Discover culinary excellence in Cape Town with our guide to the 15 coolest restaurants. From trendy cafes to upscale dining, experience a food journey that captures the flavours of this South African city. There are many cool restaurants in Cape Town and even our choices are just the tip of the iceberg. These unique dining spaces and diverse menus belong to the best Cape Town restaurants and will leave you wanting more.
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.
Salsify at the Roundhouse 🍽
Against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean and Lion’s Head, Salsify stands out as a treasure in Cape Town. This award-winning fine-dining establishment, located within a meticulously restored national monument, invites guests to indulge in modern, seasonal creations. Chef Ryan Shell’s expertly crafted menu boasts dishes like gnocchi with spring truffles and lime leaf-infused line fish. The environment, bathed in the golden hues of a sunset, complements the art-filled space. Salsify offers not just a meal but an immersive experience, where each bite is a celebration of the city’s rich natural bounty and culinary finesse.
Operating Hours for Salsify at the Roundhouse: Tuesday to Saturday for lunch from 12:30 pm to 3 pm and dinner from 6 pm to 9 pm, and Sunday lunch from 12:30 pm to 3 pm
Address: The Roundhouse, Roundhouse Road, Camps Bay
Website: https://salsify.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 010 6444
Marco’s African Place 🌍
Immerse yourself in African culture and international cuisine at Marco’s African Place in Cape Town‘s vibrant Bo-Kaap. With a seating capacity of 220 guests, this renowned restaurant and bar has become a local and international favourite, offering an authentic taste of Africa through its varied cuisine and live music. Indulge in Marco’s specialities, from a tantalizing Pan-African Platter featuring Springbok, Kudu, and Ostrich to unique offerings like Crocodile and Impala dishes. Experience the rhythm of Africa with live marimba bands while enjoying traditional Xhosa dishes and washing them down with home-brewed African beer. Marco’s is a sensory celebration of the continent’s food and musical treasures.
Operating Hours for Marco’s African Place: Monday to Sunday from 12 pm to 11 pm
Address: 15 Rose Lane, Schotsche Kloof / Bo-Kaap, Cape Town
Website: https://www.marcosafricanplace.com/
Contact Number: 021 423 5412
Pizza Shed 🍕
Savour the artistry of pizza-making at Pizza Shed in Cape Town, where every slice is a masterpiece. Crafted from their signature slow-proofed dough, each pizza undergoes a meticulous 48-hour nurturing process before facing the searing heat of wood-fired ovens. The Maillard effect, achieved through skilled dough stretching, imparts a distinctive “canotto” shape and a delightful smokiness. Pizza Shed’s expert pizzaiolos, crafting over 4000 pizzas monthly, showcase their passion for the craft. Operating busy wood-burning ovens requires finesse, and their skilled pizza cooks excel, ensuring perfect temperatures. With delivery options, relish hot pizzas for R30 or frozen delights for R70 (free for orders over R600). Elevate your dining experience with a rooftop view of beautiful Cape Town.
Operating Hours for Pizza Shed: Monday to Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm
Address: 242 Lower Main Road, Observatory, Cape Town
Website: https://pizzashed.co.za/
Contact Number: 060 953 4467
Addis in Cape ✨
Step into Addis in Cape, a foodies sanctuary where Addis Ababa meets Cape Town. Located in a historic red building on Upper Loop Street since 2007, this restaurant seamlessly blends Ethiopia’s rich history with a contemporary African flair. From traditional furnishings to the classic Ethiopian coffee ceremony, every detail exudes authenticity.
The menu caters to non-vegan, vegan, gluten-free, and halaal-friendly preferences, offering a spectrum of flavours from chicken, beef, and fish, to prawns. Find yourself in the rich aromas, herbs, and spices imported from Addis Ababa, prepared with utmost care. Beyond Ethiopian dining, Addis in Cape is a hub for celebrations, events, live Afro-Jazz music, cooking classes, and insightful round table discussions, making it a cool destination in Cape Town.
Operating Hours for Addis in Cape: Monday to Saturday for lunch from 12 pm to 3 pm and dinner from 4 pm to 10:30 pm
Address: 168 Loop Street, Cape Town CBD
Website: https://addisincape.co.za/
Contact Number: 076 846 0929
Seabreeze Fish & Shell 🐟
Discover SeaBreeze Fish & Shell, a reinvention of the traditional fish restaurant in Cape Town. With a commitment to Cape Town’s seafood legacy, the menu features only locally sourced, seasonal produce and fresh fish from South African shores. The restaurant’s exterior, a deep blue reminiscent of the Atlantic, sets the stage for a contemporary, ocean-inspired interior.
Dine indoors or outdoors, choosing tables or the 10-meter communal terrace. With a casual environment, attentive service, a stellar wine list, and delightful cocktails, SeaBreeze Fish & Shell is a sanctuary for seafood enthusiasts. Reserve a table and embark on a journey celebrating quality, sustainability, and the beauty of Cape Town’s oceanic heritage.
