Looking for the best restaurants in Cape Town? We’ve got you covered with some of the Mother City’s finest foodie establishments that have locals coming back for more!
Fine Dining Restaurants
1. FYN
Japanese meets African, FYN offers foodies new tastes which push boundaries. The state-of-the-art dining room is an eye-catching masterpiece to behold.
Website: www.fynrestaurant.com
2. Aubergine
This restaurant takes timeless dishes with Eastern and Western influences and combines this with seasonal flavours and local ingredients.
Website: www.aubergine.co.za
3. Siba the Restaurant
Siba the Restaurant comes from the creative mind of celebrity South African chef, Siba Mtongana. The restaurant is an iconic 5-star dining experience which serves unique recipes that encompass world flavours with an African flair.
Website: www.sibamtongana.co.za/restaurant
4. The Glasshouse
Situated at Hazendal Wine Estate, The Glasshouse is bathed in natural light in its own private garden and offers floor to ceiling glass windows with magical views of the historic estate. This elegant venue boasts exquisite seasonal Cape cuisine.
Website: www.hazendal.co.za/the-glasshouse
5. Infinity
Situated inside Hotel Sky, Infinity has some of the best views of the city while taking in the restaurant’s eye-catching afro-chic décor. If you’re looking for popular international inspired dishes coupled with a lively, romantic, and cosy atmosphere; then this is the place to be!
Website: www.infinityrestaurant.capetown
6. Jonkershuis
Jokershuis is located in the heart of the Constantia Valley and can be found at Groot Constantia – the oldest wine-producing wine estate in South Africa. Visitors to Jonkershuis are spoiled with Cape Malay inspired bistro style food and offers patrons scenic views of the the majestic Constantia Valley.
Website: www.jonkershuisconstantia.co.za
7. Hemelhuijs
If you want a different flavour experience each time you visit, Hemelhuijs is ideal for you. The menu changes seasonally, giving customers unique experiences at different times of the year. Their menu is inspired by their world travels.
Website: www.hemelhuijs.co.za
8. Blanko
At the historic Alphen Hotel is fine dining with a difference. Blanko’s menu offers simple, but sophisticated meals, with meat, fish and vegetarian dishes available. Housed within the old Manor House, the restaurant lends itself to an intimate and luxurious experience.
Website: www.blanko.co.za
9. Kloof Street House
Kloof Street House is in a magnificent Victorian house with Chesterfield couches, age old artefacts, chandeliers, a travelling case bar, a library lounge and a scenic garden; Kloof Street House transports patrons back in time to a well-known era. Enjoy sumptuous meals from their brasserie-style menu.
Website: www.kloofstreethouse.co.za
10. Zest
Zest Restaurant is all about fresh ingredients which fits in well with its Mediterranean and Asian influences. The restaurant’s Oyster & Cure Bar is simply a treat, while its 5-course tasting menu is the perfect dining experience.
Website: www.zestcapetown.co.za
11. The Conservatory at the Cellars Hohenort
The Conservatory at the Cellars Hohenort uses fresh produce from the gardens, which are then incorporated into its seasonal menu. Having been built around a 200-year-old oak tree and with a backdrop of Table Mountain and the camphor trees at its foot, The Conservatory exudes a comfortable and laidback ambience, which is paired wonderfully with its sophisticated menu.
Website: www.thecellars-hohenorthotel.com/restaurants-bars/the-conservatory
Casual Dining Restaurants
12. Skotnes
Skotnes is named after legendary South African artist and teacher Cecil Skotnes, the Skotnes restaurant is located at the Norval Foundation – a museum of contemporary art. The restaurant overlooks the foundation’s scenic wetlands and sculpture garden.
The menu pays homage to classical South African cuisine, with pristine presentation.
Website: www.norvalfoundation.org/skotnes-restaurant
13. Societi Bistro
Societi Bistro offers bistro classics, including the Fillet au Poivre or perhaps a Mushroom Risotto.
Website: www.societi.co.za
14. Simon’s at Groot Constantia
Simon’s celebrates its prime location and offers patrons a Cape Winelands dining experience. Known for its gigantic fireplace – this restaurant is perfect for a rainy day.
Website: www.simons.co.za
15. Cabo Beach Club
Cabo is a place where you can dine with a gorgeous seaside view, enjoy cocktails in the sun and lounge at the poolside. Look forward to pizza, sushi, burgers, seafood and other casual favourites.
