Eating

Eating out is one of the highlights of visiting this world-class culinary capital, where the Mediterranean climate nurtures farms, vineyards and small producers galore. The city has a bottomless selection of relaxed and convivial restaurants and cafés serving imaginative food of a high standard. Prices are inexpensive compared with Western countries; for the cost of an unmemorable meal back home, you can experience innovative dishes cooked by outstanding chefs in an upmarket restaurant. One thing that unites South Africa is a love of meat, and Cape Town is an ideal place to try all kinds of interesting varieties, such as ostrich and springbok. As for seafood, fresh fish features on most restaurant menus, and in the many sushi and tapas bars. Cape Town itself is a good source of cold-water fish such as hake, often served as English-style fish ‘n’ chips, and snoek, a delicious but bony fish.

While meat is certainly popular, vegetarians need not despair, as there’s always at least one concession to meatless food on menus. Even steakhouses will have a meat-free option, and generally offer reasonable salad bars. Menus often feature a low-carb, high-fat option for diners on the Banting diet, which is popular locally and sometimes called the Noakes diet, having been promoted by controversial media personality Professor Tim Noakes of the University of Cape Town.

Ethical eating

It’s a sad fact, but fish stocks are declining worldwide. If you want to do your bit and be ecologically responsible, go for a tasty Cape fish like yellowtail, which is not endangered and has a low carbon footprint, coming straight from the seas around the city. Although they are on many menus, Cape salmon (Geelbek) and to a lesser degree kingklip are best avoided ethically. The Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative (SASSI) can inform you about the conservation status of different kinds of seafood and other issues related to fishing (wwfsassi.co.za).

Cape Malay cuisine must be sampled at least once. It’s the exclusive focus of some restaurants in the city, though many of the dishes considered as Cape Malay have crept into the staple South African diet and can be found on menus nationwide.

The obvious accompaniment to your meals is locally produced Cape wine, costing R60 and up for a bottle of something quaffable, though beer is definitely the national drink, and there are some delicious craft beers to sample. Note that some Muslim establishments serving Cape Malay cuisine don’t allow alcohol at all.

Dining is generally rather early, with most people sitting down at 7pm or 8pm. Don’t expect to walk into a restaurant at 10pm and get a full or decent meal. Booking is essential for the top restaurants. Most cafés and many restaurants offer free wi-fi of varying quality.

A great addition to eating out in Cape Town is the collection of neighbourhood food markets, located in different areas of the city, in interesting venues such as a converted warehouse, old fish factory and former aeroplane hangar. Whether you’re after artisanal cheese, organic produce, scrumptious burgers, craft beer or a glass of bubbly, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The markets are on specific days and times – a few of the best-known ones are a great attraction for breakfast on Saturday mornings.

the City centre

95 Keerom 95 Keerom St 021 422 0765, 95keerom.com; map. Flash, fabulous and expensive, 95 Keerom offers fresh and light Italian nouvelle cuisine, with dishes such as grilled beef, butternut ravioli or seared tuna (average mains R250). In 2013, the Italian chef Giorgio Nava won gold in the World Pasta Championship in Parma; sample his gnocchi, penne and linguine dishes in contemporary surrounds. Mon–Sat 6.30–10pm.

Addis in Cape 41 Church St 021 424 5722, addisincape.co.za; map. This friendly and authentic restaurant has a lovely laidback atmosphere, with traditional furnishings and coffee ceremonies available. You’ll find delicious Ethiopian dishes on the menu, such as spicy red lentils (R137), served on tasty injera (sourdough flatbread) to soak up the flavours and eat with your fingers. Set menus cost R105–260. Mon–Sat noon–10.30pm.

Africa Café 108 Shortmarket St 021 422 0221, africacafe.co.za; map. This enduringly popular tourist restaurant is a good place to try African cuisine, with a fantastic selection of dishes from across the continent. Given that you’re served a communal feast of sixteen dishes, and the evening includes a performance of African song and dance, the R250/head price tag is pretty reasonable. Booking essential. Mon–Sat 6–11pm.

Bardelli’s Restaurant 18 Kloof St 021 423 1502; map. A reliable, bustling Italian restaurant, this branch of Kenilworth’s long-running favourite occupies a historic Cape Dutch building. The wood-fired pizzas such as the Pablo (bacon, feta, rosemary and fresh tomatoes; R95) are some of the best around. Daily 8am–10pm.

Biesmiellah Cnr Wale and Pentz Sts, Bo-Kaap 021 423 0850, biesmiellah.co.za; map. This is one of the oldest restaurants to sample traditional Cape Malay cuisine, serving halal mains such as bobotie (beef mince topped with a milk egg glaze; R95) and tomato bredie (cubes of lamb cooked in sweet-sour tomato sauce; R99). For a bite on a Bo-Kaap walk, join local residents in the queue for takeaway samosas and delicious savoury wraps called salomes. No alcohol. Mon–Sat noon–10pm.

Café Mozart 37 Church St 021 424 3774, themozart.co.za; map. Sit under trees on cute Church St, or in the quaint interior among printed wallpaper, porcelain and antiques, for hearty breakfasts, burgers (R90), sandwiches (R75) or a glass of Cape wine. Part of the city’s theatrical Madame Zingara group, it feels like a cross between a twee English teahouse and a bohemian boudoir. Mon–Fri 8am–3.30pm, Sat 9am–3pm.

