A city that boasts the majestic Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean is not only a feast for the eyes but also a food heaven. There are many fine dining establishments in Cape Town as well as cozy, hidden gems that cater to every palate. You’ll find personal insights, detailed reviews, and practical information on the 20 best restaurants in Cape Town in this comprehensive guide.
Why Cape Town is a Foodie’s Paradise
Cape Town’s culinary scene combines cultures, flavors, and traditions. From traditional South African dishes to innovative fusion cuisine, the city’s restaurants reflect its rich history and diverse population. Cape Town has it all, from fresh seafood to succulent steaks to plant-based delights.
“I’ve traveled to over 50 countries, but Cape Town’s food scene is truly one of a kind,” says a fellow food enthusiast. “The combination of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and world-class chefs creates an unforgettable dining experience.”
The 20 Best Restaurants in Cape Town (2025)
Below is a curated list of the top 20 restaurants in Cape Town, complete with reviews, ratings, and key details. Each restaurant has been carefully selected based on its unique offerings, ambiance, and overall dining experience.
1. Jan Franschhoek
- Cuisine: Modern South African
- Location: Franschhoek (45 minutes from Cape Town)
- Price Range: $$$$
- Rating: 4.9/5
Overview: Nestled in the picturesque Franschhoek Valley, Jan Franschhoek is a culinary gem that celebrates South African flavors with a modern twist. Chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, the first South African to earn a Michelin star, crafts dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
Must-Try Dish: The Karoo lamb with smoked eggplant and wild garlic.
Pros:
- Stunning vineyard views
- Impeccable service
- Innovative tasting menus
Cons:
- Expensive
- Requires advance booking
Address: La Motte Wine Estate, Franschhoek
Hours: Wed-Sun, 12 PM – 3 PM, 6 PM – 9 PM
Menu: Jan Franschhoek Menu
Google Maps: Jan Franschhoek Location
Contact 021 876 9115, [email protected]
2. Fyn
- Cuisine: Japanese-South African Fusion
- Location: Cape Town CBD
- Price Range: $$$$
- Rating: 4.8/5
Overview: Fyn, meaning “fine” in Afrikaans, lives up to its name with its exquisite blend of Japanese and South African flavors. Located on the fifth floor of a historic building, Fyn offers a multi-sensory dining experience.
Must-Try Dish: The miso-glazed kingklip with pickled daikon.
Pros:
- Unique fusion cuisine
- Elegant ambiance
- Extensive wine list
Cons:
- Limited vegetarian options
- High price point
Address: Church Square, 37 Parliament Street, Cape Town
Hours: Tue-Sat, 6 PM – 10 PM
Menu: Fyn Menu
Google Maps: Fyn Location
Contact 021 286 2733, [email protected]
3. Pier
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Location: V&A Waterfront
- Price Range: $$$$
- Rating: 4.7/5
Overview: Overlooking the harbor, Pier is a seafood lover’s dream. The restaurant sources its ingredients directly from local fishermen, ensuring the freshest catch of the day.
Must-Try Dish: The West Coast lobster with garlic butter.
Pros:
- Breathtaking waterfront views
- Sustainable seafood practices
- Knowledgeable staff
Cons:
- Can be noisy during peak hours
- Limited parking
Address: Pierhead, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 10 PM
Menu: Pier Menu
Google Maps: Pier Location
Contact 021 879 6328, [email protected]
4. Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia
- Cuisine: Tapas-Style Fine Dining
- Location: Constantia
- Price Range: $$$$
- Rating: 4.8/5
Overview: Perched on the slopes of Constantia, this restaurant offers panoramic views of the vineyards. The tapas-style menu allows diners to sample a variety of dishes, each bursting with flavor.
Must-Try Dish: The beef tataki with ponzu and sesame.
Pros:
- Stunning views
- Creative small plates
- Excellent wine pairings
Cons:
- Limited seating
- Expensive
Address: Beau Constantia Wine Farm, Constantia
Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 3 PM, 6 PM – 9 PM
Menu: Chefs Warehouse Menu
Google Maps: Chefs Warehouse Location
Contact 021 794 8632, [email protected]
5. Salsify at the Roundhouse
- Cuisine: Contemporary European
- Location: Camps Bay
- Price Range: $$$$
- Rating: 4.7/5
Overview: Housed in a historic building, Salsify offers a refined dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients. The restaurant’s garden provides many of the herbs and vegetables used in the dishes.
