If you are looking for the "best restaurants near me" We've put together a wide range of some of the best restaurants in Cape Town. Whether you are looking for fine dining, local cuisine, or even the "best burgers near me" we've found the hidden gems in Cape Town and its surroundings.
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Note that star ratings are a combination of TripAdvisor and Google ratings with a touch of discretion.
A little background on South African Food
One of the best ways to fully immerse yourself in a country's culture is to explore that country's food. Cape Town has to be one of the most diverse cities in the world, which means great food, and great restaurants.
When you look at the globe, Cape Town and South Africa are right in the middle of the East and West. Cape Town was a key trading port that connected Europe to the East. This has resulted in a fusion of African, European and Eastern cuisine. Combining this with South Africa's rich and fertile soil, farming and oceans results in a very special gastronomy and cultural experience.
In this article, we want to highlight some of the best food experiences and restaurants in Cape Town.
Best Restaurants in Cape Town
1) Homespun by Matt
There is something special about Homespun. You really get the sense that Matt is a dreamer and a visionary. Each plate of food is a work of art with a story. I remember the first time I heard of Homespun. A little fine dining restaurant in Blouberg. To be honest, I wasn't expecting much, however, we were blown away by this little gem. Over the years we've seen Matt grow in confidence as a chef and really begin to push the boundaries of what is possible. It is evident that Matt loves food, travelling, experimenting and putting on a show that captivates all your senses.
Style: Local cuisine, Asian, European, International Fusion.
Rating 4.9*
Best for:
Hidden Gem
A sensual culinary adventure
Fine dining
Location: 1 Porterfield Road Opposite Catch 22 & next to The Fat Greek, Bloubergstrand 7441 South Africa
Contact: 021 556 2824
2) Fyn Restaurant (Worlds top 50 Restaurants #37)
Fyn is one of those extraordinary restaurants that push the boundaries of excellence. The menu is highly innovative yet grounded in contemporary culinary practices. We love the interesting decor and the integration of the kitchen with the dining room. The flavours are a fusion of South African and Japanese cuisine. If you are looking for a special culinary experience, there is a reason why Fyn found it way onto the Worlds top 50 Restaurants list.
Rating 4.8*
Best for:
Fine dining
Date night
Taste sensation
Culinary experience
Location: Speakers Corner Floor 5th 37 Parliament Street, 8001 South Africa
Contact: 021 286 2733
3) Reverie Social Table
The is something about sharing good food and wine with good company. At Reverie Social Table you'll be treated to a wonderful set menu paired with fine wine at one big communal table. It's much like being invited to a dinner at a friend's house, a friend that is a super host! Expect an incredibly intimate evening with Julia the owner and head chef.
Rating 4.9*
Best for:
Unique dining experience
Good food, good wine, good company
Vibe
Location: 226A Lower Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
Contact: 079 060 6971
4) Belly of the beast
Belly of the beast is one of those really unique and interesting restaurants. The restaurant only seats 24 people, as the team does everything from Cooking to serving their food. Be prepared for a fine dining experience you have never had before.
"There are no menu options or set amount of courses. All you do is show up and trust us to satisfy with our seasonal fair.
We source from local sustainable producers and use every part of the animal. You can expect some dishes that might test your boundaries, but we always balance our menu so that everyone will enjoy the experience."
Rating: 4.9*
Location: 110 Harrington Street, Cape Town Central 8001 South Africa
5) La Colombe | Silvermist Wine Estate, Constantia
La Colombe is one of those restaurants that take fine dining to a whole new level. Somewhere where every sense is satisfied. It's where your imagination runs wild and is rewarded with the unexpected.
La Colome is one of the most loved restaurants in South Africa with a distinguished list of rewards.
Contemporary French meets Asian fine dining.
2021 Awards
World’s 50 Best (81st)
Trip Advisor - Best Fine Dining Restaurant in the World (13th)
Trip Advisor - Best Fine Dining Restaurant in Africa
World Culinary Awards - Best Restaurant in Africa
Rating 4.8*
Best for:
Fine dining
Experience one of the world's best restaurants
Taste sensation
Culinary experience
Location: Silvermist Wine Estate, Main Road, Constantia Nek, Cape Town, 7806
Contact: 021 974 2390
6) Chefs Warehouse (Beau Constantia)
Chefs Warehouse in Beau Constantia is one of the consistently best, restaurants in Cape Town. The seating area on the top of Constantia's neck that overlooks the vineyards and False bay is incredible. The service is excellent, and the food is exquisite, both in concept, flavour and presentation. The unique ingredients will blow your mind.
