Gardens Restaurants

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.

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!

Cape Town’s newest hotspot, Blonde, sister restaurant to Beluga and Sevruga is no doubt one of the most popular restaurants in Cape Town. Open evenings only seating 120 guests, Blonde caters for fine dining with a small a la Carte menu offering seasonal delights. The interior is pampered, lavish and ultra plush. From the seductive interior of the bar and lounge, the couches covered in rich fabrics, the gorgeous wooden floors and high ceilings to the crisp white linen, designer chairs, beautiful staircase and romantic balcony. Blonde entices and captivates in every way.

Café Chic boasts a classic French bistro taste and a menu that flirts with the palate and cool and un-usual ways. Try the squid-ink tagliatelle served with swordfish, or the dreamy Grand Marnier soufflé for dessert complimented by a small local wine list and grand highly priced French version. Extensive cocktails and cognacs cater variety as do they various rooms that slip off the main annex of the house. Begin the night perusing the menu in one of two elegant restaurants or the heavenly patisserie, then wet the palate in the grand Moroccan chill out tent furnished in velvet drapes and soft lounging cushions. Café Chic is open for breakfast and lunch and light meals such as tapas and drinks in the evening.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Situated in the heart of Cape Town, Depasco is a cosy evening for two, perfect venue for business lunches or relaxed setting for catching up with friends. The menu boasts food prepared according to secret recipes and substantial breakfasts. For something light, try the brown mushrooms filled with mozzarella and feta. Or, a seafood skewer served with steamed vegetables, rice or chips. The prawn naçional consists of prince prawns drenched in authentic Portuguese spices, bay leaf infusion, garlic, cream and a splash of beer. Desert tempts with decadent chocolate mousse or tropical granadilla mousse, with the Molotov taking charge as diners indulge in decadent taste explosions - as the name suggests. Filled to the brim? Take a leisure walk through the great boutiques and browse, shop or indulge a little further. Depasco is a well rounded dine and shop eatery in the heart of Cape Town.

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.

This café cum bar cum restaurant entices with lunch and nibbles and delicious coffee alongside a deli dedicated to nothing other than mozzarella. Serving light meals with an Italian influence and the best mozzarella in South Africa, you will find this bar the ideal place to drink coffee and read a paper, eat breakfast or nibble on a light lunch before shopping for mozzarella.

Located on the corner of Buitenkant Street, this local hotspot proffers a low-key ambiance and casual décor, and a reputation for delicious pizzas. The casual atmosphere and simple décor keeps the focus the food and makes ideal spot for a quick bite or pizza indulgence in Gardens.

If Pizza is your crazing, Nonna Lina can more than accommodate. This cosy and friendly establishment proffers superb pizzas with thin and crispy bases and a good selection of toppings. There are also options like veal, tuna and delicious pastas on offer with a nice wine list to accompany. Good service and a lively atmosphere make Nonna Lina is a place worth coming back to.

Now trading by day too, extending onto the sidewalk, diners relax on comfortable high chairs sipping frothy cappuccinos indulging in tasty croissants. Enjoy some light meals if the sweeter things in life don’t tempt you at Ooh La La for lunch or dinner.

Located within an industrial style space, the clean and welcoming décor makes the perfect backdrop indulging in pasta, Italian coffee, homemade cakes and deserts. Soak up the summer alfresco over a sumptuous breakfast or read the paper over a bowl of freshly made pasta and bottle of locally produced wine.

Comfy couches and wooden tables warmed by two fireplaces extend warmth onto the Moroccan inspire décor. The menu touches on tapas, light, grills, contemporary, Mediterranean and African flavours, enjoyed with the vibey and relaxed surrounds. Start the evening with tapas such as stuffed calamari or baked mushrooms, enjoyed with a bottle of good wine and company. For mains try the hearty burgers, grills or the line fish, served with tasty, crunchy vegetables. Summer days and night invite alfresco dining on the upstairs deck at Rick’s Café Americain.

This family friendly eatery perched above Gardens captures lovely views of Table Mountain and warm décor that embraces a ‘down to earth’ attitude. Expect Chinese food and sushi, prepared traditionally and served with a fast and friendly service at Royo Kloof in Gardens.

This trendy hotspot in Kloof Street, Gardens brings the taste of the Orient to Cape Town. The elegant Vietnamese menu tinged Japanese influences provides a colourful and orchestral explosion of taste and flavours. For starters try the grilled chicken skewers or do-it-yourself lettuce wraps layered with prawns, fresh herbs, noodles and sweet chilli sauce. Popular main courses such as the chicken cashew nuts, spicy beef basil with chilli sauce and the battered Saigon ginger fish tantalize and come with a selection rice or noodles. Desert pleases with Saigon's exotic deep-fried ice cream – a melt in the mouth batter casting filled with ice cream then served with their honey syrup. The ambiance beckons relaxation and indulgence flanked by magnificent views of Table Mountain! Booking essential.

