Cape Town: Food and Drink Guide
Cape Town is one of those cities where the food tells the story before you’ve even taken a bite. It’s a place shaped by global cultures and local traditions, by spice routes and sea routes, by family kitchens and innovative young chefs, and by a coastline that brings in fresh catches every morning. From Cape Malay curries simmering in Bo-Kaap homes to modern tasting menus overlooking the ocean, the city’s flavours are as diverse as its landscapes.
You feel Cape Town’s culinary heritage everywhere you go. In the aromatic bustle of spice shops, where masalas are ground to recipes passed down through generations. In neighbourhood bakeries where the scent of buttery pastries fills the street. In seafood shacks perched above the Atlantic, serving calamari and hake right beside the harbour. In bustling night markets where you can try everything from koesisters to biltong to hand-rolled sushi. And in the vineyards just beyond the city, where world-class wines elevate even the simplest plate.
But Cape Town’s food scene isn’t just about tradition — it’s creative, bold and constantly evolving. Young chefs experiment with South African ingredients, cafés champion small-batch roasting and plant-based menus, and markets bring together the city’s most exciting food entrepreneurs under one roof. The result? A dining culture that feels both deeply rooted and refreshingly inventive.
Whether you're here for a long lunch in the sun, a curry that warms your soul, a beachfront cocktail at sunset or a weekend spent hopping between markets, Cape Town delivers flavours you won’t soon forget. This guide takes you neighbourhood by neighbourhood through the city’s best food, from beloved classics to hidden-gem cafés, seaside favourites and the can’t-miss dishes that define the Cape.
Ready to eat your way through the Mother City? Let’s dig in.
The Food Scene at a Glance
Cape Town’s food scene is a reflection of the city itself: diverse, creative and shaped by centuries of cultural exchange. It’s one of the most exciting dining destinations in the Southern Hemisphere, with flavours influenced by Africa, Asia, Europe and the Indian Ocean — all blending into something distinctly Cape Town.
Cape Malay Heritage
The city’s most recognisable culinary identity comes from its Cape Malay community, whose dishes blend warming spices, gentle sweetness and slow-cooked comfort. From bobotie and samoosas to fragrant curries wrapped in flaky rotis, these flavours are woven into the fabric of everyday eating.
Coastal Seafood
With two oceans at its doorstep, Cape Town is spoiled for fresh seafood. Expect hake and chips by the harbour, grilled snoek in winter, buttery mussels, kingklip fillets and calamari cooked simply but beautifully. Coastal dining — from Kalk Bay to the Waterfront — is a huge part of the city’s food scene.
Braai Culture
South African barbecue, known as braai, is a tradition rooted in community. Whether it’s boerewors sizzling over flames, marinated meats, roosterkoek or snoek brushed with apricot glaze, the braai brings people together — and you’ll find these flavours everywhere, from markets to neighbourhood restaurants.
Comfort Food Classics
Cape Town does comfort food incredibly well. Gatsby sandwiches stuffed to the brim, bunny chow loaded with curry, malva pudding soaked in warm caramel sauce, milk tart, koeksisters and hearty stews are staples loved by locals.
Wine Culture and Fine Dining
The Cape Winelands sit just 45 minutes outside the city and shape much of its dining culture. Expect world-class wine lists, tasting menus that spotlight local ingredients and chefs pushing boundaries in some of Africa’s most exciting kitchens.
Markets and Creative Eateries
Markets are a major part of Cape Town’s food identity. From the Old Biscuit Mill’s famous Saturday market to the oceanfront Oranjezicht City Farm Market, these spaces showcase small producers, bakers, farmers and experimental chefs.
Global Influence
Cape Town is a crossroads of cultures, and its dining scene mirrors that. You’ll find excellent Japanese, Italian, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, African fusion and plant-based spots — often tucked into neighbourhoods like Sea Point, Woodstock and Gardens.
V&A Waterfront
What It’s Known For
The V&A Waterfront is Cape Town’s most visitor-friendly dining hub — a blend of harbour views, modern restaurants, casual eateries, food markets and cafés spread between historic dockyards and the slick Silo District. It’s lively from morning to night, with something for every palate: seafood, sushi, burgers, brunch spots, fine dining and global flavours.
It’s also one of the easiest places to eat out thanks to its walkability, safety and variety. Whether you want a quick bite with ocean views or a long tasting menu, this is where many travellers begin their Cape Town food journey.
What to Try
Fresh seafood straight from the harbour (hake, mussels, calamari, kingklip)
Sushi and sashimi — the Waterfront is home to some of the city’s most popular spots
Cape Malay plates at market stalls
Artisanal desserts and pastries
South African wines by the glass with sunset views
Who It Suits
First-time visitors wanting reliable variety
Families and groups needing crowd-pleasing menus
Travellers looking for scenic dining without travelling far
Anyone keen on mixing food with galleries, markets and maritime atmosphere
Recommended restaurants
Marble Restaurant — A rooftop wood-fired grill with sweeping harbour and Table Mountain views, serving elevated meat and seafood cooked over flame.
Den Anker — A long-standing Belgian-inspired favourite overlooking the harbour, known for mussels, seafood and a great beer selection.
Bo-vine Wine & Grill House — A stylish grill house offering steaks, seafood and a strong wine list, ideal for a polished lunch or dinner along the marina.
Bo-Kaap
Cape Malay Staples
Bo-Kaap is the heart of Cape Malay cuisine — a distinctive culinary tradition shaped by Southeast Asian, East African and Indian influences. The food here is fragrant, comforting and subtly spiced: warming masalas, slow-cooked stews, sweet-and-savoury combinations and generous use of aromatics like cinnamon, cardamom and clove.
Walking through the neighbourhood, you’ll often catch the scent of spices drifting from family kitchens or bakeries preparing koesisters for Sunday mornings. This is the best place in Cape Town to experience dishes that have been passed down through generations.
