South Peninsula Restaurants

Kitch Kombuis in Muizenberg Village is owned by local personality, passionate restauranteur and people person, Derek Harrison. Everything that Derek ploughs his efforts into seems to be infused with his personal brand of magic, from the deliciously different smoothie selection, through to the furniture he’s chosen to decorate his new restaurant with. Not only is Kitch Kombuis a coffee shop with a difference, everything inside is for sale, not excluding the very table you’re seated at. Taking its inspiration from European coffee stations, the coffee shop is located adjacent to the Muizenberg train station. With a counter full of healthy baked treats and delicious sarmies, Kitch Kombuis is designed as a meeting place, greeting place and ‘grab a bite before leaving on the train’ place. Great emphasis is placed on serving excellent coffee and providing light snacks, baked and made by members of the Muizenberg community. Young bakers and pastry chefs deliver fresh snacks daily, while Derek and his assistant whip up excellent coffee and more-ish smoothies. Enjoy a freshly baked selection of croissants, veg pies, quiches, wraps, gourmet sarmies and sweet pastries from breakfast through to lunch.

A popular breakfast haunt with sweeping views, Klipkantien serves up great cocktails and simple mouth-watering delights with lovely harbour views and seas. Serving some of the best tapas around including freshly caught, seared and served Tuna straight from the sea, this small intimate eatery boasts breathtaking views in a simple setting popular with locals. From hearty breakfasts, delectable tapas and simple sandwiches, salads and pastas to cool cocktails and wines, Klipkantien provides the ideal place to relax and enjoy the cool ocean breeze while sampling finger-licking delights under the shade of the trees.

A reminder of Muizenberg's glamourous history, Knead brings an air of sophistication to the popular beachfront surf spot. Modern yet classical interiors and crystal chandeliers provide a glamorous setting for breakfast and lunch, with long windows providing endless views of the beach. Knead have created a stylish menu to match the atmosphere, consisting of designer breakfasts such as French toast with berries and cream, through to breakfasts pizzas. Coffees are always good and their white hot chocolate is a must on colder days. Pastries and artisanal breads feature strongly on their breakfast and lunch menu, along with favourites such as gourmet burgers and delectable pizzas.

Situated in the heart of Muizenberg in an old Jewish Hotel, this family run restaurant offers high standards of cuisine and excellence. The varied menu serves delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners. Enjoy a hearty famous breakfast burger or lunch, which caters for large appetites serving super-large burgers, served with garnish and chips, burgers are flame grilled to perfection. For fulfilling suppers, try Kosie's grilled chicken breast with a selection of mouth-watering vegetables followed by the temptress of deserts, caramel and banana pancakes topped with ice cream. With a cosmopolitan ambience heightened by interesting decorative features, Kosie’s Place makes for a well-served, remarkable setting serving unbeatable prices and mouth-watering dishes.

Tucked away in a tiny shop in Muizenberg Village, master baker Hasan produces the most delectable artisanal bread and pastries from his tiny bakery, La Petite Boulangerie. A favourite with locals, the quality of the baked goods at this hidden gem is world class. Most of the deli is taken up by industrial ovens, but there is enough seating at the counter and in the tiny courtyard for a quick coffee with friends. Designed more as an express bakery, pastries such as croissants and muffins call from the counter. Locals flow in to collect their daily bread, still warm from the oven, as others gather and catch up on local news. Famous for their exceptional bread, La Petite Boulangerie supply restaurants all over Cape Town. Stop by for coffee, warm bread and conversation with the Muizenberg Village locals.

Live Bait is snuggled between Kalk Bay Harbour's pier and big sister upstairs, the glamorous Harbour House restaurant. Both share the spectacle of dramatic crashing waves when the ocean turns wild. This unpretentious restaurant offers a good selection of sushi, fabulous calamari, line fish, seafood platters and other non-fishy fare. Stunning views overlook False Bay and the mountains beyond on one side, and the colourful harbour on the other. From late July, the Humpback and Southern Right whales come into the bay to calf and are regularly visible to diners. If that isn't enough, the reasonable prices, friendly efficient service, relaxing atmosphere and tasty food is sure to hook you.

