceable farms, estates and cooperatives, so you can feel happy knowing it is sustainable.

• Website: https://espressolabmicroroasters.com
• Address: 375 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town, South Africa

Bootleggers

One of the most well known coffee shop chains in the city, it was originally founded by three friends about six years ago. They serve up some of the best coffee in Cape Town and are well worth visiting, especially if you’re a coffee snob seeking excellent coffee.

• Website: https://bootlegger.co.za
• Address: Bootlegger Sea Point, 39 Regent Road, Cape Town (one of many in CPT)

Vovo Telo

This bakery and coffee shop chain started with inspiration from a trip to Madagascar, and has since spawned into a popular chain across South Africa. Their freshly baked bread is delicious, and their coffee is some of the best around. There are several spots across Cape Town, but my favourite location is in the V&A Waterfront.

Website: https://vovotelo.co.za/

Address: V&A Waterfront, The Wine Centre, Dock Road, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

Native Coffee Roasters

Offering staggering views of Table Mountain, Native Coffee Roasters serves up some excellent coffees and bites to eat. A perfect people watching spot too!

Website: https://www.instagram.com/nativecoffee_/

Address: 37B Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

Daytime drinking in Cape Town

Tiger’s Milk

This popular day and night spot has several outposts across South Africa. I particularly love the Tiger’s Milk in Camps Bay overlooking the ocean. The atmosphere is vibey and it’s the perfect place for some sundowners.

• Website: http://tigersmilk.co.za
• Address: 35 Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town, Western Cape

Silo Hotel

As one of the most luxurious and exclusive hotels in Cape Town, you might be surprised I’ve added this to the list. However, its rooftop is a must-visit.

The Silo Rooftop is reservation only, so it’s worth booking ahead to guarantee a lovely spot and you don’t need to be a hotel guest. I’d highly recommend picking up a couple of cocktails either mid-afternoon or at sunset and watching Cape Town from above. However, it is worth noting that you do have to be a hotel guest to use The Silo’s (amazing) rooftop pool!

• Website: https://www.theroyalportfolio.com/the-silo/overview/
• Address: The Silo Hotel, Silo Square, V&A Waterfront, 8001, Cape Town

The Lawns at The Roundhouse

Tucked away above Camps Bay is The Lawns at The Roundhouse. With an incredible view of mountains and the South Atlantic Ocean, this chilled-out stylish spot is a great place for family lunches or sundowners with friends.

• Website: https://thelawnsct.com
• Address: Round House Rd, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8005, South Africa

Kapstadt Brauhaus

Looking for cocktails served in steins? Yep, the Kapstadt Brauhaus is your place. I’m had a few stein-sized pina coladas in here. Located in the V&A Waterfront, this is a great place for a drink following a day of sightseeing. It’s also the perfect place to meet friends with its beautiful vantage point and super friendly and fun staff.

• Website: https://www.kapstadtbrauhaus.co.za
• Address: SHOP G13, Clock Tower, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, 8002

The Brass Bell

This huge waterside restaurant/pub/bar/cafe is one of the best spots in Kalk Bay and was recommend to us by almost everyone. It’s a bit of a hodge podge structure, with all kind of extra rooms and terraces having been added on over time. I recommend trying the Incinci Intsimbi if you go at breakfast time, but it’s later in the day when The Brass Bell really comes alive!

• Website: http://www.brassbell.co.za
• Address: Main Road, Kalk Bay, Cape Town, 7990, South Africa

The Bungalow at Clifton

Offering by far the most stunning views in Clifton, The Bungalow is the perfect place to enjoy day time food and drinks. Stay for sunset and even stay for dinner. It will not disappoint!

• Website: https://www.thebungalow.co.za
• Address: The Bungalow, Glen Country Club, 3 Victoria Road

Best Mediterranean Food in Cape Town

Maria’s Greek Cafe

Hidden away in a gorgeous little square and under a sky of tiny fairy lights is the atmospheric and charming Maria’s. To my surprise, I was served by a Brit, who like the rest of the staff was very friendly. Similar to a typical Greek taverna, it serves up all the best Greek cuisine.

