Western Cape Restaurants

@ 3Fig is a private dinner club set in the residence of an up market guesthouse in Newlands. The interior and delectable four-course dinner sets the stage for a night of indulgence, conversation and personal attention. Arrive between 19h15 and 19h45 for drinks and canapés before the evening commences with great food and fine wine. As gourmet chef Neill Anthony takes the helm (flamboyantly showing his skills attained working in the kitchen of Gordon Ramsay) wander through the kitchen and watch the magic unfold. The weekly menu is complimented by wine pairing expert David Wibberley (The founder of borde (aux) room) allowing each dish to perfectly compliment each glass of wine. Summer evenings embrace dining alfresco on the covered patio and cooler nights seek warmth in the cosy library.

This upmarket grill room offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience in a vibrant, classy environment. An extensive range of wines, fine cocktails and drinks work effortlessly alongside the menu and melt-in-your-mouth meat dishes puts this premier dining experience in a league of its own. For the most succulent and superb beef, always cooked at 1800º Fahrenheit, 1800° is the place to be. This is the ideal setting for that all-important business meeting or for discerning patrons in search of a refined meal and professional service. The beef and other meats are grass and grain fed and carefully matured to ensure the finest flavour and the most tender cuts. 1800° prides itself on innovative thinking, superb service and exceptional presentation.

A restaurant that boasts superb dishes that showcase the sumptuous but simple flavours of Italy, 96 Keerom is the place to be for a memorable taste of the Med. An atmosphere of simple sophistication runs throughout the restaurant. The staff are friendly and tend to diners needs without being intrusive and are happy to advise on selections to suit. A great wine selection rounds off the superb offerings for a truly satisfying Italian dining experience.

The well-stocked wine cellar generously compliments the dining experience, as does the lingering aroma of freshly baked bread and spreading reputation of pickled fish. Albertinia Hotel offers delicious traditional food served plentiful for a soothing experience of true comfort food. Enjoy lazy pub lunches or refreshing light meals in the shady tea garden, however you choose to dine, Albertinia Hotel will comfort the palate with nostalgic African cuisine and welcoming smiles.

Enjoy tasty food with a difference or light lunches and breakfasts. Alte Feste Restaurant sweeps the palate away with decadent deserts for a little slice of heaven. From great choice salads to vegetarian meals, Alte Feste caters for the easygoing palate in relaxed informal setting perfect to soothing the day away.

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.

Along Chapman’s Peak’s curves and bends, out of sight and nestled in secluded splendor, the Atlantic Restaurant wines and dines in what is arguably the most beautiful location in Cape Town. Resting in the lush Milkwood forest, with views spanning across Hout Bay, the ocean and Sentinel Peak, diners soak up the tranquil atmosphere soothed by lapping waves and seasonal breaching Whales. The décor whispers elegance and sumptuous luxury, set in the natural wonders of land and sea. The menu pamper with a myriad of dishes such as ratatouille with buffalo mozzarella and pesto, roasted pepper soup that captures every spice and flavour, and a blissful yellowtail with leek cream sauce. Atlantic Restaurant captures the beauty, elegance and un-spoilt setting that will make dining at this establishment an unforgettable experience.

Bahia Dos Vaqueiros beacons recognition as Mossel Bay’s premier restaurant lit by the sparkling lights of Mossel Bay and cradled by the shores of Outenqua Mountains. Offering locally grown fresh produce cooked with opulence beneath The Fantasy of the Discovery of the World ceiling known as the largest fresco ceiling in the Southern Cape, dining at Bahia Dos Vaquerious captures the imagination with pure sophistication. Delight in iconic wines housed in the walk in cellar or international brandies, whiskies and beers alongside fusion choices of first class meals at the Bahia Dos Vaquerious in the Diaz Strand Hotel.

Baia is the talk of the town when it comes to the finest seafood. Offering the most delectable seafood dishes created with skill and passion and using the freshest fish and shellfish, diners are treated to a sumptuous feast. Even the meat lovers are taken care of with a mouth-watering selection of meat and poultry dishes. A large spacious terrace offers a superb al fresco setting with stunning views, a lounge and bar provide a space to relax before or after you meal, or just a place to enjoy a drink or two in a wonderfully vibrant ambience. The decor is understated and perfectly placed with lighting and beautiful colours that create a warm but stylish look as well as mosaic tiles that pay homage to Mediterranean roots.

