The Best Places to Eat in Cape Town

Cape Town is one of the top foodie destinations in the world, and I’m not the only one who agrees. In 2016, Condé Nast Traveler named Cape Town the best food city in the world.

With such a diverse history and influences from cultures in South Africa and abroad, there is a wide range of delicious foodie experiences. Whether you’re looking to splurge on a meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant or you’re on the hunt for the best brunch spots, there’s something for everyone.

Ready to chow down? Here’s where to find the best food in Cape Town!

There’s sooo much good food in Cape Town! To help you narrow it down and plan your way through the city’s restaurant scene, here are my top foodie recommendations for each category.

Best Breakfast and Brunch in Cape Town

Cape Townians LOVE cafes and good coffee, so there’s no shortage of awesome spots to start your day!

Bootlegger: Bootlegger Coffee Company was created in 2012 by three best friends. Each store has a carefully selected line from an AC/DC song hung on the wall in neon lights. And while they are known for brewing some of the best coffee in Cape Town, their breakfast and lunch menu doesn’t disappoint. Try their vegetarian burger or mouthwatering egg benedicts!

Butter: Butter is Cape Town’s love letter to all-day breakfast, with an entire menu built around the golden stuff. The Loop Street spot kicked off the obsession and now has a spot on Sea Point’s trendy Main Road. The cafe is all about indulgent brunch plates and mimosas, a brunch staple. Try the butter benedict, the delicious hot buns, or the buttery flapjacks!

Clarke’s: Founded in 2011, Clarke’s is one of the best places in Cape Town for breakfast and brunch. Located right in the heart of the vibrant CBD, the menu features an all-day breakfast, fresh juices, cocktails, and sandwiches. Try the hash eggs, huevos rancheros, and the fire eggs!

Granary Cafe at the Silo: Located inside one of Cape Town’s most beautiful hotels, Granary Cafe has a number of casual and contemporary menus. Stop by for brunch, afternoon tea, or their legendary Sunday Roast.

Ground Art Cafe: Part coffee bar, part micro gallery, Ground Art Cafe is a wonderful breakfast or brunch spot when you’re short on time. Order a flat white (or a cafe mocha if you’re feeling indulgent) and grab one of their freshly baked pastries. If you want something more substantial, the all-day breakfast menu features smoothie bowls, a classic eggs Benedict, French toast stacks, and a classic English breakfast.

Jason’s Bakery: Jason’s Bakery does not mess around when it comes to whipping up delicious pastries. Their famous croissants take three days to make! I highly recommend The Bomb breakfast (bacon, Emmental cheese, and a poached egg on top of their famous plain croissant). It’s served all day and will keep you coming back for more.

Loading Bay: Located on the Waterfront, Loading Bay is a beautiful place to grab a quick breakfast or brunch. The light-filled space features an eatery as well as select menswear and skincare products. Fill up on their healthy options like granola and spiced buckwheat pancakes.

Mulberry and Prince: Mulberry & Prince is a go-to for indulgent brunch in the CBD, with a cosy, polished café feel and a menu that leans sweet and comforting. Try the cinnamon swirl pancakes, the brioche French toast, or the Turkish eggs when you want something savoury.

The Potluck Club: Dubbed as one of the coolest places in Cape Town, The Potluck Club hits full capacity almost every single day. It’s situated on the top floor of the Silo inside The Old Biscuit Mill in the vibrant neighborhood of Woodstock. Its success comes from its innovative cuisine that was inspired by foods from South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.

The Strangers Club: An easy Green Point favourite for a slow morning, great coffee, and a bit of shopping while you wait for your food. Founded by Emma Vith and located in a 1828 home, The Strangers Club menu is full of locally sourced ingredients with plates ranging from delicious breakfasts to easygoing brunches and scrumptious lunches. I highly recommend trying the matcha, avocado pomagrante toast, Turkish eggs, or the summer rosti.

The Wes Bistro: The Wes brings a French bistro feel to the CBD with playful Wes Anderson-inspired interiors. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner all work here, so it’s a solid pick when you want something a little dressier without going full formal. Pop in for brunch and feast on crowd favorites such as Eggs Benedict and a full English breakfast. Oh, and if you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, do not sleep on the Parisian hot chocolate! It’s slowly melted to perfection and topped with a delectable dollop of cream and homemade marshmallows.

