Western Cape Restaurants

Swaddled by the Langeberg Mountain Range extended by vineyard views, Vineyard Restaurant delights from within one of the oldest farms in the region. The restaurant offers a tantalising a la carte menu alongside sumptuous breakfasts and gourmet picnics. Enjoy sweeping views and the freshest farm produce beautifully presented for comfort food at its best. Tucked away between the historical villages of McGregor and Robertson, Vineyard Restaurant offers tantalising meals flanked by beautiful views and fine wine.

The menu proffers a mixture of contemporary Cape cuisine enjoyed alongside a backdrop of Devon Valley and Helderberg. The natural beauty sets the stage for an idyllic and relaxed experience dining on tasty lunches and light meals or a kick-start breakfast Unwind the day away at the Vineyard Terrace in Stellenbosch.

Hearty pastas and cheesy pizzas are the order of the day, alongside a daily selection of specials brimming with local ingredients and Italian enthusiasm. Nestled along Victoria Road, Vista Mare makes ideal location for romantic dinners or festive celebrations.

Open 7 days a week and bustling every Friday afternoon in the cocktail lounge, Voila! caters with unique and trendy décor perfect for a quick coffee, lazy lunch or complete indulgence. Serving breakfast and lunch, you can enjoy the unique atmosphere and imported Theodor French Teas with a crusty pastry or relax with a cool cocktail unwinding the day with friends and colleagues.

With focus on light meals, freshly made with love this extraordinary spot boasts the best views of Paarl Valley. Volksmond literally means ‘Colloquialism” and this quaint little spot is all about the informality and flowing conversation. The menu brims with homemade food with focus on light meals such as the popular Monument Breakfast, stuffed pancakes, hearty sandwiches and tasty burgers. For those seeking something sweeter, freshly baked scones, cakes and aromatic coffee hits the spot. Pop in and spend the day in idle conversation, enjoying the light meals on offer at Volksmond Coffee and Curio Shop in Paarl.

Right on the beach, this quaint restaurant is an awesome spot to watch the tide drift in and out while you munch, scrunch away on the local seafood. By night the friendly little bar is great for pre- or post-dinner drinks and the interior is cosy and warm.If the weather is fine book a table on the small stoep offering panoramic views of the beach, sea and sky. You might sight a few whales splashing about the sunsets are sublime. The ‘catch of the day’ is your best choice, but there are meaty alternatives, especially during winter. The wine list is small but adequate. Meals are served from 10am to 10pm.

Located on West Coast Road, this homemade heaven shares a relaxed and memorable dining experience. A cosy fireplace complimented by aromatic coffees and locally produced wines make for a perfect lunch with family and friends. Kids can let their hair down on the large playground, secured for your relaxation and feed the animals for some extra fun. Share in the passion and love of wine at the winehouse; where selected wines from the farm, Darling cellars and Swartland wineries wet the palate alongside warm slices of homemade bread and fruity jams. Visit Vyge Valley Farm Stall for the farmhouse taste of Darling, off R27 West Coast Road in Jakkalsfontein.

‘Wafu’ means The Asian Way and what more could they offer in terms of beauty, taste and perfection when they already have it all. Wakame’s breathtaking views span from the old lighthouse, across to Table Bay taking in the best views of Cape Town and Robbin Island. Dine in total comfort and idyllic surrounds watching Whales surface for air or Dolphins playfully diving, even Yachts elegantly chasing the wind all this while dining on a fusion of Pacific rim blends touched with a hint of French and Western influences. Young innovate chefs embrace the art of Asian cuisine dressing the menu in an assortment of fresh sushi, dim sum, meat, and fish and poultry dishes. Dine alfresco on the raised wooden decks pampered by the view or within the beautiful warmth of cherry inlays, green tea antique walls, cherry counters, all contrasted by 3 meter long fish tanks. Wafu Wakame welcomes an exotic and beautifully tranquil dining experience set in perfect location lingering with perfect blends of fusion cuisine.

For seafood, sushi and various other Asian delicacies, Wakame really stands out from the crowd. This extremely trendy venue hosts a glamorous crowd who congregate for the atmosphere, the sublime food and the exciting cocktails available in Wafu, the bar upstairs. For a superb night out with great wine, great food, great views and great service, Wakame is the place to be.

Currently voted best Thai restaurant, Wang Thai boasts exquisite flavours and spices evident in the dishes and menu. The menu focuses on authentic Thai cuisine using the freshest ingredients and spices imported directly from Thailand. The interior calms and leans towards a more up market ambiance, complimented by the varied and exciting menu.