Must-Try Dish: The line-caught hake with mussel velouté.
Pros:
- Romantic setting
- Farm-to-table philosophy
- Attentive service
Cons:
- Limited menu options
- High prices
Address: The Roundhouse, Roundhouse Rd, Camps Bay
Hours: Tue-Sun, 12 PM – 3 PM, 6 PM – 10 PM
Menu: Salsify Menu
Google Maps: Salsify Location
Contact 021 010 6444, [email protected]
6. Ouzeri
- Cuisine: Greek
- Location: Cape Town CBD
- Price Range: $$
- Rating: 4.6/5
Overview: Ouzeri brings the flavors of Greece to Cape Town with its authentic dishes and warm hospitality. The restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Must-Try Dish: The lamb souvlaki with tzatziki.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Generous portions
- Lively ambiance
Cons:
- Limited seating
- No reservations
Address: 58 Wale Street, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Sat, 12 PM – 10 PM
Menu: Ouzeri Menu
Google Maps: Ouzeri Location
Contact 061 533 9071, [email protected]
7. Rust en Vrede
- Cuisine: Fine Dining
- Location: Stellenbosch
- Price Range: $$$$
- Rating: 4.9/5
Overview: Located on a historic wine estate, Rust en Vrede offers a luxurious dining experience with a focus on South African cuisine. The restaurant’s wine pairings are second to none.
Must-Try Dish: The springbok loin with beetroot and black garlic.
Pros:
- Award-winning wine list
- Elegant setting
- Exceptional service
Cons:
- Expensive
- Requires advance booking
Address: Rust en Vrede Estate, Annandale Road, Stellenbosch
Hours: Tue-Sun, 12 PM – 3 PM, 6 PM – 10 PM
Menu: Rust en Vrede Menu
Google Maps: Rust en Vrede Location
Contact 021 881 3757, [email protected]
8. La Colombe
- Cuisine: French-Asian Fusion
- Location: Constantia
- Price Range: $$$$
- Rating: 4.9/5
Overview: Consistently ranked among the world’s best restaurants, La Colombe offers an unforgettable dining experience. The tasting menu is a journey through flavors and textures.
Must-Try Dish: The duck breast with miso and orange.
Pros:
- World-class cuisine
- Stunning vineyard views
- Impeccable service
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Long waiting list
Address: Silvermist Wine Estate, Constantia
Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 3 PM, 6 PM – 10 PM
Menu: La Colombe Menu
Google Maps: La Colombe Location
Contact 021 794 2390, [email protected]
9. Epice
- Cuisine: Lebanese
- Location: Cape Town CBD
- Price Range: $$
- Rating: 4.5/5
Overview: Epice brings the flavors of Lebanon to Cape Town with its authentic dishes and warm hospitality. The restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Must-Try Dish: The lamb kofta with tahini.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Generous portions
- Lively ambiance
Cons:
- Limited seating
- No reservations
Address: 8 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek
Hours: Mon-Sat, 12 PM – 10 PM
Menu: Epice Menu
Google Maps: Epice Location
Contact 021 492 4044, [email protected]
10. The Table at De Meye
- Cuisine: Farm-to-Table
- Location: Stellenbosch
- Price Range: $$$
- Rating: 4.7/5
Overview: Set on a working farm, The Table at De Meye offers a rustic yet refined dining experience. The menu changes daily based on the freshest ingredients available.
Must-Try Dish: The roasted pork belly with apple compote.
Pros:
- Fresh, seasonal ingredients
- Charming farm setting
- Friendly service
Cons:
- Limited menu options
- Requires advance booking
Address: De Meye Farm, Stellenbosch
Hours: Thu-Sun, 12 PM – 3 PM
Menu: The Table Menu
Google Maps: The Table Location
Contact 072 696 0530, [email protected]
11. The Foodbarn
- Cuisine: Contemporary South African
- Location: Noordhoek
- Price Range: $$$
- Rating: 4.6/5
Overview: The Foodbarn is a cozy restaurant that offers a relaxed dining experience with a focus on South African flavors. The menu features a mix of classic and innovative dishes.