Read More: The Local’s Guide to Cape Town for Coffee Lovers

Best Food Markets in Cape Town

Cape Town is all about farm-to-table food, so expect lots of local and organic eats at their markets!

Mojo Market: Mojo Market is a food and lifestyle market open 7-days a week. It’s up the road from my place, and I’ve made my way through the various stalls over the last year. If you’re in the mood for something fresh and healthy, grab a poke bowl. But if you’re in the mood to indulge, stop by the bakery or try gourmet mac and cheese.

Oranjezicht Market: Open every Saturday (and also Sundays during the summer) from 9am-2pm, Oranjezicht has quickly become one of my favorite markets in Cape Town. I love coming here for breakfast and picking up some fresh produce from the farmers. Be sure to get there early to beat the crowds and snap some photos in front of the beautifully decorated stalls.

The Old Biscuit Mill: The Old Biscuit Mill brings photographers, chefs, designers, and other artists together for a market that is foodie heaven. Once a biscuit factory, it now hosts a market that is home to over 100 traders every Saturday. Try a slice of artisanal avocado toast from Oh My Avo! (Open Saturday from 9am-2pm).

V&A Food Market: Located at the iconic Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is one of Cape Town’s top foodie markets. It boasts an exciting line up of artisanal street food, freshly baked goods and dishes from around the world. (Open 7 days a week!)

Read More: The 10 Best Cafés in Cape Town for Freelancers

Best Italian Food in Cape Town

Mamma mia! There’s a big Italian food scene in town, so get your fill of pizza, pasta, and Aperol spritz!

Ariel Modern Italian: Located on Sea Point’s Regent Road, Ariel is an adults-only Italian restaurant that hits all the cravings with pasta, pizza, and delicious cocktails. One of the things I love the most about their menu is the wine list. Besides the usual top-notch South African wines, it also features imported Italian vintages that you won’t find on other Cape Town menus. There’s also a secret bar at the back (currently closed for renovations), but it’s still worth asking your waiter for the password if you’re going for dinner.

Bacini’s: Bacini’s on Kloof is a neighbourhood classic for pizza, pasta, and an easy, lively atmosphere. Some even say it has the best pizza in Cape Town. Pop in for a no-frills Italian meal and grab an outdoor table if you can!

Club Kloof: Club Kloof calls itself “Italian-ish,” and that’s part of it’s charm. Come here for comfort food, good drinks, and Kloof Street’s iconic energy that works for lunch or an early dinner. The mini pizzas are sooo good, and the courtyard is one of the cutest spots to settle in with a spritz and a few plates to share.

Col’chacio: Col’chacio is a true love story. Literally. The two owners met, fell in love, and decided to open an Italian restaurant together. Here they are 26 years later, serving some of the best pizza in Cape Town.

Pizza Shed: A casual spot in the CBD and Observatory, that’s all about the pizza. The Observatory Pizza Shed is a favorite for its rooftop views and laid-back vibes. Do not skip the woodfried artichoke hearts! It’s life-changing and the perfect start before diving into the pizza. My go-to orders are Surf Shed, Forest Drive (for vegetarians), and the Pepperoni and Hot Honey. The wine menu here is also on point.

Scala Pasta: Scala Pasta is where you go when you want pasta as the main event, served in a buzzy city setting. The menu leans contemporary and shareable, so it’s great for groups who want to “try a bit of everything.”

The Cousins Trattoria: A proper trattoria-style spot right in the heart of Cape Town’s city centre. Family recipes are part of the story at Cousins Trattoria, so it’s the kind of place you book when you want comfort food done right. Good to know: It’s a small restaurant with limited seating – book a table in advance.

Villa 47: From paninis to salads to pasta and risotto, everything at Villa 47 is an Italian staple with a bit of a twist. Its moody lighting and lounge-like feel, make it a great spot to curb your cravings.

Read More: A Beer Lover’s Guide to Cape Town

Best Asian Food and Sushi in Cape Town

You can find every type of Asian food in Cape Town– from Chinese to Thai to Japanese!