Situated in the V & A Waterfront, looking out across Cape Town’s harbour, Wang Thai offers the best in Royal Thai cuisine in an exquisite setting. With Table Mountain as a backdrop, patrons can indulge in an authentic Thai dining experience while watching the resident Cape fur seal colony at play. Diners are treated to delicious, authentic dishes from across Thailand, freshly prepared using only the highest quality ingredients. Each meal is prepared under the watchful eye of the Thai trained master chef using traditional regional recipes. Diners can delight on favourites such as spicy Tom Yum soup or traditional Thai curries. For the more adventurous there is Ped Pi-Roed – Angry Duck – served with crispy seasonal vegetables. For an African twist on a Thai meal Wang Thai has created an ostrich curry served with fresh bamboo shoots. There is a variety of seafood available, as well as an extensive sushi menu. The decor is elegant, and features traditional Thai pieces, and this coupled with the delicately balanced flavours of the food and the wonderful views of Cape Town give diners a truly Thai experience.

Warwick Wine Estate is located on the R44 between Klapmuts and Stellenbosch and has become a popular picnic venue. The estate is versatile in that, although it is the perfect romantic spot, it is also child friendly. There are a few picnic areas to choose from. The courtyard has tables and chairs and a shady area where the kids can play. The lawn area is all umbrellas, mattresses and cushions overlooking the dam and lunching in such comfort is almost sinful. There are also picnic pods. Visitors who would like to host a more private party can reserve the “penthouse’ picnic location that is set on the hill, overlooking the stunning scenery of the farm. Expect a quirky, but cleverly packed and delicious picnic basket by award winning chef Bruce Robertson. The boxes and containers are treat to open. Discover the likes of Biltong and Brandy pate, Baguettes wrapped in “Warwick News” newspaper, salads and cold meats and even a helping of Tomato Bredie. A selection from the estate’s wines rounds off the picnic experience. Guests are encouraged to take time for a tasting, and try the lovely wines that Warwick has on offer. Booking is essential.

A contemporary oasis, soothed by giant fish tanks, low hung bamboo lights and ambient lighting. The menu takes a journey through Asia, starting with Sushi, seafood and traditional fare and the wine list compliments with good and interesting selections. Wasabi is easy located in the Constantia Shopping Centre.

Located on Waterkloof Wine Estate, this new signature restaurant boasts a 10-meter glass promontory marrying into a flow of sleek state-of-the-art gravitational cellar. Dine against a backdrop of Waterkloof’s amphitheater of vineyards and panoramic views of False Bay on modern French infusions. Fuelled by decades experience attained in some of the finest Michelin star restaurants in France, Grégory Czarnecki calls for an unhurried indulgence on contemporary classics with a modern twist, complemented by the estate’s European style wines.

Waverly Hills promises the freshest, finest and where possible, organic ingredients in all their South African inspired country cuisine. Located just outside of Tulbagh, Waverly Hills’ boasts splendid views of the valley. Here guests can indulge in views of the farm’s vineyards and olive orchards while enjoying al fresco dining on the patio. In winter the restaurant has a blazing fire place to keep visitors comfortable and cosy. A mother and daughter team heads up the kitchen and delights patrons with menu items that range from starters like Yoghurt-cheese-bacon bundles drizzled with olive tapenade dressing and Best Biltong Pate. The mains on offer cater for all palates from items such as Red Curry, Rump steak and Chicken stuffed with sundried tomato and feta wrapped in bacon. The restaurant also offers a must try food and wine pairing which comprises five mezze bites with five organic wines.

Located in Belgravia Road Wembly Roadhouse welcomes families and friends to enjoy their myriad of choices ranging from light meals to tasty grills. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner; toasted sandwiches to burgers, curries to succulent grills, chilli bites to traditional samoosas and the freshest fruit juices. The big attraction here is the Whopper! Prime steak cuts, marinated in original spices on a freshly baked bun, topped with salads, fit for hearty appetites.

Located on the 19th floor of the Westin Grand, with sweeping views of Table Mountain, Longstreet and V&A waterfront, Westin Executive Club offer internationally renowned chefs and a grand fine dining atmosphere. The contrasting architecture blends effortlessly with the minimalist setting and scenic vistas creating a harmonious balance enjoyed alongside excellent contemporary cuisine. Large floor to ceiling glass walls create a subtle and stylish setting dressed in white china and plenty light and air. The menu pampers with modern and contemporary flavours, infused with a twist of African influences and sweeping views, making Westin Executive Club a place where discerning palates meet internationally renowned chefs.