Must-Try Dish: The bobotie spring rolls with chutney.
Pros:
- Warm, welcoming atmosphere
- Creative dishes
- Great value for money
Cons:
- Limited parking
- Can get busy during weekends
Address: Noordhoek Farm Village, Noordhoek
Hours: Tue-Sun, 12 PM – 3 PM, 6 PM – 9 PM
Menu: The Foodbarn Menu
Google Maps: The Foodbarn Location
Contact 021 789 1390, [email protected]
12. Chorus
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Location: Cape Town CBD
- Price Range: $$
- Rating: 4.5/5
Overview: Chorus is a vibrant restaurant that offers a mix of Mediterranean and South African flavors. The restaurant’s lively atmosphere makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Must-Try Dish: The seafood paella.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Generous portions
- Lively ambiance
Cons:
- Limited seating
- No reservations
Address: 167 Bree St, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Sat, 12 PM – 10 PM
Menu: Chorus Menu
Google Maps: Chorus Location
Contact 021 007 4230, [email protected]
13. Dusk
- Cuisine: Contemporary South African
- Location: Cape Town CBD
- Price Range: $$$
- Rating: 4.6/5
Overview: Dusk is a trendy restaurant that offers a mix of contemporary South African dishes with a focus on local ingredients. The restaurant’s chic ambiance makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Must-Try Dish: The beef fillet with truffle mash.
Pros:
- Stylish setting
- Creative dishes
- Great value for money
Cons:
- Limited parking
- Can get busy during weekends
Address: 43 Plein Street, Stellenbosch
Hours: Mon-Sat, 12 PM – 10 PM
Menu: Dusk Menu
Google Maps: Dusk Location
Contact 021 023 4100, [email protected]
14. Gåte at Quoin Rock
- Cuisine: Fine Dining
- Location: Stellenbosch
- Price Range: $$$$
- Rating: 4.8/5
Overview: Gåte at Quoin Rock offers a luxurious dining experience with a focus on South African cuisine. The restaurant’s wine pairings are second to none.
Must-Try Dish: The springbok loin with beetroot and black garlic.
Pros:
- Award-winning wine list
- Elegant setting
- Exceptional service
Cons:
- Expensive
- Requires advance booking
Address: Quoin Rock Wine Estate, Stellenbosch
Hours: Tue-Sun, 12 PM – 3 PM, 6 PM – 10 PM
Menu: Gåte Menu
Google Maps: Gåte Location
Contact 021 888 4750, [email protected]
15. Grub & Vine
- Cuisine: Contemporary South African
- Location: Cape Town CBD
- Price Range: $$$
- Rating: 4.6/5
Overview: Grub & Vine is a trendy restaurant that offers a mix of contemporary South African dishes with a focus on local ingredients. The restaurant’s chic ambiance makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Must-Try Dish: The beef fillet with truffle mash.
Pros:
- Stylish setting
- Creative dishes
- Great value for money
Cons:
- Limited parking
- Can get busy during weekends
Address: 103 Bree Street, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Sat, 12 PM – 10 PM
Menu: Grub & Vine Menu
Google Maps: Grub & Vine Location
Contact 087 153 5244, [email protected]
16. Spek & Bone
- Cuisine: Contemporary South African
- Location: Cape Town CBD
- Price Range: $$$
- Rating: 4.6/5
Overview: Spek & Bone is a trendy restaurant that offers a mix of contemporary South African dishes with a focus on local ingredients. The restaurant’s chic ambiance makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Must-Try Dish: The beef fillet with truffle mash.
Pros:
- Stylish setting
- Creative dishes
- Great value for money
Cons:
- Limited parking
- Can get busy during weekends
Address: 84 Dorp Street, Stellenbosch
Hours: Mon-Sat, 12 PM – 10 PM
Menu: Spek & Bone Menu
Google Maps: Spek & Bone Location
Contact 082 569 8958, [email protected]
17. Mertia
- Cuisine: Contemporary South African
- Location: Cape Town CBD
- Price Range: $$$
- Rating: 4.6/5
Overview: Mertia is a trendy restaurant that offers a mix of contemporary South African dishes with a focus on local ingredients. The restaurant’s chic ambiance makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Must-Try Dish: The beef fillet with truffle mash.