Charly’s Bakery 38 Canterbury St, East City 021 461 5181, charlysbakery.co.za; map. For three decades, this fun-loving bakery in a psychedelically painted heritage building has produced Cape Town’s most spectacular and decorative cakes. Try the red velvet cupcakes or wheat- and gluten-free lemon meringue cupcakes (R30). They also do breakfasts and light lunches (from R50), and this is a good refuelling spot if you’re visiting Cape Town’s best bookshop, the Book Lounge. Tues–Fri 8am–5pm, Sat 8.30am–2pm.

Chef’s Warehouse & Canteen 92 Bree St, Heritage Square 021 422 0128, chefswarehouse.co.za; map. Alongside a culinary wonderland selling everything from coffee machines to pink Himalayan salt, chef Liam Tomlin serves a foodie tapas feast (R650 for two) in a casual setting. Featuring a global mix of French and Asian flavours, the three-course small-plate banquet takes up to one hour. They don’t take reservations, so arrive early or head downstairs to the dinky basement bar. There’s a second branch at the Constantia winery Beau Constantia. Mon–Fri noon–2.30pm & 4.30–8pm, Sat noon–2.30pm.

Eastern Food Bazaar 96 Longmarket St 021 461 2458, easternfoodbazaar.co.za; map. Bustling canteen-style food court with a dozen stalls selling hearty and affordable dishes from India, China, the Bo-Kaap and beyond (mains R50). You buy a token before queuing at your chosen counter, and there are often long waits at lunchtime. No alcohol. Mon–Sat 11am–10pm.

Headquarters 100 Shortmarket St, Heritage Square 021 424 6373, hqrestaurant.co.za; map. There is only one main dish on the menu at Headquarters – prime free-range Namibian sirloin steak and Café de Paris butter sauce with perfect matchstick chips and salad (R198). Snack boards and tapas are also offered (R100), and the drinks menu compensates for its short culinary counterpart. Check the website for regular specials and events, including two steaks for the price of one on Monday evenings. On Friday nights, they have a DJ with relaxing beats; things hot up around 10.30pm, when the tables are pushed back for dancing. Book ahead. Mon–Sat noon–midnight.

Jason Bakery 185 Bree St 021 424 5644, www.jasonbakery.com; map. With an unswerving local following, baker Jason Lilley is renowned for his pastries, pies and sourdough rye bread. Lunch favourites at the fashionable spot include pulled pork shoulder (R75) and curried Chalmar beef burger (R90), while the menu also features numerous breakfasts, salads and sandwiches (chicken Caesar with bacon and parmesan R87). Look out, too, for Bardough by Jason at 33 Loop St. Mon–Fri 7am–3.30pm, Sat 8am–2pm.

La Parada 107 Bree St 021 426 0330; map; 35 Victoria Rd, Camps Bay 021 286 2106; Constantia Main Rd, Constantia Nek 021 795 0620, laparada.co.za. Cape Town has fallen heavily for tapas, and this open-fronted restaurant with street seating on Bree St serves some of the most authentic Spanish nibbles around (R55–89). There are mains also on offer (R300), along with cocktails. The food is served at long, wooden communal tables, and there’s a lively atmosphere. Bree St daily 7am–2am; Camps Bay daily 8am–2am; Constantia Nek daily 8am–2am.

Love Thy Neighbour 110 Bree St 021 422 2770, facebook.com/lovethyneighbourct; map. Occupying the basement of a former church and spilling into a leafy courtyard, Love Thy Neighbour serves Mediterranean dishes such as meze (R50) and souvlaki, while the burgers (R75) are also popular. Tues–Sat 12.30–11.30pm.

Mama Africa 178 Long St 021 424 8634, mamaafricarestaurant.co.za; map. With food from around the continent, the menu here includes bobotie and a wild-game mixed grill of springbok, kudu, ostrich and crocodile (mains R150). You can also sit beneath the Coke-bottle chandelier in the Snake Bar and listen to live marimba music from 8pm. Mon & Sat 6.30–11pm, Tues–Fri noon–3pm & 6.30–11pm.

Mink & Trout 127 Bree St 021 426 2534, facebook.com/minkandtrout; map. Taking over from the artisanal Birds Café – and offering some of the same dishes –this elegant wine bar and bistro serves mains such as Karoo lamb bredie, gnocchi and bouillabaisse (average R150), with a good selection of Cape wines and bubblies to accompany. Mon–Sat noon–3.30pm & 6.30–10.30pm.

Royale Eatery 273 Long St 021 422 4536, royaleeatery.com; map. A hip hangout serving inexpensive gourmet burgers, with mouthwatering toppings such as mozzarella, jalapeñ¡os, salsa and guacamole. Choose from lamb, beef, pork and ostrich patties and eight vegetarian cheeseburgers. The Miss Piggy burger with bacon and guacamole (R92) is a favourite. It’s usually packed, so book ahead, especially if you would like a balcony seat with Long St views. Mon–Sat noon–11.30pm.