Perched along the beachfront, Bella Luna makes the ideal spot for lazy breakfasts, lingering lunches and romantic dinners soothed by roaring ocean and starlit African sky. The mouthwatering menu caters for all palates, from hearty breakfasts to delicious pizzas and tantalizing dinner menu. Sundowners can be enjoyed alongside colourful cocktails watching the trailing sun set over the ocean or a bottle of wine on the terrace.

One of the most exciting and unusual restaurant in the world, Bientang’s Cave is a more than just a dining experience.Located in one of the most stunning Marine Reserves on the coast of the Western Cape and a mere 10 metres from the water’s edge, this unique restaurant is in a prime spot for watching whales play in the ocean as you dine on the finest seafood.Between May and December every year, Southern Right whales visit the shores of the Western Cape and Bientang’s Cave is perfectly placed to be able to see these magnificent creatures as you sit on the deck and sample from the fantastic menu and the extensive, award-winning wine list.

Perched along the shimmering shores of Lake Pleasant Living, enjoying far-reaching views and cooling breezes, Bistro on the Lake slows down the palate and conversation with delectable cuisine and breathtaking views for a lingering awe inspiring dining experience. Offering an array of seafood and contemporary dishes overlooking the lake, patrons can indulge in superb food complimented by unobtrusive service and good wine with the occasional silence broken by fish eagle. Whether enjoying a hearty breakfast, lingering lunch or romantic dinner, Bistro on the Lake seduces the senses with mouth-watering cuisine, languid dining and friendly service immersed in a tranquil setting that captures the essence of relaxation.

Housed in a lovely cottage, extended by a small garden scattered with tables and chair, Bistro Seven welcomes country cuisine at its best. Dine indoors warmed by intimate surrounds and crisp blue checked tablecloths before lingering in the cosy bar with a warming nightcap. Try hearty soups, juicy steaks, crisp salads complimented by a small but well partnered wine list at Bistro Seven in Darling.

The menu leans towards fusion and Asian dishes alongside an interesting take on pub inspired dishes served with a beer of the day. The décor exudes modern black and white gothic effects, photographs and dripping candles and live jazz. Try a hanger steak or ale steamed mussels complimented by a fine glass of wine or crisp beer, tapas or a hearty fish stew. Blakes Bar entices the senses and wraps the palate in tasty, statement dishes and bold décor.

Perched along the shimmering coast line, Blikkie Pizzeria stands proud in a 110 year old fisherman’s cottage complimented by picturesque views. Exuding passion and mouth watering pizzas, the enticing aroma of freshly baked delights and inviting ambiance, Blikkie Pizzeria sets the mood for lingering lunches and early suppers. The décor immerses the senses in a vintage bygone era, simplistic and elegant, yet charming enough to capture loyal followers with authentic Sicilian based pizzas layered with generous toppings. Enjoy delights such as the Colorito, perfectly cooked and layered with chicken, green pepper, pineapple and peppadew or the Capricciosa dressed with salami, mushrooms, olives and green pepper. Dine indoors amidst splashes of vintage décor or alfresco on the sunlit porch scattered with whitewashed benches and tables. Sweeping views seduce the senses with panoramic vistas of Paternoster Bay, brimming with local fisherman counting the catch of the day. Moonlit dinners enchant with shimmering kaleidoscopes hosted by the ocean’s rising moon and provide the perfect backdrop to delicious meals and warm service. Blikkie Pizzeria captures charm and nostalgic memories in relaxed surrounds, the perfect place for languid lunches and early bird dinners.

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.

Cradled in the lush Eilandia Valley, Bon Rouge Bistro offers gourmet picnic baskets, salads, cold meats and cheeses, perfect for alfresco dining. Enjoy plated and buffet meals on Sunday and daily local cuisine such as waterblommetjiebredie and traditional Cape style bobotie. All meals compliment decadent wines from the Bon Cap Wine Cellar. Bon Rouge Bistro offers a lunch and dinner menu, revised daily, dependent on fresh produce. Bookings essential.

Known as one of Knysna’s top restaurants blended with old world charm and housed in a quaint 1848 year old manor house, Boogies Restaurant charms the palate and senses with original and unique dishes much suited to the characteristics of this old manor house. Charming and unique, patrons can dine on daily specials or experience cuisine from the menu taking in the fresh breeze on the veranda under the shady oak tree. If intimate dining suits the taste - cosy up to the crackling fireplace warmed by original yellowwood and Oregon pine floors for a wintery warm experience.

