Top restaurants cape town
Fine dining options
2
The test kitchen
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
South Africa's most sought after fine dining experience! Chef Luke DaleRoberts enhances the natural flavors of seasonal fare through playful food combinations and imaginative interpretations of fresh market produce. Luke takes the pretension out of fine dining.
Enjoy local wines with a wine paired dinner with your set menu. There is also a sommelier on hand to help you. Tea pairing also possible for something different!
Watch the culinary crew in action in the open kitchen, where Luke puts the fun back into fine dining in this warehouse space at the Old Biscuit Mill.
Website LOCATION: Old Biscuit Mill, Woodstock TEL: +27 21 447 2337 TAKE NOTE: This restaurant is always in high demand & fully booked. Reservations only open the month prior, on the 1st of the month at 08.00am GMT +2. A deposit payment of ZAR 600.00 per person is required to secure your reservation.
3
La colombe
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
Chef Scot Kirton’s culinary philosophy lies in classic technique, fresh seasonal produce and clean, uncomplicated flavors. He combines flair and artful simplicity on a contemporary menu with a French and Asian treatment of South African produce.
Try one of Silvermist own organic wines on the extensive Cape, vintage and imported wine-list.
A light and airy sanctuary with heavenly views across the vineyards. This restaurant, offers subtle elegance in a pleasantly relaxed atmosphere.
Website LOCATION: Silvermist Wine Estate, Constantia TEL: +27 21 794 2390 TAKE NOTE: Reservations are highly recommended 3- 4 months in advance. A deposit payment of ZAR 500.00 per person is required to secure your reservation.
4
The greenhouse
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
Chef Peter Tempelhoff stays on the cutting-edge of South African cuisine with ever-changing seasonal menus, which showcase modern cooking techniques and culinary styles. Inspired by the natural tastes and textures of artisan ingredients his creations offer sublime flavour combinations.
Allow the sommelier to recommend off the extensive wine-list, or go for the wine pairings by the glass for each dish on all four tasting menus.
A Victorian glass greenhouse with plants opening up into magical views of the property’s famous gardens. A relaxed, contemporary space for intimate, sophisticated dining.
Website LOCATION: The Cellars-Hohenhort Hotel, Constantia TEL: +27 21 795 6226 TAKE NOTE: Reservations are highly recommended well in advance. A credit card is required to secure your reservation.
5
aubergine
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
Aubergine has been featured as a top restaurant numerous times and has a loyal following. Owner and chef Harald Bresselschmidt uses classical techniques, and both European and Asian influences appear through the degustation
Dedicated sommelier Khuselo Mputa will assist with pairings. There’s a good selection of Aubergine house wines crafted in conjunction with several famous winemakers like Teddy Hall and Eben Sadie.
A gastronomic haven of timeless elegance where diners can enjoy innovative and creative combinations that excite the senses and pique curiosity.
Website LOCATION: Cape Town Central TEL: +21 27 465 0000 TAKE NOTE: Reservations in advance are highly recommended. Deposits required for bookings of 3 people or more.
6
myoga
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
Much-awarded Chef Mike Bassett reigns supreme here, creating flawless food that is delicious and inventive without being pretentious. An ‘East meets West’ philosophy blends in with a very contemporary culinary imagination.
A spectacular list of the Cape’s best, with the hefty mark-up expected in such a luxury hotel.
The historical significance of this excellent hotel, has been carefully nurtured. The restaurant itself is a light and airy space. Casually elegant, it takes full advantage of the gorgeous views in the daytime.
Website LOCATION: Vineyard Hotel, Newlands TEL: +27 21 657 4545 TAKE NOTE: Reservations in advance are highly recommended.
7
nobu
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
At Nobu guests can expect a contemporary twist to traditional Japanese dishes. The Nobu lite menu, a new addition, includes delicious platters, suitable for up to four people.
The wine at Nobu is impressive with over 5000 balanced and diverse bottles, mainly of terroir and regional styles.
This venue is very large with a double volume ceiling. It offers a grandiose setting, contemporary dĂŠcor and a warm glow with the lighting.
Website LOCATION: One&Only Cape Town, V & A Waterfront TEL: +27 21 431 5261 TAKE NOTE: Reservations in advance are highly recommended
8
Planet restaurant & bar
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
Chef Rudi Liebenberg creates modern food with roots in the rich heritage of the Cape, shining the spotlight on the area’s world-class producers. Choose from the à la carte menu, embark on a journey menu for four courses.