What to Try
Bobotie — baked spiced mince with an egg topping, often served with yellow rice
Cape Malay chicken curry — fragrant rather than fiery, with tender potatoes and soft rotis
Denningvleis — a slow-cooked lamb stew flavoured with tamarind
Samosas — crisp, triangular pastries filled with spiced mince or vegetables
Koesisters — pillowy dough balls spiced with cinnamon, cardamom and ginger, dipped in syrup
Malay-style chilli pastes, often homemade and sold in small batches
Who It Suits
Travellers wanting an authentic cultural food experience
Visitors curious about South Africa’s blended flavour heritage
Anyone who loves warming, aromatic dishes over heavy heat
Foodies looking to experience cuisine tied deeply to local identity
Recommended restaurants
Bo-Kaap Kombuis — A family-run landmark serving Cape Malay classics such as bobotie, denningvleis and milder curries, with sweeping views over the city.
Biesmiellah— A long-established community institution offering authentic Cape Malay dishes, koesisters, bredies and flavour-rich curries.
Bo-Kaap Deli— A relaxed street-corner café for breakfast plates, pastries and light meals with a local, welcoming feel.
De Waterkant
Chic cafés and brunch spots
De Waterkant shines in the daytime. Picture pastel Georgian houses, cobbled streets and little sunlit corners where cafés spill onto the pavement. Brunch here is colourful and creative — think vibrant bowls, homemade pastries, Mediterranean-style plates and beautifully plated eggs and greens. Many cafés open their windows onto the street, giving the whole neighbourhood a breezy, European feel. Rooftop terraces are common too, offering views over Table Mountain or across the rooftops of Bo-Kaap.
Dinner ideas
As the sun dips behind the city bowl, De Waterkant becomes one of Cape Town’s most atmospheric dinner neighbourhoods. The streets glow with warm lighting, and small bistros, stylish contemporary restaurants and intimate wine bars fill up quickly. Menus often combine local produce with global influences — handmade pastas, seafood, Asian-South African fusion, seasonal plates, colourful salads and tasting-style shared dishes. The LGBTQ+ friendly nightlife adds a welcoming, vibrant energy, and the whole area feels cosy yet lively.
Who it suits
Travellers who love stylish, design-forward neighbourhoods
Brunch enthusiasts
Couples looking for intimate dining spots
Anyone who wants cafés, bars and restaurants all within an easy walk
Recommended restaurants
Libertino — A bold Italian restaurant in De Waterkant known for handmade pasta, Neapolitan pizzas and fresh seasonal ingredients.
Utopia Cape Town — A rooftop dining destination offering stylish cuisine, cocktails and an elevated dining experience in De Waterkant.
The Charles Restaurant — A chic café-restaurant beloved for its design, brunches and evening meals, perfect for a relaxed meal in De Waterkant.
Gardens and Tamboerskloof
Local favourites
Gardens and Tamboerskloof are where Cape Town’s creative energy meets everyday neighbourhood living. The area revolves around Kloof Street — a buzzing dining corridor lined with terrace cafés, bakeries, cocktail lounges, wine bars and restaurants that stay lively from breakfast until late. It’s the kind of street where people linger over long coffees, grab pastries on the run, meet friends for lunch, or settle into a dimly lit dining room for dinner. The menus here often lean modern South African, with wood-fired cooking, bold flavours and seasonal ingredients.
Global flavours
These neighbourhoods offer some of the most diverse food in Cape Town. You can stroll down Kloof Street and choose between Middle Eastern sharing plates, Italian trattorias, contemporary Indian tasting menus, ramen bars, Mediterranean kitchens, sushi spots, African fusion restaurants, plant-based cafés and dessert bars. This mix of global influence is part of what makes Gardens & Tamboerskloof so appealing — you can eat something totally different every night without ever repeating a place.
Who it suits
Travellers who like a lively, walkable dining zone
People who enjoy variety and restaurant-hopping
Couples and groups wanting atmospheric dining spots
Anyone keen on mixing coffee, cocktails and dinner into one evening wander
Recommended restaurants
Kloof Street House — Set inside a Victorian house on Kloof Street, with brunch, cocktails and dinner in a stylish, homey setting.
ëlgr — A refined shared-plates restaurant at 75 Kloof Street, offering globally inspired dining in a plant-filled courtyard.
Black Sheep Restaurant — A creative, ever-changing comfort food kitchen on Kloof Street, great for locals and travellers alike.
Woodstock and Salt River
Creative kitchens
Woodstock and Salt River form the gritty, energetic creative core of Cape Town’s food scene. Here, old warehouses have been transformed into bakeries, roasteries, experimental kitchens and artisan micro-studios. It’s the kind of neighbourhood where chefs push boundaries, bakers experiment with wild-fermented doughs, and small producers sell limited-batch jams, cheeses, sauces and pastries you won’t find anywhere else.
This is also where you’ll see Cape Town’s design and maker culture woven into its food — ceramicists selling handmade plates to the very cafés serving on them, small-batch coffee roasted metres from where you sip it, and farm-to-table concepts housed inside old industrial spaces with exposed brick and big windows.
Markets and artisan spaces
Markets are the heart of Woodstock and Salt River’s food identity. The Old Biscuit Mill is the most famous, packed with small food traders on weekends serving everything from Cape Malay street food to fresh oysters, pastries, wood-fired breads, spring rolls, salads, curries and handmade chocolates. Throughout the week, studio spaces and small kitchens open their doors with quieter, more local atmospheres.
Salt River’s creative fringe blends seamlessly with Woodstock, offering everything from microbreweries and chocolate producers to pop-up tasting menus hosted inside converted factories. It’s colourful, energetic and slightly rough-edged — exactly what makes it so compelling.
Who it suits
Travellers who love creativity, markets and independent makers
Foodies interested in experimental kitchens and small producers
Early risers looking for morning markets and artisanal coffee
Visitors wanting something more local than the Waterfront
Recommended restaurants
The Pot Luck Club — One of Cape Town’s most iconic restaurants, set atop The Old Biscuit Mill. Famous for inventive small plates, bold flavour pairings and panoramic city views.
