The 18 Must-Try Restaurants in Cape Town

Capetonians take their Saturday morning market visits quite seriously. This community market, which outgrew its original location at an urban farm in Oranjezicht, has relocated to stylish new spaces at the V&A Waterfront, yet it maintains its inviting atmosphere. Locals flock to the first tent for their weekly grocery shopping, gathering fresh figs, cauliflower, and a colorful array of carrots, persimmons, and chiles. Afterward, they explore the next tent for treats ranging from burgers to gluten-free brownies.

Securing a reservation at the popular Asian Mytoury Bao Down is a challenge, even after its expansion to a larger venue in Green Point. Founded by the husband-and-wife duo Graham and Philippa Oldfield (the former head chef at Chefs Warehouse and a seasoned caterer), the restaurant is always bustling, and for good reason. Inside the retro pink-and-blue decor, an array of small but impactful dishes emerge from the kitchen, featuring delights like prawn toast, Korean fried chicken baos, and yellowtail sashimi served with a zesty coconut cream.

Chef Mmabatho Molefe has crafted a dining experience that pays homage to Nguni cuisine. Her menu is a heartfelt tribute to her heritage, featuring traditional ingredients such as offal, sorghum, and mielies (corn), which she skillfully transforms using both classic and contemporary methods. Dishes include mielie breadsticks paired with sweet corn dip and parsley mayo, as well as corned beef tongue served with tomato puree, amasi, chilies, tomato jellies, and crispy onions. The restaurant is situated at Makers Landing at the V&A Waterfront, offering an inviting industrial atmosphere with views of the bustling harbor where large ships dock. On weekends, Makers Landing comes alive with numerous food vendors, so arriving early to explore the other options is recommended.

Since its inception a few years ago, Arthur’s Mini Super has garnered a devoted following, making it the ideal spot for people-watching. Located on a side street off Sea Point Main Road, Arthur’s is the quintessential neighborhood café you've always wished for. It offers excellent coffee and all-day breakfast options (think scrambled eggs and Reuben toasties), all served by welcoming staff. The grocery section features local burrata, cured meats, house-made chili sauce, and more. In the evenings, the café transforms into a lively bar serving martinis, local wines, and open-faced sourdough sandwiches like pan con tomate and spicy sardines sautéed with anchovies.

Locals can't get enough of the salads crafted by chef Colette Robert at the General Store Kitchen & Grocer. This charming Mytoury features daily specials like halloumi salad with grilled peppers or roasted squash with cabbage and lime, alongside indulgent desserts such as vanilla custard-filled doughnuts and rich chocolate tortes. Grab a sought-after seat along the wooden wall or opt for takeout. Just be sure to enjoy a flat white before you leave, as The General Store serves one of the finest coffees in the city.

Every visit to Hemelhuijs might surprise you, as chef and owner Jacques Erasmus refreshes the menu with each season and updates the restaurant's decor, often painting the walls in vibrant new hues. However, one delightful constant is the thick slices of mosbolletjie bread, infused with aniseed and grape must, featured in various forms on the menu.

Liam Tomlin is undoubtedly one of the most beloved chefs in the city, having launched several successful restaurants, including the renowned Chefs Warehouse. His latest creation, the Bailey, is no exception. Housed in a historic building on Bree Street, this three-story culinary destination features a bistro, brasserie, and bar on each level. From a hearty artichoke risotto to a quick croissant, afternoon tea, or a whiskey at night, the Bailey caters to all tastes.

Chef Matt Manning, who has experience in Michelin-starred kitchens in London, launched his straightforward Mytoury Grub & Vine in 2018. While the menu features bistro-style dishes, the food is undeniably more sophisticated than typical fare. Manning's genuine cooking is perfect for a relaxed Sunday lunch, showcasing items like roasted line fish served with sweet corn risotto and venison loin paired with celeriac purée.

While Dubran is famed for its Indian cuisine, you can savor delicious samosas and curries right here. Chef Seelan Sundoo, who runs three locations in the city, presents a vibrant menu featuring lamb kebabs, Kerala-style roasted chicken, and prawns simmered in a rich tomato sauce. A must-try South African classic is the bunny chow, a hollowed-out loaf of white bread stuffed with chicken, lamb, prawn, or beans. Originating from KwaZulu-Natal, it’s hearty, flavorful, and truly unique to South Africa.