Wharfside Grill, regarded as one of Africa’s best seafood restaurants exudes a bustling maritime ambience that transports you onboard the decks of historic ships and their sea-faring days. Here you can indulge in the taste of exotic seafood such as Lobster, Crayfish and Kingklip while marvelling at nautical artefacts and local sea life. The private deck scattered with umbrellas is the perfect place to relax with a glass of wine while enjoying the stunning scenery and vibrant harbour atmosphere. The Wharfside Grill boasts seating for 350 hungry shipmates and six intimate and private dining cabins capture the character and flavour of historic ships such as Queen Mary, Union Castle and the infamous Shipwreck who fell victim to ravages of the Cape Storms. The extensive menu offers an impressive selection of Lobster, Prawns, Calamari and freshly caught fish including chicken and succulent steak while vegetarians can enjoy harvest from the land onboard the Landlubber’s Luck. Alongside the extensive menu, you can explore the excellent variety of Cocktails, Spirits, Beers, Ciders and Wine. The Wharfside Grill is open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner and is within easy access from Cape Town, Fish Hoek and Constantia Nek.

Located on Watston Street, What’s on Eatery exudes a passion for food and people. Relax in one of two dining areas, each dressed in unique décor. The upstairs restaurant captures a Gatsby like ambiance scattered with tables draped in fresh white linen and walls adorned with mirrors and embossed velvet chairs. The inviting atmosphere sets the mood pampered by jazz and delectable choices such as beef fillet served with mushroom risotto, or the What’s On specialty Ostrich burger layered with a extra thick patty, blue cheese and green figs in a freshly baked roll. Try the special of the day – Cape Salmon encrusted with salt and herbs followed by a chocolate fondant filled to the brim with decadent melted chocolate. With classy presentation, affordability and inviting atmosphere, what’s not like at What’s on?

Housed in a beautifully restored manor house, dating back to the 1700’s, luxuriously fitted and dressed in crisp white napery. Expect an elegant dining experience, married with gentle background music and fine selection of wines. The menu pampers the palate with international cuisine, partnered with wine, enjoyed by the glass or bottle, allowing for splendid food and wine pairing.

Stylish, comfortable and intimate, Whispering Waves oozes warmth and elegance with a trendy approach to eco dining. The menu boasts tantalizing appetizers like Peppadew and Feta Poppers, Malay Samoesas with Banana Jam and Balsamic infused Brown mushroom served with Sweet Chilli Sauce. For main courses savour the exotic Chicken Curry Roti with Sambals, Pan fried Leg of Lamb and uncomplicated Sole with a Marie-Rose dressing flattered by the Dolphin Bay Vin Doux Sparkling Wine and Driemersdal Pinotage. Whispering Waves Restaurant whisks the palate on an enchanting journey of tantalising discovery and flavour.

Wijnhuis is more than just a Stellenbosch eatery, it’s an experience. True to its name, this ‘home of wine’ houses a selection of four hundred wines and, if the cultivar culture isn’t enough to soak up, the restaurant is adjoined to the well known SMAC Art Gallery. Wine, food and art roofed under a 17th century land mark on Church Street makes for a memorable eating out experience. The predominantly Mediterranean menu is not limited to dinner and the restaurant offers meals throughout the day including lighter meals and snacks. Choose to be seated under the oak trees of the Wijnhius’ Street Cafe at lunch or in the upstairs restaurant when part larger crowd. Families with children will also feel at home in the restaurant’s versatile setting and easy going atmosphere. Favourites on the menu include pastas, Kalahari Lamb and venison. A nice touch to the menu is that all Wijnhuis’ seasonal vegetable produce which is grown on the restaurant owner’s farm in Wellington. The wine lounge and shop stocks a range of rare vintage wines and offers an international freighting service for serious collectors – pure indulgence all round for the food and wine lover.

Located on the scenic Route 62, Wild Apricot Restaurant embraces traditional South African cuisine enchanted by elegant charm, period cutlery and a décor that whispers memories of a bygone era. Dine by romantic candle light and soft music drifting from the baby grand piano enjoying traditional creations such as tasty mutton pie and bobotie with a twist. For starters, try the Ostrich carpaccio drizzled with olive oil, fresh lemon and sprinkled with parmesan cheese. Main meals entice with Kabeljou dressed in mushrooms and sour cream, slowly cooked in the juices from the onions and mushrooms. Round off the meal with an amarulla soufflé on a coconut crust, sprinkled with walnuts and amarulla liqueur. Dine in the elegant dining room of the Montagu Country Hotel and transport the palate to an enchanted era for an evening to remember.