Website: www.cabobeachclub.co.za
16. Clarke’s Bar and Dining Room
Clarke’s serves all-day breakfasts, and is renowned for their decadent burgers, this is where you will find local craft beers such as Jack Black’s Lager and more. Situated in trendy Bree Street in the City Centre, It is also a perfect spot for people watching.
Website: www.clarkesdining.co.za
17. Grand Africa Café and Beach
The white beach sand setting here is a fun and casual atmosphere for summer. They have won the hearts of many with a chic, bistro-style menu and the feet-in-the-sand dining experience.
Website: www.grandafrica.com/grand-africa-cafe-beach
18. Mynt
Mynt is situated on the busy Camps Bay strip with an iconic beach backdrop. It is a casual beach bar that offers guests a variety of classics to choose from as they take in the scenery. Don’t forget to try the cocktails.
Website: www.myntcafe.co.za
19. The 41
The 41 is a contemporary Mediterranean-inspired restaurant with international influences. The restaurant is situated in Camps Bay, with scenic views of the ocean which you can enjoy on the terrace.
Website: www.the41.co.za
20. ZenZero
ZenZero is all about the art of wood fired and chargrilled flavours. Their open-plan wood fired ovens take centre stage, with an entire menu centred around it.
Website: www.zenzerorestaurant.co.za
21. The Duchess of Wisbeach
In Sea Point is where bold New York meets chic and elegant Paris. This nostalgic eatery specialises in old fashioned food, divine cocktails and beats to keep you moving all night long.
Website: www.duchessofwisbeach.co.za
22. The Coffee Lounge
in Century City offers delicious food, generous portions and great prices. Situated close to the Canal’s edge, the restaurant also boasts an exceptional range of confectionary and mouth-watering desserts. Try the baked cheesecake!
Website: www.facebook.com/TheCoffeeLoungeCT
Traditional Restaurants
23. Mzansi
Mzansi Restaurant in Langa serves traditional African meals showcasing South Africa’s diverse cultures and tastes. Visitors are spoiled for choice with a buffet of sumptuous offerings. As customers enjoy their meal, they are entertained by a Marimba Band, face painting, drum circles, dancing and the powerful inspirational story of how the restaurant came to be.
Website: www.mzansi45.co.za
24. Pitso’s Kitchen
Pitso’s Kitchen at Maker’s Landing specialises in local food with a twist – build your own kota, taste traditional braai, enjoy some mogodu and many other authentic South African dishes.
Website: bit.ly/3M752WE
25. Marco’s African Place
Marco’s has been the go-to restaurant for African cuisine in the city for more than two decades. The restaurant offers both traditional and international cuisine and is also renowned for its live entertainment.
Website: www.marcosafricanplace.com
26. Rands Cape Town
Rands is situated in the heart of Khayelitsha and is known for its top tier shisanyama and is also the ideal space for outdoor lovers and big crowds. The prices are affordable, and the live entertainment attracts people from all walks of life. For the best vibe visit on Sunday nights.
Website: www.rands-cape-town.business.site
27. Spinach King
Lufefe Nomjana is from Khayelitsha, and his healthy township deli is making waves for being the first of its kind. Situated at the Khayelitsha Mall, Spinach King incorporates spinach into their muffins, bread, pizza bases and more. They also offer spinach juice.
Website: www.spinachking.co.za
Strictly Halal Restaurants
28. Nouveau Coffee & Grill
Situated in Century City, Nouveau Coffee & Grill is an upmarket establishment offering premium steaks, authentic curries, seafood dishes and breathtaking desserts!
Website: www.facebook.com/NouveauCoffeeandGrill
29. Ala Turkish
Ala Turkish offers authentic Turkish food in De Waterkant. Start your meal with a meze and choose any of the popular Turkish dishes for your main course. From haydari to kepabs and corba you are spoiled for choice. Try some shisha in the beautiful outdoor area if the weather is good.
Website: www.alaturkish.co.za
30. Damascus
Damascus is a taste of Syria in the heart of Sea Point. Enjoy a memorable Syrian feast in this stylish space – try the Man’oosh or Chicken Mandi. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Booking preferred.
Website: www.facebook.com/damascuscpt
32. By Concept Café
By Concept in trendy Kloof Street is, as the name suggests, cuisine by concept – Mexican, Asian, Italian. They have it all.
Website: www.facebook.com/byconcept.cafe
33. Bo-Kaap Kombuis
This vibrant restaurant situated in historic Bo-Kaap and is renowned for serving the best Cape Malay food and some of the best views of the city.
