Whale Coast Restaurants

Take a helping of warm and cosy for ambience with a dollop of comfort food and one is sure to be having a traditional South African meal at Annie se Kombuis. Located on the west coast of the Western Cape, this Hermanus eatery is firm favourite with visitors all year round. Annie’s is all about traditional South African food. With an outstanding range of venison fillets to the likes of Kudu, Eland, Oryx (Gemsbok), Springbok and Ostrich the menu has exotic appeal. The traditional fare is all the favourites prepared the old fashioned way: Bobotie, Smoorsnoek and Waterblommetjies and many other pies and offal dishes. The Oxtail remains a popular choice. For those that believe in pudding (and rightly so) there’s sweet custard, Malva pudding and Cape Brandy Pudding – hard to resist! The wine list supports local wine producers of the Overberg region. With a great selection on offer, wine lovers will not be disappointed. Annie’s also hosts popular music evenings as entertainment for visitors to the sea-side town and locals alike.

Not only does Antonio's make the best pizzas and pastas, they also serve a wide variety of seafood and meaty dishes. Situated right on the water's edge in a private marina, the atmosphere is cosy and laid-back. Enjoy the warm welcome, kick back and tuck into some comfort food while you take in the spectacular views across the Harbour.

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.

Conceived July 1982, Bella Venecia seduced the palate with their famous handcrafted pizzas, created and inspired from their diverse stay in Italy. With their warm, homely atmosphere and mismatched décor, Bella Venecia boasts the best wood-fired pizzas in the whole of Helderbey. The dough freshly made every morning, the toppings layered and spread generously. Alongside pizzas, the menu boasts various pasta dishes with emphasis on good food and a relaxing attitude that spills over onto the ambience inviting patrons to sit back, relax and enjoy the vibe.

Seduced by the gentle lapping shores of False Bay, Ben’s on the Beach offers a fabulous setting and great venue coupled with quality and service. Aged meat on the bone treated the time-honoured way with fresh line fish purchased daily from local fishermen dominates this eatery’s reputation. With a varied selection of dishes on offer including generous portions of great steak, fish and fillets, Ben’s on the Beach surprises the senses with unexpected pleasures, quality and service. Winners of the regional Diners Club award; Ben’s on the Beach is just the place to enjoy a nice piece of fish.

Soak up the authentic harbour flavour while enjoying extensive South African fare right on the waters edge of Bertha’s Restaurant. Pass the time away in a relaxed, warm and informal setting with picturesque views extending across the yacht harbour and False Bay. Serving the freshest seafood and using only the finest ingredients, Bertha’s Restaurant caters for long lazy lunches and lingering cocktails before being swept away by the romance of the night. Watch the sunset spill out onto the terrace then pamper your palate with Golden Calamari Strips dressed in a chilli coriander and mango jam before tucking into the catch of the day grilled and served with lemon butter and a choice of rice, salad, mashed potato or chips or seasonal vegetables. The extensive menu offers platters, meats and poultry, burgers and pastas including vegetarian and salads alongside the most dense and moist Malva pudding smothered with butterscotch sauce and served with cream or ice cream. Housed on the picturesque water edge fronting the old Town Pier, Bertha’s Restaurant will sweep you off into the sunset with delectable food and soul soothing scenery.

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.

Located in Muizenberg, along Beach Road, Bombay Chilli boasts delicious fragrant and spicy Indian dishes made with quality ingredients and the freshest naan bread with which to mop up the juices. Starters delight with chilli bite sand samoosas and an impressive selection of vegetarian offerings like potato Bombay aloo and spinach-studded palak paneer. Try the delicious coriander and coconut milk-laced kadal chicken with a good bottle of wine (bring your own). Open for lunch and dinner only, Bombay Chilli is your friendly, laid back Indian bistro in the heart of Muizenberg.

Experience Pacific - Rim Cuisine at it's best. Our Australian chef Sean Kiely brings together the fusion of international cuisine using fresh local produce. From humble beginnings, and after a period of being one of Simon's Town's best kept secrets, Boulders Beach Restaurant has grown to be recognised as one of the top restaurants in the area. Our menu features Pacific Rim Cuisine, by Australian Head Chef Sean Kiely, which he studied during his extensive travels through Asia and across the globe. Complementing the menu are various specials that change on a daily basis, an extensive wine selection chosen by a sophisticated palate and an earthly comfort that won't be ingored.

