There are so many amazing restaurants in Cape Town. Cape Malay food reflects a fusion of Indonesian, Malaysian, and East African influences. The birth of Cape Malay’s distinctively flavoured dishes, where spices like paprika substituted for traditional chilli and intricate flavour profiles evolved. Today, Cape Malay Restaurants honour this legacy, serving aromatic curries, flavorful stews, and sweet treats that celebrate centuries of ingenuity. These dining establishments, offer a mix of flavours and aromas and stand as an ever-evolving tradition. Join us on a delectable journey as we check out the best Cape Malay restaurants in Cape Town.
Table of Contents
The list below is in no particular order. Each entry is equally celebrated for their achievements, and the sequence of names is arbitrary, not indicating any ranking or preference.
Bokaap Kombuis 🥘
Located in the heart of Cape Town’s Bo-Kaap district, this bo-kaap restaurant shows cultural richness and culinary excellence. Yusuf and Nazli, the proud owners, are not just restaurateurs; they’re born and bred Bo-Kaapers, deeply rooted in the area’s history and traditions. Known affectionately as ‘The Kombuis’, this authentic Cape Malay restaurant has earned a global reputation, like most bo-kaap restaurants, ‘’The Kombuis’’ attracts a diverse clientele ranging from politicians, ambassadors, and VIPs to enthusiastic tourists and locals. The allure? The indisputable authenticity of Cape Malay Cuisine is a reflection of the Bo-Kaap’s heritage, history, and inclusivity.
The true essence lies in the nurturing environment they’ve cultivated for their staff. Identifying latent talents and fostering growth, they’ve transformed general workers into aspiring chefs, aspiring to see each team member empowered enough to one day start their culinary ventures. This dedication to their team stands as a testament to the restaurant’s success, infusing every dish served with a touch of heartfelt dedication and Bo-Kaap’s lively spirit. Bo-Kaap Kombuis isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of heritage, community, and the art of inclusivity through food.
Bokaap Kombuis Opening Hours: Lunch on Tuesday to Sunday from 12 pm to 3 pm and dinner on Tuesday to Saturday from 6 pm to 10 pm
Address: 7 August Street, Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town
Website: http://www.bokaapkombuis.co.za
Contact Number: 021 422 5446
Faeeza’s Home Kitchen 🫂
Faeeza’s Home Kitchen, curated by the passionate Faeeza Abrahams, showcases a delightful immersion into authentic Cape Malay cuisine right within the comfort of her home. Beyond serving delectable dishes, her restaurant invites customers to partake in interactive cooking classes, a journey of rolling rotis, crafting chilli bites, and savouring the art of preparing curries and samoosas, thoughtfully designed for all tastes, including vegetarians and vegans. These cooking classes aren’t just about culinary skills; they’re a medium to foster bonds among friends while discovering new experiences. Faeeza not only shares the time-honoured techniques of Malay cooking but also aims to convey a profound passion for her culture, making it accessible to all.
The classes culminate in an intimate lunch at Faeeza’s dining table, where guests indulge in a three-course Cape Malay menu. As an added delight, visitors can join a guided stroll through the Cape Malay Quarter, unravelling its history and amazing culture before returning to Faeeza’s Tea Garden for a sumptuous meal. Faeeza extends her hospitality beyond regular classes, offering team-building sessions, school programs, and even Samoosas folding classes for juniors, making cultural learning a lively and engaging experience. Adding to its charm, Faeeza’s Home Kitchen has hosted notable personalities like Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and Roger Federer, welcoming visitors with the prospect of unexpected encounters. So, a visit isn’t just about relishing exceptional cuisine but also a chance to embrace the warmth of Faeeza’s hospitality and perhaps cross paths with a familiar face or two.