With all the charm of a working harbour fish and chips shop, Lucky Fish has the added edge of offering delicious seafood at excellent prices. Situated amongst Harbour House and its sister tapas and cocktail venue, Polana, this fast food seafood canteen is worlds away from any other. It's harbour location makes it a perfect stop whilst meandering through Kalk Bay. In typical Kalk Bay style, Lucky Fish is just about the only fish shop you'll ever find that also sells freshly baked croissants, ciabatta loaves and fresh green salads to accompany newsprint wrapped crumbed seafood. A range of food is on offer, from crumbed hake, chips and calamari, to freshly prepared soups and mutton rooti's. Not only is the seafood fresh and delicious, but the generous portion sizes offer even more value for money. Patrons can enjoy their meal at the tables inside and outside Lucky Fish, or take a walk along the harbour wall and sit amongst the seagulls and the fisherman. Enjoyed with friends, family or as a fast delicious meal, you'll be glad you tried this fish shop with a difference.

"I'd like to be, under the sea in an Octopus' Garden with you" Wacky, eclectic, vibrant, sexy and funky, stepping into the Octopus Garden Restaurant feels like entering into a shimmering Aladdin’s cave. Think Alice in Wonderland, think Under the sea, think a mad collection of knick knacks filling a brightly painted and fairy lit intimate little living room complete with wooden floors and a piano, that's The Octopus' Garden in St. James (between Muizenberg and Kalk Bay). Inspired by the Beatles song, this historic old post office building has been transformed through much love into a cosy, happy and romantic venue for breakfasts, lunches and dinners. Situated right next to the St. James train station and with a super view of the whales, waves, the St. James swimming pool and the brightly painted original 'bathing huts', this gem of a venue invites customers to laze around tables or in a hammock in the shaded garden (dogs and toddlers very welcome), in amongst the restaurant's organic herb garden.

Cool, trendy and ultra quirky, Olympia Café and Deli entices the palate with colourful mouth-watering creations and clientèle. From plump mussels to tender lamb’s liver and delectable salads, this eatery pays homage to food and brings back the tradition of bohemian dining. Enjoy fresh Kob on mash or Lambs liver with bacon and cream sauce, or take delight in a hearty pasta dressed with mushrooms and tomatoes cream paired with a delicious wine and refreshing glass of water. The rustic paint-washed walls invite a quirky décor contrasted by black and white chequered floor and bohemian ambience. Relaxing and cool, Olympia Café and Deli offers fantastic service coupled with a trendy menu and colourful clientèle.

Organic Alive delivers a come-as-your-are ambience greeted by friendly staff and eat as much as you like buffets. With delectable organic creations on display such as organic coconut curry and wild rice or organic salads, chutneys, nuts and variety of home-baked breads, this little piece of wholesome heaven serves simple foods designed to heal. The venue is simple and does not boast much in terms of scenery, but the impressive buffet for R40 is enough to entice the palate into staying while exploring the garnished market filled with organic delights.

For sumptuous Mozambican and Portuguese fare at a stunning location in Kalk Bay, Polana is a definite must-try. Tasty staples like fresh and tender calamari as well as prego rolls feature on the well-planned menu along with many other flavoursome choices. A great wine list provides a superb accompaniment to your meal.

Rated by local restaurant guides with a prestigious award from Diners Club Wine Awards, Rioja serves up international courses infused with local dishes for a truly alluring take on African dining. Owners and chef, Simon and Ceri’s extensive training and experience abroad inspired mouth-watering creations that delight and entice the palate. With special emphasis placed on using only the freshest and local produced ingredients, nothing is more personal than the aromatic taste of freshly picked vegetables from the chefs’ personal garden and chickens from the free-range enclosure. Enjoy dinner, lunch and a new introduction on breakfast with family and friends in the tranquil surrounds of Solole Private Game Reserve with activities and jungle gyms at hand to give much need parents time to savour and enjoy the culinary delights prepared by acclaimed chefs at Rioja.

Retreat to maritime charm onboard this historic museum ship. Warmed by rich teak and brass fittings, Roaring Forties Floating Functions Restaurant offers something a little different to the discerning diner. With incredible views complimented by original character, dining onboard the forward deck soothes away the day with elegant décor wrapped in navy blue and Long Island striped overlays. Delight in a cooling cocktail taking in the scenery and gently lapping waves before dining or relax on the outside deck with benches and umbrellas enjoying pre-dinner drinks. Roaring Forties Floating Functions Restaurant is the perfect venue for any function looking to embrace an elegant maritime charm.