Rosetta Roastery — A specialty coffee pioneer roasting in Woodstock, offering exceptional single-origin brews in a minimalist, calm café space.
The Test Kitchen Fledgelings — A training-focused restaurant from the Test Kitchen team, serving refined, creative dishes while helping young hospitality talent develop their skills.
Sea Point
Casual dining
Sea Point is one of Cape Town’s most dynamic everyday dining neighbourhoods — a long strip filled with casual eateries, street-side cafés, takeaway spots, healthy eateries and grab-and-go counters. This is where locals eat on weeknights: ramen bowls, poke, burgers, salads, sushi, pizza, Middle Eastern wraps, shawarma, stir-fries, smoothies — you name it.
Regent Road and Main Road are the centre of the action. At any time of day, you’ll see joggers grabbing smoothies after the promenade, friends meeting for ramen or bao, and long lines forming outside popular delis and bakeries. It’s diverse, fast-moving and packed with options for all budgets.
Coffee shops and bakeries
Sea Point has firmly established itself as one of Cape Town’s best café neighbourhoods. You’ll find everything from speciality coffee roasters to cosy bakeries producing flaky croissants, sourdough loaves, pastel de nata, and beautifully made pastries. Whether you want a slow morning with a flat white and ocean views or a quick pastry before a walk, Sea Point delivers.
The promenade adds to the atmosphere — many cafés open early, making it ideal for sunrise coffee runs before dipping into the tidal pools.
Who it suits
Travellers who prefer a lived-in neighbourhood with strong everyday food options
Coffee lovers and bakery hunters
Runners, cyclists and early risers
Anyone staying on the Atlantic Seaboard who wants easy, reliable dining close by
Recommended restaurants
Kleinsky’s Delicatessen — A Jewish-style deli known for bagels, shakshuka, pastrami sandwiches and strong coffee — a local favourite steps from the promenade.
Bao Down — A creative Asian-influenced eatery specialising in bao buns, dumplings and bold flavour combos in a cosy, relaxed setting.
Three Wise Monkeys — A small, always-busy ramen and sushi bar delivering excellent bowls and rolls with fast, no-nonsense service.
Camps Bay and Clifton
Beachfront dining
Camps Bay is Cape Town’s golden-hour dining strip — palm trees, mountain views, turquoise water and a long row of restaurants facing the ocean. It’s the perfect place for lingering lunches, seafood platters, cocktails at sunset and relaxed summer evenings with the sound of waves in the background. Menus lean toward fresh fish, sushi, salads, Mediterranean-style dishes, grills and modern South African plates, often served in open-fronted dining rooms with breezy, coastal energy.
Clifton doesn’t have its own dining scene (it’s almost entirely residential), but its four beaches are among the most beautiful in the city. Many travellers pair a late afternoon at Clifton with dinner in neighbouring Camps Bay, making it a perfect coastal combination.
Sunset spots
As day turns to dusk, Camps Bay transforms into one of Cape Town’s most atmospheric places to eat and drink. The Twelve Apostles glow orange behind you while the beach turns gold, and the whole strip fills with people meeting for cocktails, tapas and seafood. Rooftop terraces, beach-facing decks and candle-lit lounges all offer front-row seats to some of the best sunsets in the country.
If you want a sunset dinner you’ll remember long after the trip, this is the neighbourhood for it.
Who it suits
Travellers who love scenic, beachfront dining
Couples looking for a romantic dinner spot
Seafood enthusiasts
Anyone chasing Cape Town’s famous sunset culture
Beach lovers pairing Clifton swims with Camps Bay dining
Recommended restaurants
Codfather — A legendary seafood and sushi spot where you choose your fish from the counter and they grill it to perfection. One of Camps Bay’s most iconic dining experiences.
Café Caprice — A beachfront favourite for laid-back brunches, sunset cocktails and relaxed Mediterranean-inspired plates right on the promenade.
Paranga — A polished Camps Bay classic with uninterrupted beach views, fresh seafood, stylish décor and a consistently strong dining experience.
Green Point
Local institutions
Green Point is one of Cape Town’s easiest, most welcoming neighbourhoods for everyday dining. It sits right between the Waterfront and Sea Point, and its main roads are lined with cafés, diners, sandwich spots, delis, bistros and cosy restaurants with a loyal local following. This area is big on unfussy, reliable, well-loved food: hearty breakfasts, fresh sandwiches, homestyle plates, Mediterranean dishes, burgers, salads and casual seafood.
The vibe is relaxed and social — morning runners grabbing takeaway coffees, friends meeting for brunch after the promenade, or locals filling up sunlit outdoor tables on weekends.
Easy, everyday eats
Green Point shines when it comes to simple but excellent food. It’s where you go for quick-but-good lunches, healthy bowls, smoothies, fresh pastries, warm-from-the-oven bread and laid-back dinners. There’s also a strong deli culture here, with counters piled high with olives, cheese, cured meats, pastries and baked goods — perfect for picnic supplies before heading to the park or waterfront.
With Green Point Urban Park just around the corner, a lot of cafés and eateries naturally spill into outdoor living, making it a great neighbourhood for long, leisurely days.
Who it suits
Travellers staying near the Waterfront or Sea Point
People who prefer casual, approachable everyday dining
Brunch and coffee fans
Families and solo travellers wanting a safe, walkable area
Anyone looking for deli favourites and relaxed outdoor meals
Recommended restaurants
Giovanni’s Deliworld — An institution in Cape Town: excellent sandwiches, great coffee, deli counters piled high with pastries, cured meats and Mediterranean staples.
Hudsons – The Burger Joint — A popular everyday favourite serving creative burgers, shakes and comfort sides in a relaxed, buzzy setting.
Nu Health Food Café — Light, fresh, health-focused bowls, smoothies and brunch plates — perfect after a walk around Green Point Urban Park.
