If you’re craving authentic, mouth-watering Indian cuisine in Cape Town, this guide is your shortcut to the city’s best spots. From Maharajah’s timeless northern Indian curries and stuffed parathas in Tamboerskloof to the fiery Durban lamb curry and dosas at the contemporary Vadivelu, Cape Town offers rich, diverse Indian flavors that cater to every palate.
I’ll also walk you through Vintage India’s classic curries with a Chinese twist, Liam Tomlin’s modern Thali experience, and the aromatic Cape Malay-influenced curries at Bo-Kaap Kombuis. This post includes insider tips, pricing, hours, contact info, user reviews, and an in-depth FAQ to help you choose the perfect meal.
Key Takeaways
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Diverse Cuisine: Cape Town’s Indian food scene spans northern and southern regions, street food, and fine dining.
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Local Favourites: From BYOB gems to family-run spots, locals have their loyal picks.
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Affordable Options: You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy great curry in the city.
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Plan Ahead: Some restaurants require bookings, and hours can vary by season.
Why Cape Town is a Hidden Gem for Indian Cuisine
Having lived in Cape Town for years and explored countless Indian eateries, I can say that the city’s Indian dining scene is as diverse as it is vibrant. Whether you’re after the rich, creamy textures of North Indian curries or the spicy, tangy flavors of South India, Cape Town’s Indian restaurants bring authenticity with a local twist. Each venue on this list has something unique to offer, standing the test of time or shaking up the scene with bold new approaches.
Maharajah — The Legendary Northern Indian Pioneer of Cape Town
A Pillar of Indian Dining for Over 40 Years
Maharajah is the crown jewel of Indian cuisine in Cape Town. The original Tamboerskloof branch has been delighting locals and visitors for decades with its unwavering quality and traditional northern Indian dishes. The longevity here is no accident—Maharajah nails the balance between authentic flavors and consistent service.
Standout Dishes and Experience
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Kashmir Lamb Rogan Josh: Rich, tender lamb simmered in a deep, aromatic sauce. This is the kind of dish that lingers on your palate long after the last bite.
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Locally Inspired Biryani: A fusion that celebrates Cape Town’s multicultural influences while staying true to Indian roots.
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Stuffed Paratha: Don’t miss the variety—my personal favorite is the spiced lamb mince stuffed paratha, but cheese and potato versions are equally delightful.
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Extensive Menu: From starter snacks like samosas and pakoras to traditional desserts, there’s something for everyone.
Practical Info & User Feedback
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Price Range: Moderate — expect R120–R180 per main dish
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Hours: Mon-Sun, 12 PM–10 PM
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Contact: +27 21 434 3241 | maharajah.co.za
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Location: 18 Napier St, Tamboerskloof, Cape Town
What Locals Say
“Maharajah is my go-to whenever I want authentic Indian that never disappoints. The rogan josh is simply perfect every single time.” — Sarah M., Cape Town resident
Vintage India — Classic Northern Indian Cuisine with a Chinese Twist
A No-Frills, Flavor-First Approach
Vintage India has been a staple since 2000, and while its décor doesn’t steal the show, the food absolutely does. The menu is vast and caters to all tastes—meats, seafood, and vegetarian options aplenty—with a distinctive mix of North Indian and Chinese influences.
Must-Try Dishes
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Traditional Kadai Curry: Thick, spicy, and perfectly balanced with tender meat or veggies.
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Lajawaab Fusion: A unique dish that blends Mughal and Western flavors, offering something different for adventurous eaters.
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Variety and Value: The menu is broad enough to satisfy even picky eaters or those wanting to sample multiple dishes.
Practical Info & User Feedback
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Price Range: Budget-friendly, around R90–R150 per main dish
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Hours: Tue-Sun, 11:30 AM–9:30 PM (Closed Mon)
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Contact: +27 21 462 9003 | vintageindia.co.za
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Location: 65 Strand St, Cape Town City Centre
What Guests Love
“The fusion dishes here are unlike anything I’ve tried in Cape Town. The kadai curry is a must-have, and the service is always warm and welcoming.” — Rajiv P., Food Blogger
Vadivelu — Modern Indian Dining with South African Flair
Contemporary Ambiance Meets Bold Flavors
Vadivelu is a fresh face on Cape Town’s Indian dining map but already a firm favorite. Run by family members celebrating the city’s Indian heritage, it’s where tradition meets attitude and modernity.
Highlights
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Fiery Pani Puri: A street food classic that’s perfectly executed here.
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Wafer-Thin Dosas: Crispy and light, paired with authentic chutneys.
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Durban Lamb Curry: A standout for its rich, spicy depth — best enjoyed with garlic parathas.
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Vegetarian Delights: The aloo gobi is so good it might convert even hardcore meat-eaters.