Haiku: Serving Asian tapas-style plates, you can mix sushi with dim sum and a few robata dishes without committing to a single lane. Haiku‘s menu covers sushi, robata, steamed and fried dim sum, plus wok plates, making it ideal for sharing. Try the tuna tacos, spicy prawn har gau, or the Peking duck if you’re hungry-hungry. Plus, order dessert! Haiku makes the best caramel cheesecake in Cape Town, hands down!

Hesheng: Hesheng is one of the best Chinese restaurants in Cape Town, and it’s super affordable! It’s a no-frills restaurant where the food is excellent, and you can even bring your own alcohol.

Kyoto: At Kyoto Garden, fresh seafood is their specialty. They source top-quality, unusual ingredients from all over the world. We’re talking farmed abalone, sea urchin, eel, and even Alaska king crab. Expect exceptional service in an intimate, tranquil setting.

Obi: Located on Cape Town’s vibrant Long Street, Obi is home to some of the tastiest sushi and ramen in town. The restaurant gets busy, so reservations are essential, and you’ll need to pay a deposit for parties larger than five.

Three Wise Monkeys: If you’re craving some ramen, sushi, or any other Japanese cuisine, the Three Wise Monkeys is the spot for you. Start with the kimchi and end with one of their delicious bao’s. The tempura prawn is my fav!

Tomo: A solid CBD option for Japanese cuisine, especially when ramen cravings hit. Expect a wide selection of sushi and delicious lunch and dinner specials. Try the ramen, add gyoza, or choose a Tomo bento box for a bit of everything.

Yen’s Vietnamese Street Food: If you find yourself in De Waterkant, make your way to Yen’s. It’s a casual Vietnamese spot with authentic dishes like pho, banh mi, and traditional iced coffee on the menu.

Yindees: Without a doubt, Yindees is the best traditional Thai restaurant in Cape Town. With a delicious menu built for sharing that covers all the classics, it’s a solid choice for groups. Order a few dishes for the table, such as the chicken satay, tom yum soup, cashew nut stir-fry, and my favorite, Penang curry.

Best Seafood in Cape Town

If there’s one thing Cape Town does well, it’s seafood! Always ask about the line fish (hand-caught fish of the day)!

Cod Father: Not only is the name witty, but Cod Father offers the best seafood in Cape Town. They have no menus, but instead, they train their staff to guide you through their catch of the day. It’s an exceptional foodie experience as your waiter will explain in detail how each dish is prepared and the taste and texture you can expect.

Paranga: Paranga is a Camps Bay classic, and it’s hard to beat seafood with a front-row ocean view. The menu covers all the favourites, from fresh fish to sushi, and it’s a great pick when you want a long lunch that turns into sundowners. Ask what the line fish is, and add a seafood platter if you’re sharing.

Sevruga: With incredible views of Cape Town’s waterfront, Sevruga is an incredible fine dining experience. While it is a bit pricey, the food is completely out of this world and worth every single penny.

Surfshack: In the mood for a casual, beachy lunch? Make your way to Surfshack! Located in Camps Bay, you’ll be steps away from the beach with a gorgeous view of the ocean from your table. Order a bunch of plates from the shareable menu if you’re in a group, or try the season’s specialities.

The Poke Co: Poke restaurants are taking the world by storm, and it’s no surprise that they’ve reached Cape Town as well. The Poke Co‘s menu is full of delicious options. Choose from one of the pre-made bowls or build your own.

Toni’s on Kloof: Toni’s is a Cape Town institution for no-fuss Mozambican Portuguese cuisine. It’s a relaxed spot that works for an easy dinner, especially if you’re craving prawns. Top tip: Always ask about the specials!

Read More: 10 Local Gins to Try in Cape Town

Best Indian Food in Cape Town

Cape Town knows how to bring the spice! You’ll find everything from classic North Indian comfort food to punchy South Indian dishes.

Bukhara: Bukhara is a long-running Cape Town favourite for fine Indian food in the CBD since 1995. Expect tandoor dishes, curry classics, and plenty of fragrant spice, served in a setting that is perfect for a date night. Start with a tandoor dish, then choose a signature curry and a side of naan for scooping.

Curry Club: The Curry Club brings a London-style Punjabi kitchen feel to De Waterkant.  Try a Goan-style prawn curry, or pick one creamy curry, one spicy curry, and load up on naan.