The eclectic menu teases with fusion food from Thailand, India, Mediterranean and South Africa. Matured steaks, cooked to perfection melt in the mouth and compliment the comprehensive wine list and breathtaking finishes. Aged to perfection, the steaks are hung and left to mature adding unique flavour and intensity to each mouthful. If fusion cuisine tempts your palate, try the mussels cooked in an Asian broth with punchy ginger and chilli! Experience the slick, no expense spared ambiance of Savour and enjoy a pre-dinner drink at the adjacent bar dazzled by a 5000 piece crystal chandelier.

Located along Rheede Street in Gardens, Sawaddee’s elaborate gold-painted wooden carvings, Thai art and exotic setting wet the palate before delicious portions of authentic Thai cuisine grace your table. Prepared by talented Thai chefs, diners relax and enjoy fresh, flavourful dishes such as grilled beef salad, duck green curry, and crispy fish with ginger alongside a crisp glass of wine or Singha Beer. Dine within the exotic interior overlooking the bustling Rheede Street at Sawaddee, perfect for lunch or dinner.

The delicious interior relaxes and inspires the senses while the gourmet cuisine indulges the palate and tempts with decadent cakes on display and delicious aroma of coffee filling the air. Enjoy a tasty selection from the menu dining indoors or alfresco at Shelley’s Gourmet Café in Kloof Street.

Societi Bistro is a neighbourhood “local” and something of sanctuary for Capetonians and visitors looking for a home from home. More than cuisine - its a way of life - taking time to savour a meal and enjoy the company of family and friends. “We love it! Its an extension of our home”, is how Tammy and Peter have always described their bistro. Experience the much publicised co-operation with the Labia Theatre; the two course “On The Job” business lunch; or the opportunity to create your own menu in conjunction with head chef Stéfan at the Chef’s Table - located informally in the kitchen. The heart and soul of Societi remains its menu - in its third seasonal change with Chef Stéfan at the helm - proving his love for seasonal produce, accessible food and offering exceptional value. Simply put, Societi creates memories!

Bespoke black cubes contrast the wood and brick interior accented by ambient paper lanterns. Decanters of piping hot sake compliment the phenomenal sushi and myriad of delicious Tempura, tofu and noodle dishes. The menu focuses on sushi, Japanese and contemporary flavours such as deep-fried tofu in hot tentsuyu sauce, or a warming bowl of super-slippery udon noodles served in delicately flavoured, piping-hot broth. Desserts indulges with Papa San’s home-made ice creams and sorbets in interesting flavours such as pumpkin and soy-milk coconut. Wine is served by bottle or glass hosted by small wine estates. Takumi brings a touch of Asian splendor to Gardens, serving tantalising dishes for lunch and dinner.

Nestled within a beautiful Victorian House pampered with stunning décor from Persia, The Orient and Africa, The Opal Lounge is a highly recommended dining experience. Exquisite food complimented by excellent service and flawless presentation seamlessly blends with the unique style, passion and attention to detail. The menu secures exceptional fusion cuisine touched with contemporary flare and elegance. Visit The Opal Lounge for a languid lunch or romantic dinner and discover a lasting memory filled with exceptional cuisine for the ultimate dining experience.

Located in an old Victorian-style house brimming with traditional features such as sash windows, high ceilings and fireplaces. Several inter leading dining rooms offer an intimate dining experience complimented by a large bar and large screen TV’s. Dine alfresco on the spacious elevated deck with views of Table Mountain and the city or enjoy an intimate dinner alongside a crackling fireplace. The menu caters seafood and flavourful fusion cuisine, enjoyed alongside the extensive drinks menu and comfortable surrounds. Tiger Giant Seafood & Fusion Cuisine is easily located along Upper Union Street, Gardens.

Remaining true to Japan, the Japanese themes and traditional paintings create an air of authenticity, complimented by well-known sushi dishes and chef’s specialties. Dine alfresco or relax in the more formal dining room. If sushi beacons, then enjoy a casual dining experience at the sushi counter flanked by colourful dishes and décor. The Asian menu focuses on curries, stir-fries and noodles, or traditional favourites such as the sizzling beef on a hotplate or the chicken with cashew nuts. Try the popular steamed or pan-fried dumplings available in prawn, pork, and spicy or vegetarian options. The chef’s specialties come highly recommended or the red duck curry or Peking duck with pancakes rounded off with banana and chocolate spring rolls.

This unpretentious eatery proffers hearty Portuguese cuisine and a well-priced wine list. Dine alfresco during balmy summer months on the veranda on traditional steak, egg, chips, rice and salad. Beef and chicken trinchado rests in a nice garlicky wine sauce and the prawn rissoles, crispy on the outside, explode with a rich creamy sauce and bits of prawn, fanned with some lemon juice. Winter seeks warmth and hearty dishes such as the feijoda (a traditional bean, pork, chorizo, and chicken stew) perfect for wintery evenings.

Legend be told that a local by the name of Van Hunks, got into a smoking contest with the devil and lost causing the misty smoke around the mountains. Diners can enjoyed reliving this legend around two smoking fireplaces or the deck sampling delicious South African fare. Take the palate on an African celebration sampling the likes of peri-peri chicken livers, rump steak to Cape Malay bobotie and springbok shank.