City Bowl Restaurants

Everything from good food to the love of art beacons those who visit 38 Special in City Bowl. Housed in one of the oldest building in the CBD, diners enjoy the laid back and relaxed setting savouring culinary masterpieces and exploring resident artwork on display. The character still exudes and holds true boasting original facades and wooden flooring, lovingly decorated to compliment the international menu. 38 Special holds something special for those who visit, a truly memorable dining experience.

Traditional Ethiopian dishes are the order of the day at Addis in Cape. Brilliant service enhances the experience with staff that will gladly explain the menu and guide your selection if required. The decor is as authentic as the food with traditional Ethiopian furnishings and colour palettes. A must-try experience, Addis in Cape is a culinary trip through Ethiopia you won’t soon forget!

From handcrafted artisan beers to cheese and organic olives, &Union favours artisan. Enjoy beers dating back to the middle ages, cheeses aged the artisan way and a spread of delicious locally produced food that made this distinct experience one of nostalgia and purity.

Authentic Italian cuisine is the order of the day with everything and anything ranging from pastas, pizzas and decadent range of pure Italian ice cream. The pizza boasts an exclusive combination of flavours and naturally fermented dough and ice cream with 22 different flavours. This bright, cheery and light café makes for an ideal stopover for lunch and dinner, anytime of the day, except Sunday.

Arnold's is a cosy but vibey restaurant in Cape Town's City Bowl.Famous for their Early Bird Breakfast as well as lunch specials and game dishes like crocodile ribs, warthog ribs, oryx steaks and great salads. Enjoy happy hour while you take in the mountain views (from 4.30 pm for 2 hours every day) or treat yourself to the best cheese cake!Need to know? Open 7 days a week from 6.45am to late (8am Saturday & Sunday), outside dining till 10pm.

In a beautiful Victorian Town house on the vibrant and trendy Kloof Street is Asoka. The menu offers superb flavoursome tapas and promotes sharing and socialising while sampling the delicious creations with friends and family. The food served is healthy and full of wonderful flavour combinations that have diners ordering seconds and thirds. Enjoy a truly tranquil culinary experience at Asoka.

Experience wonderful fine dining in a superbly relaxed atmosphere at Aubergine. A well-planned menu proffering continental cuisine with an Asian twist here provides wonderful options to suit every palate. Prepared with skill and care, the creations are prepared using only the freshest South African produce. Game and seafood are particularly popular, as are the vegetarian dishes for the non-meat eaters. A vast wine list provides options for a perfect accompaniment for every meal. As well as local wines from many regions spanning South Africa, there are also international options. A warm and welcoming atmosphere ensures a satisfying dining experience to remember.

Nostalgic photos adorn the walls, rustic kitchen equipment dangle from chandeliers and colourful meals are best eaten with mismatched Victorian cutlery in this cute, kitch and cosy eatery in Loop Street. The menu focuses on wholesome meals, handwritten on a collection of blackboards. Flavours of the Middle East infused with a touch of Boerekos add a distinct flare to dining while traditional servings of lamb shawarma hit the spot. Round off the meal with a selection of rocky road brownies, cupcakes galore and lemon meringue. Cool the palate with a Frankie cinnamon cola or warming Arabic coffee infused with cardomon and cloves after indulging the menu.

This bustling, vibrant and friendly venue has earned its place as one of Cape Town's friendliest restaurants. Service comes with a smile and the pizzas and pastas come with unique family recipes to ensure that all Bacini's foods are exceptional! The gorgeous summer nights are embraced with the setting out of this restaurant – an outside seating area accommodates 60 people and one can easily feel as though you may be sitting at a trattoria in Italy, with Kloof Street turning into a magically lit backdrop. Romondo and family are always happy to mingle among the diners and their hospitality and service ethic will make you feel like a regular, even on your first visit to Bacini's! In winter this is a cozy 'hang-out” offering a unique blend of garlic aromas, the sound of happy laughter, and the clinking of glasses as locals, regulars and “new kids” on the block toast to life in the happy family environment. The pizzas are as generous as the Napoli family and the pastas are.....well....Italian! Delicious, divine and delectable! We offer a selection of meat and chicken dishes, salads, pizzas and pastas. Wherever your taste-buds feel like taking you, you will be transported to a culinary experience that is real value for money and you will be back for more!