With flavour bursting foods taking the spotlight, the interior remains simple and elegant heightened by interesting wall textures and large modern prints. Fast becoming known as the ‘local spot’ in Hout Bay – a place where you can enjoy slow food Sundays with large gatherings of family and friends and reconnect, share and enjoy the company of delicious food and wine. Start off your meal with steamed saldhana mussels, white wine, tomato & chorizo followed by braised shoulder of lamb, red wine, tomato, rosemary & semolina gnocchi and if you can manage to squeeze in souffle beignet, ice cream & hot chocolate sauce it will be well worth it. Wild Woods sources only the freshest seasonal local ingredients with special emphasis on sustainable dining for the eco conscious diner. With plenty of cosy corners and breathing space Wild Woods provides a light and cheerful environment complimented by breathtaking scenery, sumptuous food and unpretentious ambience.

Wilderer Distillery, winner of over 50 of the world’s most prestigious awards, including Grappa of the Year and Double Gold at the World Spirits Festival in Austria. Helmut Wilderer has become a true 'guru' for connoisseurs around the world and personally conducts tastings. Ristorante Pappa Grappa is run by Helmut’s son, Christian, whose passion for fresh seasonal ingredients, is reflected in his traditional German and Italian dishes. Try their homemade pastas, fresh fish or the parmesan feast; eating fresh pasta out of a 20 kg parmesan cheese. Flammkuchen, a pizza speciality from France, remains a must. All-in-all this is world-class grappa and eaux de vie, fantastic fresh food, outstanding service at value for money and a great vibe; a rare combination!

This well-appointed restaurant embraces home cooked meals and exotic fare in family friendly surrounds. Give into temptation sampling heavenly homemade scones with dollops of strawberry jam and cream or selections of salads, sandwiches, cakes and tarts. For the more exotic palate try the Crocodile salad plate, Ostrich and Crocodile platter, Ostrich bobotie, Ostrich scrambled eggs, and Ostrich stir fry, sure to send the palate into exotic overdrive. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner in peaceful surrounds, this family restaurant is fun packed treat for the whole family.

Traditional meals and local cuisine at its best is what Willene’s is all about. From breakfast to light lunches this simple eatery operates alongside a dusty street, hidden from view and known by locals and few that visit this historic town. Immersed in character and history, Willene’s captures a bygone ambiance and much loved family owned attitude that is evident in the food and setting. Expect local dishes such as baked fish, bobatie and mouth-watering fishcakes to mention a few, served home-style with dashes of Cape Malay. Willene’s Restaurant is a memorable dining experience.

Willoughby & Co, in Cape Town’s V & A Waterfront, is best known for its deliciously prepared fresh seafood and sushi. Named Best Seafood Restaurant for 2007/8 by the V & A Waterfront Restaurant Guide, Willoughby & Co offers diners sublime food, great service and an outstanding wine list. Using only the finest ingredient and freshest seafood Willoughby & Co is committed to providing its clientele with a menu that reflects modern food trends that are innovative, delicious and for the most part unique to the restaurant. Whether it is sushi, mussels, freshly shucked oysters, fresh line fish or carnivorous dishes from the menu, diners are guaranteed to be dazzled by the outstanding quality of food that is produced by Willoughby’s. There is a full Japanese kitchen where signature dishes such as Rainbow Reloaded and Soft Shell Crab in Ponzu Sauce are prepared under the watchful eye of Asian Chef Sam. The renovations in 2008 gave an entirely new dimension to the restaurant, creating more seats inside. Diners can sit at the sushi bar and watch as their meal is prepared, alternatively there is a seated area in the mall where diners can feast on a variety of fresh seafood, sushi, oysters and a selection of other dishes. Famous for quality, freshness and consistency, Willoughby’s is great value for money.

The dramatic décor dressed in red and black is softened by the hanging lanterns, nostalgic of a eatery in Shanghai. The sushi is balanced with the finest ingredients, enjoyed with steaming hot or cold sake. Try the sashimi, nigiri, terkanki or maki for a full rounded experience. There is a small wine list for those who really cannot do without. Wine, Women and Sushi is an authentic and enjoyable dining experience.

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.

Most of the décor comes from old junk shops and scrap yards, given a new lease of life and purpose. The decor arouses and quirky, nostalgic feel, working seamlessly to compliment the uncomplicated menu. Using only the freshest ingredients, the menu proffers crispy ginger fish, artichoke and mushroom pasta or veal limone. Expect signature dishes such as the wood fired Tuscan lamb pizza and chickpea and lentil burger. Located along Deer Park Avenue, the Woodlands Eatery makes a refreshing eatery for lunch or dinner.