Pros:
- Stylish setting
- Creative dishes
- Great value for money
Cons:
- Limited parking
- Can get busy during weekends
Address: 20 Bird Street, Stellenbosch (entrance off the Millstream side street)
Hours: Mon-Sat, 12 PM – 10 PM
Menu: Mertia Menu
Google Maps: Mertia Location
Contact 076 644 8448, [email protected]
18. Salon
- Cuisine: Contemporary South African
- Location: Cape Town CBD
- Price Range: $$$
- Rating: 4.6/5
Overview: Salon is a trendy restaurant that offers a mix of contemporary South African dishes with a focus on local ingredients. The restaurant’s chic ambiance makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Must-Try Dish: The beef fillet with truffle mash.
Pros:
- Stylish setting
- Creative dishes
- Great value for money
Cons:
- Limited parking
- Can get busy during weekends
Address: 167 Bree St, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Sat, 12 PM – 10 PM
Menu: Salon Menu
Google Maps: Salon Location
Contact 087 093 5890, [email protected]
19. Mill Street Bistro
The Mill Street Bistro is an impeccable new bistro in Stellenbosch. Having worked in Michelin-star restaurants in Europe (and gaining his own star at Maze Prague), Chef-owner Phil Carmichael is taking a down-to-earth approach to bistronomy at his Stellenbosch bistro, staying true to his classical French training, with a focus on sustainable ingredients and fuss-free, but totally delicious flavors.
All of the à la carte dishes were excellent, including yellowtail tartare, mushroom parfait, pork belly on sauerkraut with apple and jalapeo ketchup, and Cape Bream with mussels and ginger. The open deck looks over the Mill Stream Monument, and there is a short but exciting wine list.
Open daily 12.30pm to 2.30pm, 6pm to 9.30pm
Contact 021 020 1301, [email protected]
Located in the Cluver Markotter Building, on Mill Street, Stellenbosch, it is easy to find
20. Hōseki
At Delaire Graff wine estate, Chef Virgil Kahn serves elegant Japanese dining that epitomizes Winelands dining: a feast of flavors, with a visual spread and views to match. In a creatively reimagined modern-Japanese small-plate four- or eight-course omakase menu (with optional wine-pairings from sommelier Duane Jansen), creativity, creativity and finesse converge with subtle aromatics and contemporary flavors.
The extensive menu includes everything from wagyu steak to tempura, ramen, tacos and robata grills, plus bento boxes. Along with sourcing top-notch ingredients, chef Kahn draws on his work experience in the East, including Michelin-starred Saint Pierre in Singapore, and Nobu in Tokyo.
Open daily, 12pm – 2pm, 6pm – 8pm.
Contact 021 885 8160, [email protected]
It is located at Delaire Graff Estate on Helshoogte Road, Stellenbosch, and it is easy to find
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best restaurants in Cape Town for fine dining?
Some of the best fine dining restaurants in Cape Town include Jan, Fyn, La Colombe, and Rust en Vrede.
2. Where can I enjoy seafood in Cape Town?
For fresh seafood, consider visiting Pier at the V&A Waterfront or Salsify at the Roundhouse for a modern twist on South African dishes.
3. What’s the best casual dining spot in Cape Town?
For a more laid-back experience, check out Ouzeri for Mediterranean flavors or The Foodbarn for a relaxed yet refined bistro experience.
Final Thoughts
Cape Town is a paradise for food lovers, offering a rich variety of dining options that blend local ingredients with international culinary techniques. Whether you’re in the mood for a fine dining experience or a casual meal, the best restaurants in Cape Town will ensure a memorable experience. From Jan in Franschhoek to Fyn in the city center, each restaurant provides a unique taste of the city’s culinary talent.
Disclaimer:
We at WakaAbuja have made every effort to ensure that the information contained in this post was accurate at the time it was published, but there might be an error. In spite of this, we do not assume any responsibility for errors that may occur, such as errors concerning price, cost, time, and location.
Time of publication: 4th February 2025