Ninety One: A dinner at Ninety One in Green Point is always a crowd-pleaser. No matter what type of Indian dish is your favorite, you’ll find it on the menu. Try the butter tikka or butter chicken!

Thali: Come here for Indian-inspired tapas in a fun, modern way, served as a set sharing menu for two. Thali is part of the Chef’s Warehouse collection and doesn’t take reservations. Open Monday to Friday for dinner only from 5 pm, get here early to grab a table.

Vadivelu: Located on Kloof Street, Vadivelu is an authentic South African Indian restaurant. Many of the recipes are based on those of Indian ancestors who arrived in South Africa as indentured labourers 150 years ago. To get a real taste for the menu, order the Showcase for Two. It comes with three starters, three curries, and a dessert.

Best Dinner Spots in Cape Town

The best places for a night out!

Blondie: Blondie is one of Cape Town’s most popular spots for a night out, so expect a vibe and a bit of a mission to get in. Although it’s known as a drinking spot, the food is excellent, making it perfect for grabbing dinner and drinks in one place. Arrive early if you want a table, or be prepared to wait to get inside.

Bobo’s : Bobo’s is a cute beachfront spot in Sea Point. It’s one of my favorite finds in the city and is perfect for lunch or dinner. The restaurant also has a cocktail lounge, making it a great place to visit for a sundowner!

Chef’s Warehouse at Tintswalo Atlantic: Book a table here and discover why Chef’s Warehouse at Tintswalo Atlantic is one of the best dinner spots in Cape Town. Perched along Chapman’s Peak Drive above the Atlantic, it’s made for sunset views and a slow, romantic meal.

Gigi’s Rooftop: Gigi Rooftop sits at the top of the Gorgeous George Hotel in the CBD and nails the “drinks with a view” brief. The rooftop deck comes with a DJ, pool (only available to hotel guests), and an incredible cocktail menu. Come here for late afternoon cocktails and stay for a dinner you’ll rave about for years.

Kloof Street House: At the foot of the vibrant Kloof Street lies Kloof Street House, covered in fairy lights. The venue is perfect for every occasion, whether it be a romantic candlelit dinner with your loved one or live jazz music during Sunday lunch.

Our Local: Coming to Our Local feels like brunch in your botanist friend’s greenhouse, with plants everywhere and a cosy, tucked-away vibe that makes you want to linger. There are two locations (Gardens and Sea Point), both best known for their brunch menus, but dinner (available only Tuesday to Saturday) is not to be missed.

Ouzeri: When it comes to finding the best Greek food in Cape Town, none can compete with Ouzeri. Its menu features a modern take on traditional Greek-Cypriot cuisine with plates made for sharing. The menu is seasonal (which I love!), so you’ll always find something new to try.

The Blue Room at Grub & Vine: Searching for a unique dining experience for date night? Allow me to introduce you to The Blue Room. It’s a small, intimate restaurant featuring a live music lineup of local and international jazz musicians. Choose a set menu or order small plates to share. Pre-booking is essential.

The Bungalow: For one of the best views in Clifton, book a table The Bungalow. If you can, try to get an outdoor reservation for dinner. Sip on some wine, nibble on delicious seafood and watch the sun go down in style.

The Nines: For a rooftop night out, The Nines brings the drama in the best way, with big views and a cocktail-lounge feel. Book ahead for sunset, and settle in for dinner and a spectacular light show over the ocean.

The Red Room: The Red Room is located inside the iconic Belmond Mount Nelson (aka “The Nellie”), one of my all-time favorite stays in Cape Town! Head through the hotel, soak up the old-school glamour, then descend into a moody, retro Pan-Asian dining room that feels like a hidden little world. The best part? You don’t need to be a hotel guest to book.

Upper Union: Tucked next to Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel, Upper Union is home to good food, fine wines, and bespoke cocktails. The menu leans seasonal and shareable, with bold flavours and a buzzy dining room or outside courtyard that suits groups or a romantic date night. I highly recommend grabbing one of the shared menus for two or curating your dining experience with a couple of small plates.

Best Fine Dining in Cape Town

For the ultimate Cape Town foodie experience, be sure to make a reservation in advance!