This lively little restaurant boasts a “If you don’t eat with us, we’ll both starve” slogan that invites humour into this relaxed atmosphere. Located within the scenic poster town of Simon’s Town, Salty Sea Dog Restaurant offers simple food heightened by nautical artefacts and exposed wooden beams for a rustic dining experience. Dine alfresco or enjoy the sheltered warmth of indoor dining in the comfort of whitewashed walls and rustic thatched roofs exploring the succulent tastes of fresh seafood grilled to perfection or fried in a crisp light batter dressed in zesty basting sauce. From fresh fish to salads and light-hearted servings of chicken nuggets and hot dogs for children, Salty Sea Dog offers a relaxing and refreshing approach to traditional fish and chips by the harbour.

Satori's is an Italian family restaurant offering thin-base pizza and pasta with vegetarian and wheat-free options. The salads are garden fresh and all pasta sauces, about 15, are made on order. Pizzas are wood-oven baked with gluten free and wheat free options available. Desserts include home-made tiramisu, brandy tart, amazing lemon cheese cake as well as numerous ice-cream varieties. The portions are generous you will not leave Satori feeling hungry. A moderate wine list is available and a variety of special wines is often available. As a family neighbourhood restaurant, Satori encourages long stays - backgammon, scrabble and chess are played at tables while families and couples catch up over good wholesome food and drink. Satori roughly translates into ‘individual enlightenment’, or a 'flash of sudden awareness'.

With stunning mountains silhouetting the sea and sparkling white sands of Seaforth Beach, Seaforth Restaurant soothes the palate with freshly caught, mouth-watering seafood on the spectacular waters edge. Dining in the Gun Room or the enclosed deck offers sublime views of the sea, lapping against the restaurant just meters below the deck. With appetizing seafood and penguins to entertain, patrons can sit back and relax, taking in the soothing scenery whilst enjoying good food and company. Seaforth Restaurant on Seaforth Beach is the perfect place to enjoy a meal or up close and personal sunset.

With its Mediterranean feel, trees and open air space, Sirocco has all the right ingredients for long, lazy lunches in the sun. Situated on the Main Road in Kalk Bay, Sirocco is a seasonal restaurant that only opens in Summer, specialising in fresh food. There are decadent and healthy options on the menu for breakfast, with freshly squeezed juices and baked goods on offer. The menu consists of relaxed yet sophisticated food, from Eggs Benedict to fresh salmon and cream cheese croissants. Gourmet salads are popular choices on the lunch menu, with fresh line fish and calamari competing as favourites. Draw out the experience with excellent local wines or cocktails and experience the energy and magic in Kalk Bay during season. Breakfast and Lunch Monday to Sunday, 8am until 4pm from 1 October until 30 April only.

Serving light meals, cakes, tarts and heavenly baked bread, Sostanza is the ideal place for families and friends looking for a relaxed and tasty experience. From the alluring aromas of freshly baked bread, pastries, croissants to savoury pies, quiches and all day Eggs Benedict for breakfast. Fine cappuccinos compliment the devilishly good cheese and chocolate cheesecake, enjoyed by most and especially the local housewives who gather at this culinary sanctuary to indulge and gossip. Sostanza is an unlicensed establishment, but you are welcome to bring your own, order some sublime food and soak up the old village bakery ambiance over breakfast or lunch.

The Annex is an upmarket, yet cosy restaurant, with arguably one of the best views in Kalk Bay. This aesthetically pleasing venue is tucked behind Kalk Bay Books and is therefore often missed by visitors to the area. But when you find it you'll be delighted that you did, because on a fresh Summer's day, there are few better places to be. Three seating areas within the restaurant property offer patrons a different experience at each space, from the indoor library area to the 'al fresco' terrace under a massive palm tree, which has endless views over the harbour and the ocean. Meals at The Annex are tasty and beautifully presented, from muesli and fresh fruit for breakfast, through to rich, hearty meals for lunch and dinner. Popular menu choices include the sirloin steak sandwich, served with caponato and creamy mushroom sauce on freshly baked ciabatta and the mushroom risotto. The dinner menu includes fresh line fish, slow-roasted duck on vegetable stir-fry and ostrich on either braised lentils or mustard mashed potatoes.