With a motto like “Life’s too short for bad food.” B’s Steak House in the seaside town of Hermanus certainly lives up to its claim. B’s has won and been runners up for the Steak House of the Year Award (1999, 2000 and 2001). So, what to expect? Steak prepared to perfection. The relaxed atmosphere of the restaurant has a ‘Sante Fe’ feel with its orange and blue colour scheme which is enhanced by the solid wooden furnishings and airy double volume ceiling. The loft area creates a relaxed post pudding space for guests to linger a little longer and indulge in a good brandy and a Cuban cigar. And then there’s the steak. With a descriptive chart to guide on preference of preparation, one can be guaranteed that B’s will go to great lengths provide its patrons with steak as they like it. Firm menu favourites include the Chateaubriand and Carpetbagger. Not only does B’s offer the very best steaks, but as an essential compliment to any steak meal, its wine list is also award winning (Diners Club award). Visitors also do not have to go home empty handed. Meat products such as steak, wors and biltong as well as a range of sauces can now be purchased from the restaurant’s new butchery counter.

With a loyal following paying homage to the talents and fare of Cape Pescado, locals gather here paying testament to the great food and superb atmosphere, which is further enhanced by the live music on selected nights. Knowledgeable staff on hand guide diners through the menu to ensure the perfect selection is made with choices ranging from Peri-Peri Chicken Liver pan-fried in a Peri Peri salsa with savoury rice for starters followed by delicious Pescado Prawns pan-fried in Lemon butter and a temptingly bold desert of Chocolate Mousse decadence served with Ice Cream or Cream. This brilliantly social venue makes every diner feel truly welcome. Cafe Pescado is an excellent spot for tasty seafood and a great atmosphere.

“Cosa Nostra, Coa Modo” – “Our thing, our way” defines what Capone’s Pizza do. Authentic, original, thin-based pizzas, crispy and delightful combined with fresh ingredients and flavours. Delight the palate with a crispy Johnny Fox pizza dressed with butternut feta and red onion or a Kid Twist topped with chorizo, peppadews, avocado, chilli and garlic. Kick start the palate with fiery Al’s Arrabiatta drenched in marinara sauce pan-fried with anchovy, olives, chilli and garlic with Penne Rigata. At Capone’s Pizza patrons can enjoy fresh pizza, pasta, burgers, deserts and sauces made on the premises with delicious side grills and salads.

Recently restored to its former glory, The Casa Labia is not only a Venetian inspired national monument, but also the location of the Casa Labia Café, a new addition to the False Bay coastline. Located on the Main Road, teetering on the St. James and Muizenberg border, views from the Casa Labia extend over moody blue waters from the dappled sunlight of a beautiful courtyard. Inspiration for the café menu is drawn from the Labia family’s Italian heritage and their passion for South Africa. Italian classics are made unique to the environment by using local ingredients with emphasis placed on sourcing fresh food for the daily menu, which changes according to the seasons.

Located in the middle of Palmer Road in Muizenberg, Closer is a purely vegan restaurant and welcome addition to Muizenberg Village. Its fresh and artistic modern interiors speaks of their attitude towards their food, which uses only meat, egg, refined sugar and dairy free ingredients yet bursts with flavour. Cow’s milk is replaced with oat, soya and rice milk, making Closer’s smoothies all the more delectable. Daily specials are written on a chalkboard, enticing customers in with their organic ingredients and interesting flavour combinations.

