Western Cape Restaurants

Dieu Donne restaurant finds itself in Franschhoek, arguably, the culinary capital of the country. The Drakenstein mountain is a magnificent backdrop to the wine farm on which the eatery is located and thus sets the scene for tranquil lunch or dinner. The restaurant is housed in an underground cellar and promises patrons fine dining with its extensive menu and wine pairings from the farm’s own offerings. Dieu Donne is also a popular lunch venue. Guests soak up the best of the summer weather with al fresco style dining on the ground terrace while the lawn (with a sandpit near by to occupy the kids) is available for families who would like to picnic. Blankets are provided and the restaurant has a children’s menu. Dieu Donne delivers a ‘world menu’ which includes French Huguenot Provincial fare, with a unique combination of African, Asian & Mauritian influences. The open planned professional kitchen makes dining an interactive experience and adds to the energy that the restaurant exudes. A point of interest at this location is the micro brewery. Visitors are welcome to taste the beer the farm yields. Wine tasting is also recommended. Dieu Donne is also a prime wedding and function venue.

Celebrate the African heritage and discover the spirit of Africa with the tastes of real authentic African food. Dijo Restaurant offers and experience only extended through the hands of an African home. With authentic décor, art and music, patrons can celebrate and share the love of food in a setting that embodies the spirituality and creativity commonly found in an African home. Enjoy the most amazing traditional South African food, wholesome and simply delicious with no dictates or formalities. Savour real home-made pot bread with beef stew or mutton curry with pap and sweet potatoes before embarking on the velvety textures of chocolate pudding smothered in fresh cream. Dijo Restaurant is about keeping it simple and celebrating being African in a space where all South Africans can celebrate their African heritage. Unpretentious and homely, here you can find yourself and discover your true African spirit.

This hidden gem welcomes you with flickering candlelights and polished marble floors dressed in earthy African art. Pure understated elegance in a romantic venue that oozes class and passion for upscale country cuisine. Tranquil surroundings provide the perfect setting for alfresco dining on the terrace. The exciting and sumptuous Ala-Carte menu serves exquisite country cuisine and extensive wine list. Menu change daily according to availability of locally sourced ingredients. Dine at Andros Hotel for gourmet breakfasts, lunches and delicious dinners and experience warm ambience with upscale surroundings for truly exquisite country cuisine.

A theatrical display compliments the dining experience as the palate moves from one scene to the next, sampling a delicious array of starters, mains then desert. Drenched in atmosphere and warm bohemian touches, Diva Caffee Ristorante invites lingering lunches and lazy dinners infused with romantic Italian flavour. Dine at tables draped in red rosebud table clothes softened by delicate lighting or the European patio enjoying thin-based pizzas and mouthwatering pastas.

With a laid-back atmosphere, this institution has become famous with locals and tourists. From fishermen to bikers and families, Dixies Restaurant and Pub serves delicious food upon endless lapping ocean views. A flavourful and unpretentious setting that exudes a jovial atmosphere, Dixies Restaurant and Pub provides the perfect place to linger the day away while enjoying breakfast, lunch and dinners.

The menu caters a selection of mouthwatering pizzas; legendary burgers and succulent seafood enjoyed with live music and a hip and trendy crowd. Located along The Drive in Camps Bay, Dizzy’s stays open till late, catering for hungry palates till early hours of the morning.

Situated near the Food Court in the V & A Waterfront, Dodge City Diner is one of four stores in Cape Town, and is the flagship. This 1950s American style diner is great fun for all the family. The retro decor reminds diners of days gone; with pop art on the walls and black and white checkered floors, ‘50s bubble gum pop blaring out of the juke box a visit to Dodge City Diner is a like a trip back in time. An old fashioned burger bar, Dodge Diner only uses the best quality ingredients for all the items on the menu. All the burgers are homemade patties made from100% lean AAA grade beef and are flame grilled for that delicious barbeque flavour. There are healthier options on the menu too including salads and delicious grilled chicken sandwiches. A trip to a diner would not be complete without ordering one of the old fashioned homemade milkshakes, made with extra creamy ice cream. Dodge City Diner also has a mouth watering selection of Gelato, an ideal way to cool off on a hot summer’s day! A perfect place to take the family for a treat, Dodge City Diner is fun, fast and great value for money.