Truth Café 36 Buitenkant St, East City 021 200 0440, truthcoffee.com; map. Truth are artisan coffee roasters who supply some of the city’s best restaurants and train baristas, so you’ll get a great caffeine kick at this hip coffee shop with its creative industrial interior centred on a cast-iron vintage roaster drum. It’s worth going for the “steampunk” decor alone, which moved the UK Telegraph to proclaim this the world’s best café. They also do breakfast and lunch (mains R100). Mon–Fri 7am–6pm, Sat 8am–6pm, Sun 8am–2pm.

V&A Waterfront and De Waterkant

The Waterfront offers a variety of food, from chain eateries and quick eats – perfect after a bout of shopping or before you take in a movie – to outdoor people-watching cafés and smart fish restaurants. You’ll also find some of the best sushi in town here. De Waterkant has some nice places to eat; head for the Cape Quarter building with its array of restaurants and cafés.

The Waterfront

Baia Upper Level, Victoria Wharf, Quay 6 021 421 0935, baiarestaurant.co.za; map. Sit on the terrace and take in the views of Table Mountain while dining on masterfully cooked fresh fish and seafood; including line-fish papillote (baked in a parchment paper parcel with tomato, courgettes, fennel and thyme; R172) and a few kingklip dishes (R200). Booking recommended, especially for dinner. Daily noon–3pm & 7–11pm.

City Grill Shop 155, Victoria Wharf, Quay 5 021 421 9820, citygrill.co.za; map. An excellent, if rather touristy and pricey steakhouse, celebrating the meaty heart of South African cuisine. From the appetizer plate of beef biltong and dry sausage (R99) to the ostrich kebab (R245), numerous dishes offer local flavours (helpfully accompanied by South African flags on the menu). You also can’t go far wrong with a full-blooded rump steak (R160 for 250g). The wine list is encyclopaedic, and there are lovely water views from the umbrella-shaded outdoor tables. Daily 11am–11pm.

San Marco Lower Level, Victoria Wharf 021 418 5434, sanmarco.co.za; map. This bar-restaurant with outdoor seating offers a breakfast menu, good sandwiches on Italian breads (R85), wraps and fresh salads. Mains range from grilled calamari (R129) to fillet steak (R175), and there are cocktails and Cap Classique bubbly while you wait. Daily 8am–11pm.

Sevruga Quay 5 021 421 5134, sevrugarestaurant.co.za; map. With its crisp white tablecloths and walnut walls, Sevruga impresses everyone from local sushi lovers to the New York Times, which called it the “only reason to go to the V&A Waterfront”. Book a shaded outdoor table for some people-watching while you enjoy your sushi platter (R200), dim sum or seafood main (R200). Daily noon–11pm.

Signal Restaurant Cape Grace, West Quay Rd 021 410 7100, capegrace.com; map. In a quietly elegant dining room with maritime scenes on the walls, the Cape Grace hotel’s restaurant serves seven-course tasting menus (from R625, including wine from R945), featuring dishes such as goat's cheese mousse and beef fillet with truffled potato, and dinner mains such as bobotie-spiced springbok (R280). Lunch is a lighter affair, offering dishes including fish and chips (R95), and the Waterfront location makes Signal perfect for a cream tea (R75) or the full afternoon tea (R185), served in the adjoining library. Daily 6.30am–10.30pm.

Willoughby & Co Lower Level, Victoria Wharf 021 418 6115, willoughbyandco.co.za; map. Despite its lack of sea views, many locals rate this as the Waterfront’s best fish restaurant. It serves fantastic sushi (platters R85 to R309) and seafood (mains around R200) and brings a lively atmosphere to its patch of mall. Daily noon–10.30pm.

De Waterkant

Anatoli 24 Napier St 021 419 2501, anatoli.co.za; map. This Turkish restaurant, a little on the pricey side but bursting with personality, has transformed an early twentieth-century coach house into a culinary caravanserai. It’s great for vegetarians: the excellent meze selection includes dolmades (vine leaves stuffed with rice, pine nuts, blackcurrants and spices), with at least twenty other meze to choose from (R26–53). For a meaty main, look no further than the kebabs (R149), and leave room for desserts (R42–53) such as baklava. Mon–Sat 6.30–10.30pm.

Origin Coffee 28 Hudson St 021 421 1000, originroasting.co.za; map. These coffee devotees serve single-origin, home-roasted beans from across Africa and beyond to Asia and Latin America, and their range of teas is equally appealing. You can complement your drink with something to eat, making the converted warehouse popular among savvy city workers for breakfast (R60) and lunch (R90). Mon–Fri 7am–5pm, Sat & Sun 9am–2pm.

Cape cuisine

Styles of cooking brought by Asian and Madagascan slaves have evolved into Cape Malay cuisine. Associated with Cape Town’s Muslim community, who predominate in the brightly painted Bo-Kaap neighbourhood, the food is characterized by mild, semisweet and aromatic curries with a strong Indonesian influence. Dishes include bredie (stew), among which waterblommetjiebredie, made using water hyacinths, is a highlight; bobotie, a spicy minced dish served under a savoury custard; and sosaties, a local version of kebab, made using minced meat. For dessert, dates stuffed with almonds make a light and delicious end to a meal, while malva sponge pudding is a rich combination of milk, sugar, cream and apricot jam.

