Loosely meaning burn meat (in the Zulu language), shisanyama represents so much more than a cooking technique. It embodies the warm and inviting spirit of South Africa while celebrating culture, community and an explosion of fantastic flavours over a blazing barbecue.
Imagine succulent cuts of marinated meat sizzling over a fiery grill, while traditional side dishes like pap (a maize porridge) and chakalaka (a spicy vegetable relish) are also prepared for the feast to come. Now, add stories, laughter and aromatic fragrances wafting through the air, while lively music and a bristling atmosphere build anticipation for the delightful dish to be served.
Yes, this is not just a meal; it’s a communal event to be shared by everyone.
Shisanyama is an occasion to unite in the joy of food, family, friendship and festivities. It’s a time-honoured ritual where the barbecue becomes a stage for cultural exchange, forging connections that go far beyond the dining table.
Are you ready for your own shisanyama experience?
You’re invited to explore our list of the finest hotspots in Cape Town. Join in this iconic South African tradition, tasting the heart and soul of shisanyama—a tradition that has captivated our nation for generations.
Teez Lounge Gugulethu & Butcher
After the unfortunate closure of a local institution, Mzoli’s, Teez Lounge sprang up to take its place. This is a great choice for international visitors and locals alike and is guaranteed to provide an authentic experience.
Address: Ny 115, Guguletu, Cape Town, 7751, South Africa
Contact number: +27827244470
Link: instagram.com/teez_lounge_gugs/
The Duncan Shisa Nyama
Head over to the Duncan if you’re looking for perfectly seasoned meat and some hearty traditional chakalaka, pap, or samp and beans, on the side. This one is a local favourite for both dining and take out and the welcoming staff will make you feel right at home.
Address: 39 Parklands Main Rd, Parklands, Cape Town, 7449, South Africa
Contact number: +27215564005
Link: facebook.com/theduncanshisanyama/
Jabulani’s Chisa Nyama
Jabulani’s Chisa Nyama serves well-sized portions with vegetarian options available. Stay and grab a few drinks or call and collect.
Address: 35 Vasco Blvd, Goodwood, Cape Town, 7460, South Africa
Contact number: +27215356000
Link: acebook.com/JubulanesChisaNyama/
Meat Khayelitsha
Visit Meat Khayelitsha for an excellent atmosphere and some awesome weekend vibes. Meet new people and enjoy the fantastic braai on offer, they have a huge variety and generous portions.
Address: Spine Rd, Village 1 South, Cape Town, 7784, South Africa
Contact number: +27797331350
Maphindi’s Butchery
Situated in Nyanga East, Maphindi’s Butchery is a great stop for some perfectly cooked shisanyama and immaculate township vibes. It’s an affordable hangout, perfect for a drink with friends.
Address: 2H3M+73 Nyanga, Cape Town, South Africa
Contact number: +27660693928
Link: facebook.com/p/Maphindis-butchery/
GQ Gugulethu
GQ Gugulethu is well known among locals for its lounge scene, great music, and of course, the shisanyama which you get to select and have prepared by the experts. GQ Gugulethu has rave reviews and is a popular choice among locals for good reason. Be sure to check out their live events and parties on social media.
Address: Dr Moerat St, Guguletu, Cape Town, 7750, South Africa
Contact number: +27762161718
Link: facebook.com/p/GQ-Butchery-NY-110-Gugs/
Nomzamo Butchery
Nomzamo Butchery has a rich history as one of the oldest township butcheries passed from one generation to the next. Come for the shisanyama and stay for the immaculate township vibes in the historical area of Langa. At Nomzamo Butchery, quality is assured and it is widely lauded as the best shisanyama in Cape Town.
Address: 1509 Washington St, Langa, Cape Town, 7456, South Africa
Contact number: +27216954520
Link: facebook.com/p/Nomzamo-Butchery/
Rands Cape Town
This is a must-visit in the heart of Khayelitsha for some outdoor shisanyama and a great party in a secure environment. Getting there early is essential as it fills up quickly!
Address: XM75+CF Khayelitsha, Cape Town, South Africa
Contact number: +27786167550
Pakwathu Braai Restaurant
Pakwathu Braai Restaurant is a sit down eatery specialising in African cuisine and shisanyama in Woodstock, just outside the Cape Town CBD. They pride themselves on making local cuisine easily accessible and available to all.
Address: 1 Strand St, Woodstock, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
Contact number: +27789464555
Link: facebook.com/p/Pakwathu-Braai-Restaurants/
Emcimbini Braai Place
Emcimbini Braai Place is located in the township of Mfuleni. This roadside shisanyama is a great option to pick up some well-cooked braai if you’re driving through the area.
Address: O Nqubelani St, Mfuleni, Cape Town, 7100, South Africa
Contact number: +27613520446