Located right on the waters edge of Kalk Bay adjacent to the Kalk Bay Harbour, the restaurant offers panoramic views of the sea, mountains, and the atmospheric Kalk Bay Harbour. Soak up the nostalgia of this quaint harbour while relaxing in 1 of 3 restaurants all exquisitely located for a memorable dining experience. The Cabin Restaurant offers a small, intimate dining experience overlooking the ocean, perfect for whale watching and savouring the delights on offer. For more refined dining, The Main Restaurant offers formality with a selection of exquisite seafood dishes and wine with a lovely harbour charm atmosphere. In summer, there is no better place to sit and relax while soaking up the sun and surf than the Bikini Deck. With its cocktail bar at the centre of the terrace spilling over onto the Tidal Pools, this vibrant spot invites lazy summer days and casual dining. Serving meals off the Ala Carte menu and all that is seafood, The Brass Bell Restaurant indulges the palate with delightful burgers, crispy pizzas and succulent steaks. Why go anywhere else, when you can savour the delights of The Brass Bell while soaking up the fresh sea breeze and warming sun.

Uninterrupted views and passion for coffee make this spot the place to be. The relaxed atmosphere and idyllic location remains popular with locals who soak up the surrounds and drink coffee, and WiFi. The blackboard menus boast a variety of dishes ranging from breakfast through to lunch, and daily specials. Try the Mexican Omelet or the Breakfast Panini Sandwich for a kick-start to the day or a Traditional Breakfast available in small and large portions. Light lunches can be enjoyed and include wraps with hearty fillings such as Thai Chicken, Moroccan Lamb and Mexican Vegetables. Daily specials such as Greek Salads or Fresh Fish, Bobotie and Fillet Medallions are available. If something a little lighter suits your fancy then try freshly baked breads or goods baked daily.

Nestled amongst leafy trees and Noordhoek Farm Village is The Foodbarn Restaurant. A welcoming place where gastronomic tribes meet and celebrate the birth of food and wonderful company in a relaxed and beautiful setting. A place where you can relish in the passion of food with sandy feet and lapping dogs surrounded by shrills of laughter where kids can be kids and food revitalizes the soul. Popular amongst locals and tourists alike, The Foodbarn boasts an Ala Carte menu, Spring Bistro menu offering delectable servings of crumbed and baked goats cheese served on a guava and ginger compote, with tomato petals and avo, drizzled with cinnamon and mild chilli oil as a starter. For those with worldly appetites, savour The Noordelicious Experience; a gastronomic feasts that stimulates the body and mind, tantalising the taste buds. Experience all things gastro from The Tasting / Degustation Menu where all food on the menu, bistro and ala carte becomes available for your delight. Booking is highly recommended.

Tucked away in the sleepy little village of Kommetjie is ‘The Green Room' – funky haunt of fabled surfers, grommets and locals up for hunger-busting big burgers, Cali-Mexican fare, breakfast in a bun and, of course, a good chinwag with their mates. Proprietor Ollie and his crew are super relaxed and friendly – even your hound is welcome. Grab a block of surf wax at the Kommetjie Surf Shop next door before diving into some post-surf, wholesome grub and an ice-cold 'brewskie'.

This light airy space is the perfect space for a little daytime indulgence, where light meals and aromatic coffees are the order of the day. Order from the menu or enjoy something different from the daily specials, or indulge in an all day breakfast. Relax in quiet ambiance at The Loft restaurant in Fish Hoek.

