Whether you crave local flavors or international cuisine, discover where to eat, stay, and explore to make your trip unforgettable and budget-friendly.
Jump directly to the 10 Best Buffets
Why Cape Town Buffets Are a Must-Try Experience
As someone who has lived in Cape Town for years, I can confidently say that the buffet culture here is a delicious gateway to South Africa’s rich diversity.
Cape Town’s buffets offer everything from succulent seafood and traditional South African fare to vibrant international dishes, all served in stylish, welcoming environments. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to taste a bit of everything without breaking the bank.
The 10 Best Buffets in Cape Town: Deep Dive Reviews & Ratings
The Great Eastern Food Bar
A hotspot known for its eclectic combination of Asian and African flavors, The Great Eastern Food Bar’s buffet is a vibrant feast. You’ll find freshly prepared sushi, dim sum, and flavorful Bunny Chows alongside delectable South African braai options.
Pricing: Approximately ZAR 350 per person for dinner.
Hours: Dinner buffet daily from 6 PM to 10 PM.
Insider Tip: Arrive early for the weekend buffet to avoid the crowds. The seafood selections are freshest within the first hour.
Official Website | Phone: +27 21 530 0000
Belthazar Restaurant & Wine Bar
A luxurious spot on the V&A Waterfront offering a popular buffet brunch known for top-quality meats and an extensive salad bar. The wine pairings here, including local vineyards’ best, elevate the experience.
Pricing: Brunch buffet costs around ZAR 420 per person.
Hours: Brunch served Saturdays and Sundays from 11 AM – 3 PM.
Pro Tip: The seafood platters here are a highlight—don’t miss out on the freshly shucked oysters.
Official Website | Phone: +27 21 792 0281
The Codfather
Arguably Cape Town’s best seafood buffet, The Codfather in Camps Bay serves an impressive selection of fresh fish, sashimi, and curries. The open-air ambiance overlooking the ocean enhances the culinary delight.
Pricing: Around ZAR 450 for the seafood buffet experience.
Hours: Lunch and dinner daily; buffet usually available on weekends.
Insider Advice: Book your table well in advance, especially if visiting during peak season or weekends.
Official Website | Phone: +27 21 638 1984
Cubana Lounge & Restaurant
Known for lively vibes, Cubana offers a buffet with Cuban and Caribbean accents, coupled with live music in the evenings to create a festive dining atmosphere.
Pricing: Around ZAR 320 per person for the buffet.
Hours: Dinner buffet Thursday to Saturday from 6 PM to 11 PM.
Experience Tip: If you enjoy social dining and cocktails, this spot is a must-visit for its happy hour specials alongside the buffet.
Official Website | Phone: +27 21 739 8423
The Table Bay Hotel
For a sophisticated buffet experience, this iconic hotel offers an international buffet with a fine selection of dishes from all continents served in their elegant show kitchen.
Pricing: About ZAR 480 per person for Sunday lunch buffet.
Hours: Sunday buffet lunch from 12 PM to 3 PM.
Local Insight: Their desserts station is famed—perfect spot for foodies craving variety with high standards.
Official Website | Phone: +27 21 538 5000
Mariner’s Wharf
Located in Hout Bay, Mariner’s Wharf offers a great seafood buffet with breathtaking views of the harbor, serving freshly caught fish and shellfish in a casual, family-friendly setting.
Pricing: Buffets range from ZAR 300–ZAR 400 based on seafood selection.
Hours: Lunch buffet Wed–Sun from 12 PM to 3 PM.
Pro Tip: Visit during the weekdays for a quieter dining experience and catch the sunset from their deck.
Official Website | Phone: +27 21 832 6374
Cafe Paradiso
This quaint Italian buffet restaurant serves a delectable range of antipasti, fresh pastas, and salads. Perfect for those who want a slice of Italy in Cape Town.
Pricing: Around ZAR 350 for the buffet experience.
Hours: Dinner buffet Thursday to Saturday, 6 PM to 10 PM.
Local Tip: Their vegetarian options are thoughtfully curated and loved by locals and travelers alike.
Official Website | Phone: +27 21 876 3125
The Pot Luck Club
Although more known for its trendy tapas-style, on select days The Pot Luck Club offers a buffet that showcases innovative dishes combining local ingredients with global culinary techniques.
Pricing: Approximately ZAR 400 per person during buffet nights.
Hours: Check website for current buffet schedules.
Insider Insight: The view from the restaurant overlooking the city is exceptional—try to book a window table.