“Cape Malay” is a misnomer given that less than 25 percent of slaves came from Malaysia and Indonesia, with over 75 percent originating from mainland Africa, Madagascar, Mauritius, India and Sri Lanka. However, while many Bo-Kaap locals prefer to be called “Cape Muslim”, these wonderful dishes are still generally referred to as Cape Malay. You can try them in Cape Town restaurants or on a Cape Malay cooking “safari”.

City Bowl Suburbs

Gardens

Aubergine 39 Barnet St 021 465 0000, aubergine.co.za; map. This is an unbeatable choice for an elegant five-star dinner, with a courtyard to sit in and enjoy German chef Harald Bresselschmidt’s top-quality fusions of African, Asian and European flavours. There’s a strong emphasis on fresh and local ingredients, and vegetarians will also find inspired dishes. The three-course lunch menu will set you back R445; the dinner equivalent is R580 (R790 with wine pairing). Mon, Tues & Sat 6–10pm, Wed–Fri noon–2pm & 6–10pm.

Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel 76 Orange St 021 483 1000, mountnelson.co.za; map. Colonial-style afternoon tea, with a smart-casual dress code, in Cape Town’s gracious hospitality legend is a slow-paced culinary delight. The large tea tables are piled high with hot and cold pastries, classic savouries like smoked-salmon sandwiches and scrumptious cakes. You can skip dinner after this R325 feast. Book in advance online. Tea at 1.30pm & 3.30pm.

Ben Wei Wembley Square, Solan St 021 461 2966, facebook.com/BenWeiSushi; map. This intimate sushi and Asian fusion restaurant offers some of Cape Town’s freshest, most flavoursome and visually striking dishes. Its name means “original taste” in Mandarin and everything is certainly bursting with flavour, from the tom kha gai (Thai coconut milk and lemongrass broth; R50) and the tuna tataki (spiced and seared tuna; R58) to the crispy fried wonton (R38) and the “rainbow reloaded” (California roll with salmon, tuna and avocado, topped with seven-spice seasoning, mayo and teriyaki sauce; R109). Mains are available (around R75), but the best option is to share several bites. The most convenient parking is outside the Wembley Square complex’s boom gates on Mckenzie Street. Mon–Sat 11.30am–9pm.

Bombay Bicycle Club 158 Kloof St 021 423 6805, thebombay.co.za; map. Don’t expect Indian cuisine here, but do expect a great place for a fun evening out. There are things to play with in every area, whether you’re sitting at a table with swings, or wearing silly hats. Food includes grills, pastas and decadent desserts (average mains R150). Booking essential, as it’s often full. Mon–Sat 6–11pm (bar 4–11pm).

Carlyle’s on Derry 17 Derry St 021 461 8787, carlyles.co.za; map. A friendly neighbourhood Italian restaurant where you’ll need to book in advance for a table. They serve a great selection of thin-based, gourmet pizzas (R65–135) such as bacon, blue cheese, walnut and rocket, Thai chicken and coriander, and Parma ham and lemon-infused rocket. Meat dishes (R70–180), pasta (R80–120) and salads (R80–92) are also on the menu. Tues–Fri 5.30–10.30pm, Sat & Sun noon–10.30pm.

Hudson’s The Burger Joint 69 Kloof St 021 426 5974; map; cnr Main & Upper Portswood Rds, Green Point; map; 25 Protea Rd, Claremont; 77 Dorp St, Stellenbosch; theburgerjoint.co.za. This Kloof St joint is a good choice for gourmet burgers (R44–97), with trendy young patrons, loud rock music, craft beer, home-made lemonade and Bar One milkshakes (R49). Besides the huge choice of burgers, there are decent salads, such as “The Good Girl” – roasted butternut with feta (R78). All branches daily noon–11pm.

Societi Bistro 50 Orange St 021 424 2100, societi.co.za; map. This popular bistro serves good Italian and South African food, in a lovely restored building and garden near the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel and Labia cinema, with a fireplace for winter evenings. The risotto is always a hit (R66–85), and the other mains include Karoo lamb shank (R206) and free-range ostrich burger (R94). There is generally a vegan dish on the menu, such as Thai curry, cauli-rice, autumn vegetables and pawpaw salsa (R129). Mon–Sat noon–10pm.

Tamboers Winkel 3 De Lorentz St 021 424 0521, facebook.com/Tamboerswinkel; map. Like most residents of Gardens, this café seems to be suggesting it lives in posher Tamboerskloof, but we can forgive it for its excellent coffee and craft beer. The menu offers rustic tastes of the Cape platteland (farmland) with a creative twist, making this winkel (shop) a top choice for bloggers, media types, models and all discerning Capetonians. Mon & Wed–Sun 8am–10pm, Tues 8am–6pm.

Tamboerskloof

Miller’s Thumb 10b Kloof Nek Rd 021 424 3838, millersthumb.co.za; map. Amidst ill-advised oranges and green walls, the Thumb serves consistently good seafood dishes, with a selection of line fish prepared in various ways from Cajun to Moroccan. If you’re not into fish, you can try their juicy 300g rump steak (mains R125–185). Mon & Sat 6.30–10.30pm, Tues–Fri 12.30–2pm & 6.30–10.30pm.

