Cape Town has a lot going for it from mountains, beaches, to a great food scene. But if you want to really experience what locals eat, drink, and make, there’s no better way than visiting one of the city’s food markets. They’re more than just places to grab a meal. These markets bring people together, showcase small producers, and offer some of the best street food and snacks in town. This guide covers the most reliable and enjoyable places to eat your way around the city. No reservations needed.
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.
Time Out Market🛳️
The Time Out Market sits inside a covered space on Dock Road at the V&A Waterfront, offering an easy escape from the weather while still delivering bustling market vibes. You’ll find everything from sushi and craft burgers to artisanal ice cream and global street food. And it’s all under one roof, with plenty of seating and harbor views. It’s the kind of place you can drop into any day for a quality bite, catch up with friends, or grab ingredients for dinner.
This spot is one of the most convenient and consistent Cape Town food markets. It is perfect for anyone visiting the Waterfront or locals looking to eat well without dealing with crowds or weather. Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or a breezy coffee break, the variety here makes every visit feel fresh and satisfying.
V&A Waterfront, Opening Hours: Daily, 10 am to 7 pm
Address: Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Website: https://www.waterfront.co.za/time-out-market/
Contact: 021 408 7688
The Old Biscuit Mill 🍞
Every weekend, The Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock transforms into a lively space full of energy, flavour, and community. The Neighbourgoods Market draws a mix of locals and visitors for its handcrafted goods, delicious food, and a buzzing atmosphere. From gourmet coffee to freshly baked pastries, homemade preserves, and high-end charcuterie, this market offers something special at every corner. It’s a fantastic way to start your weekend.
What makes The Old Biscuit Mill stand out is the diversity and food quality on offer. It’s one of those places where you can spend hours tasting your way through unique dishes. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, there’s always something new to try.
The Old Biscuit Mill, Opening Hours: Daily, 10 am to 7 pm
Address: 373-375 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town
Website: https://theoldbiscuitmill.co.za/
Contact: 021 447 8194
Oranjezicht City Farm Market 🥬
Beside the V&A Waterfront, the Oranjezicht City Farm Market is a breath of fresh air in the city. It offers a curated space where organic farmers and small producers come together under stylish tents. From freshly picked greens to artisanal cheeses, fermented drinks, and handmade skincare. The selection is thoughtful and grounded in sustainability. The setting is lovely too with shaded seating, ocean air, and a relaxed crowd make it easy to linger over breakfast or a leisurely lunch.
This market has a loyal following and it’s not hard to see why. The mix of quality ingredients, clean presentation, and warm service makes it one of the most enjoyable Cape Town food markets for people who care about where their food comes from. It’s ideal for a weekend morning when you want something wholesome, fresh, and full of flavour.
Oranjezicht City Farm Market, Opening Hours: Saturday, 8.15 am to 2 pm & Sunday 9 am to 2 pm
Address: Haul Road, Granger Bay Blvd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
Website:https://ozcf.co.za/
Contact: 083 628 3426
Mojo Market 🎶
Mojo Market in Sea Point offers a different kind of energy. Open seven days a week, it’s more of a hybrid space that mixes food stalls with bars, shops, and live music. The atmosphere is lively, casual, and urban. With over two dozen food vendors, you can find just about every cuisine. From poke bowls to gourmet sandwiches and vegan curries. There’s also a central bar that keeps the drinks flowing.
Unlike many markets that stick to weekend schedules, Mojo is always open. It’s one of the few Cape Town food markets that lets you enjoy market-quality food daily. Whether you’re grabbing a bite between meetings or settling in for a night of music and craft beer, the variety and convenience are hard to beat.
Mojo Market, Opening Hours: Daily, 8 am to 12 pm
Address: 30 Regent Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town
Website: https://www.mojomarket.co.za/
Contact:[email protected]
Root44 Market 🎡
Located just outside Cape Town in the Stellenbosch Winelands, Root44 Market is worth the short road trip. It’s housed in sturdy marquees so it runs in all weather, and the range of offerings is impressive. From gourmet burgers and Korean fried chicken to vegan treats and decadent pastries, you’re spoiled for choice.
The craft beer garden and nearby wine stalls also ensure there’s no shortage of ways to toast the weekend. It may not be in the city, but Root44 belongs on any serious list of Cape Town food markets. The combination of good food, beautiful surroundings, and live entertainment makes it a great all-ages outing.
Address: Corner of R44 and Annandale Rd, Stellenbosch
Website: https://root44.co.za/
Contact: 021 300 3935
Cape Point Vineyards Market 🍷
Few markets can show off a sunset view quite like Cape Point Vineyards in Noordhoek. This Thursday evening market is as much about atmosphere as it is about food. There are picnic blankets, live acoustic sets, and a wide selection of gourmet street food paired with the estate’s own wine. Kids run free on the lawns while adults tuck into burgers, curries, and tapas-style bites.
The market balances sophistication with a relaxed, community feel. As one of the most scenic Cape Town food markets, it offers something a little different with a blend of elegance, comfort, and culinary flair. Arrive early to grab a good spot and enjoy the sunset.
Cape Point Vineyards Market, Opening Hours: Thursday, 4.30 pm to 8.30 pm (Summer only)
Address: Silvermine Rd, Noordhoek, Cape Town
Website:https://cpv.co.za/
Contact:[email protected]
Boschendal Friday Night Market 🌄
Boschendal is a well-known wine estate in Franschhoek, and on Friday evenings they host a small market. Guests can buy farm-fresh bread, meats, cheeses, and wines, or pick up a hot meal from one of the prepared food stalls. It’s all set outdoors under fairy lights, with a casual vibe and plenty of space to sit and enjoy the evening.
Even though it’s outside Cape Town, it’s often mentioned alongside Cape Town’s best food markets. The focus is on seasonal, local food and relaxed dining in a farm setting. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a quiet start to the weekend and don’t mind the drive.
Boschendal Friday Night Market, Opening Hours: Fridays, 6 pm to 9 pm (Summer only)
Address: Pniel Road, Groot Franschhoek
Website: https://boschendal.com/
Contact: [email protected]
Elgin Railway Market 🚂
The Elgin Railway Market is housed in a converted 1940s apple warehouse in the Elgin Valley, about an hour from Cape Town. With its industrial Art déco interior and exposed beams, the space has lots of character. You can even arrive by steam train—Ceres Rail runs return trips from Cape Town on selected weekends.
Inside, you’ll find an impressive range of vendors. Think wood‑fired pizzas, dim sum, seafood and curries, as well as freshly baked goods and pastries. There are also stalls with craft gin, local ciders, Elgin wines, coffee and juice . Kids are welcome: there’s a play area with rope swings, putt‑putt, and climbing frames. It’s a great family-friendly day trip that mixes countryside charm with quality food and unique finds.
Elgin Railway Market, Opening Hours: Weekends, 9 am to 4 pm (Summer only)
Address: Oak Avenue, Elgin
Website: https://www.elginrailwaymarket.co.za/
Contact: 021 204 1158
Cape Town’s food markets offer more than good food. They bring people together, showcase local talent, and make it easy to spend time well. Whether you’re catching up with friends, out with family, or exploring solo, each market has its own atmosphere. From small neighbourhood setups to full-day destination markets, there’s a lot to discover. With variety, quality, and great settings, Cape Town food markets continue to be some of the city’s most enjoyable experiences.
