As someone who lived in Cape Town for a decade, and has traveled to more than 20 countries, I can confidently say that Cape Town is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from fine dining with breathtaking views to laid-back beachside eateries serving up fresh seafood. In fact, Condé Nast Traveler named Cape Town the Best Food City in the World in 2016, and it continues to impress with its vibrant, diverse culinary scene. And if you are looking for the perfect place to stay while you explore the city’s dining scene, check out my guide to The Best Hotels in Cape Town: From Lavish Luxury to Stylish Budget Stays – whether you’re seeking a five-star luxury escape or a charming, affordable stay, this guide covers top accommodations for every style and budget so you can rest as well as you dine!
If you’re visiting the Mother City, you absolutely must experience its incredible food culture. To help you out, I’ve put together a list of 9 must-try restaurants in Cape Town that serve up unforgettable flavors, stunning views, and top-tier hospitality. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining, sushi, seafood, or casual bites, these restaurants have something for everyone!
1. The Nines
Location: 9th Floor, Station House, Sea Point.
Estimated Spend: R400 – R600 per person.
Specialty: Contemporary cuisine with fresh, local ingredients.
Child-Friendly: Yes, but better suited for adults.
Best for: Lunch and Dinner.
Located on the rooftop of Station House, The Nines offers one of the best sunset views in Cape Town. Whether you’re sipping signature cocktails or indulging in their butter-aged steak, this restaurant delivers both in taste and aesthetics. If you want to take Instagram pictures, this is the right restuarant to do so.
NB: Gentlemen, if you want to spoil your woman for a romantic lunch or dinner, this is the place to take her.
2. The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa – Azure Restaurant
Location: Victoria Road, Camps Bay.
Estimated Spend: R500 – R1,000 per person.
Specialty: Fine dining with international cuisine and a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Child-Friendly: Yes, children of all ages are welcome.
Best for: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
For a luxurious and elevated dining experience, head to Azure Restaurant at the Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa. With panoramic ocean views, an award-winning wine list, and meticulously crafted dishes, this is the perfect spot for a special occasion. Their signature seafood platter and Cape Malay-style dishes are a must-try! They also have vegan options.
NB: Gentlemen, if you want to spoil your woman for a great lunch or dinner, this is the place to take her.
3. Bobo’s Brasserie
Location: Beach Road, Mouille Point.
Estimated Spend: R350 – R600 per person.
Specialty: Classic French brasserie-style cuisine.
Child-Friendly: Yes
Best for: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Bobo’s Brasserie is perfect for a chic yet relaxed dining experience. One of the best meals I’v had are from Bobo’s Plus, the oceanfront setting makes it an ideal spot for sundowners and dinner.
4. Grand Pavilion
Location: 277 Beach Road, Sea Point.
Estimated Spend: R300 – R500 per person.
Specialty: Modern European cuisine with a coastal twist.
Child-Friendly: Yes, with a kids’ menu.
Best for: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Grand Pavilion blends sophisticated ambiance with casual comfort, making it a great spot for brunch, lunch, or a romantic dinner. The oysters, ceviche, and fresh seafood dishes are some of their standout items.
NB: They have the BEST ceviche in town with great potions.
5. Paranga
Location: Camps Bay Promenade.
Estimated Spend: R500 – R800 per person.
Specialty: Sushi, seafood, and premium grilled meats.
Child-Friendly: Yes
Best for: Lunch and Dinner.
Paranga is an iconic Camps Bay hotspot, offering high-end dining with unbeatable beachfront views. Their wagyu beef burger, sushi platters, and grilled seafood are must-haves. Perfect for sunset dining with a cocktail in hand.
6. Hugo Social Club at Latitude Aparthotel
Location: Cnr Kloof & Regent Road, Sea Point.
Estimated Spend: R250 – R500 per person.
Specialty: Steakhouse and contemporary cuisine in a rooftop setting.
Child-Friendly: Yes, but more suited for adults.
Best for: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
For an upscale rooftop experience, Hugo Social Club is the place to be. Their premium steak cuts, signature cocktails, and panoramic views make it one of the most exclusive dining spots in Sea Point. I had the best sticky wings there and will definitely go back again once I’m visiting Cape Town.
7. Surfshack Diner
Location: The Promenade, Victoria Road, Camps Bay.
Estimated Spend: R300 – R500 per person.
Specialty: Burgers, wood-fired pizzas, and cocktails.
Child-Friendly: Yes
Best for: Lunch and Dinner.
If you’re looking for a laid-back beachside eatery, Surfshack Diner delivers. With a California-inspired menu, you’ll find delicious burgers, gourmet hot dogs, prawns, nachos, and handcrafted pizzas. Pair it with a refreshing cocktail while enjoying the sea breeze.
8. Harbour House
Location: Kalk Bay Harbour, Kalk Bay.
Estimated Spend: R400 – R700 per person.
Specialty: Fresh seafood with a Mediterranean influence.
Child-Friendly: Yes
Best for: Lunch and Dinner.
Harbour House is a legendary seafood spot in Cape Town. Located right on the harbor, it offers stunning ocean views and fresh-off-the-boat seafood. Their grilled crayfish, seafood platters, and line fish of the day are absolute must-tries.
9. The Bungalow
Location: 3 Victoria Road, Clifton.
Estimated Spend: R500 – R800 per person.
Specialty: Seafood, sushi, and cocktails with an oceanfront view.
Child-Friendly: Yes, but more of a trendy, social vibe.
Best for: Lunch and Dinner.
If you’re looking for a stylish, beachside dining experience, The Bungalow is the place to be. The sushi platters, grilled prawns, and handcrafted cocktails make it perfect for a long, relaxed lunch by the sea. The vibes are incredible in summer as they have guest dj’s playing.
Conclusion
Cape Town’s food scene is truly unmatched, offering a mix of fine dining, relaxed eateries, and trendy hotspots with breathtaking views. From elegant seafood restaurants to beachside burger joints, these 9 must-try restaurants in Cape Town showcase the city’s rich culinary diversity and world-class hospitality.
If you’re planning a foodie trip to Cape Town, be sure to add these restaurants to your itinerary! Have you been to any of them? Let me know which one you’re excited to try first.
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