Rating 4.7*
Best for:
Wholesome food
Beautiful Cafe
Vegan and Vegetarian options
Pitstop on a day trip around the Cape Peninsula.
Location: Beau Constantia Wine Estate, Main Road Beau Constantia, Glen Alpine, 7806 South Africa
Contact: +27 21 794 8632
Best Street Food (Near me)
1) Nish Nush
If you love travelling and food, there is something special about finding that secret hole-in-the-wall type restaurant that makes mouth-watering food.
Nish Nush (Meaning "snack" in Hebrew) is a middle Eastern Street Food Hatch on Bree. Known for their homemade pitas, succulent shwarmas, hummus and falafels. Nish Nush was founded by Israeli-born Ofer Holinger. We highly recommend stopping by if you love street food and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Rating: 4.7*
Best for:
Street Food
Mediterranean food
Shwarma's
Casual Dining
Opening Times: Tuesday – Saturday, 12 pm – 10 pm
Location: 110 Bree Street, CBD, Cape Town
Contact: 061 543 1120
Best Local and African Cuisine.
1) Mzansi
Mzansi Restaurant was birthed through the vision of Nomonde’s Siyaka late mother. Langa Township is the oldest township in Cape Town and is one of the most visited by tourists. It holds a strong historical account of movements against the apartheid government and thus the interest of the tourist. Mzansi Restaurant aims to introduce to tourists traditional foods served in the African traditional environment. Music, played by our live band adds to the atmosphere aiding in a complete township restaurant experience.
Rating 4.7*
Best for:
Authentic Local Experience
Good food, good music, good people
Unique
Location: 45 Harlem Ave, Langa, Cape Town, 7455
Contact: 021 694 1656
2) Mozambik
Mozambik has to be our favourite everyday restaurant, the food and flavours are always incredible. This casual restaurant is always vibrant with people enjoying their meals, it's a great spot for beers in the sun with the food never disappointing. Mozambik, gets its name from Mozambique, the coastal country that borders South Africa to the north. Anyone that has travelled to Mozambique will tell you how beautiful the country is, and how good the food is. The cuisine is a fusion of African flavours, Island-style cooking with a heavy Portuguese influence. The Mozambiquan-style prawns, chicken and calamari have to be the tastiest we have ever tried.
There are currently 3 Mozambiks in Cape Town
V & A Waterfront
Century City
Eden on the bay Blouberg
Rating: 4.6*
Best for:
Local cuisine
Prawns
Portuguese style cooking
Lunch with Mates
Takeaways (Uber Eats)
Contact: 021 023 0345
3) Gold Restaurant
Gold is more than just a meal, it is a full African Experience. Specialising in Local Tunisian cuisine. Visiting Gold is an interactive evening of fun. Experience a 14-course tasting menu or get involved in a drumming circle. Gold offers a spice experience in addition to a trip through Africa through food, dance and music.
Rating: 4.7*
Best for:
Entertainment
Experiencing local cuisine and culture
Fun Night out
Spice menu
Location: 15 Bennett St, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005
Contact: 021 421 4653
4) Madam Taitou
Madam Taitou is an Authentic Ethiopian Restaurant and Gallery set in the heart of Cape Town CBD, Long Street. If you are looking for an unusual, surreal dining experience we highly recommend stopping in. The Food and atmosphere are amazing. Traditional African Cuisine.
Rating: 4.7*
Best for:
Ethiopian cuisine
Unique Dining Experience
Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Food Journey
Location: 77 Long Street 74B wale Street corner of Wale and Buitengracht, Cape Town Central 8001 South Africa
Contact: +27 21 426 6969
5) Stardust Cape Town (Singing waiter)
Stardust Cape Town isn't your typical restaurant experience. They define themselves as Theatrical Dining. It's the home of the singing waiter. If you are looking for a fun night out, with great Mediterranean-style food make sure you check out Stardust, home to South Africa's next stars.
Rating: 4.7*
Best for:
Entertainment
Good Food
Fun Night out
Location: 118 Sir Lowry Rd, Foreshore, Cape Town, 7925
Contact: 021 462 7777
Warm and Cozy Restaurants Cape Town
1) Bouchon Bistro
Bouchon Bistro is an inner-city gem! Set in an urban winery in the heart of Cape Town. Bouchon has that cozy warm feel you'd want from a great restaurant. Bouchon ticks all the boxes, great food, good variety, cozy restaurant, and amazing service. Mediterranean, European cuisine and wine bar.