Kalk Bay
Seafood classics
Kalk Bay is one of Cape Town’s most atmospheric seaside dining spots — a small fishing village where seafood is the undisputed star of the show. The harbour is still active, so you’ll often see colourful boats returning with the day’s catch, seals lounging on the walls and gulls circling the water. This closeness to the sea shapes the food here: fresh hake, calamari, grilled fish of the day and generous seafood platters served with ocean spray in the air.
Many restaurants overlook the rocks and waves, giving meals a dramatic backdrop. On windy days, the swell crashes right up against the harbour edge — a reminder that you’re eating in a place defined by the ocean.
Harbour eats
If you want a meal with local character, Kalk Bay delivers. Seaside shacks and family-run restaurants serve honest, no-frills seafood with huge portions and warm, community-style hospitality. Think fish and chips wrapped in paper, crispy calamari straight from the fryer, or grilled snoek with lemon and butter. The atmosphere is always lively: fishermen hauling nets, families grabbing takeaway boxes, surfers walking past with boards under their arms.
Kalk Bay also has excellent bakeries and cafés just off the main drag, perfect for pre-swim pastries or a warm drink after a morning dip.
Who it suits
Seafood lovers
Travellers wanting a slower-paced, scenic dining experience
Families and couples
Anyone combining food with tidal-pool swims or a coastal day trip
Visitors looking for a charming alternative to the Atlantic Seaboard
Recommended restaurants
Harbour House — Perched above the waves with huge ocean-facing windows, serving beautifully plated fresh seafood in one of the best view-restaurants in the city.
Kalky’s — A no-frills, much-loved harbour classic serving big portions of fish and chips, calamari and grilled snoek right by the fishing boats.
Olympia Café — A local favourite for pastries, rustic comfort plates, hearty breakfasts and fresh bakes in a lively, eccentric café setting.
Cape Town City Cetre.
World Locals Editor’s Favourites
A few standout spots we personally love — the places we recommend to friends, return to often and think really capture Cape Town’s flavour, creativity and character.
🥩 The Butcher Shop & Grill
Sitting right on the Mouille Point promenade with views of the lighthouse and shoreline, The Butcher Shop is old-school in the best possible way. Expect premium cuts aged in-house, a serious selection of South African red wines and white-jacket service that feels polished without being stiff. The portions are generous, the steaks are consistently excellent, and the whole place hums with the kind of warm, confident atmosphere only an established local favourite can deliver. Perfect for slow, indulgent dinners after a day on the Atlantic Seaboard.
🍳 Jarryd’s Brunch & Bistro
A Sea Point brunch institution, Jarryd’s is where Cape Town’s brunch game really comes alive. Expect towering pancakes, signature shakshuka, generously portioned benedicts, great coffee and plating that always looks good on the table (or camera). It’s loud, social and full of everyday local energy — the kind of place you walk into hungry and leave very, very happy. Ideal for fuelling up before a promenade walk or tidal-pool dip.
☕️ Kanela Café
Kanela is the kind of neighbourhood café you instantly want to return to. Cosy, warm and dotted with personal touches, it’s famous for wholesome breakfasts, freshly baked pastries and warm hospitality that makes you feel like a regular on your first visit. The menu leans comforting and honest — think toasted sourdoughs, homemade granola, perfectly poached eggs — and the crowd is a mix of locals, creatives and early-morning walkers grabbing coffee before the day starts.
🥁 GOLD Restaurant
GOLD is more than a restaurant — it’s a full cultural immersion. The African tasting menu moves through flavours from across the continent: Moroccan tagines, Ethiopian stews, South African curries and West African spice blends, all served as a 14-dish parade with live drumming and storytelling woven between courses. It’s lively, colourful, warm and ideal for first-timers who want to experience African cuisine in a celebratory, communal setting. A real “memory” meal.
🍷 Carne Keerom
Hidden inside a historic building on Keerom Street, Carne offers an elegant, Italian-influenced take on a steakhouse. Expect premium cuts of beef and lamb, beautifully prepared sides, rich sauces and a dark, moody dining room that feels romantic and intimate without being overly formal. It’s the kind of place you book when you want to treat yourself — refined, confident and quietly one of Cape Town’s best meat restaurants.
🌿 Madam Taitou
A whimsical Ethiopian hideaway on Long Street, Madam Taitou is like stepping into another world — leafy greenery, dim lighting, eclectic decor and cosy little alcoves that feel like secret dens. The menu is hearty and full of character: rich lentil stews, aromatically spiced meat dishes and big injera platters meant for sharing. Come for the atmosphere, stay for the flavour and friendly service, and let the city noise fade away outside.
Cape Town’s Must-Try Dishes
Cape Town’s food culture is shaped by centuries of migration, trade routes and blended traditions — and you can taste that history in every neighbourhood. These are the dishes that define the city, the ones locals grow up with and travellers fall in love with.
Bobotie
Often considered South Africa’s unofficial national dish, bobotie is a Cape Malay classic made from gently spiced minced beef or lamb, baked with a golden egg custard on top and served with yellow rice, chutney and sambals. It’s warming, aromatic and sweet-savoured — the kind of comfort food that tells a whole story in one bite.
Cape Malay curry
Unlike Indian curries, Cape Malay curries are fragrant rather than fiery. They’re slow-cooked with cinnamon, cardamom, cloves and bay leaves, with tender potatoes and chicken, lamb or vegetables. Served with soft rotis or rice, it’s a staple that reflects the heritage of the Cape Malay community.
Denningvleis
A lesser-known but deeply traditional Cape Malay dish — a slow-cooked lamb stew flavoured with tamarind for a tangy, savoury depth. It’s rich, distinctive and one of the oldest recorded dishes from the early Cape.
Koesisters (not to be confused with koeksisters)
Cape Malay koesisters are spiced dough balls — flavoured with ginger, cinnamon and cardamom — boiled, dipped in syrup and rolled in coconut. They’re sticky, soft, fragrant and best eaten on Sunday mornings.
(Koeksisters, by contrast, are Afrikaans: plaited, crispy, syrup-soaked dough. Both delicious, totally different.)