As you stroll down Bree Street, you might overlook Tomson, a small yet powerful Cantonese street food Mytoury. Founded by Andrew Kai, named in honor of his father (Tom and son), this restaurant boasts a tempting menu filled with dishes like pork and shrimp wonton dumplings, crispy pork belly, and roast Cantonese duck served with pancakes. Don’t forget to grab a glass of bubbly at the nearby Leo’s Wine Bar before your meal.

Chef Nic Charalambous’s cuisine has captured the hearts of Capetonians, reflecting his Cypriot roots. Once a pop-up, Ouzeri is now a permanent fixture on Wale Street in downtown Cape Town. Housed in a bright white space with glass fronts, it resembles a casual Cypriot café, complete with simple wooden chairs and woven cushions. The menu offers various small plates, including halloumi made by Charalambous’s sister-in-law, baked with dried honey and oregano, as well as grilled sardines paired with skordalia (garlic mashed potatoes) and fennel salad. Everything is delightful.

This unpretentious Mytoury is a favorite among Cape Town’s Cape Malay Muslim community for its straightforward and tasty dishes. Swing by with a friend to share a spicy steak, chicken, or sausage Gatsby, a local sandwich style. These giant Gatsby subs are often filled to the brim with flavorful meat and french fries, usually divided into two or four hearty portions. While you can find them at any local takeaway, the versions at Mariam’s Kitchen are particularly cherished.

Since its debut in late 2018, Fyn has captivated guests with its stylish interior and stunning location. The excitement grew when it made the 50 Best Restaurants List in 2022. Perched on the rooftop of the historic Speakers’ Corner building, the elegant glass-walled dining room boasts pendant lights, leather booths, and marble countertops, offering breathtaking views of Table Mountain and Lion’s Head. Chef Peter Tempelhoff’s fine dining Japanese menu infused with South African influences constantly evolves, featuring creations like dune spinach tempura and prawns prepared in kelp. Regardless of the offerings, the food is consistently as refined as the venue itself.

Founded by twin sisters Jesse and Jamie Friedberg, Between Us is the ideal spot for a relaxed yet refined breakfast or lunch date. The restaurant exudes a cozy atmosphere with warm wood and stone accents throughout the interior. The menu features delicious house-made chicken pies, scrambled eggs with Parmesan and mushrooms, and pappardelle served with oxtail ragu. Casual daytime dining has never been this luxurious.

After gaining recognition at the Marabi Club in Johannesburg, chef Vusi Ndlovu has embarked on an exciting new venture at Edge. This pop-up restaurant, in collaboration with Absie Pantshwa, is located at the Oasis restaurant in the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel and will operate until April before relocating to a permanent space. At Edge, Ndlovu focuses on indigenous ingredients and age-old recipes from across Africa, offering a set menu that includes dishes like sweet corn cooked in hay and slow-roasted pork belly with suya spice and plantain ketchup.

The dining room at the Roundhouse is famous for its historic charm and breathtaking views of the mountains and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. This building, established in 1786, has had several owners but recently reopened as Salsify, led by renowned local chefs Luke Dale-Roberts and Ryan Cole. The tasting and à la carte menus boast exquisite dishes such as cold poached abalone with egg yolk dressing and smoked springbok paired with goat cheese mousse and puffed sorghum. The scenic views of the mountains and sea remain unmatched.

Many talented chefs have worked in the kitchen of La Colombe, yet the restaurant continues to be one of the city's premier dining spots. Executive chef James Gaag prepares exquisite fine dining dishes that focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients like tuna and springbok. Diners flock here not only for the exceptional cuisine but also for its stunning location on the Silvermist Estate organic farm, offering breathtaking views over the Constantia Valley and False Bay. It's a beloved destination for weekend dining, particularly Sunday lunch, which is elevated to a remarkable experience.

At Chefs Warehouse, perched on the Beau Constantia wine estate, the breathtaking scenery of vineyards, rolling hills, and False Bay draws in guests. However, the allure extends beyond just the views. Chefs Liam Tomlin and Ivor Jones craft an exquisite four-course tapas menu featuring refined dishes like dashi risotto and venison tartare accompanied by bramble jellies. Lunch here is a leisurely experience, so set aside plenty of time; this is casual fine dining at its finest.