Coffee on the Rocks perches on the edge of the ocean overlooking Walker Bay, home to the visiting Southern Right Whales from July until December. Open for teas and lunch, this vibrant restaurant produces delicious meals and decadent cakes. Service is friendly and efficient, the food is excellent and the view of the whales is the best for miles around. Open for breakfast, lunch & tea 10:00 - 17:00 Wednesday to Sunday (booking on Sat & Sun is advisable).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Experience Italian hospitality at Fabio’s. Located in the heart of Hermanus, with St Peter’s church as part of the picturesque backdrop and the sea at its doorstep, this genuine Italian eatery is popular venue for locals and visitors alike. The ocean view from the Peroni deck on the sidewalk allows diners to people - watch in true European style, creating a relaxed and trendy mood. The menu offers a selection of pizzas, pastas, meat dishes and fish, all prepared in the Italian vernacular. Guests would do well to keep an eye on the specials blackboard for the chef’s latest experimental dishes (that often land up on the menu as a permanent fixture). Signature dishes include the Seafood Lasagne and the Parma Rock Pizza (Parma ham and Rocket) that is served on a thin crispy base. For dessert the Tiramisu is a decadent indulgence. The wine list comprises a host of local offerings from the Overberg region as well as some Italian wines to round off the dining experience. The restaurant also has a deli which sells a range of imported pastas, coffee, filled pastas and olive oils for those who want to take a taste of Italy home with them.

Fisherman’s Cottage Restaurant in the holiday town of Hermanus is a quaint, rustic establishment that serves up a selection of seafood and other South African favourites in a charming setting. Fisherman’s Cottage is gains its character from its historic significance. The restaurant building is an original fisherman’s cottage that dates back to the 1890 and forms part of the old harbour museum in the fisherman’s village. Today guests happily sit at its rustic bench tables be it indoors or at the covered patio and enjoy the prepared catch of the day. The extensive seafood menu delivers peri-peri Yellow Tail, Calamari, seafood curry or Mussel and Shrimp spring rolls. Other menu items include venison dishes such as Gemsbok Loin and Eland Steak. Be sure to check out the blackboard for the specials. In winter the best seats are close to the log fire.

Fusion, situated on the cliffs of scenic seaside town of Hermanus, presents visitors with the unique opportunity of whale watching while making menu choices. The restaurant is located at an ideal spot for viewing whales, and while this is true, it does not distract from the great food on offer. The outdoor seating is just meters from the ocean under shaded umbrellas, and in summer this is perfect spot to soak up the sites and sounds of the harbour. The family owned eatery is open throughout the day. Early birds can enjoy breakfast while holiday makers who have lost their sense of time can be seated for brunch, a lingering lunch or dinner. Menu features are: Fillet Medallions with a Black Pepper Brandy Cream Sauce or the Speciality Burger, which is a beef patty, topped with proscuito ham, brie and fig chutney served on a ciabatta. For the seafood lovers there is fresh Black Mussels steamed in white wine and fresh herbs tossed with lemon and herb crème fraiche served with a home baked garlic loaf. Fusion is a fully licensed restaurant with an assortment of local wines as well as local and imported beers. The restaurant is wheelchair friendly and has an enclosed smoking section.

This well located restaurant set on beautiful sea and mountain views boasts large floor to ceiling glass doors swung wide open to enjoy refreshing flow and views onto the expansive terrace. Distinctly Continental, Galleons Restaurant pampers the palate with scrumptious breakfast buffets and extensive menu and wine list available. Enjoy tantalising grilled T-bone steak served with pan fried vegetables or potato wedges or succulent grilled barbecue chicken breast served with hot vegetables of the day. The wrap around terrace entices long lazy days sampling the menu with scenic views of bobbing boats moored directly below soothe and relax the mind. With the added comfort of umbrellas and heaters, patrons can enjoy alfresco dining all year round.

A restaurant called Heaven. Perched with a panoramic view of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, one will certainly feel as if one is in heaven, and with the culinary delights on offer, one will have a taste of heaven too. The atmosphere and tranquil mood of the place it dominated by the stunning views of the valley. Guests will undoubtedly find themselves asking to be seated on the balcony with a glass of wine where one can just sit in awe of the surrounding beauty. Heaven offers the best of fine food. The menu has a Mediterranean feel with a choice of breads that are baked daily. Steak lovers will fret over choices like the French with Camembert and black cherries; Italian with caramelized onions, buffalo mozzarella and pesto or Greek with caramelised onions, feta cheese and roasted tomatoes. The Pavlova and refreshing melon and ginger sorbets come highly recommended for those who can’t live without pudding. Heaven’s menu changes every two weeks to ensure the inclusion of locally produced ingredients. Heaven also hosts private functions.