An impressive list features extraordinary variety. Two pages of each wine varietal, plus a good selection of blends and bubblies, will leave you with more than a handful of options fighting for favourite.
The setting is truly spectacular and whisks you into another world deep inside the grand old Nellie.
Website LOCATION: Mount Nelson Hotel, Cape Town TEL: +27 21 483 1000 TAKE NOTE: Reservations in advance are highly recommended
9
Janse & Co
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
Chef Arno Janse van Rensburg’s casual fine dining restaurant offers a tasting menu, emphasising fresh local & seasonal ingredients. The food is sourced ethically and responsibly, it is handled with respect and knowledge to create a dish that is simply delicious and beautiful.
A concise wine menu introduces boutique wineries and winemakers from the Western Cape.
The contemporary space provides guests with a range of dining areas. The first area houses a harvest table seating 18 guests, the house-made charcuterie display and wine selection. The main dining areas give a full view of the hot and cold kitchens. Summer days and nights are best enjoyed dining alfresco in the courtyard, under large trees and surrounded by a hanging garden of herbs used in the kitchen.
Website LOCATION: Cape Town Central TEL: +27 21 422 0384 TAKE NOTE: Reservations in advance are highly recommended
10
Giltedge favourites
11
The shortmarket club
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
A bistro inspired restaurant part owned by Chef Luke Dale Roberts. This bustling and stylish restaurant is the hottest spot in town open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Expect traditional dishes oozing with flavour and served with an interesting twist.
The wine list is very varied and has some unusual and delicious options. Be adventurous and indulge in one of the delicious classical cocktail choices from the bar.
The seating area although very stylish is relaxed and you can see into the bustling open kitchen area. The decor adds a touch of drama to the atmosphere.
Website LOCATION: Cape Town City Centre TEL: +27 21 447 2874 TAKE NOTE: This restaurant is always in high demand & fully booked. Reservations only open the month prior, on the 1st of the month at 08.00am GMT +2. A deposit payment of ZAR 500.00 per person is required to secure your reservation.
12
foxcroft
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
A multi-faceted restaurant that during the day also offers a delightful patisserie counter and bakery, this casual space offers a variety of tapas style plates, main dishes and delectable desserts. The attention to detail in the plating of each dish is a work of art!
Situated in the heart of the Cape Constantia wine region, you are assured a large variety of local Cape region wines. Expect one carafe glass style option per varietal.
A vibrant atmosphere with a design aspect rich in natural materials such as warm wood, leather and copper accents. A wonderful relaxing outside area for sunny days!
Website LOCATION: Constantia, Cape Town TEL: +27 21 202 3304 TAKE NOTE: This restaurant is always in high demand. Pre-booking highly recommended and a deposit of ZAR 200,00 per person is required for a table of 6 or more.
13
Carne sa
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
Chef-proprietor Giorgio Nava showcases his unmistakable Italian culinary flair. For true meat lovers, the 1.2kg Florentine beef steak is a must. But there is so much more: try a mixed game skewer, or meltingly tender shoulder of lamb stuffed with spinach and pine nuts. Side dishes are simply executed, but don’t skimp on flavour.
A big hitting list with a good selection of Italian imports too. The list of grappas and digestifs make a fitting end to a meat-heavy meal.
The wood-beamed lower level of the restaurant exudes a stylish simplicity befitting the food on offer. While the upstairs bar and open-plan lounge and kitchen are great for a good martini before dinner.
Website LOCATION: Cape Town Central TEL: +27 21 424 3460 TAKE NOTE: Reservations in advance are highly recommended.
14
The pot luck club
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
A Tapas style dining experience, diners can expect a mix of both fusion and classically influenced dishes on the menu. Sharing all the dishes and flavours is the order of the day.
There is a dedicated cocktail bar and an accompanying list of boutique wines to complement the varied edible creations on the menu.
The open plan kitchen and bar, milled steel tabletops, with an amazing view of Cape Town there's no doubt that The Pot Luck Club & Gallery is the city's sexiest new spot, designed for laidback dining and featuring equally well dressed plates.