Dressed in plush red cushioned chairs and vibrant colours, Bourbon Street swaddles the palate in cuisine influenced from around the globe. Enjoy delicious fare, alfresco on the wooden deck starting with a Kudu, Springbok and Ostrich Carpaccio. Transport the palate to spice laden streets of Mexico and Morocco with meals like the chicken quesadillas wrapped inside two flour tortillas topped with melted cheddar or Moroccan Lamb and lentil dish with a feta and yoghurt sauce. For a taste of Russia, escape to Moscow and delight in smoked Salmon pasta tossed in Vodka and a dill sauce dressed with capers and parmesan. The palate sings a chorus tucking into chicken Athena tossed with sun-dried tomatoes, olives and feta or the Prawns parmigiana sautéed in garlic, wine and parmesan. Meat eaters ravage the prime beef espetada laced with green peppers, mushrooms and bacon drizzled with butter. End the meal with a choc chip mountain drenched with ice cream and a hot fudge sauce. Bourbon Street satisfies the most discerning palate with global cuisine and eclectic charm in Robertson, just off Route 62.

Intoxicate the palate with mouth-watering meals seduced with Klipdrift infusions. Delicious burger such as the renowned Klipdrift burger served with potato wedges dominates the senses and taste buds. Relax and make yourself at home delighting in burgers and roosterkoeks layered with strips of steak, chicken or veggie fillings. Brandewyntuin Restaurant intoxicates sweet and savour palates with their legendary brandy cuisine located on the Klipdrift Brandy Distillery in Robertson.

The décor exudes style and comfort, delectable meals and alfresco occasions in the sunlit rose garden. Generous portions of creature comforts such as French toast, beer battered fish and slow roasted oxtail compliments the delicate flavours of locally produced wines. A jungle gym and kiddies menu favours young palates while adults relax over a refreshing glass of wine and intimate meal.

Housed in the building where the city once banked gold, this vintage gem boasts breathtaking décor heightened by vaulted ceilings, dark lacquered wooden floors and striking original chandeliers. Expect to be wined and dined in timeless style warmed by roaring fireplaces and the sultry sounds of swing jazz. The menu caters decadence-a classic gastronomic voyage sampling firm favourites, hearty portions and spicy flavours. Try favourites such as deep fried Camembert with figs, rocket and nuts for starters, Springbok carpaccio and roquefort snails. Mains brim with choices such as grilled calamari, carpetbagger steak (filled with mussels) or the Brio burger and Crayfish Thermidor. Experience the return of vintage glamour at Brio 1893 located along Adderly Street for a truly out of this era dining experience.

Set in a rustic old farmhouse and with superb views from every side is the Buena Vista Social Cafe, Somerset West. Diners may also choose to eat outside in a pretty hacienda-style area. The cuisine is primarily Cuban with tantalising tapas and a wine list that perfectly accompanies the dishes. For a wonderful Cuban dining experience in cosy and welcoming surroundings, Buena Vista Social Cafe excels!

Peruse the delicious a la carte and buffet menu brimming with local cuisine and excellent award winning wines. Dine in rustic elegance framed by exposed beams and low ambient lighting with soft copper hue tables draped in traditional patterned tablecloths. Buffelsdrift specialises in local Karoo cuisine complimented by homemade preserves, chutney, pickles, fresh produce, herbs and bread. The grand fireplace adds cosy warmth to cold winter evenings and French doors invite the balmy summer evenings in extending out onto the wooden deck. Wrap the senses in soothing surrounds and delicious cuisine enchanted by the occasional call of the wild at Buffelsdrift Game Lodge in Oudtshoorn.

Cafe Blouberg is located in an old cottage on the water’s edge. Looking out over the Atlantic towards Robben Island and Table Mountain, patron can feast on delicious meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The breakfasts are delicious, and there are eight wonderful options to choose from. Patrons are treated to the most amazing views, while enjoying a hearty start to the day. There are a variety of light lunches to choose from, including wraps, salads, toasted sandwiches and snack baskets. There are also more substantial meals on offer with a distinctly Mediterranean twist. The evening fare is fresh fare from the sea, as well as a variety of other dishes that to delight diners. With views that can’t be beaten and fabulous food, Cafe Blouberg offers patrons an eating experience that is not only delicious, but fresh and homely. It is the ideal place to enjoy a cocktail while watching nature at her best as the sun sets over the ocean and Cape Town basks in twilight.