Official Website | Phone: +27 21 384 4333
The Hussar Grill
This steakhouse offers a buffet option with premium meats grilled to perfection alongside traditional sides and decadent desserts, perfect for carnivores craving quality and quantity.
Pricing: Buffet tickets around ZAR 400–500.
Hours: Special buffet nights; check local listings.
Pro Tip: Combine the buffet with a South African wine tasting for a full gourmet experience.
Official Website | Phone: +27 21 384 2789
Tiger’s Milk
A casual dining favorite, Tiger’s Milk offers a hearty buffet featuring classic pub-style dishes, excellent for families and sports fans alike.
Pricing: Cost-effective at ZAR 250–300 per person.
Hours: Available on select days; check the nearest location listing.
Local Favorite: The ribs here are a signature dish you shouldn’t miss.
Official Website | Phone: +27 21 887 1263
Must-Know Tips for Buffet Dining in Cape Town
- Make reservations ahead of time, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.
- Arrive early for the freshest selections and smaller crowds.
- Consider sharing dishes or visiting multiple buffets on different days for variety.
- Check menu updates online since some buffets rotate themes and dishes seasonally.
- Ask locals for newest buffet hotspots; Cape Town’s food scene evolves rapidly.
Where to Stay for Buffet Lovers in Cape Town
For the ultimate buffet and travel experience, staying near the V&A Waterfront or Camps Bay gives you easy access to Cape Town’s best buffet restaurants and stunning coastal views. Consider these favorites:
- The Table Bay Hotel: Luxurious, oceanfront, close to many buffet spots like The Table Bay buffet itself.
- Bay Hotel, Camps Bay: Stylish and close to beachside buffets like The Codfather.
- V&A Waterfront Airbnb options: Perfect for travelers seeking convenience and local living.
Typical Costs and Suggested Budgets for Buffet Dining
Most buffet prices in Cape Town range between ZAR 250 and ZAR 480 per person, depending on location and cuisine. For a week-long trip combining buffets with other dining experiences and sightseeing, I recommend a food budget of about ZAR 3,000–4,000 per person.
How to Get Around Cape Town for Buffet Exploration
Cape Town’s compact size makes it easy to explore buffets via:
- MyCiTi Bus: Reliable, safe, and affordable; connects major dining hubs.
- Uber & Bolt: Popular for late-night or flexible travel.
- Car Rental: Best for visiting places like Camps Bay or Hout Bay buffets with scenic drives.
Best Time to Visit for Buffet Enjoyment
The optimal time is spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May) when Cape Town’s weather is mild and buffets offer seasonal specialties. Summer is popular but can be crowded and pricier.
Recommended Tours and Things to Do Nearby
While you’re sampling buffets, don’t miss:
- A cable car trip up Table Mountain for breathtaking views.
- Wine tours in nearby Stellenbosch or Constantia wine regions.
- A visit to the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood for culture and history.
- Exploring the beaches of Camps Bay and Clifton after a hearty buffet lunch.
Emergency Contacts & Safety Tips
- Emergency Number (Police, Ambulance, Fire): 112 or 10111
- Local Hospital: Groote Schuur Hospital, Phone: +27 21 710 1111
- Tourism Police: +27 21 413 1700
Generally, Cape Town is safe when you take standard travel precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and using registered transportation.
Map: Top Buffets in Cape Town
Frequently Asked Questions About Cape Town Buffets
What is the average price of buffets in Cape Town?
Prices vary, but most buffets fall between ZAR 250 and ZAR 480 per person depending on the restaurant and the type of cuisine served.
Are there vegetarian options available at the buffets?
Yes, many buffet venues, such as Cafe Paradiso and The Great Eastern Food Bar, offer extensive vegetarian and vegan options to cater to diverse dietary preferences.
Do I need to make reservations for buffet restaurants?
Making reservations is highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays, as Cape Town buffets tend to fill up quickly during peak times.
Which neighborhood is best for buffet dining in Cape Town?
The V&A Waterfront and Camps Bay are prime spots due to their concentrations of excellent buffets, scenic views, and easy access to other local attractions.
Are buffets kid-friendly in Cape Town?
Many buffets, like Mariner’s Wharf and Tiger’s Milk, welcome families and have kid-friendly food options and casual atmospheres.
Final Pro Tips for Enjoying Buffets in Cape Town
- Sample a bit of everything but pace yourself to savor each course.
- Pair your meal with South African wines for that authentic flavor-enhanced experience.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes — some venues have beautiful outdoor spaces perfect for relaxing post-meal.
- Use public transport or rideshares to avoid parking hassles near busy buffet locations.