On the beachfront, Doodles is landmark in the Table View area. Open for nearly twenty years, it affords patrons some of the best views in Cape Town – Table Mountain, the city, the fabulous new FIFA 2010 world cup soccer stadium, Robben Island and the mighty Atlantic Ocean. Its relaxed, beach bar vibe and history make it a favourite for locals. The outside deck is the perfect place to chill, whatever the weather. On those perfect balmy Cape Town days sit under the warm African sun and feast on seafood or a selection from the grill. Alternatively, on those blustery days, when the outside deck is protected by the awnings diners can watch the wild sea while feasting on a variety of the fabulous fare on offer. With a varied menu, including breakfast, fresh seafood, gourmet grill items and pizzas, there is something for everyone at Doodles. There is live music on Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, making Doodles a lively place to enjoy a fabulous meal, while taking in the wonders of Cape Town.

Doubleshot puts Plettenberg Bay on the South African coffee map. Doubleshot installed the first Kees van der Westen Mirage espresso machine in Africa, and it now buy its beans from Origin Roastery in Cape Town. Two former Lufthansa flight attendants, Karin and Karin, spent their working years checking out the best coffee shops around the world before opening up their own at The Square shopping center in Plettenberg Bay. To eat, the café offers cakes, sandwiches piled high with local meats and cheeses, and muesli worth skipping your hotel breakfast for. For coffee made with passion do to Doubleshot Coffeebar in Plettenberg Bay.

Nestled along the vibrant Long Street, this modern sleek eatery delights with finger licking and lip smacking dishes straight from South America. The menu bursts with moreish snacks such as barbequed ribs; fried chicken and Jambalaya served with sides of crisp French fries, cheesy grits or whipped mashed potatoes. Feast sarmies washed down with a cold brewski or two and seduce your sweet tooth with the iconic Mississippi mud pie.

Enhanced by the natural elements - walls made of clay and straw, high ceilings from wood and glass windows stained. This warm and earthy restaurant draws inspiration from nature with a delectable menu of starters, salads, mains and deserts. Dine al fresco on the wooden deck with mesmerising views over Herolds Bay watching whales and dolphins frolicking in the bay. Surrounded by the contrasting beauty of green landscapes and blue oceans, Down to Earth Restaurant graces the palate with evocative food and well-suited selection of South African wines. Discover the beauty of nature for a truly down to earth experience.

Attached to the Super Plants Nursery, the spacious interior and rustic décor is warm and earthy, in keeping with the natural surroundings. The menu leans towards versatility, with delicious light lunches, mouthwatering cakes and afternoon teas. Try the grilled chicken breast, crisp bacon, fried banana, avocado served on salad greens. Or the Hunter's Schnitzel, which consists of a crumbed pork fillet topped with a mushroom/ham/red wine cream sauce or the lamb shank. Set within landscaped gardens, miniature lakes and local wildlife, diners can soak up the tranquil surroundings while children play.

Nestled in the heart of the Rivera Hotel along the banks of the Hartenbos Lagoon is a sanctuary bursting with flavour inspired by Africa and the deep blue sea. Cradled by the Indian Ocean and outstretched beaches, lush vegetation and the rocky face of the Outeniqua Mountain, Driftwood inspires a décor fresh from the sea and roots of Africa. The calm and spacious nautical theme compliments the mouth-watering comfort food served in generous portions of fusion. Entice the palate with delicious morsels before watching the sun set from the open deck sipping a cooling cocktail or selection of local wines. Boasting mouth-watering food and a view to kill, Driftwood Restaurant is your nautical retreat to the sea for casual cool comfort.