Practical Info & User Feedback
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Price Range: Mid to slightly upscale — R130–R200 per main course
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Hours: Mon-Sat, 12 PM–10 PM; Sun, 12 PM–8 PM
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Contact: +27 21 555 2025 | vadivelu.co.za
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Location: 16 Shortmarket St, Cape Town City Centre
What Diners Say
“Vadivelu nails South Indian flavors with a modern twist. The Durban lamb curry has a kick you won’t forget, and the staff are genuinely enthusiastic.” — Ayesha K., Cape Town food enthusiast
Thali — Liam Tomlin’s Contemporary Indian Platter Experience
Elevated Indian Dining by a Celebrity Chef
Thali brings a contemporary edge to the traditional Indian thali—a platter featuring a variety of dishes served together. This is not your average curry house; expect innovation alongside tradition.
What to Expect
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Four-Course Sharing Menu: From fresh line-fish sashimi with Cape Malay dressing to richly spiced masala chicken.
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Desserts: Cardamom-infused gulab jamun doughnuts that redefine Indian sweets.
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Dietary Options: Vegan and vegetarian choices, though note that Thali is not halal.
Practical Info & User Feedback
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Price Range: Upscale dining, R350+ per person
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Hours: Tue-Sat, 6 PM–10 PM
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Contact: +27 21 462 2040 | chefswarehouse.co.za/thali
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Location: 4 Wale St, Cape Town City Centre
Foodies’ Verdict
“Thali is where Indian tradition meets modern culinary art. Every course is a surprise, and the dessert was a mind-blowing twist on a classic.” — David L., Cape Town foodie
Bo-Kaap Kombuis — Cape Malay’s Aromatic Indian-Cape Fusion
Experience the Local Cape Malay Culinary Heritage
For a unique take that blends Indian spices with Cape Malay flavors, Bo-Kaap Kombuis is unmissable. This spot brings you the sweeter, fragrant side of curry.
Signature Dishes
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Bobotie: Custard-topped spiced mince baked to perfection.
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Denningvleis: Slow-cooked lamb stew that melts in your mouth.
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Aromatic Curries: A range of Cape Malay-inspired curries with balanced sweetness and spice.
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Desserts: Malva pudding baked to golden perfection and coconut-dusted koesisters — local favorites.
Practical Info & User Feedback
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Price Range: Affordable, around R80–R140 per dish
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Hours: Daily, 9 AM–9 PM
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Contact: +27 21 462 1063 | bokaapkombuis.co.za
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Location: 55 Wale St, Bo-Kaap, Cape Town
What Locals Recommend
“Bo-Kaap Kombuis brings the heart of Cape Malay flavors right to your plate. The bobotie is like a warm hug in a dish.” — Nomsa T., Cape Town resident
Bombay Brasserie – Cape Town’s Indian Fine Dining Crown Jewel
📍 Location: Taj Cape Town, Wale Street, City Bowl
🕐 Hours: Mon–Sun, 6:00 PM – 10:30 PM
🌐 Website: tajhotels.com
📞 Contact: +27 21 819 2000
📍 Map:
What to Expect:
Walking into Bombay Brasserie is like entering a Maharaja’s private dining hall. The décor is lavish — think velvet chairs, mood lighting, and gold accents. But what really makes this spot shine is how it elevates traditional Indian dishes with subtle Cape Malay touches.
My Take:
I went for the set menu, and let me tell you, it’s worth every rand. Each course, from the tamarind-glazed lamb ribs to the paneer tikka, tasted handcrafted. The dessert trolley was a delightful finale — the rosewater kulfi had me melting.
Pros
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Opulent setting, perfect for special occasions
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Attentive, polished service
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Memorable set menus
Cons
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Pricey (R500+ per person)
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Bookings essential
Bihari – Classic North Indian Flavours Near Newlands Cricket Ground
📍 Location: Southern Sun Hotel, Main Rd, Newlands
🕐 Hours: Daily, 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
🌐 Website: bihari.co.za
📞 Contact: +27 21 674 7186
📍 Map:
What to Expect:
Though tucked beneath a hotel, Bihari delivers bold North Indian cuisine that keeps locals returning. Their menu spans tandoori meats, kormas, and thalis, and the wine list is surprisingly affordable and curated to pair with spice.
My Experience:
After a Proteas match, I dropped in for a butter chicken and garlic naan combo — simple but flawless. The chicken was tender, the gravy rich, and the naan perfectly blistered from the tandoor.
Pros
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Great post-match dining
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Generous portions
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Excellent wine pairings
Cons
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Lacks ambiance charm
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Service can be slow during peak times
Sundoo – Fragrant Kerala Flavours by the Coast
📍 Locations:
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77 Regent Rd, Sea Point
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Dean Street Arcade, Newlands
🕐 Hours: Mon–Sat, 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
🌐 Website: sundoo.co.za
📞 Contact: +27 21 439 9027
📍 Map (Sea Point):
What to Expect:
Sundoo brings Kerala’s delicate, coconut-laced cuisine to Cape Town. Expect lighter dishes, seafood curries, and an emphasis on southern Indian herbs and spices.