The Gatsby
Cape Town’s legendary super-sandwich. A monster sub layered with steak, calamari or chicken, smothered with chips, sauces and salad. It’s messy, indulgent and best shared. A late-night staple from local takeaways.
Biltong
South Africa’s beloved dried meat snack, seasoned with coriander and spices and cured to tender perfection. Easily found in markets, supermarkets and delis — perfect for hikes or coastal walks.
Snoek braai
A true Cape winter tradition. Snoek (a local fish) is grilled over flames and basted with apricot glaze for a sweet-smoky finish. Often served with roosterkoek (grilled bread) or pap. If you get a chance to try it, don’t miss it.
Bunny chow
Originally from Durban but now widespread, bunny chow is a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry. Hearty, spicy and deeply comforting — perfect after a chilly Atlantic breeze.
Boerewors roll
South Africa’s version of a hot dog, but way more flavourful. Thick, coiled sausage seasoned with coriander and clove, grilled over a braai and stuffed into a bun with onions and sauces. You’ll find them at markets, night events and breweries.
Fresh line fish
Cape Town restaurants often list “line fish of the day,” which varies depending on what the boats bring in — kingklip, yellowtail, kabeljou, hake. Always fresh, always worth ordering.
Malva pudding
A Cape Dutch classic: warm sponge soaked in buttery caramel sauce, served with custard or ice cream. Sweet, nostalgic and one of the city’s most comforting desserts.
Chakalaka
A spicy vegetable relish often served with braai dishes — vibrant, tangy and full of flavour. You’ll see it alongside meats, stews and pap.
Samosas
Cape Malay samosas (usually spelled “samoosas” locally) are small, crisp triangles filled with spiced mince, potato or vegetables. You’ll find them everywhere — bakeries, street stalls, markets — and they’re always worth grabbing.
Camps Bay.
Seafood and Coastal Eating
Cape Town’s coastline shapes so much of its food identity. With two oceans meeting just beyond the city, seafood here isn’t just a menu item — it’s a way of life. From harbour shacks to fine-dining terraces overlooking the waves, the city offers some of the freshest, most beautifully prepared seafood in South Africa.
Fresh catches
Cape Town’s “line fish of the day” changes with the weather, the season and the boats coming into Kalk Bay and Hout Bay. Expect firm, flavourful fish such as kingklip, yellowtail, kabeljou and hake — often served simply with lemon, herbs and butter. It’s clean, bright and lets the ingredient shine.
Harbour-side eating
For that quintessential Cape Town feel, nothing beats a meal beside the harbour. Kalk Bay is the atmospheric favourite: fishing boats bobbing in the swell, seals lounging on the walls, waves crashing against the rocks and casual seafood restaurants serving generous plates. Hout Bay also offers a salty, working-harbour energy perfect for fish and chips or grilled snoek.
Tidal-pool cafés
One of Cape Town’s most charming dining quirks is the café culture built around its tidal pools — especially along the Atlantic Seaboard and False Bay coastline. It’s not unusual to start the morning with a swim at Dalebrook or St James, then wander over to a café for coffee and something warm. These spots offer relaxed, scenic breakfasts with sea spray in the air.
Sustainability notes
Cape Town’s seafood scene is closely tied to the Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative (SASSI), which guides restaurants in choosing responsibly sourced fish. Many menus indicate SASSI-approved species, and diners are encouraged to opt for green-listed options like snoek, yellowtail or hake depending on the season.
Where seafood shines
Kalk Bay for fresh, harbour-side eating
V&A Waterfront for polished seafood restaurants with ocean views
Camps Bay for sunset seafood dinners overlooking the beach
Hout Bay (if you’re exploring beyond the city bowl) for casual, local fish spots
Sea Point for sushi bars and relaxed everyday seafood
False Bay for warmer-water catches and relaxed coastal cafés
Seafood here is part of the Cape Town rhythm — fresh, abundant and best enjoyed with a view of the ocean it came from.
Cape Town’s Café Culture
Cape Town wakes up early — runners on the promenade, surfers checking the waves, hikers heading up Lion’s Head, creatives opening their laptops in sunlit corner cafés. Coffee is woven into the rhythm of the city, and the café culture reflects that: laid-back, quality-driven, creative and proudly local. You’ll find everything from speciality roasters in industrial warehouses to cosy neighbourhood bakeries turning out perfect pastries.
Coffee roasteries
Cape Town’s love for good coffee runs deep. Many of the city’s top roasteries started in Woodstock and Salt River’s converted warehouses, where small-batch beans are roasted on-site with meticulous attention to flavour. Expect single-origin brews, pour-overs, flat whites with silky microfoam and baristas who know exactly what they’re doing. You’ll find serious coffee across the city bowl, Sea Point, Woodstock and the Atlantic Seaboard.
Bakeries
The bakery scene here is exceptional — sourdoughs with crackly crusts, buttery croissants, pastel de nata, cinnamon buns, brioche loaves and pastries that sell out before noon. Many bakeries supply cafés across the city, but stopping in at the source is always worth it. Morning pastries are practically a ritual for locals, especially near the promenade or before a mountain hike.
Brunch culture
Brunch is big in Cape Town — colourful plates piled with local produce, vibrant smoothies, inventive egg dishes, shakshuka, avo toast done a dozen different ways and cafés that blur the line between breakfast and lunch. Menus lean wholesome and bright, with plenty of plant-forward options. Expect lively atmospheres on weekends and long waits at popular neighbourhood spots.
Remote-work cafés
Cape Town has quietly become one of the world’s great remote-working cities, and the café culture reflects that. You’ll find laptop-friendly spaces with comfortable seating, good lighting and speciality coffee across the city bowl and Atlantic Seaboard. Many offer fast Wi-Fi, quiet corners and menus designed for long work sessions — from healthy bowls to fresh sandwiches.
Plant-based cafés
Plant-based eating is huge here, and Cape Town does it with flair. Think colourful bowls, homemade nut milks, dairy-free pastries, vegan burgers, fresh juices and creative vegetable-driven plates. Whether you’re fully plant-based or just looking for a lighter morning, the options are endless and genuinely delicious.