Right on Hout Bay beach, Dunes restaurant has awesome views of Chapman's Peak, the Sentinel, the bay and, of course, the beach. The setting lends itself for every occasion and it’s a stunning spot for sundowners. During the day it is very popular with parents and their pipsqueaks who have immense fun in the giant sandy playground with various swings and jungle gyms. The kids’ menu is also a hit.

The Dutch East Restaurant finds its home in the historic French Hugenot settlement town of Franschhoek in the Western Cape. Easily one of the most picturesque towns in South Africa, Franschhoek has also earned the reputation of being the culinary capital of the country. The Dutch East, with its fusion of traditional Dutch and eastern influence offerings, stands out as a unique eatery in a predominantly French cuisine environment. The restaurant is relaxed and upmarket. The earthy interior manages to achieve a clean, minimalist simplicity in its décor that is stylish and inviting. High A-frame ceilings, red bricked walls and chandeliers set the mood. The menu aims to present food that is both appetizing to the taste buds and appealing on the eye. With the restaurant philosophy of maintaining and complimenting the true flavour of the main ingredient of the dish by preparing it fresh and simply, Dutch East certainly plates up dishes that are a flavoursome feast for the senses. Menu options include the likes of Seared Tuna with black sesame halva and a soy emulsion with whipped mango for starters, Lamb Shoulder with spinach cream, crackling and corn bites for mains and Fried Milk Tart with whipped cream and berry compote for dessert.

Boasting the finest antique collection in the country, Dutch Manor Antique Hotel exudes grandiose old world charm. The menu specializes in heritage fusion cuisine serving classic South African fare infused with flavours from the Bo-Kaap. Dine in an intimate setting surrounded by antiques and fixings dating back over 200 years enjoying specialty dishes such as fried quail’s egg-topped bobotie tartlets, and warm smoked snoek salad with pickled carrot chutney. Discover a slice of history and colourful heritage at Dutch Manor House Private Dining in the vibrant Bo-Kaap.

Nestled within the cosy Chelsea Village, Dutch Restaurant delights the palate with delicious bistro fare and continental cuisine. The menu takes the palate on a journey through the Netherlands offering a myriad of choices from secret Dutch recipes. Try the homemade crumbed organic beef kroketten on rye bread and the rich pea soup with smoked sausage. The fresh, uncomplicated ambiance works well with the Kartel Ghost chairs and tables, contrasted by charcoal walls and black and white photographs brightened with splashes of orange. The Dutch Restaurant is an intimate and authentic eatery in the cosy Chelsea Village.

Mere meters from the sea shore of Grotto beach in Hermanus is Dutchies, a delightful Dutch eatery. Guests are easily charmed by the select, Dutch inspired menu and the cosy atmosphere that the restaurant presents. Dutchies abounds with atmosphere and guests love the personal attention of the restaurant owner mingling with visitors. In summer outdoor seats under umbrellas, soaking up the view is a must. The Hollandse Biefstuk on offer for mains is a clear indication that this is proud to be Dutch establishment. Other menu items include Calamari, a Seafood platter and Chicken kebabs. The dessert menu is just a delight with African Dream which is Amarula ice-cream dipped in chocolate and crowned with a chocolate slab and Blueberry Cheesecake. The restaurant charges a small fee for corkage.

Enjoy contemporary dining in beautiful surroundings by the Lourens river and next to the long-standing Vergelegen and Morgenster Wine Estates at D’vine Restaurant.Spend some time on the terrace in the garden or in the bright and spacious conservatory or have a cosy dinner in one the wonderful dining rooms.The unique a la carte menu has been carefully planned, combining local tastes with exotic flavours and is accompanied by a wine list comprising the best selection the Western Cape offers.Superb, attentive service adds the finishing touch to a wonderful dining experience.