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.

Enjoy excellent South African cuisine and a warm welcome at Topsi and Co. A brilliantly friendly and unpretentious spot in Franschhoek, diners can enjoy both classic and unique creations with South African cuisine in mind. Taditional meets modern in a delicious fusion of new and old dishes that have been expertly designed by the talented team behind the scenes. A casual and relaxed place, Topsi’s is decked out with endearing antiques, making diners feel more like they are eating at someone’s home rather than a popular restaurant.

Café Dijon is a pocket of Paris in the heart of Stellenbosch. Ideally located at the centre of town, this quaint eatery is a gem for food lovers who enjoy true French cuisine. Its indoor café is perfectly Parisian in décor and ambience while being seated outside, under ancient oak trees and umbrellas, allows for a relaxed reflection of passers-by on the street in true European style. Expect an impressive and authentic French menu. There are classic hors d’ oeuvres and salads such as Pear, Parma ham and Gorgonzola that are designed to please the palate. The main course selection and restaurant specialties are extended to include regional French dishes to the likes of South West of France Cassoulet. The multi-dimensional menu has an array of asides and desserts and caters well for those who like to round off their eating experience. The combination of true French style and food makes this bistro style establishment a delight any time of day – breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Beautifully stylish, Café Max entices with mouth-watering home cooked meals using the freshest ingredients complimented by a small-handpicked cocktail list and classic wine list suitable for all palates and pockets. The interior is refined, contrasted by traditional black and white marble tiles and splash here and there of silver and pink. Dine within the calming interior or enjoy the charming alfresco setting on the lavender lined terrace.

This country retreat embraces passion, love and tranquillity enticed by fresh country cuisine and decadent wine list. Named after the great Italian Opera singer, prima donna, Renate Tebaldi, Café Tebaldi warms the palate with resounding signature dishes. The superb a la carte menu proudly seduces with rolled sirloin served on parmesan mash with a berry and red wine sauce. Vegetarians melt with asparagus and sundried tomato risotto with truffle oil or aglio olio el greco- spaghetti with local olive oil, garlic, fresh basil, grilled haloumi cheese and parmesan shavings. Our lunch menu offers a wide selection of fresh country cuisine ranging from healthy vegetable wraps to gourmet burgers and sandwiches, and the noted fish and chips, the best in the Breede River Valley. Spend the day enjoying quality time immersed in a scenic backdrop of beauty and splendour indulged by wine, food and love at Café Tebaldi.

For true Mediterranean cooking in a relaxing and laid back setting on the outskirts of Somerset West, Capelands Restaurant provides. Making use of only the freshest ingredients, including herbs and vegetables from the Restaurant’s own gardens, patrons can be assured of the most flavoursome meals from the well-planned menu. With a delicious selection of vegetarian meals as well as a healthy selection of childrens’ meals, everyone has been carefully considered. A good selection of both local and international wines are on offer to perfectly accompany the dishes of choice. With spectacular views to enjoy as you sample the delicious offerings, Capelands Restaurant is the perfect spot for a relaxing dining experience.

Superb attention to detail and exquisite creativity with flavours are two of the reasons to take some time out and pay a visit to Carne SA. Much of the meat comes from the restaurant owner’s own farm so diners can be assured of superb quality and freshness. Brilliant staff are on hand to help you make a selection and advise on a good wine to suit from the wide selection on offer. A meat-lover’s must, Carne SA is a dining experience you’ll want to come back for.

In beautiful country surrounds, set amongst oak trees on the shores of Knysna’s famous lagoon is Caroline’s Bistro. Sustainable, locally-sourced food is used as much as possible, as are local suppliers, keeping the offerings fresh and flavourful. The menus are seasonal and therefore change regularly so the choices are kept as fresh as the ingredients that create them!