Amura: Amura is another restaurant within the Belmond Mount Nelson and focuses on an ocean-focused tasting experience, created by Spanish chef Ángel León. Expect a marine menu that blends Cape ingredients with Cádiz influence, plus a few tableside moments that make it feel like a proper occasion.

Belly of the Beast: A tiny, 30-seater restaurant with a seasonal tasting menu where you don’t choose dishes — you just show up and trust the kitchen. Reservations for Belly of the Beast open on the 1st of each month for the following month. Spots fill quickly, so plan ahead.

Chef’s Warehouse: The Chef’s Warehouse in Beau Constantia boasts one of the best views in the city. You’ll be surrounded by vineyards and Table Mountain National Park in the distance. The menu changes regularly, but their signature dish is their tapas for two.

Fyn Restaurant: Set on the 5th floor in the city centre, Fyn is one of Cape Town’s top fine-dining restaurants, pairing Japanese techniques with South African ingredients. The tasting menu features land-and-sea flavours in a sleek, city-night atmosphere.

Salsify at the Roundhouse: Salsify at the Roundhouse is a destination meal. Set in a landmark building above Camps Bay with sweeping views and a chef’s menu experience. Book in advance, arrive early for sunset, and lean into the wine pairing if you want the full foodie night out.

Test Kitchen: Located in the Old Biscuit Mill, Test Kitchen is a blend of South African and Latin cuisine. It’s one of the top restaurants in Cape Town with reservations booked up to three months in advance.

Read More: The Most Romantic Things to Do in Cape Town

Best Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Cape Town

There are TONS of veggie-friendly restaurants in town (YAY!)

Ethiopian Madam Taitou: Madam Taitou is a Cape Town classic on Long Street, serving Ethiopian food the traditional way on a big shared platter with injera. It’s very vegan-friendly, and the veggie options are packed with flavour. Order the veggie sampler and eat with your hands — it’s part of the experience!

Honest Chocolate Cafe: Honest Chocolate is a small artisanal chocolate cafe tucked away on Wale Street in the city center. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, prepare to indulge your taste buds. The menu features freshly made salted caramel tarts, iced chocolate milk, and a South African staple, chocolate Bunny Chow.

Nourish’d: Nourish’d is a plant-based café and juicery that’s perfect when you want something fresh, filling, and still a little treat-y. The menu is packed with smoothies, juices, and colourful rainbow bowls, plus a few comfort options that make eating “healthy” feel easy. Try one of their gorgeous smoothie bowls!

Plant Cafe: Established in 2013, Plant was built to promote plant-based food choices without sacrificing flavor. It’s known as one of the top vegan restaurants in Cape Town and has a delicious menu that will leave you coming back for more. You can’t go wrong with one of their smoothies!

The Conscious Kitchen: A plant-based café and juice bar with a big health-forward menu. The Conscious Kitchen is fully vegan and great for anything from smoothie bowls to hearty meals. You can’t go wrong with a superfood smoothie, and their loaded bowls make a solid lunch option as well.

Unframed: Unframed is an artisanal ice cream shop that tastes as if it belongs on the streets of Rome. Choose from dairy-based options, fruit-based sorbets or their select vegan flavors. The best part? The menu changes every day!

Wild Eatery: For plenty of healthy vegan meals and gluten-free options, make your way to the Wild Eatery. Stop by the Harrington Street location for a wrap or salad, then add a sweet treat to round out your meal.

Wildsprout: Wildsprout is part café, part grocery store, and it’s ideal when you want veggie-friendly food plus a few healthy bits to take home. The café does smoothies, breakfasts, and easy lunches, with lots of vegan and gluten-free options on the menu. My top recommendations are the shashuka for breakfast and one of the warm bowls for lunch!

Best Bars and Cocktail Lounges in Cape Town

After grabbing dinner in Cape Town, don’t go back to your hotel. The city has an excellent bar scene and cocktail lounges that are perfect for a nightcap.

Read More: The Best Rooftop Bars in Cape Town

Overall

Cape Town is an incredible foodie destination! With an almost endless amount of restaurants, cafes, and markets, you can spend your entire trip making your way around the best spots in the city.

What are your favorite restaurants in Cape Town? Let me know in the comments below!