• Website: https://www.facebook.com/MariasGreekCafe/
• Address: 31 Barnett Street, Dunkley Square, Gardens, 8001

Col’chacio

Serving up some of the best pizza in Cape Town, this is an Italian chain for your pizza and pasta fix! There are several across the city and all are really relaxed and casual.

• Website: https://colcacchio.co.za
• Address: Shop 57, Isaacs Corner, Victoria Road, Cape Town

Best Seafood Restaurants in Cape Town

Bertha’s Seafood Restaurant

By the waterfront in pretty Simon’s Town is the excellent Bertha’s. This is a great place to eat if you’re heading to Boulder’s Beach to see the penguins. The staff are super friendly and there’s always excellent local street performers outside on the terrace.

• Website: http://berthas.co.za
• Address: 1 Wharf Road, Simon’s Town, 7975, Cape Town

Harbour House

Another excellent restaurant, also located in Kalk Bay on the Cape Peninsula. Serving up delicious seafood on its large desk overlooking the bay, with mountains in the distance.

• Website: http://www.harbourhouse.co.za
• Address: Kalk Bay Harbour, Cape Town

Cod Father

Cod Father is known for having the best seafood in Cape Town, hands down. In the absence of a menu, their staff talk you through the catch of the day and how to have it served. An awesome experience.

• Website: https://www.codfather.co.za
• Address: 37 The Drive, Camps Bay, Cape Town

Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Cape Town

Chef’s Warehouse

Located in the stunning winelands area of Beau Constantia, just outside of the city, Chef’s Warehouse is a true meal with a view. Their menu is ever-changing, but the views do not – you’ll be surrounded by beautiful vineyards and Table Mountain in the distance. Book ahead.

• Website: https://www.chefswarehouse.co.za/
• Address: Constantia Main Road, Glen Alpine, Constantia

La Colombe

Wow! What a foodie experience this is, and one this is an absolute must-do on any trip to Cape Town. I’ve only been to the location in Constantia, which happens to be the outpost awarded ‘Best Restaurant in Africa’ by the World’s 50 Best. I recommend going for the lunch menu so you can enjoy the stunning surroundings, but also have enough time to digest the meal into the evening. This 9 course set menu was without doubt one of the very best meals of my life and absolutely a performance from start to finish.

You must book and pay a deposit in advance to reserve your table.

Website: https://www.lacolombe.restaurant/la-colombe

Address: Silvermist Wine Farm, Constantia, Cape Town

For something a bit different..

Die Strandloper

Strandloper is one of the most famous restaurants in South Africa for its unusual foodie experience. Its location is just over one hour’s drive out of Cape Town up the West Coast. This means it requires a bit of effort to get there and I would recommend to hire your own car. If you want an authentic Afrikaans eating experience in an amazing setting, this is a must-do. Definitely book in advance!

• Website: www.strandloper.com
• Address: Jan Olfsen Street, Leentjiesklip, Langebaan

Afternoon Tea at Belmont Mount Nelson

If a decadent afternoon tea takes your fancy, then this is definitely the place. The pastel-pink luxury hotel is one of the most beautiful places in Cape Town, and one of their exquisite afternoon teas makes for a rather special occasion. Definitely book in advance|!

• Website: https://www.belmond.com/hotels/africa/south-africa/cape-town/belmond-mount-nelson-hotel/afternoon-tea
• Address: 76 Orange Street, Gardens

The Best Places to eat in Cape Town

So there’s my guide to some of the best places to eat in Cape Town! The city is one of the best destinations I have ever been to – and it has food to match. If you’re planning on visiting soon, you might find some of my other guides useful such as my Cape Town itinerary planning guide and post on all of the best things to do in Cape Town.

If you’re spending a bit longer in Cape Town or South Africa, you might find my day trips from Cape Town guide helpful, as well as my guide to safari in Kruger National Park too.

Feel free to drop me a line if you would like any advice or further recommendations for planning your trip to Cape Town. If you’ve enjoyed this guide to the best places to eat and drink in Cape Town, then please do share using the below links!

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Disclaimer: This visit to Cape Town was entirely paid for by myself, and there was no involvement from the tourism board or a hotel. This is an independent guide.