Vredehoek

Deer Park Café 2 Deer Park Drive 021 462 6311, deerparkcafe.co.za; map. On the lower slopes of Table Mountain, and with an enclosed park and playground sloping below its outdoor tables, this is the best central place to take children. Besides the children’s menu, featuring dishes from fruit salad to spaghetti bolognaise, it’s a great place for all the family – not only for the setting, but for the fresh, well-priced soups, salads, sandwiches and more (mains average R80). Daily 8am–8pm.

Sidewalk Café 33 Derry St 021 461 2839, sidewalk.co.za; map. This modern, funky café has large windows and an enticing and imaginative menu (mains around R120). Whether you’re after healthy and fresh or something more substantial, you’re sure to find a breakfast, lunch or dinner to suit your mood. There’s a good vegetarian selection, too – from quinoa salad to aubergine and spiced lentil moussaka. Mon–Sat 8am–10.30pm, Sun 9am–2pm.

AFRICAN FOOD

Around the centre of Cape Town you will find a couple of restaurants offering African food, but these are geared towards tourists – most Xhosa locals would scoff at Long Street’s prices. The best way to experience African food in the townships is by staying over in a B&B, taking a tour that incorporates a township meal or a drink in a shebeen, or by visiting one of the following.

Department of Coffee 158 Ntlazane St, Khayelitsha 078 086 0093, twitter.com/Dpmofcoffee. At the first artisan coffee house in a township, you can get real coffee, hot chocolate, tea and muffins (all under R10 each), and sit at the outdoor tables under orange umbrellas. The convenient location outside Khayelitsha train station (iLitha Park side) makes this an option for groups to visit independently. Mon–Fri 6am–6pm, Sat 8am–3pm.

Dinner at Mandela’s Departing from 259 Long St or accommodation 021 790 5817, dinneratmandelas.co.za; map. Priced at R395 including transfers (from your accommodation and back), this evening of African singing, dancing and food in Imizamo Yethu township near Hout Bay is a fun way to learn more about township culture. Reserve in advance. Mon & Thurs 6.15–11pm.

Kaffa Hoist Café Guga S’Thebe Arts & Cultural Centre, King Langalibalele/Washington Dr, Langa 071 120 6345, kaffa.hoist@gmail.com; map. Kaffa Hoist is situated at the back of Langa’s buzzy Guga S’Thebe Arts & Cultural Centre, adjoining an amphitheatre made of shipping containers. Xhosa owner Chris serves locally roasted Deluxe Coffeeworks coffee (R19), muffins (R5), sweet or savoury pancakes (R30), toasted sandwiches (R30) and burgers (R50). The “Hoist” in the name refers to owner Chris’s mission to uplift locals by keeping them out of the shebeen. With free wi-fi, the courtyard cafe is the perfect place for young township residents to study or send off their CV. May–Sept daily 8.30am–5.30pm; Oct–April daily 7am–7pm.

Southern suburbs

Bistro Sixteen82 Steenberg Estate, Constantia 021 713 2211, steenberghotel.com. On the historic and scenic Steenberg wine estate, this chic and contemporary bistro is popular for decadent weekend breakfasts – followed by a visit to the adjoining tasting room or a wander across the lawns dotted with sculptures by South African-Italian artist Edoardo Villa. Treats such as oysters, truffles and Eggs Benedict feature on the breakfast menu (mains R90), while lunch (mains R150) is served from noon and tapas (plate R65) from 5pm. Daily 9–11am, noon–3pm & 5–8pm.

Catharina’s Steenberg Estate, Constantia 021 713 2222, steenberghotel.com. Serving beautifully plated food on Steenberg estate, Catharina’s is an elegant choice for a special occasion. Evenings here are cosy, and you can lounge in the comfy bar chairs while sipping bubbly made on the estate. During the day, the imposing windows make the most of the vineyard views. Seafood and venison regularly feature on the menu, while game and steaks appear alongside vegetarian options such as carrot, orange and cardamom risotto (mains R200). Daily 7–10am, noon–3pm & 6.30–9.30pm.

Common Ground Café 23 Milner Rd, Rondebosch 021 686 0154. Attached to a church, this is an unlikely contender for the best coffee in town, but the baristas are true artists who make an excellent double-shot cup using locally roasted beans from Origin Coffee. They also offer reasonably priced breakfasts (around R50) and gourmet sandwiches, whole-wheat wraps, burgers, salads and quesadillas for lunch (average R60). Mon–Fri 7am–4pm, Sat 8am–2pm, Sun 8.30am–2pm.

The Dining Room 117 Sir Lowry Rd, Woodstock 021 461 0463, dining-room.co.za. From Karen Dudley, the culinary brains behind Woodstock’s famous The Kitchen, this restaurant focuses on fresh seasonal produce among the whimsical array of screens, mirrors and portraits in its stylish vintage interior. Expect unusual dishes such as Kentucky fried quail and glazed duck with olive relish. Lunch R100, three-course dinner R350. Mon, Weds & Fri 8.30am–4pm, Tues & Thurs 8.30am–4pm & 7–10pm.