A Home away from home, Nestled between two giant palm trees on the far side of Regent Street in Sea Point, Italian restaurant Casa Nostra is a slice of home-style Italian comfort that in Cape Town, is particularly hard to come by. Translated, Casa Nostra means “Our House” – but I suppose we lied because here at Casa Nosta, we would like you to consider our house, your house, by making yourself truly at home. Our kitchen is another story in itself. Spearheaded by a passionate (and slightly temperamental) head chef, our kitchen prides itself on the best homemade pasta this side of the Atlantic. And our rustic-style pizzas have also proved more than popular with the locals and the returning tourists. However, apart from our homely food, we acknowledge that a good dining experience draws from a number of factors. When they’re not playing backgammon or drinking copious amounts of coffee at outside tables, our trusted and welcoming team who run the floor will go to great lengths to make sure you’re comfortable and well-looked after. Whether it’s a special occasion or a private function, we will accommodate anyone and everyone, but be sure to book a table because with no more than fifteen of them, we tend to fill up quite fast on most nights. Just like a home, it takes a combined effort to make a restaurant work and having been open for a little over two years, we hope to brighten the street with our red and white checked tablecloths long into the future. So whether your prefer an ice local cold beer or a tall glass of Sangiovese, pop in and let Casa Nosta cater to your every culinary desire.

Located along upper Long Street, this Spanish inspired restaurant exudes a warm welcoming ambiance set with warm brick walls, soft lighting and religious icons that adorn the walls. Tapas is the order of the day, enjoyed in perfectly sized portions try the octopus, mussel, clam and tortilla tapas or the grilled oysters drenched with olive oil and garlic, or the rabbit stew complimented by a glass of sangria, concluded by saffron ice cream for dessert. The clever décor and stylish interior, including delicious tapas makes Ultima Tapa the ideal place for dinner indulgence.

Indulge your fantasies and your senses at this sparkling Moroccan-style dining and leisure space. It’s always playtime in this exotic North African baroque eatery. The décor and cuisine is fun and fanciful from the mosaic chameleon to Gaudi-style lizard lazing off the pool, and colourful cocktails to tagines, dates and Turkish delight...from candelabra to mellow hubbly bubbly pipes. Need to know? Cuisine style is North African/Moroccan, 6 courses are served feasting style. Cost: Dinner is R300.00 pp excl. drinks and gratuity. Open for dinner Monday to Saturday from November to April.

Rated as one of the top 10 restaurants in the Garden Route, Cinnamon Boutique Restaurant offers the best of culinary delights, freshly prepared in a spacious and intimate setting exclusively designed. Relax while enjoying the tropical surroundings and elegant setting before setting off on a culinary journey freshly prepared from the Ala Carte menu partnered with a complimenting wine from the extensive wine lists chosen exclusively to compliment your choice of food. Begin your meal with Smoked Salmon with Potato Rosti and black pepper Crème Fraiche followed by fresh Line Fish of the day with sesame seed tiger prawns or a Springbok Babootie with Saffron Basmati rice and roasted vegetables. Wrapped in a sumptuous setting dressed in warming paprika red walls and heightened by high back chairs, contrasting silver cutlery, fine crystal glasses and the tranquil surrounds of the gardens, diners can peruse in a choice of delectable food and extensive wine list. Relax and enjoy the serene ambience sipping a soothing cognac or coffee on the patio or in one of the exclusive lounge areas before heading home from a magical dining experience at Cinnamon Boutique Restaurant.

Set in the poster town of Barrydale guided by a landmark wind pump, Clarke of The Karoo seduces the palate with traditional Karoo cuisine infused with Mediterranean twists. Dishes spill off the menu boasting delights such as Karoo oysters, Cape Malay bobotie, legendary Karoo Lamb curry served with papadoms and a vast array of sambals, Whitebait and roasted vegetable bruchetta served with balsamic reduction. Speciality sandwiches and homemade burgers available on the menu with pan-seared Yellowfin Tuna a specialty request when available. Enjoy fresh organic salads, traditional dishes, and a warm inviting ambiance. Winter invites log fires and homemade soups at this favourite stopover on Route 62.

Soak up personalised service and local exotic dishes from the a la carte menu and extensive wine cellar. The décor speaks of elegance and timeless grandeur softened by padded chairs, crisp linen in a light and airy setting overlooking manicured gardens. Begin the culinary journey with a wrapped Cape Malay babotie starter, in a phyllo parcel served with a sweet sliced peach and coriander chutney. For mains, flame grilled medallions of port fillet (250g) served on a Rooibos tea and cinnamon infused dried fruit compote. Round off the journey with a warmed oven-baked apple and cinnamon pudding drenched with a sweet caramel sauce, served with vanilla ice cream. Cogman’s Restaurant perfects the fine dining experience with warm hospitality and tantalising cuisine.