Located in De Waterkant in Green Point, this funky coloured store borders between a traditional Italian gelatina, hip bakery, patisserie and comfortable coffee bar dressed in colourful décor embracing art and fashion. Small and comfortable, scattered with sofas, comfortable outdoor seating and Italian décor, BICCCS boasts the finest vintage 1950’s Carpisiani Machine imported from Italy. This genuine machine churns out the most decadent ice cream, free from artificial flavours, colours and nonsense. Enjoy the flavours and aromas of freshly baked southern Italian bread, all baked using natural ingredient including European style croissants and rich moist cakes. The menu brims with light mals, paninis, salads, luxurious coffee prepared the Napolitano way. Try the beautiful Walnut, Gorgonzola and Avocado laden salad, spinach pies, rustic spicy meat and potato pie, paninis with the fillings of the day a thick garlicky slice of Italian home style pizza with rich tomato loaded with basil leaves and unctuous fior-di-latte mozzarella. BICCCS caters for discerning hedonists who appreciate quality, style and full-bodied flavours of traditional Italy in Green Point.

The neutral, elegant and easy going décor sets the mood for a relaxed and flavourful experience ideal for business lunches, romantic dinners or family dinners. The menu offers a la Carte dining, ranging from freshly caught fish and a selection of hot and cold mezze. Enjoy the elegant surrounds and contemporary ambiance at Bistro 126.

Bo-Kaap Kombuis nestles on the foot of a hill, painted with the most spectacular backdrop of Table Mountain and the city. Traditional Cape Malay hospitality welcomes with warmth and the enticing aroma of spicy, fragrant and colourful cuisine that epitomizes the culture, traditions and customs of this colourful nation. The menu touches and journeys deep into authentic flavours of Cape Malay, served with excellence, complimented by good wine and scenic vistas. Open Tuesday – Saturday for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Brimming with eclectic décor, quirky artifacts and nostalgic nick-knacks, Bombay Bicycle Club creates a space fit for a gypsy with a wild bohemian attitude and uplifting vibe. The menu caters with fun and relaxed food comprising of soups, pastas, carpacious, fillets and tangines washed back with a well suited bottle of wine. Try the meltingly tender slow-cooked springbok shank or lip licking sticky ribs! The gorgeous interior oozes comfort, cosines and attitude, giving the eye plenty to look at while enjoying the fruits of Bombay Bicycle on Kloof Street, Gardens.

Discover home cooking with a contemporary twist enjoying magnificent views over Table Mountain. Nestled along the tree-lined Dunkley Square, Cafe Harambee secures a menu brimming with home cooked comfort food. Try the oven-baked meatballs on crunchy green bean with onion mash or chicken, gammon and port pie. The paprika crumbed calf's liver with a red onion, sour cherry and Teriyaki sauce remains a big seller. Light meals include a beetroot and goat's cheese salad or Cajun chicken salad or choose from a Carpaccio or smoked salmon trout sandwich. Indulge yourself with a smoothly sensual cream cheese and lemon chilled cake or delightfully decadent chocolate mousse torte with sour cherry dessert and conclude this yum factor dining experience with a sweeping sunset over Lions Head. Dine within the light indoor ambiance or enjoy the casual outdoor deck dining alfresco.

This popular meeting place in De Waterkant bustles with activity and delighted patrons who enjoy voluptuous beef burgers (reputed as the best in town), bold and vibrant interior and vibey ambiance. Café Manhattan in Green Point boasts a new menu brimming with culinary delights such as their skyscraper beef burger, with an added array of variations, reputed as the best in town. A popular hangout for socializing, eating and drinking, the interior and exterior compliments the ambiance with vibrant and bold statements perched on the corner of Waterkant and Dixon Street. Serving brunch, lunch and dinner, Café Manhattan advises booking dinner reservations to avoid disappointment. See what the buzz is all about at Café Manhattan.