Kirstenbosch Tea Room Restaurant Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Rhodes Drive, Newlands 021 797 4883, ktr.co.za. The gorgeous setting in one of the world’s greatest botanic gardens complements the pleasing, Cape country food. Recommended dishes include the pickled fish (R145) and home-made burgers (R128), and they serve some good vegetarian options and tea for two (R280). You can order a gourmet picnic (R210/person) and even rent a picnic blanket (R30). It’s located just inside Gate 2. Daily 8.30am–5pm.

The Kitchen 111 Sir Lowry Rd, Woodstock 021 462 2201, lovethekitchen.co.za. Famously visited by former US First Lady Michelle Obama, chef Karen Dudley’s fun but food-obsessed deli-café uses the freshest ingredients to create inventive breakfasts and lunches. The “love sandwiches” on artisanal bread (R60) are especially popular, and there is an ever-changing range of salads (R70). This is one of the best lunch stops around, especially if you are vegetarian, but arrive early (or come for a quieter breakfast). The service is fast, efficient and the whole place buzzes; it’s not a spot to linger. Mon–Fri 8am–3.30pm.

Pot Luck Club Top Floor, Silo Building, Old Biscuit Mill, 375 Albert Rd, Woodstock 021 447 0804, thepotluckclub.co.za. Perched atop a converted silo, British chef Luke Dale-Roberts’ second South African restaurant is all about inventive and tantalising tapas dishes (around R100 each). The menu is arranged according to sweet, sour, salty, bitter and umami (savoury or meaty) flavours; order several to share with friends. Sweet tapas, such as springbok rump with beetroot ketchup or Burrata cheese with grilled nectarines, are not to be confused with the “sweet ending” desserts, including braaied banana risotto. You’ll need to book at least a few weeks in advance and will be allocated a seating time. Mon–Sat 12.30–2.30pm & 6–8.30pm, Sun 11am–12.30pm.

Test Kitchen Old Biscuit Mill, 375 Albert Rd, Woodstock 021 447 2337, thetestkitchen.co.za. For a table at South Africa’s top, award-winning fine-dining contemporary restaurant you’ll need to book months in advance. Should you be lucky enough to get in, prepare to be overwhelmed by the sensual feast of tastes, smells and colours provided by the astonishing creative mastery and craft of chef Luke Dale-Roberts. The innovative dishes on the ever-changing menu are rich in unusual ingredients and combinations, from cauliflower and cheese with black-garlic salsa, to lamb minestrone with potato parmesan dumpling and lamb and tomato extraction. Menus range from R1200 to R2650; enjoy one in the industrial-style setting with its contemporary art and casual ambience. Tues–Sat 6.30–8.30pm.

Atlantic seaboard

Green Point

El Burro 81 Main Rd 021 433 2364, elburro.co.za; map. This fun, casual spot offers Mexican food without too much cheese and grease (mains R130), plus a good view of Green Point Stadium from the balcony. There are a few options for vegetarians too. Mon–Sat noon–11.30pm.

Giovanni’s 103 Main Rd 021 434 6893; map. With both indoor and pavement seating, this lively Italian deli and coffee shop is right across from the stadium and has its own screen for watching sports. It offers delicious coffee, excellent made-to-order sandwiches, salads and good prepackaged meals (R45–65). Daily 7.30am–8.30pm.

Mano’s 39 Main Rd 021 434 1090, mano.co.za; map. Popular with Capetonian glitterati, chic Mano’s serves seafood, grills and pasta from an unpretentious menu featuring Caesar salads, Prego rolls, lemon chicken and lamb chops (mains R100). After dinner, the party continues in champagne bar Jade, upstairs. Mon–Sat noon–2am.

Mouille Point

Café Neo 129 Beach Rd 021 433 0849; map. Neo serves up deli-style food with a Greek influence, with mains going for around R80. There are tasty breakfast options, such as Greek yoghurt with nuts and honey, or milky porridge with berries, and at other times there are meze platters, salads and sandwiches. A big draw is the umbrella-shaded outdoor seating area that offers views of the stripy lighthouse. Vegetarians can do well here, too. Daily 7am–7pm.

Newport Market and Deli Amalfi, 125 Beach Rd 021 439 1538, newportdeli.co.za; map. This two-floor deli, with views onto Table Bay, serves coffee, juices, gourmet sandwiches (R80), tasty salads such as watermelon and feta (R80), and hot dishes including macaroni cheese (R70) and burgers. The smoothies are packed with interesting blends such as pawpaw, mixed berries and mango (R38) – just right if you are walking or jogging along the Sea Point promenade. Daily 6.30am–6.30pm.

Sea Point

La Boheme Wine Bar & Bistro 341 Main Rd 021 434 6539, labohemebistro.co.za; map. Come here for an enjoyable and good-value night out. The menu is full of interesting, well-presented rural French food and lovely wines by the glass; dishes, which are around the R100 mark, include the likes of confit rabbit and slow-braised pork belly. There’s pavement seating for people-watching too. Next door is their sister espresso and tapas bar La Bruixa – great for a small bite to eat, and fantastic coffee. Mon–Sat noon–11pm.