The perfect setting to enjoy lazy breakfasts and alfresco lunches indoors or on the sheltered terrace marvelling at the awaking of the early morning or lingering sunset; East Head Café is where friends and family meet to reconnect for good food and casual conversation cooled by cocktails and wine. East Head Café boasts quality and service accentuated by flavour and freshness using the best local ingredients for sumptuous breakfasts and creamy cappuccinos. Indulge in a selection of the finest wines by glass or bottle complimented by fresh battered fish and chips or a delicious gourmet burger from the Café style menu. Kids are welcome and catered for ensuring parents get much needed time to relax and enjoy the well thought out setting and food. With a kiddies menu complimented by colouring boards, blackboards and toys, kids can be kids without the worry and stress associated with dining out. You can be forgiven spending a little more time here than expected, enjoying delicious food on a balmy summer days or curling up to the crackling fireplace.

An exotic gem bursting with exotic aromas and flavours, this authentic experience enlightens the palate with strictly Halaal cuisine, prepared fresh and made to order. The interior is vibrant, decorated in gilded Indian style, with no alcohol allowed on the premises. Try your palate at an array of flavours ranging from Turkish kebabs to Cape-style biryanis, creamy North Indian curries and real tandoor dishes from Bombay to the Bo-Kaap. Experience and authentic bazaar Cape Town experience along the bustling Long Market Street in Cape Town.

Tucked away behind Eden on the Bay Centre, Eastern Fusion is a fusion of flavours from China, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore. A mixture of Eastern cuisine and traditional dishes, alongside some unique creations offers diversity and choice. Freshly made sushi, traditional beers and alfresco seating makes Eastern Fusion a great spot for an easy-going dining experience and great value for money.

Located in Tyger Valley, Eastwoods tantalizes with an array of salads and light lunches, even traditional pub lunches. Relaxed drinks call for wood-fired pizzas while sipping cocktails or a cold draught on the patio. Enjoy the panoramic views of Durbanville Hills and Table Mountain indulging on bangers and mash complimented or signature T-bone steak served with either chips, mashed potato or pap and sous.

Start the day with a delicious French toast drenched in maple syrup or pop in for a lazy lunch. Light lunch options include burgers, nachos and very fresh sumptuous salads including gluten and dairy-free options. Tempt the palate with moist apple and cinnamon cake and a homely lemon meringue pie. Long wooden tables set the mood for lingering all day breakfasts enjoyed with a cup of delicious organic coffee and morning paper. The vibe welcomes with a roaring winter fire and quaint tables scattered outside perfect for alfresco.

EAT restaurant is located in the tranquil Hemel – en- Aarde Valley of Hermanus. Living up to its name, this eatery encourages, if not demands that patrons do just that: EAT. Guests can choose to be seated indoors or enjoy sit back and soak in the spectacular views from the restaurant’s courtyard. Either way the atmosphere of the restaurant has upmarket and relaxed. EAT’s contemporary menu has a variety of items to suit every appetite. Try the Sweetcorn fritters as comfort food. While those with a more demanding palate will appreciate the Pear, Blue Cheese and Caramelised Cashew Nuts as an appetizer. End with a delectable dessert of Deep Fried Ice-cream with caramelised berries. The mains on offer caters for the not so hungry in the form of snack baskets, while the carnivores will certainly tuck into the Rib Eye or Rump steak selection without being asked twice. The restaurant offers some great entertainment in the summer months. EAT offers a relaxed setting that is wheelchair friendly.

Enjoying light meals and continental fare, diners relax soaking up the mountainous views dining alfresco in the shady garden. The cool stoep invites lazy lunches over a glass of wine with no corkage charged for those who prefer to bring their own. Browse the interesting curio shops for an added bit of retail therapy. Ebenharts Restaurant in Voortrekker Road is a little oasis in the Klein Karoo, waiting to be discovered by you.