Cape Town’s cafés are more than places to eat — they’re part of the city’s lifestyle. Slow mornings, good coffee, ocean air and mountain views make every café stop feel like a moment worth savouring.
Recommended cafés
Cape Town’s cafés aren’t just places to grab a flat white — they’re part of the city’s lifestyle. These spots capture the pace, personality and creativity of their neighbourhoods.
Origin Coffee Roasting (De Waterkant)
Often described as the birthplace of Cape Town’s modern coffee movement, Origin sits inside a warehouse-style space filled with exposed brick, industrial fittings and the smell of freshly roasted beans. Baristas here are some of the best in the city, serving pour-overs, single-origin espressos and limited seasonal roasts. It’s lively, energetic and great for getting a feel for the local creative scene.
Truth Coffee (CBD)
A global award-winning, steampunk-themed café with towering brass machines, Victorian-industrial interiors and a retro-futuristic vibe. It’s theatrical but still incredibly serious about its coffee — with a wide selection of blends, slow brews and pastries. Ideal for travellers who love atmosphere as much as flavour.
Molten Toffee (Kloof Street, Gardens)
A local favourite with a laid-back, neighbourhood feel. Think warm lighting, indie music, friendly staff and a steady stream of regulars grabbing cortados before heading up to Lion’s Head or into town. The small menu is simple but perfectly executed — coffees, pastries and light bites.
Bootlegger Coffee Company (Sea Point & branches citywide)
A Cape Town staple. They open early (often 6am or earlier), making them the go-to for runners, cyclists and morning swimmers. The vibe is casual and practical — good coffee, consistent food, quick service — perfect for reliable, everyday stops.
Ground Art Caffé (De Waterkant / Green Point)
A stylish café-meets-gallery with minimalist interiors, rotating art exhibitions and beautifully presented brunch plates. It’s refined without being pretentious, offering excellent espresso, pastries and a quiet atmosphere ideal for focused work or slow, elegant mornings.
Harvest Café (Bo-Kaap)
A bright, modern space overlooking the colourful houses of Bo-Kaap. Expect smoothies, fruit bowls, eggs, coffee and vibrant plates that match the energy of the neighbourhood. The deck has some of the best brunch views in the city — ideal for photo lovers and travellers easing into the day.
Jason Bakery (Multiple)
A pastry institution known for its “doughssants,” signature croissants and boldly flavoured baked goods. The queues can get long, especially on weekends, but it’s worth it for some of Cape Town’s best pastries.
Camps Bay.
Markets Worth Eating At
Cape Town’s markets are where the city’s creativity, diversity and food culture collide. They’re social, vibrant and packed with small traders serving everything from Cape Malay plates to artisanal pastries, farm produce, seafood, burgers, biltong and global street food. Whether you’re after breakfast, lunch or cocktails with a view, these markets are essential stops.
The Old Biscuit Mill
Set in a converted factory in Woodstock, The Old Biscuit Mill is one of Cape Town’s most famous markets — lively, colourful and full of character. On Saturdays it transforms into a bustling food hub: fresh oysters, Cape Malay street food, handmade chocolates, curries, ramen, baked goods, wood-fired breads, vegan dishes, juices and small-batch treats you won’t find anywhere else. Come hungry; it’s sensory overload in the best way.
Best for: big flavours, artisan producers, creative cooking, lively Saturday energy.
Oranjezicht City Farm Market
A farm-style, ocean-view market set at the V&A Waterfront, open on weekends and Wednesday evenings. It’s a mix of fresh produce, flowers, organic stalls and excellent ready-to-eat food. Think farm-fresh eggs, seasonal fruit, warm pastries, shakshuka, tacos, falafel, salads, burgers, dumplings and top-notch coffee. With seating overlooking the harbour, it’s perfect for long breakfasts or sunset bites.
Best for: brunch by the sea, wholesome food, fresh produce and relaxed weekend wandering.
Makers Landing
Located inside the cruise terminal at the Waterfront, Makers Landing champions local food entrepreneurs through small stalls, tasting counters and culinary incubators. Expect bold flavours, African-inspired dishes, Cape Malay favourites, sweet treats and rotating pop-ups experimenting with new ideas. It’s modern, creative and a great way to taste the city’s future food talent.
Best for: food storytelling, African flavours, emerging chefs and curated tasting plates.
Mojo Market
Over in Sea Point, Mojo Market blends food, live music and a buzzing, casual atmosphere. The food options cover everything: poke bowls, ramen, dim sum, sushi, tacos, burgers, biltong, waffles and warm pastries. It’s open daily, so it’s perfect when you want variety without planning too far ahead.
Best for: easy, crowd-pleasing meals, groups, and mixing dinner with live music and promenade energy.
Cape Town’s markets showcase the city at its most creative — a blend of cultures, flavours and makers all under one roof. They’re the perfect way to taste a bit of everything.
Old Biscuit Mill.
Bars and Nightlife
Cape Town’s nights are relaxed, creative and full of atmosphere — from rooftop sunsets over the Atlantic to candle-lit wine bars, craft breweries and live-music hideaways. Whether you're after cocktails with a view, a quiet glass of red or something a little louder, the city has a scene for every mood.
Cocktail bars
Cape Town’s cocktail scene blends creativity with coastal energy. Expect seasonal ingredients, house infusions, rooftop views and bartenders who take their craft seriously. Many cocktail bars are tucked around the city bowl and the Atlantic Seaboard, making it easy to hop between neighbourhoods. Sunset hours are especially beautiful — warm skies, sea breezes and silhouettes of the mountain.
Think: inventive signatures using fynbos, citrus and local botanicals; relaxed but polished vibes; views that make you slow down.
Wine bars
With the Cape Winelands only a short drive away, it’s no surprise Cape Town does wine exceptionally well. Wine bars here focus on small South African producers, natural wines, interesting blends and local varietals like pinotage and chenin blanc. Many also offer cheese boards, charcuterie and small plates.