With comfortable couches, delightful colours and rustic frames in various shapes and sizes, The Meeting Place furnishes elegant touches and shabby chic décor immersed in a bustling atmosphere. Dining by night reveals an ambience of its own, whether on the balcony or indoors, the flickering candle light illuminated by fairy lights and the moon reflecting upon the bay makes for an enchanting evening out. The eye pleasing décor and ambience will hug you in warmth and cool you during the summer for a fresh and inviting experience. Splendid views of False Bay coastline and harbour entices while the music spills a seducing touch over starters of West Coast mussels marinated with tomato and chilli vinaigrette, and asparagus with parmesan butter. Main courses bursting off the menu boast fresh Line fish caught at Kalk Bay harbour served on crushed potato, bella rosa and olives with beurre blanc or slow roast duck on fresh fruit with an apricot and ginger sauce. Enjoy the finest breakfasts served until 12pm throughout the week, with delicious choices ranging from Eggs Florentine, croissants, and breakfast pizza served on puff pastry with pancetta, mushrooms, poached eggs & hollandaise. The Meeting Place is your place to relax and enjoy the intoxicating cuisine while browsing the trinkets, mirrors and décor for sale alongside the lingering aroma of freshly baked bread.

Set in the oldest building on Imoff estate, this quirky and sustainably sourced eatery boasts a stylish yet unpretentious atmosphere. Small and intimate spaces and delightful alfresco seating set the mood as succulent portions of Crayfish, brushed with lemon, butter and garlic and seafood platters grace tables. Sample dorado, mussels, calamari and crayfish, for the perfect indulgence or the tangy Homemade Malay Pickled Fish with Farm Seed Bread. The menu focuses on sustainably sourced, organic and exceptionally fresh ocean fare in a clean, crisp and quirky setting known as The Pickled Fish.

With rustic charm and roaring winter fires, The Red Herring serves fine country cuisine with a South African twist in a relaxed casual setting. With freshly baked pizzas straight from the wood-fired oven and cooling cocktails bidding farewell to the lingering sun, Red Herring caters for the most discerning palates with fresh seasonal produce and intimate surroundings. Popular with locals and visitors alike, dining on deck offers lighter meals with beautiful forest canopies below and mountainside surrounds. For more sophisticated dining, enjoy the intimate setting of the downstairs restaurant. Red Herring boasts a reputation awarded by the Diners Club Platinum Wine List through experimenting and creating mouth-watering recipes. Enjoy delectable creations such as Pressed Tomato and Salmon Terrine - marinated tomato and red pepper terrine, topped with avocado and smoked salmon, dressed with a freshly made basil mayonnaise and a Lamb Duo - rack and loin with fondant potatoes, confit tomatoes and a pea and mint puree. With a downstairs restaurant and garden pergola, The Red Herring is the perfect place to enjoy a festive meal with family and friends.

Sucumb to temptation at The Sweetest Thing, the best coffee and patisserie shop in Simon's Town. Choose from a selection of delectable cakes and pastries including cheesecake, lemon meringue and chocolate éclair. The patisserie also offers excellent coffee, breakfast, sandwiches, delicious pies and quiche, all made daily on the premises by Doreen and her friendly team. Doreen Alcock won the Diners Club National 2008 Dine Award for the Most Promising Pastry Chef Newcomer. The Sweetest Thing has been open for two years and is co-owned by Doreen and her husband Keith. Patrons can enjoy a selection of delectable pastries including, cheesecake, lemon meringue and chocolate éclair. The patisserie also offers excellent coffee, breakfast, delicious pies and quiche.

Set the bottom of Chapman’s peak is an endearing country pub and restaurant known as ‘The Toad’. A friendly venue proffering delicious bistro-style dishes with a South African influence. With the beach a stone’s throw away, this 1850’s style thatched farmhouse is the only place for a superb Sunday lunch. The dishes on the menu change regularly and the portions are very generous. Patrons have a choice of dining on a bustling deck, a patio, an all-weather lawn, in a cosy downstairs dining room or a traditional pub area upstairs. Fireplaces enhance the cosy and warm ambience in this family-centred pub and restaurant. A children’s play area will occupy the kids while you relax. Affordable prices and impeccable service adds the finishing touch to a wonderful dining experience.

Theresa's quirky and flamboyant personality won't be the only reason you'll visit this established and beloved restaurant, as the food is equally unforgettable. Renowned for her perfectly prepared steaks and robust main courses, Theresa's combines elements that are usually difficult to create; atmosphere, ambiance and delicious food. The success of Theresa's may have something to do with the entrancing bohemian overtones that lend it such warmth, or perhaps being able to watch Theresa's antics in the kitchen add to the feeling of intimacy. Expect hearty fare on the menu, in generous portions. Whatever contributes towards the magic, it's a successful recipe.