Operating Hours for Seabreeze Fish and Shell: Monday to Sunday from 12 pm to 9 pm
Address: 213 Bree Street, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
Website: https://seabreezecapetown.co.za/
Contact Number: 074 793 9349
The Test Kitchen Fledgelings 🍖
The Test Kitchen Fledgelings transcends fine dining with a focus on inspiring plates and bold flavours. The ‘Fully Fledged Tasting Menu’ is a celebration of their culinary journey, offering a six-course exploration of signature dishes and newfound favourites. Indulge in Oysters nam jim and prawns ssam with a Cape Malay salad, or savour Springbok with beetroot and coffee jus. Dessert options like berry cake with mascarpone or lemon tart showcase their culinary abilities. TTK Fledgelings is a haven for those seeking a unique and delightful dining experience. Please note that menus are subject to change without notice.
Operating Hours for The Test Kitchen Fledgelings: Thursday to Saturday for lunch from 12 pm to 1:30 pm, Monday to Sunday for dinner from 6 pm to 8 pm
Address: 375 Albert Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town
Website: https://ttkfledgelings.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 447 2337
Fyn Restaurant 💖
Embark on a culinary odyssey at FYN Restaurant, where the untamed spirit of South Africa meets the precision of contemporary cuisine in a neoteric Japanese-African fusion. Breaking the boundaries between kitchen and dining room, FYN Restaurant invites you to shed assumptions and embrace a journey of flavour discovery. The design blurs distinctions, making the kitchen an integral part of the dining experience. Comfort triumphs over formality, collaboration over individual feats. Led by visionaries Peter Tempelhoff, Ashley Moss, and Jennifer Hugé, FYN promises a fearless exploration of taste. With 22 years of culinary expertise, Tempelhoff turns dreams into reality, while Moss adds his unique flair, and Hugé ensures service excellence. Join these magic makers for an unforgettable venture into the uncharted
Operating Hours for Fyn Restaurant: Monday to Saturday for lunch from 12 pm to 2 pm and for dinner from 6 pm to 8:30 pm
Address: 37 Parliament Street, Unit 501, Speakers Corner, Cape Town
Website: https://fynrestaurant.com/
Contact Number: 021 286 2733
Pier Restaurant 🌊
If you’re looking for the best Cape Town restaurant at the V&A Waterfront. PIER Restaurant on the first floor promises an unparalleled ocean-side fine dining experience. Away from the bustle of the Waterfront shopping district, guests escape to peace with beautiful views. Headed by acclaimed chef John Norris-Rogers, formerly of La Petite Colombe, PIER showcases the finest local produce, especially inspired by the ocean. The multi-course menu features tableside theatrics, with highlights that change over time to keep everyone on their toes. Norris-Rogers expresses excitement about leading PIER, envisioning a cool dining experience in Cape Town that lingers in guests’ memories for a lifetime. Welcome to unforgettable culinary moments on the waterfront.
Operating Hours for Pier Restaurant: Monday to Sunday for lunch from 12 pm to 1:30 pm and dinner from 6 pm to 7:30 pm
Address: Pierhead Building, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Website: https://pier.restaurant/food
Contact Number: 021 879 6328
La Colombe 🍾
La Colombe stands as a culinary icon in Cape Town and is widely considered one of the best restaurants Cape Town has to offer. It’s celebrated for its exquisite contemporary French-meets-Asian fine dining. Showered with accolades, the restaurant has clinched prestigious titles, including a spot on the World’s 50 Best list and the highest rating of 3 Plates in the JHP Gourmet Guide. Other recent triumphs in 2022 include a rise to 56th on the World’s 50 Best list. La Colombe continues to elevate the dining experience, earning its place among the elite in global gastronomy.
Operating Hours for La Colombe: Monday to Sunday from 12 pm to 1:30 pm and dinner from 6 pm to 8 pm
Address: Silvermist Wine Estate, Main Road, Constantia Nek, Cape Town
Website: https://lacolombe.restaurant/
Contact Number: 021 794 2390
Galjoen 🎣
Experience the essence of South African seas at Galjoen, a sustainable seafood restaurant where bookings are now open. This culinary treasure takes pride in its tasting menu, a celebration of the country’s abundant and responsibly caught seafood. At Galjoen, sustainability isn’t just a concept—it’s a commitment to serving only locally sourced food. Embark on a journey that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also honours the rich marine biodiversity of South Africa.