Housed in the old Muizenberg Post Office, IL Postino captures the attention with its welcoming ambience lit up by elegant décor and spacious seating. Much of the old character has been retained serving a different purpose, adding charm and attitude to this transformed eatery. From old counter tops to exposed wooden beam and large windows framing the views of the majestic mountains, IL Postino welcomes patrons with an elegant smile and dynamic menu that changes regularly according to what is available. This vibrant eatery houses a small menu displayed on blackboards and limited wine list with stylish, lightwood chairs and tables. The menu offers changeable daily selections such as roasted vegetable and brie salad with asparagus and parmesan for starters. For mains Portuguese sardines on bruschetta, with olives, bella rosa tomatoes and a scrumptious mustard aioli or the paella - made with an ambrosial stock and really high-quality fresh ingredients. The restaurant is also open for breakfast and lunch in setting the welcomes the palate to fresh, honest food.

Situated in the historic Simons Town Waterfront, Just Sushi boasts tranquil views of the yacht basin and a homely ambiance perfect for relaxation. This holiday like feeling remains popular with locals and tourists alike, and for this reason it is advisable to book for dinner. For lunch, sit outside and unwind with a bottle of wine, platter of sushi and admire the views protected from the wind. Just Sushi offers top quality imported Scottish Salmon, Tuna, Cape Salmon and Yellowtails all sourced locally. The wine list showcases a good variety of wines and organic selections including Japanese beer. The sushi platters are excellent value for money, with a wide choice of combos and vegetarian options, served with traditional sake.

Situated opposite the popular Melkbaai Beach, Kaapzicht Restaurant weaves soft ambient music with panoramic views for a new verse old dining experience infused with a timeless ambience. Relax on comfortable leather sofas or enjoy dining on crisp white linen tables savouring fresh grilled line fish, tender calamari and crispy schnitzels with a variety of mouth-watering pancakes and delectable waffles on offer to compliment the meal. Kaapzicht Restaurant enjoys a warm and relaxed atmosphere perfect for lulling the day away exploring heavenly food and idyllic coastal surroundings.

A reminder of Muizenberg's glamourous history, Knead brings an air of sophistication to the popular beachfront surf spot. Modern yet classical interiors and crystal chandeliers provide a glamorous setting for breakfast and lunch, with long windows providing endless views of the beach. Knead have created a stylish menu to match the atmosphere, consisting of designer breakfasts such as French toast with berries and cream, through to breakfasts pizzas. Coffees are always good and their white hot chocolate is a must on colder days. Pastries and artisanal breads feature strongly on their breakfast and lunch menu, along with favourites such as gourmet burgers and delectable pizzas.

Situated in the heart of Muizenberg in an old Jewish Hotel, this family run restaurant offers high standards of cuisine and excellence. The varied menu serves delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners. Enjoy a hearty famous breakfast burger or lunch, which caters for large appetites serving super-large burgers, served with garnish and chips, burgers are flame grilled to perfection. For fulfilling suppers, try Kosie's grilled chicken breast with a selection of mouth-watering vegetables followed by the temptress of deserts, caramel and banana pancakes topped with ice cream. With a cosmopolitan ambience heightened by interesting decorative features, Kosie’s Place makes for a well-served, remarkable setting serving unbeatable prices and mouth-watering dishes.

Tucked away in a tiny shop in Muizenberg Village, master baker Hasan produces the most delectable artisanal bread and pastries from his tiny bakery, La Petite Boulangerie. A favourite with locals, the quality of the baked goods at this hidden gem is world class. Most of the deli is taken up by industrial ovens, but there is enough seating at the counter and in the tiny courtyard for a quick coffee with friends. Designed more as an express bakery, pastries such as croissants and muffins call from the counter. Locals flow in to collect their daily bread, still warm from the oven, as others gather and catch up on local news. Famous for their exceptional bread, La Petite Boulangerie supply restaurants all over Cape Town. Stop by for coffee, warm bread and conversation with the Muizenberg Village locals.

Situated on the La Vierge wine estate in the beautiful Hemel en Aarde Valley, this vibrant restaurant boasts spectacular views over the valley, vineyards and the ocean. With a menu that is kept simple and fresh with dishes that are full of flavour and made with fresh local produce, diners are in for a culinary treat. The wine list is extensive and offers the entire La Vierge selection as well the finest wines from other renowned estates. A wonderful dining experience with stunning views awaits you at La Vierge Restaurant.