Mr Chan 17 Regent Rd 021 439 2239, mrchan.co.za; map. This Cantonese restaurant has been keeping customers happy for years with excellent Hong Kong-style beef, seafood, roast duck and, for vegetarians, braised bean curd and mixed vegetables. Mains are around R90, with set dinner menus also available. Daily noon–2.30pm & 6–10.30pm.

Camps Bay

Café Caprice 37 Victoria Rd, Camps Bay 021 438 8315, cafecaprice.co.za. Across the road from Camps Bay Beach, this lively, albeit pretentious, Mediterranean-style restaurant’s pavement tables are a time-honoured place to soak up the chichi suburb’s street life, sunshine and sunsets. You can get nibbles like hummus and ciabatta (R45), more substantial meat, pasta or seafood dishes (R90), and myriad sexy cocktails (R85). Mon 12.30pm–midnight, Tues–Sun 9.30am–midnight.

Paranga Shop 1, The Promenade, Victoria Rd, Camps Bay 021 438 0404, paranga.co.za. Popular hangout at the beach, a place to see and be seen while you pick at salads, seafood, sushi or burgers (mains R130). There’s a variety of champagnes and local MCC bubblies on offer (glass from R95), plus all sorts of wines, single malts and cocktails while you watch the sun sinking into the ocean. Daily 9am–midnight.

Hout Bay

Kitima 140 Main Rd, Hout Bay 021 790 8004, kitima.co.za. One of Cape Town’s best Asian-fusion restaurants, with a definite Thai slant, is situated in a lovely Cape Dutch homestead, where the food couldn’t be fresher. There’s sushi and sashimi, dim sum and a plethora of seafood, meat stir-fries and curries, with dishes ranging from salmon panang (R175) to ostrich with lemongrass (R140). Kitima is best known for its sumptuous Sunday buffet (R250), for which you’ll definitely need to book. Tues–Sat 5.30–10.30pm, Sun noon–3.30pm.

La Cuccina Victoria Mall, Victoria Rd, Hout Bay 021 790 8008, facebook.com/lacuccina. This high-quality deli and café occupies a roomy and appealing space, and its delicious food compensates for the lack of sea views. Its mall location on the main road through town makes it a great pit stop for wholesome breakfasts (R70), quiches, salads, lasagne and the like, with a pay-by-weight lunch buffet offered from noon to 3pm (R195 for 1kg). Daily 7.30am–5pm.

Wharfette Bistro Mariner’s Wharf, Harbour Rd, Hout Bay 021 790 1100, marinerswharf.com. A relaxed and popular seafood restaurant, decorated with nostalgic photographs and memorabilia from Cape Town’s passenger-liner days. The views from the terrace seating overlooking the harbour outshine the food, but it’s a fine spot to eat hake ‘n’ chips (R70) while sipping a cold beer. Daily 10am–8.30pm.

Noordhoek

Café Roux Noordhoek Farm Village 021 789 2538; 74 Shortmarket St 061 339 4438; map; caferoux.co.za. This chilled-out café in Noordhoek Farm Village offers wholesome and healthy food with a contemporary feel, as well as regular evenings of live music or comedy. They serve breakfasts (R70), lunch mains such as a Cape Malay roti wrap (R85) and other energizers for a day on the peninsula, with a menu and garden catering to children. Sit under umbrellas with a butternut and goat’s cheese salad (R85), or have a cup of tea after driving Chapman’s Peak, and gaze at the surrounding mountains. The kitchen closes at 3.30pm. Noodhoek Farm Village daily 8.30am–5pm; 74 Shortmarket St Tues–Fri noon–2am, Sat noon–midnight.

The Foodbarn Noordhoek Farm Village 021 789 1390, thefoodbarn.co.za. Gourmet French food from acclaimed chef Franck Dangereux is served at reasonable prices here, compared to the top restaurants in the city centre. Starters such as fish tartare (R95) will get your taste buds humming, and the mains (R180) include fish and vegetarian choices as well as meats such as Karoo lamb rack and seared duck breast. Every dish has a suggested wine pairing, so you may need to organize a taxi to take you home after a lingering lunch. Booking is essential; check out the deli or tapas bar for something more casual. Mon & Sun noon–2.30pm, Tues–Sat noon–2.30pm & 7–9.30pm.

Kommetjie

Blue Water Café Imhoff Farm, Kommetjie Rd, opposite the Ocean View turn-off 021 783 4545, imhofffarm.co.za. A great stop if you are on a Cape Point round route, Blue Water offers good seafood dishes (mussels R115), pastas (R100), wood-fired pizzas (R100) and local wines, as well as breakfast and tea. Set in a handsome Cape Dutch homestead, there are good views onto the wetlands and ocean beyond, and there’s a fire to warm the place in winter. Service is attentive, and you can book outdoor tables next to the large lawn, where children can play – plus there’s plenty at the farm to keep them occupied. Tues 9am–5pm, Wed–Sun 9am–9pm.