Operating Hours for Galjoen: Thursday to Saturday for lunch from 12:30 pm, Tuesday to Saturday from 6:45 pm
Address: 99 Harrington St, District Six, Cape Town
Website: https://www.galjoencpt.co.za/
Contact Number: 079 093 0559
The Pot Luck Club ⭐
Enter the culinary stage at The Pot Luck Club, where Chef Luke’s visionary approach unfolds in an open-plan kitchen illuminated like a captivating performance. Since 2012, this eatery has enchanted patrons with its small plate menu, offering modern global dishes designed for shared indulgence. Amidst a backdrop of modern industrial elegance, the environment is warm, inviting, and inclusive, welcoming people from all walks of life. The ethos at The Pot Luck Club goes beyond the plate; it’s about creating an event of joy, happiness, and fulfilment. Every diner departs with a cherished memory, a smile etched on their face, ensuring a dining experience that resonates for years to come.
Operating Hours for The Pot Luck Club: Monday to Saturday from 12:30 pm to 2 pm and for dinner from 6 pm to 10 pm, Sunday from 11 am to 12:30 pm
Address: The Silo, The Old Biscuit Mill, 373-375 Albert Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town
Website: https://thepotluckclub.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 447 0804
Belly of the Beast 🍷
Embark on an adventure at Belly of the Beast, the creation of Chefs Anouchka Horn and Neil Swart. Located in their intimate 30-seater restaurant, diners are treated to a unique tasting menu for both lunch and dinner. With no set courses, patrons surrender to the chefs’ expertise, showcasing seasonal delights sourced from local sustainable producers. Every inch of the animal is utilized, pushing boundaries with dishes that balance innovation and accessibility. The 30-seat capacity ensures a personalized dining experience, where the chefs handle everything from cooking to serving. Online reservations, including a deposit, secure a seat for those ready to trust and savour the unexpected.
Operating Hours for the Belly of the Beast: Tuesday to Saturday for lunch from 12:30 pm and Monday to Saturday for dinner from 6:45 pm
Address: 110 Harrington St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
Website: https://bellyofthebeast.co.za/
Contact Number: 076 220 5458
Foxcroft 🦊
Foxcroft, a casual counterpart to La Colombe, offers a refreshing dining experience with a small plate menu emphasizing hyper-seasonality and sustainability. Unlike fussy fine dining, Foxcroft presents a more relaxed atmosphere without compromising excellence. The warm and attentive service complements the refined plating and perfectly portioned dishes. Foxcroft’s commitment to delivering an exceptional dining experience is evident in every bite, making it a standout choice for those seeking a relaxed yet satisfying meal.
Operating Hours for Foxcroft: Monday to Sunday from 8 am to 9 pm
Address: Shop 8, High Constantia Centre, Groot Constantia Road, Constantia, Cape Town
Website: https://foxcroft.restaurant/home
Contact Number: 021 202 3304
Thali 🌏
Step into the world of Thali, where a burst of colours, hanging birdcages, and Hindi-scripted walls create an inviting Indian aesthetic. Since 2016, Liam Tomlin and his team have redefined the coolest thali experience in Cape Town. Thali here is a nontraditional delight—Indian-inspired food with a modern twist served tapas-style for two. This neighbourhood jewel embraces spontaneity, welcoming guests with a South Asian-inspired cocktail before indulging in a three-course set menu of innovative Indian cuisine. With no reservations required, the warmly lit double-storey space, featuring a fairy-lit courtyard and private upstairs room, invites you to savour the spontaneity, vibrancy, and shareable joy of Indian flavours.
Operating Hours for Thali: Monday to Sunday from 5 pm to 9:30 pm
Address: 3 Park Road, Gardens, Cape Town
Website: https://www.chefswarehouse.co.za/thali
Contact Number: 021 286 2110
Ramenhead 🍜
Are you looking for the best Cape Town restaurants for Ramen? Your search ends here, Cape Town’s ultimate destination for authentic Japanese ramen is Ramenhead. Immerse yourself in a casual, edgy atmosphere, echoing the lively ramen houses in Japan. Enjoy the perfection of silky, freshly made noodles and rich, umami-infused broth, simmered and nurtured for days. With a vibe that extends from day to night, Ramenhead is a bustling hub in the heart of the city. Embrace the spirit of Japanese authenticity, this spot limits the number of guests per half hour to ensure each bowl is a culinary masterpiece.
Operating Hours for Ramenhead: Wednesday to Saturday for lunch from 12 pm to 2:30 pm, Tuesday to Saturday from 6 pm to 9 pm and later on weekends
Address: Speaker’s Corner,37 Parliament Street, Cape Town
Website: https://www.ramenhead.co.za/
Contact Number: 067 312 8061
These 15 Cape Town restaurants exemplify the city’s diverse gastronomic tapestry. From the seaside elegance of Salisify to the cultural fusion at Marco’s African Place, restaurants in Cape Town tell a unique story on the plate. Whether you’re savouring sustainably sourced seafood at SeaBreeze or embracing the daring flavours of Addis in Cape, the city’s culinary journey is one of innovation and authenticity. They stand as some of the best restaurants in Cape Town with offerings ranging from contemporary fine dining to cool neighbourhood gems, savour every bite in a city that truly knows how to captivate through its cuisine come and enjoy some of the.