Nestled in the Monkey Valley Beach Resort, Thorfynns boasts dramatic views of Noordhoek Beach and the Atlantic Ocean. Cradled in lush Milkwood Trees, diners frolic on the deck during balmy summer months and dine on juicy burgers and voluptuous seafood overlooking the sea and natural garden atmosphere. Choose a table close to the window or on the deck to enhance your dining experience and browse the menu brimming with easy going dishes made with the freshest ingredients, locally sourced and organic. Winter warms the palate with hearty dishes, log burning fireplaces and all day breakfasts. The wood-fired pizzas and sushi make great alternatives to dining off the menu. A popular weekend brunch spot, Thorfynns captures the senses with scenic vistas and mouthwatering cuisine.

A unique spot with gorgeous views over False Bay, the Tibetan Teahouse is a tranquil place to enjoy cuisine inspired by the beautiful country. Set alongside a gallery and a shop selling collectables, jewellery and artwork from Tibet, this vegan and vegetarian restaurant is a deliciously healthy option for a meal. Organic coffees and herbal teas provide the accompaniment. A truly tranquil place, the Tibetan Teahouse is a superb place to really escape the rat race and refresh the spirit.

Located off Main Road, this blushing restaurant transports the palate to sunny Naples where good food and welcoming smiles embrace the day soothed by the music of Italian voices. Trattoria Antonia offers a relaxed dining experience, typical of Italian hospitality and authentic cuisine using only the freshest ingredients with key ingredients imported straight from Italy. Begin your journey with a home-made bruschetta, toasted and topped with chopped tomatoes soaked in olive oil, garlic and basil before lingering over to the Costolette d'Angellom (grilled lamb cutlets with white wine and rosemary). Unbutton your trousers to tuck into the most delectable Torta Luigi (layers of sponge cake soaked in a cocktail of liqueurs, filled with home-made custard and topped with home-made chocolate mousse). Discover the appetizing touch of Naples and welcoming smiles when you experience Trattoria Antonia – where the art of living becomes part of the family.

Authentic Italian ambiance sets the mood with red and white gingham cloths, candles in Chianti bottle and upbeat Italian pop music. The menu features Italian and local wines alongside traditional fare and ambiance. For starters try the melanzane followed by a hearty portion of Luigi’s angel hair pasta with smoked salmon, tomato, onion and chilli. Gnocchi is served with creamy Gorgonzola and remains popular, as do pizzas with simple toppings and crispy bases. Round off your meal

With the renowned restaurant district in Tribeca, New York, as its inspiration, interiors at Tribeca Bakery include photographs of the New York skyline and scenes from the vibrant city. Situated in the middle of the Main Road in Kalk Bay and facing towards the sun, this light filled coffee shop is always bustling and inviting. Tribeca has it's own bakery on site, making freshly baked goods daily which are displayed in the windows facing passerby's. Shelves heave under the weight of pretty cupcakes, fresh croissants, muffins and decadent sandwiches. When not indulging in speciality coffees and baked goods, patrons can enjoy a creative menu with a great selection of salads, open sandwiches and delicious meals with a fresh twist. Try the coffee cocktails if you're feeling adventurous and want to experience a caffeine kick in a new and interesting way.

Located in the Majestic Village on the main road of Kalk Bay, this upmarket venue is a delightful escape. Patrons are treated indoor and to alfresco style dining with the comfort of modern luxury, with a terraced outdoor area skilfully protected from the elements with a see-through tarpaulin and warmed with gas heaters. The effect is magical and serene. Winesense offers patrons the unique concept in wine tasting, with glass fronted cabinets housing bottles of wine which can be tasted or enjoyed by the glass or by the bottle, depending on which mood strikes you. The menu at Wine Sense is an impressive selection of gourmet fusion cuisine, with an emphasis on tapas and wine pairing, as the restaurant’s name suggests. The restaurant is well known for delectable sushi offerings and fresh oysters, which should be enjoyed after a busy day’s shopping with a bottle of sparkling wine. A welcome addition to Kalk Bay, Winesense adds a touch of luxury to the bohemian fishing village. Enjoy excellent food from lunch until evening.