Website LOCATION: Old Biscuit Mill, Woodstock TEL: +27 21 447 0804 TAKE NOTE: This restaurant is always in high demand & fully booked. Reservations only open the month prior, on the 1st of the month at 08.00am GMT +2. A deposit payment of ZAR 400.00 per person is required to secure your reservation.
15
The stack
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
Simple, well executed bistro style cuisine is what you can expect at The Stack Brasserie. A lot of French influence in the chosen dishes featured on the menu.
The wine list is small, but carefully and imaginatively compiled. There is a very good selection of international big brand and local craft spirits and beers at the funky bar.
Very cool and sophisticated, the Brasserie allows the history of the house it is housed in, to really dominate. The dĂŠcor is riotously eclectic with large splashes of bold colours throughout each space.
Website LOCATION: Cape Town Central TEL: +27 21 286 0187 TAKE NOTE: Reservations in advance are highly recommended. A credit card is required as a guarantee for group bookings.
16
The chefs warehouse at beau constantia
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
You will be served a set menu of tapas for 2 people. It comprises of 8 tapas dishes excluding dessert. The emphasis is on freshly grown ingredients offering a serious punch of flavor with every mouthful.
This restaurant is situated on a wine estate: Beau Constantia. Enjoy the estates limited wine selection which is really top notch.
Minimalistic , very modern dĂŠcor however the stand out highlight of this restaurant is the view. You have uninterrupted views across the vineyards, onto the city with the Hottentots- Holland mountains in the distance.
Website LOCATION: Constantia TEL: +27 21 794 8632 TAKE NOTE: Reservations in advance are highly recommended as this is a very popular restaurant amongst locals. A deposit payment of ZAR 250.00 per person is required to secure your reservation.
17
Belthazar restaurant & wine bar
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
The vast menu features the best of meat cuts, which have been either dry or wet aged to bring them to the peak of succulence and flavour. A very large menu with ample choices of meat and fish. A great place to taste some more adventurous types of game meat. A large variety of freshly caught fish and seafood on offer.
A spectacular wine list, featuring predominantly some superb examples of local wines. Sommeliers are on hand to guide you through the intricacies. They offer a huge list of wines by the glass, so you can try more than one.
With a large outside area and the iconic Table Mountain as a backdrop, as well as a clubby interior, one can choose something to fit your mood. Enjoy an al fresco experience at the V&A Waterfront.
Website LOCATION: V & A Waterfront TEL: +27 21 421 3753 TAKE NOTE: Reservations are highly recommended.
18
Gold restaurant
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
Africa is home to hundreds of tribes, ethnic and social groups. This diversity is reflected in cuisine. Immerse yourself in this Opulent African experience by savouring the 14 course set menu offering authentic African cooking consisting of organically produced whole grains, beans, fresh fruit and vegetables. Each dish served epitomizes a culture of healthy eating and diverse flavours.
The wine list is adequate – wellpriced, with some options by the glass, even though beer is the right thing for this kind of cooking.
Warm and friendly in the African manner with just the right amount of pizazz to keep it aloft. Don’t be put off by the obvious tourist slant – this makes a wonderful evening with drumming, indigenous music and dancing. All in all a really fun night out!
Website LOCATION: Greenpoint, Cape Town TEL: +27 21 421 4653 TAKE NOTE: Reservations must be made in advance.
19
Upper Bloem
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
This quintessentially Cape Town restaurant draws inspiration from the city’s uniqueness and it’s mix of cultures, offering tapas-style and seasonally inspired dishes packed with local flavour.
Comprehensive wine list including local wines and craft beers.
The space is beautifully designed to allow guests full view of the masters at work in the open-plan kitchen.
Website LOCATION: Greenpoint, Cape Town TEL: +27 21 433 1442 TAKE NOTE: Reservations must be made in advance.
20
Romance is in the air
21
Harbour house
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
Harbour House has three locations. Two on the waters edge at the Waterfront & Kalk Bay Harbour and one in Constantia Nek. They serve international cuisine with Mediterranean elements underpinned by classic French methods. Seafood is the specialty.
A great wine selection, with craft beers offered on tap and served at just the right temperature.
Harbour house Kalk bay is situated in the picturesque old world charm of Kalk Bay's working harbour, this Harbour House has a world-class position. Harbour house at the V&A Waterfront has exquisite views overlooking the waterfront and mountains beyond.
