South Africa‘s West Coast is a culinary paradise with fresh seafood, artisanal produce, and farm-to-table restaurants. Taking you through the region’s most iconic culinary destinations, this guide takes you from the charming village of Melkbosstrand to the rugged beauty of Doringbaai. These 22 spots will tantalize your taste buds whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a local seeking new adventures.
1. Melkbosstrand
Cafe Orca
“Ease into the West Coast vibe with Melkbos beach views and a cottage-style family-run seafood restaurant.”
Cafe Orca is a hidden gem where the ocean is your dining companion. The menu is simple yet exquisite, focusing solely on fresh linefish like tuna or swordfish, served with roast vegetables, chips, or rice. For a more indulgent experience, try their seafood platters loaded with calamari, prawns, mussels, or crayfish.
Good to Know:
- Groups larger than 6 cannot be accommodated.
- Perfect for intimate dining with stunning sea views.
Opening Times:
- Wednesday – Saturday: 12pm – 3pm; 6pm – 8.30pm
- Sunday: 12pm – 3pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 553 4120
- Address: 88 Beach Road, Melkbosstrand
- Google Maps Link
Melkbos Kitchen
“The best location in Melkbos, right on the rocks with sea and sunset views deluxe.”
Melkbos Kitchen is a local favorite, offering a diverse menu that caters to all tastes. From eggs Benedict to sushi, poke bowls, and seafood platters, there’s something for everyone. The outdoor terrace is the perfect spot to soak up the sea air while enjoying a meal.
Good to Know:
- Booking is advised, especially for sunset dining.
Opening Times:
- Sunday – Tuesday: 10am – 5pm
- Wednesday – Saturday: 10am – 8.45pm (last food orders at 6.30pm)
Contact:
- Phone: 021 001 8210
- Email:Â [email protected]
- Address: 47 5th Avenue, Melkbosstrand
2. Darling
Groote Post
“One of the oldest farms on the West Coast, now a celebrated wine estate.”
Groote Post is a must-visit for wine lovers. Their Seasalter Sauvignon Blanc is a standout, perfectly capturing the essence of the West Coast. Pair your wine tasting with a cheese platter and stay for lunch at Hilda’s Kitchen, where modern country cooking is served in a historic manor.
Opening Times:
- Tasting: Daily, 10am – 4pm
- Hilda’s Kitchen: Wednesday – Sunday, 12pm – 2.30pm (booking essential)
Contact:
- Phone: 022 492 2825 / 083 325 4148
- Email:Â [email protected]
- Address: Darling Hills Road, Darling
- Website
Marmalade Cat
“A charming café and gift shop that gives a taste of the dorpie.”
Marmalade Cat is a delightful stop for breakfast or lunch, offering locally made jams, preserves, and crafts. Don’t miss their homemade ready meals and Darling Brew beers for a taste of the region.
Good to Know:
- Friday is pizza night – book ahead!
Opening Times:
- Daily: 8am – 4.30pm
Contact:
- Phone: 022 492 2515
- Email:Â [email protected]
- Address: 19 Main Street, Darling
3. Yzerfontein and Langebaan
Rosemead Artisan Bakery and Cafe
“Run by Anli and Brett Nortier, this bakery is a haven for bread lovers.”
Rosemead’s pasteis de nata and pain au chocolat are legendary. Their chalkboard menu features everything from hot pressed sandwiches to scrambled eggs, all paired with excellent coffee.
Good to Know:
- Pre-order your loaf to avoid disappointment.
Opening Times:
- Wednesday – Saturday: 8am – 3.30pm
- Sunday: 8am – 2pm
Contact:
- Phone: 066 222 5076
- Instagram:Â @rosemead_artisan
- Address: Corner of Park and Volstruis Street, Yzerfontein
!Khwa ttu
“Celebrate San culture and cuisine at this unique heritage center.”
Chef Werlise Rautenbach’s menu showcases foraged ingredients and West Coast flavors, from smoked snoek bobotie dumplings to venison burgers.
Good to Know:
- Great for families, with tours and game drives available.