Madre's Kitchen and Country Grocer is set on a farm just outside Stanford village. Surrounded by vineyards and overlooking the dam, it's a great spot to linger with friends and loved ones. The menu is inspirational country cooking, with fresh breakfast and lunch options. Madre also produces a delicious range of wheat-free cakes. Children are well catered for and can burn off excess energy on the jungle gym and trampoline.

Mariana's delightful award winning 'Best Country Restaurant' has homely tables set on the patio overlooking her herb and vegetable garden and the awesome mountainous backdrop. Enjoy the view while savouring Mariana's mouthwatering dishes. Mariana contributes a monthly column to the Woolworths TASTE magazine, and produces delicious home preserves for the deli. Bookings are essential 028 341 0272 Open Fri, Sat & Sun 9am - 4pm Licensed Take lots of cash so that you can stock up - there are no credit card facilities.

Serving modern Mediterranean cuisine with a South African twist, Mediterrea offers a unique and exciting dining experience in the heart of Hermanus. Specialising in seafood, world-class dishes are offered at affordable prices along with wines to accompany the offerings superbly. With stunning views of Walkerbay and the mountains, and if you’re lucky, Southern Right whales when they visit, patrons can expect a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience

Nestled at the foot of the Babylonstoren Mountain is Mogg’s Country Restaurant. Well-placed along a route that goes past five wine estates, this unique restaurant epitomises everything that is ‘country’. Warm orange walls inside and out, adorned with paintings and embroidered pictures, a large fireplace, a pine ceiling and wooden tables and chairs are just some of the features that help to create a warm and welcoming ambience that will soon have you relaxing after a hard day’s wine tasting. The menu, offering the finest country and Mediterranean cuisine, is small but well-planned and constantly updated. The ingredients are home-grown and everything is homemade. For a real taste of life in the country, give Moggs Country Restaurant a try.

Organic Alive delivers a come-as-your-are ambience greeted by friendly staff and eat as much as you like buffets. With delectable organic creations on display such as organic coconut curry and wild rice or organic salads, chutneys, nuts and variety of home-baked breads, this little piece of wholesome heaven serves simple foods designed to heal. The venue is simple and does not boast much in terms of scenery, but the impressive buffet for R40 is enough to entice the palate into staying while exploring the garnished market filled with organic delights.

Restaurant De La Mer is the only restaurant in the Gansbaai Old HarbourLouise the mother / mother in-law, Dale the son / husband and Eileen the wife / daughter in-law, take enormous pleasure in welcoming you to their family-run, family-style restaurant.Meals are all freshly prepared with lots of love and effort. A selection of seafood, meat, basket meals, burgers, salads and deserts is on offer. Come and relax on the deck or inside the restaurant with a glass of wine or cocktail while watching the stunning sunsets over the ocean.Need to know? Out of season:Monday, Wednesday to Saturday09h00 to 22h00;Sundays09h00 to 16h00;Tuesdays – Closed.In season:Mondays – 17h00 to late;Tuesday to Saturday 09h00 to late;Sundays – 09h00 to 16h00.

Salt of the Earth is a farmstall-type restaurant situated close to Camp Hill, in the Hemel en Aarde district. Customers can sit inside of restaurant or on the patio; a blanket is offered if the weather is too cold. Every last Sunday of the month they offer live music called Music of Yesterday. The restaurant is ideal for kids where they can run around in the veld and still be safe. Enjoy the lovely farm-style breakfast that is a quite substantial meal, light meals or tea and cake. Choose from the daily specials and freshly prepared dishes.

This lively little restaurant boasts a “If you don’t eat with us, we’ll both starve” slogan that invites humour into this relaxed atmosphere. Located within the scenic poster town of Simon’s Town, Salty Sea Dog Restaurant offers simple food heightened by nautical artefacts and exposed wooden beams for a rustic dining experience. Dine alfresco or enjoy the sheltered warmth of indoor dining in the comfort of whitewashed walls and rustic thatched roofs exploring the succulent tastes of fresh seafood grilled to perfection or fried in a crisp light batter dressed in zesty basting sauce. From fresh fish to salads and light-hearted servings of chicken nuggets and hot dogs for children, Salty Sea Dog offers a relaxing and refreshing approach to traditional fish and chips by the harbour.