Rating: 4.6*
Best for:
Tapas
Wine Bar
Date night
Warm and cozy
Location: 95 Hout Street, Cape Town Central 8000, South Africa
Contact: +27 21 422 0695
2) The Food Barn (Noordhoek)
Café by day, Tapas bar by night. The Food Barn caters for everyone. We love their breakfasts and how their tapas comes alive at night. The food barn is situated in the little town of Noordhoek. It's really worth taking a drive and spending the day there.
While you are there make sure you take a look at the Food Barn Deli!
Rating 4.6*
Best for:
Breakfasts
Topas
Day out
Vibe
Dog friendly
Location: Noordhoek Farm Village, Village Lane Noordhoek Village Farm, Noordhoek 7979, South Africa
Contact: 021 789 1390
3) Societi Bistro (with fireplace)
If you are looking for a warm and cozy little restaurant you'll love Societi Bistro. Their dining philosophy is "Societi Bistro is a neighbourhood “local”. A sanctuary for Capetonians and visitors looking for a home from home. More than cuisine – it's a way of life – taking time to savour a meal and enjoy the company of family and friends."
4) Kloof Street House
Kloof street house is a beautiful eclectic-style restaurant on the vibrant Kloof Street. We love the buzzing atmosphere, the artwork, the Gardens and of course the food. Kloof street house is a converted house which gives a unique feel and layout to the restaurant. This is a real Cape Town classic.
Rating: 4.6*
Best for:
Eclectic Night Out
Cozy and Warm Restaurant
Vibrant crowd
Great food
Great Cocktails
Location: 30 Kloof Street Gardens, Cape Town Central 8001 South Africa
Contact: +27 21 423 4413
5) La Parada Constantia (Tapas)
What we love about La Parada is the consistency of great tapas and the vibe to match. La Parada offers tapas born from Spanish heritage but curated for the South African Palate. We love the eclectic selection of Spanish-inspired tiles and decor.
If you are looking for a classy place to have some drinks and enjoy sharing small plates of food with a Spanish flair, La Parada is the place for you.
Rating 4.5*
Location: La Parada is a South African franchise with a couple of Restaurants throughout
Cape Town.
La Parada Waterfront (Shop 18, Alfred Mall, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Central 8001)
La Parada Bree Street
La Parada Constantia
La Parada Century City
Contact: +27 60 788 0916
Burger Den (Best Burgers near me)
1) Burger and Lobster
Set in the vibrant Bree Street, Cape Town Central, Burger and Lobster has a slick New York style with a South African twist. We love the return to basics to create a simple and uncomplicated restaurant culture. As the name suggests, the main meals are burgers and lobster. In South Africa, we call Lobster Crayfish, which is one of the premium seafood choices around the world.
Rating: 4.5*
Best for:
Burgers
Lobster
Cheesecake
Milkshakes
Vibe
Location: 105 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001
Contact: 021 023 0345
2) Jerrys Burger Bar
If you are ever looking for a classic Burger and Beer vibe, you can't go wrong at Jerry's. Jerry's is a restaurant bar vibe, with a ton of beer and burger options. They also serve a variety of other bar-type food. All the Jerry's in Cape Town are good, but you can't beat the view of Table Mountain for Jerry's Blouberg
Rating: 4.5*
Best for:
Burgers and Beers
Chilled, Good Vibes
Good Portions
Friday Nights
Location: Blouberg Beach, Heritage Square, Observatory (Obs), Willowbridge
Contact: +27 21 556 0852
Best Sushi and Asian Cuisine Cape Town (Sushi Near Me)
1) Silk Asian Fusion
The new Asian Tapas Restaurant on the block. Brought to you by the same owners and Chef as Bouchon Bistro. Silk Route - is an East meets West fusion of tantalizing tapas dishes prepared on a charcoal grill with fresh seasonal ingredients. Inspired by the Silk Trading Route, that connected Asia to Europe.
We loved the inspired menu and the authenticity of the charcoal grill.
The restaurant has a warm and cozy feel. Combined with fine wines and great cocktails it's the perfect place for date night.