The beautiful garden setting flanked by breathtaking panoramic views sets the stage for a warm and charming experience immersed in flavours of yesteryear. Superb traditional fare spills off the menu, embracing the simplicity of food in a relaxed farm stall setting. Dishes touch upon French and Mediterranean flavours with a classical Italian influence and offer selections such as fresh salads, lamb shank and the best fillet steaks. Indulge your sweet side with sinfully decadent lemon ricotta cheesecake and chocolate fondant.

Exuding peace and tranquility, Cafe Puka is ideal for breakfast or lunch with family, friends or just on your own. The menu proffers contemporary classics, light meals and healthy options such as salads, wraps and sandwiches. Expect slap-up breakfast fare and lunchtime plates laden with the likes of Peppadew-and-coriander-studded calamari, fragrant curries and a rib-sticking burger too. Reputed as Thamboerskloof’s best kept secret, pop in and discover the locals favoured gastronomic retreat.

Experience true Cape heritage through superb fine dining at Cape Colony restaurant at the Mount Nelson Hotel.Enjoy mouthwatering options like succulent springbok and tender ostrich, all prepared with care and incorporating a taste of the traditional.Allow for some extra time when selecting the accompanying wine from the extremely extensive and fully-detailed wine list, full of the best wines at varying prices. The superbly helpful and attentive staff are on hand to make suggestions should you need some extra help.The decor stays true to times gone by and creates a unique ambience that is a pleasure to experience.Take some time out to enjoy a taste of the old days of the Cape at Cape Colony restaurant.

Perched on the slopes on Table Mountain, this Italian themed eatery exudes a warm and cosy atmosphere, dressed in comfortable couches and a laid back atmosphere. Imagine delicious thin-based pizzas, freshly made pastas and the finest seafood, fish and meat dishes. The chicken is certified organic, the eggs are free-range and the vegetables are sourced daily. The fully licensed bar caters for easy drinking and chilled sundowners, while the restaurant hosts intimate candlelight dinners. Discover a hidden gem in the heart of Cape Town when you visit Carlyles on Derry.

For superb seasonal dishes and one of the largest wine lists in South Africa, try Chenin Restaurant and Wine Bar. The wine list comprises a huge number of wines, many available by the glass and spanning a range of budgets. Situated in a great position by the piazza fountain and with stylish but simple decor, Chenin Restaurant and Wine Bar has all you need to dine in comfort.

The Cookshop is the ideal spot for breakfast or lunch, especially when you get the chance to try their secret homemade mayo recipe. Expect the usual favourites for breakfast enjoyed exclusively at the breakfast club meetings only. But lunch cracks the nod weekdays and can be enjoyed by all. Think free-range roast chicken, cucumber and rocket on rye or ciabatta topped off with coriander-chili mayo. Parmesan French toast with slow-roasted tomatoes and crispy bacon and an organic flat white to round it off. The menu tempts with gourmet sandwiches, tasty soups, salads and bakes and their utterly decadent balsamic onion marmalade. Enjoy the mini organic market every Tuesday, a perfect accompaniment to a delicious lunch and good cup of coffee.

The restaurant holds a charming and energetic ambiance, enjoyed even more in the leather booths and dimmed cosy lighting. Drawings saturate the walls adding character and charm! Order a pizza and expect handmade, thin and crusty base, cooked to perfect in the genuine wood burning oven, topped with an assortment of delicious toppings, enjoyed with a good bottle of wine or crisp beer. Burgers satisfy hearty palates, dressed in all the trimmings, with choice of beef, chicken, ostrich and vegetarian. Try the Brussels with blue cheese and fig!

The large up scaled playground hosts’ entertainment such as swings, slides, jungle gyms and much more, while parents indulge in great breakfasts or light lunches. The menu is versatile, with adult and child size portions available on most dishes and the bustling ambiance is the perfect spot of weekend breakfasts and brunches.

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.

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.