Faeeza’s Home Kitchen Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm and Saturdays from 9 am to 4 pm
Address: Chiappini Lane, Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town
Website: https://faeezashomekitchen.com/
Contact Number: 072 120 3710
Biesmiellah at the Lounge 🍴
Biesmiellah at the Lounge is a hallmark of excellence in Cape Town, renowned for its exquisite array of halal-certified Cape Malay curries and varied South African delicacies. This esteemed establishment, steeped in tradition and authenticity, embraces the rich tapestry of flavours that define Cape Malay cuisine while celebrating the broader spectrum of South African dishes. At the heart of Biesmiellah lies a commitment to preserving and sharing the essence of Cape Malay culinary heritage. Patrons are welcomed into a warm and inviting environment where they’re invited to savour a delightful selection of aromatic curries, each dish meticulously prepared with a blend of spices and flavours that evoke the essence of the Cape.
From fragrant lamb and chicken curries to sumptuous bredies and boboties, the menu tantalizes taste buds with an array of traditional Cape Malay offerings. Additionally, guests can explore a variety of other South African specialities, catering to a diverse range of palates. This halaal restaurant not only presents a journey but also provides a welcoming environment for all to relish flavours steeped in history and tradition. Biesmiellah’s dedication to serving exceptional dishes, deeply rooted in the Cape Malay heritage, ensures an unforgettable dining experience that pays homage to South Africa’s eclectic culinary landscape.
Biesmiellah at the Lounge Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 9 am to 10 pm and Saturday from 10:30 am to 10 pm
Address: 2 Wale Street & Pentz Street, Bo-Kaap, Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town
Website: https://www.biesmiellah.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 423 0850
126 Cape Kitchen & Cafe 🌶️
Located in the heart of Cape Town’s Bo Kaap neighbourhood, 126 Kitchen Cafe is a sophisticated yet laid-back restaurant offering a genuine Cape Malay dining experience. Drawing inspiration from Malay and Indian culinary traditions, the restaurant’s menu showcases tested and perfected local home-cooked meals. The atmosphere reflects the cultural richness of the area, surrounded by vibrant and colourful homes.
Committed to sourcing only the finest locally-produced ingredients, 126 Kitchen Cafe delivers dishes that not only satisfy the palate but also evoke nostalgic childhood memories through carefully crafted aromas and flavours. Embracing the diverse food culture that unites people, this establishment stands as a noteworthy destination for those seeking an authentic Cape Malay dining experience in Cape Town.
126 Cape Kitchen and Cafe Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 7 am to 10:30 am, 12 pm to 4 pm and 6 pm to 9 pm for dinner and Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 2 pm, 12 pm to 4 pm and 6 pm to 9 pm for dinner
Address: 126 Cape Kitchen & Cafe, 126 Buitengracht St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
Website: https://www.hyattrestaurants.com/en/dining
Contact Number: 021 214 1234
Jonkershuis Constantia 🍛
Amongst vineyards and mountains, Jonkershuis Constantia shows its excellence and ethical sourcing. Inspired by the Cape Malay heritage, the restaurant presents a diverse menu, ranging from signature Cape Malay dishes to casual options like burgers and chips. With a focus on provenance and sustainability, Jonkershuis Constantia ensures a responsible approach to its offerings. The outdoor space, reminiscent of French boulevards, offers a pretty dining experience, complemented by an indoor courtyard that serves as a pleasant suntrap and shelter on windy days. Jonkershuis Constantia emerges as an ideal destination for those seeking a culinary journey that blends tradition, sustainability, and some of the best views in Cape Town.
Jonkershuis Constantia Opening Hours: 8 am to 9 pm (times may vary depending on season)
Address: Groot Constantia, Groot Constantia Rd, Constantia, Cape Town
Website: https://jonkershuisconstantia.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 794 6255
These Cape Town restaurants are rooted in the region’s rich heritage, and offer more than just delectable dishes; they serve as gateways to a bygone era, preserving the legacy of a community through aromatic spices and intricate recipes. From hands-on cooking experiences to indulgent dining, these restaurants offer a new experience. They don’t only test the taste buds but also invite visitors to embrace the inclusivity and warmth of the Cape Malay culture. A visit to these restaurants is not just a meal; it’s a sensory journey! Don’t miss out on our complete Muslim traveller guide and Mosque Guide to Cape Town.