Located on Shortmarket Street in Cape Town CBD. We highly recommend this new restaurant.
Rating: 4.6*
Best for:
Date Night
Takoyaki - soft battered balls filled with octopus
Firegrill (ROBATAYAKI)
Taste sensation
Location: 108 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town
Contact: 071 910 8122
https://silkrestaurant.co.za/
2) YU Restaurant
If you are looking for a "Zen Asian Bistro" Yu is the place for you. YU is an Asian tapas and bar. Specialising in Asian and Japanese cuisine, each dish is beautifully presented and tasty. Expect a warm welcome from the owner and staff.
Rating: 4.6*
Best for:
Contemporary Japanese dining
Sushi
Dim sum
Taste sensation
Location: 57 Heerengracht Street The ONYX Hotel, Cape Town Central 8001 South Africa
Contact: 021 111 0453
3) Poke Co
Poké Co specialises in Poké bowls. Inspired by Asian flavours if you are looking for a healthy snack packed full of goodness, the Poke Co is the place for you. They also offer great vegan dishes.
Rating 4.6*
Location: 90 Loop St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000Contact: +27 60 788 0916
Contact: 087 470 0125
4) Obi (Sushi and Japanese)
If you are looking for the perfect Sushi, we highly recommend Obi. The Sushi is as fresh, detailed, tasty and beautiful. You'd be forgiven for thinking you were eating in Tokyo. Say hi to Papa Dan.
Rating: 4.8*
Best for:
Authentic Japanese
Sushi
Sushimi
Ramen
Location: 14 Long Street, Cape Town Central 7405 South Africa
Contact: +27 21 418 4040
Best Steak House Cape Town
1) Hussar Grill - Camps Bay
South Africa is known for its Steak and Wine. If you are looking for a classic steak house that never disappoints. He highly recommends any of the Hussar grills, but if we had to pick our favourite it would be Camps Bay. They are famous for their steak and have a great range of wines to pair.
Rating: 4.8*
Best for:
Steak
Ambience
Warms and Cozy
Location: 108 Camps Bay Drive Shop 2, Camps Bay 8005 South Africa
Contact: +27 21 438 0151
2) Nelson's Eye
Nelsons Eye is one of the oldest Steakhouses in Cape Town. Established in the early sixties, the moment you walk in the door you'll see the passion they have for steak. They focus on sourcing only the best grain-fed beef, matured to perfection. We love how you can walk to the front, see the flames and ask management to help you pick your perfect cut of meat.
A big plus is that all of Nelsons Eye's meat is Halaal, making it a great Halaal Friendly choice of Steak House.
Rating: 4.8*
Best for:
Steak
Experience
Warms and Cozy
Halaal friendly
Location: 9 Hof Street Gardens, Cape Town Central 8001 South Africa
Contact: +27 21 423 2601
Best Indian Food
1) Bombay Brasserie
The Bombay Brasserie is a beautifully styled upper-class Indian Restaurant in Cape Town. Situated in the stylish Taj hotel. The Bombay Brasserie captures the spirit of India with its mixed decor and dynamically textured fine Indian cuisine.
Rating: 4.5*
Best for:
Fine Indian food
Date night
Taste sensation
Smart Casual Dining
Location: 1 Wale street, corner St Georges Mall, Cape Town, South Africa
Contact: 021 819 2000
Best Seafood Restaurants Cape Town
1) Cafe Orca
Cafe Orca is a hidden gem in the little town of Melkbos. Melkbos is a short drive up the west coast about 45minutes from Cape Town. Cafe Orca is a typical west coast style restaurant on the beach that focuses on only the freshest local ingredients. We highly recommend a day trip out to Cafe Orca.
Rating: 4.7*
Best for:
Seafood
West Coast Mussels
Weekend drive up the coast
Sunday Lunches
Location: 88 Beach Road, Melkbosstrand 7441 South Africa
Contact: +27 21 553 4120
2) Millers Thumb
Millers Thumb is a lovely old house repurposed as a quirky little restaurant. Walking into Millers' Thumb is like walking into someone's dream Solly and Jane's Dream. You get a sense that this restaurant is filled with love and passion from the food, to the flavours and staff.
We highly recommend this little gem in Cape Town Central.