The health conscious will love 8 Restaurant at Spier Estate in Stellenbosch. With its Farm-to-Table inspired menu and all the focus on wholesome, organic and fresh produce, visitors can indulge in an eating out experience that is guilt free. Not only is the restaurant strictly health orientated, the procurement of the produce is also green all the way. 8 Restaurant has a casual mood that demands relaxation from its patrons. That aspect, combined with the significance of the number 8 in the eatery’s name, adds dimension to one’s perception of the place. The number 8 signifies balance, cycles, harmony, infinity and abundance which is a clear indication of the restaurant’s approach to its food and means of sourcing produce. Visitors to 8 Restaurant can expect exciting combinations of predominantly raw ingredients. All items are natural and organic and geared at optimal nutrition. The signature dish is Chicken Pie that is served with seasonal vegetables and herbs. The establishment is licensed, so enjoying a glass of wine with one’s meal is a sure option, however, one cannot expect to find carbonated drinks on the menu. The restaurant is also has a deli for a bout of healthy shopping.

Dressed in vivid pink walls, plush leather booths, ambient lampshades and Mexican art, El Burro steers away from the traditional Mexican décor into a more sophisticated Mexican experience. Located along the Green Point strip, diners enjoy a myriad of Mexican pleasures ranging from ceviche, which is made with the fish of the day and bursts of lime, coriander, chilli and pickled red onion. Mains include a chocolate mole, the national dish of Mexico, as well as an array of soft corn tacos filled with chilli-battered line fish and braised short rib served with a spread of fresh guacamole, smoked and fresh chilli sauce, salsa and sour cream. Dine within the mood-enhancing interior or enjoy the balmy summer sun alfresco on the balcony.

Try the Elephant and Barrel for good old English pub fare in a friendly setting in Franschhoek.Featuring classic meals like bangers and mash and pies, the team behind this quaint spot really knows what classic pub fare is about. Hearty meals satisfy and true to form, imported beers flow like water. There is also a nice selection of wines for those who don’t fancy a pint.A terrace makes for a great area to relax in on warmer days and when the weather is more like it usually is in England, the cosy interior will keep patrons warm.Experience the best that old English pub fare has to offer at the Elephant and Barrel.

A modest but perfectly planned menu and a scenic setting makes for a truly enjoyable and tranquil time at Emily Moon Restaurant.Overlooking the Bitou Rver, Emily Moon is a superb spot to enjoy delicious meat, fish or vegetarian dishes and wine from surrounding estates as you watch the sun go down. Friendly service and African decor add to the experience and provide the perfect sanctuary for travellers stopping off while touring the beautiful area.An excellent place to refresh and refill!

Superb South African cuisine awaits you at the Waterfront’s premier tourist location.This prestigious eatery boasts rich flavours from all over the continent using the freshest and highest quality ingredients. Sumptuous offerings are complemented perfectly with a superb selection of wine from the best wine farms the Cape has to offer as well as a good international selection.Highly-trained staff that take the utmost pride in their work ensure the highest standard of service and superbly prepared and presented dishes.A healthy number of awards and accolades provides testament to the flawless service and delicious culinary creations at Emily’s.

e’Mondo means ‘the earth’ and this café is all about preserving and enjoying our earth in a natural, uncomplicated state. Expect produce sourced from ‘responsible’ farmers, local and free range meats right down to recycling waste and using decomposable packaging. The food is freshly created each day with the philosophy of protecting our earth in mind. Breakfast starts with muesli, fruit and yoghurt or Eggs Royale with smoked salmon and hollandaise sauce a cup of some of the best coffee in town. A light meal constitutes an orange butternut soup, with a hint of spice, or a hearty Chicken and Mushroom Pie followed by homemade brownies or shortbread. The setting is clean and fresh, with white and black wood creating an air of relaxation and comfort.

Found down a side street of Muizenberg, facing the sea, the Empire Cafe takes its name from an historical site in Muizenberg. Beloved by locals due to its down-to-earth atmosphere and reliably good food, the Empire Cafe delivers unfussy gourmet lunches and hearty breakfasts accompanied by great coffee. Breakfast options range from pastries to hearty English and lunch starts with simple options like burgers and chips to more sophisticated choices like lamb rump steak with spinach.