Opening Times:
- Daily: 9am – 5pm
Contact:
- Phone: 022 492 2998
- Email:Â [email protected]
- Address: R27 West Coast Road, Yzerfontein
La Petite Maison
“A fine bistro with French flair and West Coast ingredients.”
Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Yohann Suire, La Petite Maison offers dishes like classic mouclade made with mussels sourced from Velddrif. The sprawling verandah overlooking the lagoon is the perfect setting for a romantic meal.
Good to Know:
- Family-friendly with a children’s menu.
Opening Times:
- Daily: 12pm – 1.30pm; 6pm – 9pm (seating times)
Contact:
- Phone: 064 657 7716
- Email:Â [email protected]
- Address: 5 Egret Street, Myburgh Park, Langebaan
Queen’s Cottage Woodfired Kitchen
“A smokehouse with fabulous barbecue flavors.”
Hidden away in Langebaan, Queen’s Cottage is a must-visit for smoked brisket croquettes, charred cauliflower, and excellent steaks.
Good to Know:
- Their beer bacon mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser.
Opening Times:
- Tuesday – Thursday: 5.30pm – 10pm
- Friday + Saturday: 12pm – 10pm
- Sunday: 12pm – 8pm
Contact:
- Phone: 079 830 7235
- Address: 8 Suffren Street, Langebaan
Die Strandloper
“An authentic West Coast seafood feast on the beach.”
Die Strandloper offers a 10-course seafood feast cooked over open fires, from braaied snoek to crayfish and pot bread.
Good to Know:
- Booking is essential. Bring your own bottles and ice.
Opening Times:
- Wednesday + Friday + Sunday: 12pm for 12.30pm start
- Saturday: 12pm for 12.30pm start, 6pm for 6.30pm start
Contact:
- Phone: 083 227 7195
- Email:Â [email protected]
- Address: Jan Olfsen Street, Leentjiesklip, Langebaan
4. Paternoster
Wolfgat
“A culinary experience that epitomizes the West Coast dream.”
Chef Kobus van der Merwe’s seven-course tasting menu is a celebration of foraged botanicals and fresh seafood.
Good to Know:
- Booking is essential, with only 20 diners per sitting.
Opening Times:
- Wednesday – Sunday: 12.30pm
- Friday + Saturday: 6.30pm
Contact:
- Email:Â [email protected]
- Address: 10 Sampson Street, Kliprug, Paternoster
Leeto
“Relaxed and elegant dining with West Coast flavor.”
Leeto offers beautifully presented plates like prawn and calamari risotto and Malay-spiced mussel soup, served on a reed-shaded deck overlooking the dunes.
Good to Know:
- No children under 12 years.
Opening Times:
- Daily: 12pm – 2pm, 6pm – 9pm
Contact:
- Phone: 060 927 0403
- Email:Â [email protected]
- Address: Strandloper Boutique Hotel, Patterson Slot, Paternoster
Noisy Oyster
“Fun and funky barefoot beach vibes.”
The Noisy Oyster is a Paternoster stalwart, serving oysters, whole fish, and seafood laksa in a vibrant courtyard.
Good to Know:
- Pet-friendly.
Opening Times:
- Wednesday – Saturday: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 9pm
- Sunday: 12pm – 3pm
Contact:
- Phone: 022 752 2196
- Email:Â [email protected]
- Address: 62 St Augustine Road, Paternoster
Dispens
“A fresh take on nostalgic local kos.”
Dispens offers coffee, light meals, and artisanal products like bergamot marmalade and waterblommetjie piekel in a historic setting.
Opening Times:
- Monday + Wednesday – Saturday: 9am – 4.30pm
- Sunday: 9am – 3pm
Contact:
- Phone: 064 041 6914
- Email:Â [email protected]
- Address: Corner R45 and St Augustine Road, Paternoster
De See Kat
“Sushi with a West Coast feel.”
Perched above the rocks, De See Kat offers ocean views and creative sushi alongside fresh fish and Cape Malay curry.
Good to Know:
- Dog-friendly.