A vibrant spot on bustling Long Street, Fior Fiore is a great place for perfect thin crust pizzas and delicious pastas and salads.Italian dishes are the order of the day at this lively venue. A unique blend of flours makes for perfect thin bases for the popular pizzas and a wide range of toppings means diners are spoilt for choice. The gelatos are homemade and a must-try with so many flavours to choose from.Professional and highly-trained staff tend to diners’ needs perfectly, without being intrusive.Frequented by a stylish crowd, the atmosphere is always buzzing at Fior Fiore.

Fantastic contemporary cuisine awaits you at this superb venue in Cape Town’s bustling CBD. Set within an intriguing old building, the restaurant has multiple dining rooms as well as a wine cellar for a more romantic setting for two and a courtyard for al fresco dining. Priding itself on consistently good food and superior service, Five Flies offers a varied menu of delectable contemporary dishes, created by a talented and dedicated team. Take some time out of the rat race for this popular Cape Town venue.

For truly tasty tapas, Fork is the place to be. We offer an incredible variety of tapas is available, all divided into categories according to price. Smoked salmon rolls with goat’s cheese and the beef fillet and mushrooms with croutons are just two of the delectable offerings from the vast selection. Take advantage of the long-standing and very popular special. A decent-sized wine list provides the accompaniment, with plenty of good options by the glass. A bar area downstairs provides a cosy area, particularly for the smokers, while upstairs is another dining area with a quaint and friendly feel.

Located along the trendy Bree Street, diners peruse the Mediterranean inspired menu bursting with tapas of all shapes, sizes and flavours, enjoyed with a glass or bottle of wine. The menu changes fortnightly sampling choices such as cheese and basil skewer and prawns to grilled calamari and juicy oysters. Wine is abundant and full of choice, offering over 100 bottles and wine by the glass. Spend the day indulging in a leisurely lunch or delicious dinner with friends, socialising and sharing the pleasures of tapas and wine and French Toast Wine and Tapas Bar in City Bowl.

Enjoy delicious and authentic Asian and Chinese cuisine at this popular spot in Cape Town’s buzzing city bowl.Japanese and Chinese chefs skilfully prepare delicacies like dim sum, sushi and flavoursome wok dishes in ample portions for a communal dining experience, making this a great place for a group of friends.The wine list is vast and descriptive, ensuring that diners can easily select the right bottle for the right meal.The setting is carefully lit and features a dark palette and stylish lacquered wood, creating a unique and enjoyable environment.A must-try venue for those who adore Asian cuisine, Haiku is well worth a try.

The menu bursts with gourmet burgers, salads and pizzas, but what draws diners to Hudsons are awesome burgers and seriously frothy shakes. Perfect for lunch or dinner, a quick bite or little bit of indulgence, Hudsons in Kloof Street is the place to be for that all American burger fries and shakes.

Located along Waterkant Street, Keenwa invites exploration and relaxation in a low-key setting. Experience flavours from the country characterized by fresh, light and easy-to-eat flavours. For a starter try the ceviche – fish marinated in limejuice, sprinkled with chillies, prawns and passion fruit, or warm your palate with baby potatoes with a creamy feta and chilli sauce. Mains feature succulent beef schnitzel with fried banana on a bed of beans and rice topped with a fried egg or Quinoa (pronounced keenwa) salads. For something sweet, try alfajores, a very sweet shortbread biscuit filled with manjar blanco (a milky caramel). Experience the Americas at Keenwa in the City Bowl.

Located in Gardens, Tamboerskloof, Kyoto Garden Sushi enchants with a beautiful setting and soothing waterfall. The Zen inspired décor wraps the mood in tranquil ambiance as the creative tastes of sushi melt in the mouth enjoyed with a complimenting Japanese beer. Visit Kyoto Garden Sushi for a taste of Japan in the heart of Gardens, Tamboerskloof.

This delightful French café brims with elegant baked delights and delicate tarts, and the most delicious coffees and teas, served in petite china. The ambiance exudes café Paris, with floral and vintage décor, elegant armchairs and curvaceous furniture, enticed by delightful displays of heavenly bakes, tarts and ‘to die for’ carrot and apple cake. Marvel and soak up the setting over a languid breakfast or grab a paper and indulge in some delicious coffee. Mid and lazy afternoon teas fit the occasion here, spoilt for choice and brimming with indulgence. La Petite Tarte is a charming slice of Paris, surrounded by the trendy lifestyle shopping centre in the heart of Green Point.