This authentic African café embraces culture and warmth with delectable meals and traditional hospitality. Offering an array of delights alongside hearty traditional cuisine, Emqolweni Kamama Café tempts the palate with loveliness. Enjoy a relaxing traditional meal while kids have fun in the play park before setting off to experience the culture and hospitality of the traditional Songoma followed by a refreshing Mqomboti (traditional beer) before being swept away by the enigmatic soul of the traditional dancers. Emqolweni Kamama Café is cultural retreat filled with traditional surprises for a truly inspiring dining experience.

Located in the Northern Suburbs, Encore accommodates 80 people seated and 150 cocktail including a dance floor. The up market and trendy atmosphere enjoys good food and excellent service with views of Table Mountain and Table Bay. The menu covers Mediterranean and South African cuisine and caters for a wide variety of functions starting with breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Exuding a traditional North Indian atmosphere, Enigma Bombay on the Beach is big on flavour and authenticity while retaining a casual feel that simplifies the experience of enjoying a fantastic curry in an Indian restaurant. Cheap and cheerful, you can expect generous portions of butter chicken and fragrant Bombay aloo best served with a warm, chewy, buttery naan with which to mop it all up. Low on décor and fancy extras, Enigma Bombay on the Beach ensures they make up for it on flavour and authenticity.

The hand built Italian Espresso machine indulges coffee lovers and the menu boasts the freshest and best ingredients. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse the senses in an indulgent adventure at Escape Caffe.

Dose up on decadent delights wrapped in quirky décor and country ambiance, Eseltjiesrus Country Kitchen robes the palate with South African cuisine infused with an international twist. Start the day with a full breakfast, omelette, French toast or a health option of muesli, yoghurt, fresh fruit and honey. Light lunches offer toasted sandwiches and homemade hamburgers followed by heartier meals such as homemade pies, oxtail ragout, Lamb curry and coq-au-van. The bakery delights with homemade scones and savoury muffins, baked daily, and a varied selection of decadent deserts. Revive a balmy summer day with a glass of refreshing homemade ginger beer and lemonade or select homegrown wines from the small but affordable wine list. Vegetarians pamper the palate with varied delights such as spinach and blue cheese pie, vegetarian lasagne and lentil nut roast. Dine indoors or alfresco on the patios, looking out onto a garden brimming with Aloes and Palms. Eseltjierus Country Kitchen is the perfect place for slow breakfasts and teatime treats.

The coffee is imported from Italy or prepared by fully trained barrista’s while the extensive menu promises many choices. From the famous petite breakfast to the traditional South African lunch time meals such as chicken and mushroom pie, lamb curry and bobotie. The lunch offering vary from substantial to light meals such as toasted sandwiches, filled croissants and bagels to delicious wraps. Pop into espresso with family for friends for a sumptuous treat and aromatic cup of coffee.

Ideally positioned on Main Road, Essence Restaurant and Coffee Bar welcomes languid coffee breaks, quick lunches and lazy days reading the paper. Popular with locals and tourists, this little haven boasts gorgeous mountain views and alfresco dining on a shady deck overlooking a trickling stream. The interior is cosy and balanced, with elegant décor statements and the aroma of delicious LILLY coffee. Pop in for a coffee or start the morning with a hearty breakfast such as the Farmhouse or the more elegant scrambled eggs served with Franshhchoek smoked trout, capers and onion. Sweet palates can indulge in waffles with bacon, brie and fig drenched in maple syrup! Lunch options vary from rump strips, onions, tomato, rocket and mustard, or Asian inspired salads such as roast duck with bean thread and peanut sauce. The menu features some traditional favourites such as Bobotie with yellow rice and Lamb curry with sambals. Coffee breaks compliment the heavenly cheesecake or light-hearted lemon meringue, and teatime remains a treat with old-fashioned scones and strawberry jam.