Housed inside a beautifully restored Victorian building, dressed in chandeliers, XO Modern Bistro proffers excellent service, large wines by the bottle or glass and temptingly delicious cuisine. The menu boasts contemporary fare such as delicate duck à l’orange served with red cabbage and potato croquettes, rounded off with a decadent desert or a lovely cheese platter.

Set in the lovely Somerset West, Yamas Green Taverna is a superb little gem that exudes a typical Cretan tavern ambiance. Expect tiny tables and chairs scattered throughout and faded photographs with Greek artifacts and a warm and personal touch. Dine on great meze platters laden with tzatziki, taramasalata, hummus, pickled octopus, baby meatballs, skordalia – all rich with garlic and herbs enjoyed with moerish pitas. Move on to lamb, fragrant with lemon and rosemary, served with pita or crunchy potato wedges or indulge in a lovely chicken pita or succulent calamari tentacles or strips. Round off your meal with a bowl of yoghurt and honey or ultra-rich, homemade baklava. Sip on ouzo served in an authentic glass amphora or enjoy wine from the small but well priced wine list.

Ye Old Tavern greets familiar faces at this local haunt in a relaxed and informal setting inviting lazy lunches and intimate dinners. Curl up to the roaring winter fire perusing traditional fare or soak up the summer ambiance with a glass of chilled wine before tempting the palate with the delicious menu. Ye Old Tavern boasts favourite dishes such as Lamb shank, bobotie, Butterfish, Cape Malay chicken curry and the best steaks and spare ribs in town. For starters, try the tangy red pepper mouse - a delicious mousse fusion of roasted red pepper, garlic and a hint of peri-peri served with toasted bread For mains, fall off the bone tavern lamb shank - slow roasted with fresh herbs and cooked to perfection, served on a bed of butternut and thyme mash and drizzled with rich red wine sauce Desert would not be complete without crispy banana caramel spring rolls - freshly baked phyllo parcels filled with cinnamon spiced banana, served with roasted nuts, caramel ice cream and toffee sauce. Ye Old Tavern charms with traditional fare and age-old ambiance laced with contented chatter and colorful cuisine.

Spend a relaxing evening with your friends at Yindee's restaurant, reputed to be the home of the finest authentic Thai cuisine in the Southern hemisphere. Situated off trendy Kloof Street in an historic Victorian house and artfully decorated to create a peaceful Thai ambiance, Yindee's offers Southern Thai home cooking at it's finest. Voted top Cape Town Thai restaurant, their excellent wine list compliments the traditional Thai menu. If you're in the mood for seafood, vegetarian or Asian, Yindee's is well worth a visit.

Located in lower Buitengracht Street, Yizani Restaurant loosely translated means ‘Come in...Welcome’ in Xhosa. Inspired by South Africa, the hospitality extends furthers with a world class welcome that invites relaxation. The cuisine features African dishes with International flair in a contemporary African surrounding.

Noted as a lifestyle café the focus remains on quality and service and creativity and art. Chill out and chat enjoying a healthy light lunch, the morning paper or just working on your Mac.

Recently named of the top 10 deluxe eateries in South Africa by 2008 Dine Awards, Zachary’s oozes contemporary classic ambience in the culinary heart of award winning Pezula Resort, Hotel and Spa. With magnificent views stretching across the greens and four ways, patrons can indulge in fine dining in a luxury 5 star environment with breathtaking views complimenting the gourmet experience. Zachary’s embodies an honest approach to food maintaining integrity of ingredients, complimenting textures and flavours with focus on keeping produce local. Savour the delights in an intimate setting or dine al fresco on the terrace overlooking the pool area and idyllic views.

The menu favours Mexican. Flamboyant dishes dressed in chilies and authentic flavours. The traditional décor and authentic memorabilia set the stage for tantalising dishes that are hot, hot, hot! Vegetarians are spoilt for choice and palates on fire can seek coolness with Mexican beer, tequila and icy cold margarita. Soak up the energy and warmth of Mexico at Zapata in Harfield Village, the perfect place for festive get-togethers.

Zebra Crossing is a bistro with a buzz. Here visitors to the scenic sea side town of Hermanus experience the establishment’s welcoming atmosphere when they mingle with the locals. The eatery offers a cosmopolitan menu and at weekends there have been rumours about dancing on the tables… The restaurant, that only seats thirty, offers seating indoors as well as outdoors and has a fully licensed bar area. Expect simple bistro style food that includes some Chinese and Thai dishes. The restaurant also has Seafood and caters meals for vegetarians. Zebra Crossing is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Despite its limited capacity, this establishment is popular as it exudes character and has good vibe all round. Here the saying “There are no strangers in the world, only friends you haven’t yet met” certainly applies.