For tasty light bites with a Mediterranean influence, Lazari Food Gallery is a great place for a quick bite or a relaxed time with good friends. Superb breakfasts and delicious mains, available in half portions are the order of the day, as well as a variety of cupcakes that Lazari is famous for. Attentive service and a homely feel make patrons feel relaxed and at ease as they sample the delights on offer. A buzzing spot, full of character, Lazari’s Food Gallery is well worth a visit.

Capetonians and visitors have enjoyed Restaurant Paradiso’s hospitality since 1992. French Restaurateurs, Marie Dischinger and Pierre Deloge took it over in January 2008. Their passion, dedication and fresh ideas will ensure Paradiso remains a firm favourite in the hearts and minds of locals and visitors from afar.Le Restau Paradiso is located in upper Kloof Street, Gardens with a magnificent view of the mountain and City Centre. Lunch or dinner in the garden or on the balcony will be an occasion to remember.Relax, enjoy a glass of wine and a delicious meal. The warm Mediterranean decor and friendly staff will bring you back time and time again.Expect traditional French and South African specialities on our menu. We are famous for our Pan fried beef fillet, Lamb shank, Ostrich bobotie and Warm lamb salad. Vegetable Tian, Beef Bourguignon, Quiche Lorraine and Seafood Armoricaine are new. The Menu changes regularly to ensure that mainly seasonal and local ingredients are used, seafood is fresh and to “amuser vos papilles” (to keep your taste buds intrigued).

Small and intimate, Limoncello caters with a cosy dining area and relaxing bar/lounge for pre/after dinner drinks. Try their delicious pizza base crisps dipped in olive oil and balsamic before tucking into a hearty pizza. The menu is small but big on flavour offering traditional Italian dishes tossed with garlic and typical Italian ingredients. The wine list is small but well partnered with the menu.

With breathtaking views of Table Mountain, this buzzing restaurant boasts a chic and trendy interior, relaxed enough to enjoy with the family and trendy enough to hang out with your friends. The menu focuses on sexy food, in generous servings and gourmet breakfasts that will have you coming back for more. For breakfast indulge in the French toast with fried banana, syrup and peppadews or flap­jacks with mascarpone and strawberries drenched syrup. For lighter meals try the bacon, feta, avocado and moz­zarella tramezeni. Lull away the hours over a lazy breakfast or languid lunch at Liquorice and Lime in Gardens.

The boldly painted exterior catches the eye, situated in the historic Bo-Kaap area with colourful murals and artwork wrapped around this old warehouse building. Marco’s African Place resides within an old converted warehouse, complete with high ceilings, spacious interior and authentic décor. The staff and chef are hands on, cooking, greeting and welcoming with African hospitality. The ambiance is bustling and festive, with a large mixture of sophisticated Africans, suburbanites and tourists enjoying the culture of Africa. The menu is traditional and tasty, with colourful creations and flavourful dishes. Expect plenty game meat such as springbok, ostrich, kudu, and even crocodile tail, (enjoyed mostly by tourists). Locals savour more traditional favourties such as tripe with onions, savoury chicken pieces with onions and peppers, or samp and beans prepared in true African style. Visit Marco’s African Place for a taste of Africa and traditional culture enjoyed alongside the live music and colourful cuisine.

Delicious Indian cuisine with a conscience – Masala Dosa proffers healthy Indian dishes at great prices. Try the aloo bombs to start with and then give the dish of its namesake a go. The dosa is a delicious option and comes with a variety of fillings. There is a limited wine list as with Indian restaurants in general. A beer is a better accompaniment with Indian food, or a delicious and refreshing lassi. The decor is reminiscent of Bollywood movies but has a modern influence to keep things contemporary and stylish. A great place for healthy, guilt-free Indian cuisine, Masala Dosa is a must-try.