Even if you never leave the city, Cape Town’s wine bar scene is one of the best ways to experience the region’s world-class vintages without the drive.
Craft beer
Cape Town’s craft beer culture has exploded over the last decade, especially in Woodstock and Salt River. Breweries often sit inside old warehouses with big communal tables, tasting paddles and a friendly, unpretentious crowd. Expect hoppy IPAs, crisp lagers, rich stouts and seasonal brews — often with food trucks or casual eats nearby.
The vibe is always relaxed, perfect after a coastal walk or a day exploring the markets.
Rooftops and sunset spots
Rooftop bars are where Cape Town really shines. As the sun drops behind the Twelve Apostles or Table Mountain, the whole city glows gold. Roof terraces in the city bowl and Atlantic Seaboard offer panoramic views with cocktails, DJ sets or laid-back lounge seating.
They’re ideal for starting a night out, ending a long day of exploring or settling in with panoramic ocean and mountain views as the sky turns pink.
Recommended bars
(with Athletic Club & Social added)
The Gin Bar
Hidden behind Honest Chocolate Café, this speakeasy-style gin bar glows with candlelight, greenery and quiet courtyard charm. Known for its “medicinal” gin cocktails, each themed around purity, courage, hope or love — intimate, unique and full of character.
Cause Effect
One of South Africa’s most inventive cocktail bars, celebrating the Cape’s botanical heritage with fynbos, citrus, indigenous herbs and theatrical presentations. Creative, polished and a must for cocktail enthusiasts.
Tjing Tjing Rooftop
A moody, Japanese-inspired rooftop bar with neon hues, highballs, sake and some of the best late-night energy in the city bowl. Stylish, atmospheric and unforgettable.
The House of Machines
Gritty, electric and soulful — part bar, part workshop, part live-music venue. Expect excellent cocktails, craft beer and a blend of locals, creatives and musicians.
Fable
A storytelling-driven cocktail bar where each drink is inspired by a myth or fable. Cosy early in the evening, lively later on — ideal for fun nights out.
SkyBar at The Grey Hotel
A relaxed rooftop with a pool, lantern lighting and sweeping views over Table Mountain and the city bowl. Understated and perfect for sunset drinks.
Publik Wine Bar
A minimalist natural wine bar focusing on small, independent South African producers. Pure, unfussy and exceptional — ideal for slow, thoughtful evenings.
Athletic Club & Social
A beautifully restored, multi-level bar and lounge set inside a historic 1900s building. Each floor offers a different experience — elegant cocktail lounges, velvet-lined nooks, a lively dance space and moody lighting throughout. It’s glamorous without being pretentious, buzzing on weekends and one of Cape Town’s most atmospheric places for a night out. Perfect for cocktails, late nights and date-night energy with a vintage twist.
Tiger’s Milk bar (chain), Cape Town.
Coffee, Bakeries and Sweet Treats
Cape Town’s sweet side is every bit as exciting as its dining scene. From artisan bakeries turning out perfect croissants to tucked-away gelato shops and experimental dessert cafés, the city offers no shortage of treats worth slowing down for. Whether you’re wandering the Waterfront, strolling the Sea Point promenade or exploring the city bowl, you’re never far from something fresh from the oven.
Coffee spots worth a detour
Cape Town takes its coffee seriously — from the roasting style to the design of the cafés themselves. Beyond the big-name roasteries, smaller neighbourhood spots offer some of the most memorable cups in the city.
Neighbourhood espresso bars in Gardens serving flat whites with mountain views
Beach-adjacent kiosks in Sea Point perfect for sunrise coffee after a tidal-pool dip
Small speciality shops in Woodstock experimenting with single origins and seasonal brews
Every café has its own personality, and each neighbourhood has its signature style — from industrial-cool in Woodstock to breezy coastal mornings in Sea Point.
Bakeries
Cape Town’s bakeries are exceptional, and many have become local institutions. You’ll find French-style patisseries, sourdough specialists, minimalist Nordic-inspired bakeries and shops pushing the boundaries of flavour.
Expect crackly sourdough loaves still warm from the oven
Butter-rich croissants that sell out early on weekends
Iconic cinnamon buns, pastel de nata and creative weekly specials
Sweet and savoury pastries perfect for picnics, hikes and beach days
Many bakeries supply top cafés across the city — but visiting them directly lets you experience their craft at its freshest.
Ice cream and gelato
Cape Town’s coastal climate makes ice cream an essential part of the food scene. Small-batch gelato shops, coastal kiosks and dessert bars experiment with local ingredients to create inventive flavours.
Think:
fynbos honey
rooibos and caramel
fresh berry sorbets
dark chocolate made with local cacao
classic vanilla done exceptionally well
A scoop on the promenade at sunset is practically a rite of passage here.
Dessert cafés and sweet treats
From Basque cheesecakes to chocolate tarts and vegan desserts, Cape Town’s sweet spots cater to every craving. You’ll find:
Dessert cafés serving plated creations with seasonal fruits
Chocolate specialists offering tasting flights and truffles
Doughnut shops with wild weekly flavours
Custard-filled pastries and brioche buns perfect for slow mornings
Whether you prefer rich, indulgent desserts or something light and fruity, the city has a sweet moment waiting around every corner.
Food Experiences to Try
Cape Town’s food scene isn’t just about restaurants — it’s about experiences that connect you to the people, culture and flavours of the city. From cooking classes to wine journeys, these hands-on activities bring Cape Town’s culinary heritage to life.
Cape Malay cooking classes
One of the most meaningful food experiences in Cape Town. You’ll head into a family kitchen in Bo-Kaap, learn about Cape Malay history, grind masalas, fold samoosas and simmer curries the traditional way. It’s hands-on, warm, immersive and offers a rare look into a cuisine shaped by centuries of spice routes and migration.
Expect storytelling, home-style flavours, and recipes you’ll take with you long after you leave.