Website LOCATIONS: V& A Waterfront, Kalk Bay, Constantia Nek TEL: V & A +27 21 418 4744 TEL: Kalk Bay +27 21 788 4136 TEL: Constantia Nek +27 21 795 0688 TAKE NOTE: Reservations highly recommended, A deposit payment of ZAR 300.00 per person is required to secure a reservation at Harbour House Constantia Nek.
22
Asoka
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
The menu comprises of tasting plates that have been designed around the 5 elements: Earth (vegetarian), Water (seafood), Wind (chicken & duck), Fire (meat) & Nirvana (dessert) which are all put together to offer a unique & varied taste experience with influences from international cuisines and cultures. The chefs are lovers of sharp flavours, fragrant herbs and rich spices.
A variety of local wines and delicious cocktails. Asoka’s cocktails are legendary, an ode to the bar’s sensual soul. Spirits are fused with the freshest ingredients to create a cocktail experience like no other. The drinks menu is extensive, a collection of classics and thrilling signatures that continue to embody the essence of Asoka.
As table mountain towers over our roof, the deck is the perfect spot to unwind and watch Kloof Street spill down from our doorstep. Inside our unassuming shell, in the glow of candlelight – that’s where the magic happens; where food awakens the senses and cocktails keep them enticed. Asoka is the playground of celebration and the home of the city’s most seductive house music.
Website LOCATION: Cape Town Central TEL: +27 21 422 0909 TEL: +27 83 220 9744 TAKE NOTE: Reservations highly recommended
23
azure
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
Well plated food with seasonal ingredients, Azure has an a la carte menu as well as three tasting menus. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, there is a lot of passion in the food that chef Christo Pretorius has to offer.
With an award winning wine list guests are spoilt for choice with extensive and interesting combinations.
The interior is well decorated with and African mixed with ocean theme. With the incredible views of the ocean one would never say this was a hotel restaurant.
Website LOCATION: The Twelve Apostles, Camps Bay TEL: +27 21 437 9029 TAKE NOTE: Reservations must be made in advance.
24
Kloof street house
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
Kloof Street House keeps it classy with indulgent and delicious offerings on their menu. There is something for everyone at this restaurant, from oysters to bouillabaisse to vegetarian dishes. This Grand old dame is more than just a restaurant, its an experience!
They have an excellent wine list, an extensive cocktail menu and a full bar.
Within the fairy-lit garden, lies a dining oasis. Set in a magnificent Victorian house, Kloof Street House is an experience as enigmatic as it is intimate. It has a collection of interesting rooms and spaces, each bursting with a character of its own. Live jazz every Sunday lunch, romantic candle lit dinners or cocktails under the trees in the garden.
Website LOCATION: Cape Town Central TEL: +27 21 423 4413 TAKE NOTE: Reservations recommended for busy weekends and holiday seasons.
25
Restaurant at tintswalo atlantic
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
The Tintswalo Atlantic dining room provides a picturesque, cosy setting to enjoy beautifullypresented and delicious cuisine. Paying special attention to guest’s dietary requirements (or desires), the kitchen team endeavours to create memorable meals from fresh, locally-sourced and sustainable ingredients.
A variety of local wines and some classic yet refreshing cocktails.
The lodge dining room leads out onto an expansive wooden deck, and enjoys sublime ocean views and fresh sea air. Inside, the open-plan kitchen layout offers interactive cooking opportunities to guests who might enjoy sipping a glass of wine while watching the chef prepare meals, or discussing cooking techniques with the head chef.
Website LOCATION: Chapman's Peak Drive, Hout Bay TEL: +27 21 201 0025 TAKE NOTE: On a reservation only basis. It is highly recommended that reservations are made a few weeks in advance as space is very limited for non-hotel guests.
26
La mouette
FOOD
wine
ambience
More information
La Mouette offers seasonally inspired menus which change regularly. They pride themselves on showcasing only the best of local producers and Chef Henry along with head chef Andre Hill take great pride in sourcing these ingredients – respecting the seasons.
A meticulous selection of over 200 wines carefully selected by the inhouse wine list consultant to accompany the tasting menu.