Website: www.bokaapkombuis.co.za
34. La Rocca
Located in the Canal Walk Shopping Mall, La Rocca offers bistro comfort food at its best. Enjoy a decadent sandwich, salad, light meal or simply treat yourself to breakfast, steaks, burgers and seafood. A family friendly restaurant with some for everyone.
Website: www.larocca.co.za
35. Alhambra
This Rondebosch East-based restaurant serves burgers, sandwiches, seafood, and vegetarian fare. The venue can also be booked for events and they also offer catering services.
Website: www.al-hambra.co.za
36. EatStanbul
Another authentic Turkish restaurant that is popular with the locals. EatStanbul serves the creamiest hummus and delicious traditional baked bread. Their Pides (Turkish pizza) are also mouth-watering delights.
Website: www.eatstanbul.co.za
37. Bibi’s Kitchen
Bibi’s Kitchen is a Cape Town favourite! This Wynberg-based establishment has been operating for over twenty years. Bibi’s serves a range of meat, seafood, curries and much more! Bibi’s is famous for their homemade pastries and Prawn Chaat. When visiting Bibi’s you may want to stock up on homemade delights.
Website: www.bibiskitchen.co.za
Halal-Friendly Restaurants
38. NV-80
Looking for intimate indoor fine dining? This restaurant is a must for steak lovers. NV-80 has you covered with exquisite meals, beautiful décor and quality service.
Website: www.nv-80.co.za
39. Step Brothers
Located in beautiful Bantry bay, Step Brothers is known for its pizza, pasta, tapas, burgers. They cater to deli lovers looking for that perfect sandwich, light meal or sumptuous breakfast.
Website: www.stepbrothers.co.za
40. The Avenue
The Avenue in bustling Claremont is where you go for the perfect grilled steaks. The restaurant offers juicy steaks, seafood, grilled halloumi, jalapeno poppers and a host of other steakhouse favourites.
Website: www.theavenuerestaurant.co.za
41. The Yard
The Yard is a dining experience with multi-faceted elements. A fusion of cultural tastes from India to Africa. PLUS try the high tea. Booking preferred.
Website: www.theyardatsilo.co.za
42. Gold Restaurant
Gold Restaurant takes you on an African food journey! Gold Restaurant offers diners authentic African food from across the continent, including a 14-dish taste-safari paired with entertainment.
Website: www.goldrestaurant.co.za
43. Bihari
Bihari offers the best of North and South Indian cuisines as the two entities combine to form a fusion of aromatic flavours. Vegetarians are also catered for. Also try the samosa stater.
Website: www.bihari.co.za
44. The Raj
The Raj on the Camps Bay strip is perfect for authentic North Indian food. Think lamb madras, chicken korma or palak paneer and lentil curry for the vegetarians. Great setting and even better view.
Website: www.facebook.com/RajRestaurantsSA
Check Out More of Our Recommended Halal Friendly Restaurants
Vegetarian and Vegan
46. Schekters Raw
Schekters Raw serves gourmet health vegan food that’s natural, authentic, cruelty-free and nutrient dense. Breakfast, frozen meals, organic treats and smoothies. Try the Avocado, Truffle Oil & Chilli – Smashed avocado, served with diced Jalapeno chilies infused in truffle oil served with live organi sprouted Essene bread.
Website: www.schecktersraw.com
47. The Sunshine Food Co
The Sunshine Food Co is all about serving 100% organic food that’s good for you and nourishes your body. Open 8am-8pm daily at 6 Main Road, Sea Point.
Website: www.facebook.com/SunshineFoodCT
48. Plushi
Looking for plant-based sushi? Plushi is the perfect place to try vegan sushi or maybe even a vegan poke bowl.
Website: www.plushi.co.za
49. The Conscious Kitchen
The Conscious Kitchen is a plant-based juice bar and cafe located in Kloof Street. The establishment’s philosophy is all about the most conscious way of eating, producing and consuming. That’s why their fruits and vegetables are organic, their foods are not processed, and there are no refined sugars whatsoever.
Website: www.theconsciouskitchen.co.za
50. Foxcroft
Although Foxcroft isn’t strictly vegan, the restaurant offers an entire plant-based menu that makes it the perfect spot for vegans and vegetarians to experience Capetonian fine dining.
Website: www.foxcroft.restaurant
For inspiration and insider tips, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. Tag #lovecapetown to share your pics with us, or subscribe to our newsletter to get the best Cape Town has to offer sent direct to your mailbox.