Wine tasting in the Cape Winelands
Just 45 minutes from the city, the Cape Winelands offer some of the world’s best wine experiences — think rolling vineyards, heritage estates and modern tasting rooms. Whether you head to Stellenbosch, Franschhoek or Constantia, you’ll find flights of chenin, pinotage, MCC (South Africa’s Champagne-style sparkling), and creative blends paired with cheese, charcuterie and chocolate.
It’s the perfect half-day or full-day trip, especially for couples and groups.
Market-to-table experiences
Some chefs and food collectives offer guided market tours — often starting at Oranjezicht or the Old Biscuit Mill — followed by hands-on cooking sessions. You’ll taste your way through the market, meet traders, learn about seasonal produce and turn your finds into a multi-course meal.
It’s a brilliant way to explore the city’s creative food scene.
Foraging workshops
For a completely different side of the Cape’s food culture, join a foraging experience along the coast or mountain slopes. These workshops explore edible seaweeds, mushrooms, indigenous plants and herbs — teaching you how locals have used these ingredients for generations.
Great for adventurous travellers and nature lovers.
Brewery and distillery tours
Cape Town’s craft beer and gin scene is thriving, especially in Woodstock, Salt River and the city bowl. Brewery tours often include tasting paddles, behind-the-scenes looks at the brewing process and relaxed outdoor seating. Gin distilleries offer botanical tastings, cocktail pairings and insights into the Cape’s unique fynbos ingredients.
Perfect for casual group outings.
Chocolate and gelato tastings
Cape Town is home to talented chocolatiers and gelato makers who run small-group tastings and classes. Expect bean-to-bar sessions, caramel pairings, local cacao experiments and seasonal gelato flights — ideal for sweet tooths and families.
These experiences add a hands-on, immersive layer to the city’s food story — giving travellers a deeper connection to Cape Town’s flavours and culture.
Stellenbosch.
Practical Tips for Eating in Cape Town
Cape Town’s food scene is vibrant and welcoming, but like any major city, there are a few local quirks worth knowing. These tips will help travellers navigate restaurants, cafés and markets smoothly so they can focus on the flavours, not the logistics.
Load shedding
South Africa still experiences periodic power outages known as load shedding.
Most restaurants now have generators or backup solutions, so service usually continues with minimal disruption.
Tips:
Check if your chosen spot has backup power (most do).
Make dinner reservations earlier during heavy load-shedding stages to avoid peak stress times.
Keep phones charged; bring a power bank for long days out.
Reservations
Cape Town’s popular restaurants — especially Kloof Street, De Waterkant, Camps Bay and the Waterfront — book up quickly, particularly on weekends and summer evenings.
Tips:
Book 2–3 days ahead for busy dinner spots.
Walk-ins are easier at breakfast or lunch.
Some markets (like Oranjezicht and Mojo) don’t need reservations at all.
Tipping norms
South Africa is a tipping culture.
Standard: 10–15% in restaurants
Bars: round up or leave a small tip
Car guards: small contributions (R5–R10) when parking in city areas
Markets: tipping is optional but appreciated for good service
Payment
Cape Town is a card-first city.
Debit/credit cards and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are accepted everywhere.
ATMs are widely available, but use machines inside malls or the Waterfront for extra safety.
Cash is only occasionally needed for small stalls or car guards.
Dietary options
Cape Town is extremely accommodating for dietary preferences.
Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are common in most neighbourhoods.
Plant-based cafés are excellent, especially in Gardens, Sea Point and Obs.
Halal options are strong in Bo-Kaap and parts of the city bowl.
Safety while dining out
Cape Town is warm and welcoming, but travellers should stay city-smart.
Use Uber after dark, especially when moving between neighbourhoods.
Keep bags under the table and phones out of sight on outdoor terraces.
Be aware of your surroundings when leaving late-night bars or clubs.
Seasonal eating
Menus shift with the seasons — part of the city’s charm.
Winter brings hearty stews, soups and snoek braais.
Summer highlights fresh seafood, salads and lighter plates.
Markets showcase seasonal produce year-round.
Water safety
Cape Town’s tap water is safe to drink. Refill your bottle at cafés and guesthouses to cut down on plastic.
Timing for meals
Breakfast/brunch peaks: 9:00–11:00
Lunch: relaxed, often slower-paced
Dinner: busiest from 18:30–20:30, especially in summer
Markets: weekends get extremely busy by late morning; earlier is better
These simple tips help diners move around Cape Town confidently, eat well, and enjoy the city’s food culture like a local.
“Cape Town’s food scene is a reflection of the city itself — layered, creative, deeply rooted and full of stories. Every neighbourhood reveals something different: the spice-perfumed kitchens of Bo-Kaap, the industrial energy of Woodstock’s bakeries and markets, the slow coastal charm of Kalk Bay’s seafood shacks, the iconic brunch culture of Sea Point, and the polished sunset terraces of Camps Bay.
What makes eating here so special isn’t just the flavour — it’s the feeling. It’s learning the rhythm of the city through its cafés, tasting generations of Cape Malay heritage in a single spoon of curry, watching fishing boats glide into the harbour as your plate arrives, sipping wine that’s been grown just beyond the city limits, or chatting with a baker who shaped their first croissant before sunrise. It’s the way the mountain, the sea and the people shape every meal, every spice blend, every menu.
Cape Town rewards curiosity. Wander into side streets, follow the smell of freshly baked bread, jump between markets, taste your way through small producers, and don’t be afraid to ask locals where they eat — you’ll always discover something new. Whether you’re settling into a long lunch, sharing a Gatsby on the go, or diving into a 14-dish African tasting journey, the city invites you to slow down, savour the moment and let the flavours tell their stories.
Cape Town stays with you — in the spice of a samosa, the glow of a coastline sunset, the crackle of a fresh sourdough crust, the warmth of shared tables and the creative spark that runs through every kitchen. Let this guide lead you through the city’s best bites, and may each plate remind you why food is one of the most memorable ways to experience a place.”