La Mouette restaurant is housed in an original feature Tudor home and has 2 floors, 4 dining rooms, 6 fireplaces, a bar / lounge area as well as a cobblestone courtyard outside – perfect for cozy winter dining by the fire or summer dining al fresco under the stars.
Website LOCATION: Sea Point, Cape Town TEL: +27 21 433 0856 TAKE NOTE: Reservations are highly recommended as this is a popular restaurant. A deposit payment of ZAR 200.00 per person is required to secure your reservation.
27
Family friendly dining
28
Café paradiso
FOOD
highlight
ambience
More information
The daily special lunch table draws in busy regulars: think a Mediterranean feast of fresh salads, pasta of the day and freshly baked bread. The regular menu offers hearty salads, healthy sandwiches, homemade pastas and meatier fare. They’re suitably proud of their baked goods for dessert.
They have special (paid-for) activities for kids like pizza making or cupcake decorating. The kids’ menu is also a hit.
The large outside courtyard is the place to be on a balmy summer’s day, with its incredible views of Table Mountain. Inside it’s all Provençal cosiness with wine racks, rugged wooden furniture and wine displays.
Website LOCATION: Cape Town Central TEL: +27 21 423 8653 TAKE NOTE: Reservations recommended for busy weekends and holiday seasons.
29
GRAND CAFÉ & BEACH AT GRANGER BAY
FOOD
highlight
ambience
More information
Drawing inspiration from the magnificent surrounds, fresh produce is used to create simple dishes ranging from wood-fired pizzas with thin bases to more filling fare. An ample variety of seafood dishes on offer as well as snack platters and meat options.
Let the children run free and build sandcastles and enjoy the sand while you sit back and sip your cocktail in this ideal setting.
An artificially created beach with reclaimed sea sand and an abandoned warehouse pair up to offer you one of Cape Town’s most popular beach-dining experiences. Chic décor spruces up this warehouse. Relaxed beach vibe suitable for everyone, including families with younger children.
Website LOCATION: V&A Waterfront, Cape Town TEL: +27 21 425 0551 TAKE NOTE: Reservations recommended for busy weekends and holiday seasons.
30
The company’s garden restaurant
FOOD
highlight
ambience
More information
Drawing inspiration from the magnificent surrounds, fresh produce is used to create simple dishes ranging from wood-fired pizzas with thin bases to more filling fare. An ample variety of seafood dishes on offer as well as snack platters and meat options.
The kids' play area, with oversized nests and massive log jungle gyms, is charming.
This warm, quaint restaurant, situated in a stunning setting in the middle of the historic Company's Garden, is as tranquil as you can get dining in the city. Surrounded by foliage and chirping birds, you feel like you've left the city far behind and are in a quiet lodge in the woods.
Website LOCATION: Cape Town Central TEL: +27 21 423 2919 TAKE NOTE: No bookings accepted on the weekends (Saturday & Sunday) and public holidays unless it's for 12 or more.
31
Strolla restaurant & bar
FOOD
highlight
ambience
More information
Strolla’s menu is packed with classics, as well as a few bespoke creations (there’s a kids’ menu too). We’re talking pizzas, burgers, lasagne, steak, chicken, soups, salads and more.
The dedicated Kiddies playroom is bound to keep your little ones entertained for a good few hours if necessary!
The architecture of Strolla is reminiscent of a 1920s cruise ship. It is long and narrow with a glass wall running along one length opening out onto a timbered deck. The décor is dominated by art deco green and grey, with touches of pink, baby blue and gold.
Website LOCATION: Sea Point, Cape Town TEL: +27 21 430 7778 TAKE NOTE: Reservations are highly recommended.
32
Deer park cafe
FOOD
highlight
ambience
More information
Comfortable café-style food is the order of the day. In addition to the normal menu, a blackboard menu offers some bespoke daily options. There is also a generous kiddies menu on offer.
The large grassy play area has several jungle gyms, and is fenced on all sides. There’s one high chair (first come, first served) and even better, they have changing tables in both the male and female toilets. Cue applause.
Families flock to Deer Park Café in Vredehoek for the lovely lawns, alfresco tables and affordable café fare. It has a wonderful, relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for a sunny day.. If you do have kids, though, it’s a rare gem.
Website LOCATION: Cape Town Central TEL: +27 21 462 6311 TAKE NOTE: Reservations are recommended.
33