Craving a hit of fragrant (sometimes spicy) curry? Or something rich and creamy, you can get your curry fix at multiple restaurants located in and around Cape Town.
From family-run gems to fine dining spots – and plenty of vegetarian options too – here’s where to go when only a good curry will do.
Vadivelu
“Authentically South Africanly Indian” cuisine is what you will find at Vadivelu. The restaurant takes on bold flavours, gives them a contemporary twist, and everything is packed with a little attitude. From paneer tikka masala, chicken korma, and saag (spinach) with spicy potatoes.
Location: 151 Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town.
Website: www.vadivelu.co.za
The Curry Club
The best way to describe The Curry Club is as a “vibrant London style Punjabi flight kitchen sporting a short-order menu influenced by family recipes laced with new India cuisine.” As the name suggests, you can tuck into an assortment of fragrant curries that will make your tastebuds dance. There are a variety of curries to choose from, including chicken, lamb, vegetarian, and seafood. People swear by the Curry Club’s elite vegetarian creation, Baingan Mirchi Ka Salan and lamb madras. For the more adventurous, there is Crocodile Vindaloo and Springbok Fillet Curry.
Location: Cape Quarter Lifestyle Centre: Corner of Jarvis and Napier Street, De Waterkant
Website: www.curryclub.co.za
The Burner
The Burner brings a slice of Durban to the Cape, serving authentic dishes that will make you salivate. The menu is packed with flavour, serving over 15 curries, from fish, prawn and chicken, and Masala Chips Chutney.
Locations: Manhattan Suites and Conferencing, 3 Esplanade Rd, Century City and 2 Eendrag St, Bellville Lot 6.
Website: theburnerrestaurant.com
Khao Hom Halal Thai
Craving bold, delicious Thai flavours? Head to Khao Hom Halal Thai, where the “rich culinary traditions of Thailand meet the highest standards of Halal practices.” From creamy Penang and zesty green curry to rich Massaman and fiery jungle curry, it brings all the flavour and spice.
Location: 117 Imam Haron Rd, Claremont.
Website: khaohom.co.za
Bukhara
A Cape Town favourite, Bukhara blends timeless elegance with modern flair and delivers serious spice. With 18 curries on the menu, standouts like Murgh Shan-e-Delhi chicken, Crayfish Taka Tak, and their rich fish curry make it a must-visit for lovers of bold, authentic flavours.
Location: 33 Church Street, Cape Town.
Website: bukhara.com
Wang Thai
If you’re after panoramic views of Table Mountain and a serious curry fix, Wang Thai in Milnerton is your go-to spot. The menu is rich with variety- from butternut curry (Geang
Butternut) and litchi curry (Panaeng Litchi), and Massaman Curry (Geang Massaman). You’ll also find tropical Pineapple Curry, Turmeric Curry, and the comforting Roti & Curry (Roti Song Sri).
Location: Lagoon Beach, Cape Town.
Website: www.wangthai.co.za
Bihari
Step through Bihari’s grand wooden doors and you’re instantly swept into a world of rich, regal charm. Think golden hues, deep reds, wrought-iron lanterns, and plush seating fit for royalty. The restaurant located at Southern Sun Newlands curry selection is aplenty, from butter chicken and slow-cooked lamb rogan josh to creamy paneer makhani and aloo gobi, each dish is a bold celebration of North Indian flavour.
Location: Southern Sun Hotel, Main Rd, Newlands.
Website: www.bihari.co.za
Maharajah Indian Restaurant
This Cape Town gem has been serving bold Indian flavours and South African Indian cooking techniques for over 40 years. Expect a curry celebration from all corners: Northern, Southern, and good old Durban-style. Dig into everything from mixed seafood curry, palak paneer, or chicken saagwala. It’s proper curry with serious spice!
Location: 2 Woodside Rd, Tamboerskloof.
Website: www.maharajah.restaurant/
Bombay Brasserie at the Taj Cape Town
For the refined palate, a culinary journey at Bombay Brasserie at the Taj Cape Town is highly recommended. The hotel’s signature dining experience combines a setting of heritage-inspired luxury with a fine-dining menu that harmoniously blends the finest
flavours of Indian and Cape Malay cuisine, offering a local twist on beloved classics. Sample a few of their curry offerings or opt for a set menu with favourites like dal makhani, fish curry, and their famous butter chicken.
Location: Taj Cape Town, 1 Wale St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town.
Website: www.tajhotels.com
Sundoo
Sundoo is the brainchild of restaurateur and chef Seelan Sundoo, whose roots in Kerala, India, add inspiration to the vibrant menu. There are around 10 different curry options, including a “Durban-style” lamb mince curry, duck curry, and Pondicherry kingklip. Pop by one of their branches in Sea Point or Newlands.
Locations: 77 Regent Road, Sea Point.
Dean Street Arcade, Newlands.
Website: sundoo.co.za
Prashad Cafe
Prashad Cafe is a family-owned business that serves vegetarian and vegan cuisine that captures unique and unforgettable South African Indian flavours. Prashad (previously Maharajah Vegetarian) has been serving Cape Town for over 20 years, . Popular menu items include butter “chicken”, Palak Paneer, and Dhingri Matar.