False Bay seaboard

Muizenberg

Cusina Labia Casa Labia, 192 Main Rd 021 788 6062, casalabia.co.za; map. At Casa Labia, you can expect contemporary Italian food and English-style high teas in seafront palazzo surroundings, furnished with oil paintings, antiques and beautiful table linen. Lavish breakfasts are on the menu and classical pianist Jean-Paul Grimaldi-Lasserre adds to the pervading elegance on weekends between 1pm and 3pm. There’s usually a good art exhibition on upstairs, and the small craft shop sells carefully chosen pieces. Courtyard dining comes with mountain views, and you can soak up the historical experience of being inside the grandest house along Muizenberg’s historical mile. Tues–Sun 10am–4pm.

Empire Café 11 York Rd 021 788 1250, empirecafe.co.za; map. Enjoy Woodstock-roasted Tribe coffee and munch on fresh pastries while sitting upstairs at this local hangout, gazing at passing trains and the blue ocean beyond, and waiting for the surf to come up. It’s a popular breakfast spot and the ever-changing lunch menu features burgers, fish ‘n’ chips, pastas, salads, sticky pork ribs and chicken wraps, while drinks range from craft beer to gourmet milkshakes. Mon–Thurs & Sat 7am–4pm, Fri 7am–9pm, Sun 8am–4pm.

Kalk Bay

Harbour House Restaurant Kalk Bay Harbour 021 788 4133; map; Quay 4, Ground Floor, V&A Waterfront 021 418 4744; map; Hout Bay Rd, Constantia Nek 021 795 0688, harbourhouse.co.za. This memorable Kalk Bay venue serves seafood and Mediterranean dishes (mains around R200), in a spectacular setting on the breakwater of Kalk Bay harbour. Book a table with bay views or enjoy sundowners on the deck, and in winter retire to the fireplace and comfortable sofas. Seafood options are the obvious choice – the Mozambique grilled prawns are worth a try, but the menu also features lamb, beef and salads. Portions are small, but rich and beautifully plated. Booking is essential. Kalk Bay Harbour daily noon–4pm & 6–10pm; V&A Waterfront & Constantia Nek daily noon–10pm.

Kalky’s On the harbour 021 788 1726; map. For years, this no-frills seafood cabin has been serving the best traditional fish ‘n’ chips on the peninsula, as well as calamari, snoek, crayfish, prawns and good-value platters (R215). Fish is hauled off the boats and straight into the frying pan; wait a bit longer and you can have your catch grilled. You sit at benches to eat, and fish ‘n’ chips will set you back R55. Daily 10am–8pm.

Olympia Café & Deli 134 Main Rd 021 788 6396, olympiacafe.co.za; map. Good enough to draw uptown Capetonians down to the False Bay seaboard, Olympia is always buzzing, thanks to the harbour views, great coffee and their freshly baked goods. Gourmet lunch menus are chalked up on a board, with local fish and mussels often featured (mains around R100). They don’t take bookings, so arrive early for dinner or join the queue. Their bakery is round the corner, where you can get bread, pastries, excellent takeaway coffee and sandwiches. Daily 7am–9pm, bakery 7am–7pm.

Under the Cypress 124 Main Rd, above Kalk Bay Books 021 788 2453, underthecypress.co.za; map. Formerly the Annex restaurant, this historic building has tables under red umbrellas, on a terrace with superb views of the harbour and bay beyond. Accompany the views with local craft beers, ciders, wines and bar snacks such as fried calamari and squid heads (R65), or mains from Kalk Bay line fish (R145) to smoked and barbecued Greek lamb (R125). Mon–Sat 8am–9pm, Sun 8am–4pm.

fish hoek

C’est La Vie 2 Recreation Rd, Fish Hoek 083 676 7430. This unassuming and tiny French-style bakery is popular locally for its pavement breakfasts and sandwiches (R55), breadsticks, muffins, croissants, coffee and orange juice. Tues–Sun 7.30am–3pm.

Simon’s Town and the Deep south

Black Marlin Main Rd, south of Simon’s Town 021 786 1621, blackmarlin.co.za; map. Every kind of sea denizen, apart from the restaurant’s namesake, is on the menu at this popular place on the road to Cape Point. While there’s nothing wrong with the food, don’t expect pyrotechnics, but the clifftop views from the outdoor tables certainly compensate – especially when there are whale sightings. Catch of the day costs R145, and the breakfasts are good value – scrambled eggs on toast go for R35. Daily 9am–10pm.

Salty Sea Dog 2 Wharf St, Waterfront, Simon’s Town 021 786 1918, saltyseadog.co.za; map. There’s nothing fancy about this small restaurant on the wharf, but they do plain old fish ‘n’ chips (R70) extremely well, and they serve beer and wine. With indoor and alfresco seating, it makes a great lunch stop on an outing to Cape Point. Mon–Sat 8.30am–9pm, Sun 8.30am–4.30pm.

Two Oceans Cape Point 021 780 9200, two-oceans.co.za; map. This touristic restaurant should more accurately be called “Two Ocean Currents”, but no one seems upset on the alfresco deck that seems to float out a million miles above the ocean, taking in the whole of False Bay and its mountains. It’s also a great place to see whales in season. As well as fish and seafood, they do sushi and some meaty options (mains from R145), plus gourmet breakfasts (R70) till 10.45am. Daily 9am–11am & noon–4.30pm.