Opening Times:
- Tuesday – Saturday: 12pm – 9pm
- Sunday: 12pm – 4pm
Contact:
- Phone: 072 343 9793
- Email:Â [email protected]
- Address: Kreefte Street, Kliprug, Paternoster
Voorstrandt Restaurant
“Fish and chips with a classic Paternoster beach view.”
Voorstrandt is a local favorite for fresh fish of the day and snoek samoosas, served in a historic building with a red tin roof.
Good to Know:
- Child-friendly and pet-friendly.
Opening Times:
- Monday – Sunday: 11am – 9pm
Contact:
- Phone: 022 752 2038
- Email:Â [email protected]
- Address: Strandloper Street, Voorstrand, Paternoster
5. Vredenburg and Hopefield
Weskus Spens Padstal
This farmstall is a must-visit for traditional pies, lemon meringue pie, and West Coast preserves.
Good to Know:
- Their plaasbrood sells out fast – arrive early!
Opening Times:
- Daily: 8.15am – 4.30pm
Contact:
- Phone: 072 350 5330
- Address: R27, Vredenburg
Hopefield Market at The Foodie Hub
“A pocket-sized farmers’ market with artisanal produce.”
Hopefield Market is the best place to source seasonal fruit, organic eggs, cheeses, and preserves.
Good to Know:
- The Foodie Hub is open during the week for artisanal products.
Opening Times:
- Market: Saturday, 10am – 2pm
- The Foodie Hub: Tuesday – Saturday, 9am – 4pm
Contact:
- Phone: 022 723 0569
- Email:Â [email protected]
- Address: 45 River Street, Hopefield
6. St Helena Bay and Velddrif
BP Marine
“A cult favorite for fish and chips by the harbor.”
BP Marine is the go-to spot for hake and snoek served with proper slap chips.
Opening Times:
- Monday – Saturday: 9am – 6.30pm
Contact:
- Phone: 022 736 1246
- Address: St Helena Bay Harbour
Kokerboom Kaas
“Artisanal cheeses and charcuterie from the West Coast.”
Kokerboom Kaas offers a range of hard and soft cheeses made with Guernsey milk. Book a bespoke tasting with David Malan for a unique experience.
Good to Know:
- Booking essential for tastings; minimum 4 people, maximum 8.
Opening Times:
- Shop: Monday – Friday, 4pm – 5.30pm
Contact:
- Phone: 082 572 1822
- Email:Â [email protected]
- Address: 5 Waterkant Street, Velddrif
Columbine Co.
“A quirky coffee shop on Bokkomlaan.”
Columbine Co. is a charming spot for tea, coffee, and bokkoms, with a stoep perfect for chatting with locals.
Opening Times:
- Daily: 8am – 4pm
Contact:
- Phone: 084 879 7006
- Address: 9 Bokkom Laan, Velddrif
7. Elands Bay and Doringbaai
The Jetty Restaurant at Fryer’s Cove
“A winery and restaurant with stunning sea views.”
Enjoy West Coast flavors like snoek koekies and perlemoen risotto while overlooking the ocean.
Good to Know:
- Booking is essential.
Opening Times:
- Daily: 10am – 6pm (last seating at 4.30pm)
Contact:
- Phone: 027 215 1092
- Address: Quality Street, Doringbaai
Muisbosskerm
“The original open-air West Coast beach dining experience.”
Muisbosskerm offers a multi-course seafood feast cooked over open fires, from smoked angelfish to braaied yellowtail.
Good to Know:
- Booking is essential; crayfish is an optional extra.
Opening Times:
- Days according to booking, 12.30pm and 6.30pm
Contact:
- Phone: 027 432 1017
- Email:Â [email protected]
- Address: R365, Lambert’s Bay
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit the West Coast for foodies?
A: Spring (August to October) is ideal, with wildflowers in bloom and fresh seafood in abundance.
Q: Are these restaurants family-friendly?
A: Most are family-friendly, but some, like Leeto in Paternoster, have age restrictions.
Q: Can I book in advance?
A: Yes, booking is essential for many restaurants, especially during peak seasons.
Disclaimer
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors, such as price, cost, time, and location. Please verify details directly with the establishments.