Rating: 4.7*
Best for:
Mozambican Curry
Fresh Seafood
Homely service
Classic Cape Town
Location: 10B Kloof Nek Rd, Tamboerskloof, Cape Town
Contact: +27 21 424 3838
3) Harbour House Kalk Bay (Restaurant with a view)
If you are looking for a restaurant with a view of Kalk bay. The Harbour house is beautiful. Located right in the little fishing harbour on the rocks, it really is a special location. Great for a special occasion and superb seafood.
Rating: 4.5*
Best for:
Amazing Location
Sushi
Oysters and Champagne (or MCC)
Seafood
Location: Main Rd Kalk Bay Harbour, Kalk Bay 7975 South Africa
Contact: +27 21 788 4136
Best Rooftop Restaurants
1) Utopia | Rooftop Restaurant
When your tagline is "Dining Elevated" your expectations are set pretty high. Utopia is a chic rooftop eatery that has been called one of the best rooftop restaurants in Africa. Set on floor 15 in the heart of Cape Town you will be treated to exquisite views of Cape Town.
Utopia has a great A la Carte menu as well as a very affordable set menu. Utopia is also Halaal-friendly!
Rating 4.6*
Best for:
Rooftop Dining
Great value
View
Vibe
Halaal friendly
Location: 15th Floor, 40 Chiappini St, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001
Contact: 021 418 3065
2) Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar and Bistro (Mountain Club Bistro)
If you are looking for a vibey place to enjoy good food, beers and cocktails, Cloud 9 rooftop bar is a must-see. This double-level restaurant even has a splash pool with 360-degree views of Cape Town.
Rating: 4.6*
Best for:
Rooftop bar and bistro
Sushi
Fun in the sun
360 Degree views of Cape Town
Plunge Pool
Cocktails
Location: Cloud 9 Boutique Hotel, 12 Kloof Nek Road, Gardens, Cape Town
Contact: +27 (21) 569 4667
Best Breakfasts near me (Breakfast Cafe)
1) Whole Earth Cafe
One of the must-do's when visiting Cape Town is the peninsula drive. The peninsula drive will take you through Simmons Town, Cape Point, Noordhoek and Scarborough. Besides doing the classics like visiting the penguins at boulders beach, and climbing to the top of Cape Point. We highly recommend stopping in at Whole Earth Cafe. Located in the heart of Scarborough. The Whole Earth cafe is known for its great wholesome food and warm inviting service.
Rating 4.7*
Best for:
Wholesome food
Beautiful Cafe
Vegan and Vegetarian options
Pitstop on a day trip around the Cape Peninsula.
Location: 257 Main Road, Scarborough 7975 South Africa
Contact: +27 21 780 1138
2) Liquorice and Lime
Liquorice and Lime is one of those perfect breakfast and brunch spots. Tucked away in a little secluded area, it has a beautiful view of Table Mountain. The food is well priced and delicious.
Rating: 4.7*
Best for:
Table Mountain views
Breakfast and brunch
Great service
Wholesome food
Location: 162 Kloof Street Gardens, 8001 South Africa
Contact: +27 21 423 6921
Best Italian Restaurants Near me
1) Osteria Tarantino (Best Italian)
Osteria Tarantino delivers authentic Italian dining and cuisine. This little gem in De Waterkant is both quaint and cozy. You'd be forgiven for thinking that you are in a traditional restaurant in Italy. Enrico the owner goes the extra mile to take care of his guests.
Rating: 4.7*
Best for:
Tapas
Wine Bar
Date night
Warm and cozy
Location: 125A Waterkant Road De Waterkant, Cape Town Central 8001 South Africa
Contact: +27 76 505 1771
Best Pizza Near me
1) Massimo's
If you are looking for the best authentic Italian Pizza in Cape Town, head over to Massimo's in Hout Bay. Not only is their pizza amazing, but they are also one of the best overall Authentic Italian Restaurants in Cape Town.
Rating: 4.6*
Best for:
Wood-fired pizza
Authentic Italian
Limoncello
Location: Oakhurst Farm Park, Main Rd, 7806, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Contact: 067 324 0261
Best Vegan Breakfast Near me
1) Nourish'd
If you are looking for a beautiful Vegan breakfast we highly recommend Nourish'd. With a focus on our planet, sustainability and healthy food. Nushis'd is a beautiful little space for the perfect Vegan breakfast
We hope you enjoyed our article. If you found it interesting and useful let us know in the comments.
We are always looking to update our list, so if you experience any stand-out restaurants, be sure to let us know.
Article by @cityofcapetown founder Craig Howes
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