My Take:
The Pondicherry kingklip curry is sublime — tender fish swimming in a tangy coconut gravy. The roasted tandoori chicken shared across the table was aromatic, juicy, and lightly charred.
Pros
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Authentic southern Indian flavours
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Ideal for seafood lovers
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Lively, modern setting
Cons
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Portions slightly smaller than competitors
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Book ahead on weekends
Curry Club – Cape Town’s Coziest Curry Den
📍 Location: 10 Claremont Rd, Claremont
🕐 Hours: Tue–Sun, 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
🌐 Website: curryclubct.co.za
📞 Contact: +27 73 141 9583
📍 Map:
What to Expect:
Starting as a humble takeaway, Curry Club now thrives as a vibrant eatery with a homely feel. The walls are mismatched, the staff warm, and the curries incredibly soulful.
My Experience:
I’m a sucker for roti, and their gourmet rotis at lunch are top-tier: flaky, stuffed with spicy chicken or paneer, and served with vibrant sambals. It’s BYOB, too — bring a bottle and unwind.
Pros
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Fantastic value for money
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Homemade paneer = must-try
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Friendly, welcoming vibe
Cons
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Small dining space
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No alcohol served (but BYOB allowed)
The Indian Chapter – Spice Meets Sea Views in Blouberg
📍 Location: 19 Marine Cir, Bloubergstrand
🕐 Hours: Tue–Sun, 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
🌐 Facebook: The Indian Chapter
📞 Contact: +27 21 557 5524
📍 Map:
What to Expect:
A longtime favourite with locals and tourists alike, The Indian Chapter is loved for its ocean views and authentic tandoori cooking.
My Experience:
Their lamb rogan josh is a standout – slow-cooked to perfection with melt-in-your-mouth texture. The garlic butter naan? Fluffy and divine. Ideal for date nights or beach strolls followed by dinner.
Pros
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Scenic location
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Authentic northern Indian dishes
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Good vegetarian selection
Cons
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Can get very busy on weekends
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Parking can be tricky
Eastern Food Bazaar – Street Food Heaven for Budget Eaters
📍 Location: 96 Longmarket St, East City
🕐 Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
🌐 Instagram: @easternfoodbazaarct
📞 Contact: +27 21 461 2458
📍 Map:
What to Expect:
More food hall than restaurant, this bustling spot offers generous helpings of flavour at student-friendly prices. Choose from Indian, Turkish, Chinese, and fusion menus.
My Take:
Skip the queues and head straight for the bunny chow. Their lamb curry stuffed into a hollowed-out bread loaf is the ultimate comfort food. Self-service, so don’t expect frills.
Pros
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Dirt cheap for Cape Town
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Huge variety of meals
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Quick, canteen-style service
Cons
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No table service
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Noisy and crowded during lunch
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best Indian restaurant in Cape Town for authentic northern curries?
Maharajah is widely regarded as the best for authentic northern Indian curries, especially the Kashmiri lamb rogan josh and stuffed parathas.
Are there good South Indian options in Cape Town?
Yes! Vadivelu excels in South Indian dishes like dosas and fiery pani puri, alongside robust curries like Durban lamb curry.
Can I find vegetarian and vegan Indian food easily?
Absolutely. All listed restaurants offer vegetarian options, with Thali even having dedicated vegan dishes.
Which restaurant offers the best Indian fusion experience?
Thali, run by Liam Tomlin, provides a creative contemporary fusion of Indian cuisine with local Cape flavors.
Is it easy to get halal Indian food in Cape Town?
While some places like Maharajah and Vadivelu offer halal options, Thali is not halal-certified, so check in advance.
Where can I get the best butter chicken in Cape Town?
Bombay Brasserie and Bihari are both known for their rich, creamy butter chicken recipes.
Which Indian restaurant in Cape Town is best for vegetarians?
Curry Club’s homemade paneer dishes and Eastern Food Bazaar’s veg thalis are excellent choices.
What’s the best Indian restaurant near the beach in Cape Town?
The Indian Chapter in Blouberg offers stunning seaside views and excellent curries.
Is Eastern Food Bazaar good for families?
Yes, especially if you’re on a budget. There’s something for everyone, and the casual setting works well for groups.
Can I bring my own wine to Indian restaurants in Cape Town?
Some places like Curry Club allow BYOB for a small corkage fee. Always call ahead to confirm.
Final Thoughts
If you want to experience Cape Town’s Indian cuisine in full spectrum, start with Maharajah for a classic taste of northern India. For a modern vibe and South Indian specialties, Vadivelu is the place to be. Don’t miss out on Vintage India’s eclectic menu if you want variety without frills. For a special night out, Thali delivers innovative flavors, and if you want to taste the unique Cape Malay twist, Bo-Kaap Kombuis is unbeatable.
This guide is your passport to Cape Town’s Indian culinary heart —I’ve visited all these spots multiple times, and each has left a memorable impression.
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 pricing, hours, or location details. Please consult official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
