There is no doubt that Cape Town excels at the art of cozy dining. There is nothing quite like the warmth of a crackling fireplace to elevate your dining experience, whether you are seeking a romantic evening, a family gathering, or a solo retreat. Here are 25 of Cape Town’s most inviting restaurants, each offering a unique blend of ambiance, cuisine, and that irresistible fireside charm.
Key Takeaways
- Ambiance: Cape Town’s fireplace restaurants offer a unique blend of warmth, charm, and elegance.
- Cuisine: From Asian-inspired plates to classic French cuisine, there’s something for every palate.
- Location: Whether in the City Bowl, Atlantic Seaboard, or Southern Suburbs, these restaurants are conveniently located.
Why Cape Town’s Fireplace Restaurants Are a Must-Visit
“There’s something magical about dining by a fireplace,” I mused during my last visit to Cape Town. “The flickering flames, the soft glow of candlelight, and the comforting aroma of hearty winter dishes create an experience that’s both intimate and unforgettable.”
Cape Town’s fireplace restaurants are more than just places to eat—they’re destinations that tell a story. From historic Victorian homes to modern culinary gems, these spots offer a perfect escape from the city’s winter chill.
City Bowl Gems
1. Asoka
Location: 68 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Contact: 021 422 0909 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday, 5.30pm – 2am; Sunday, 5.30pm – 12am
Nestled under the eaves of a revamped Victorian-era house, Asoka is a vibrant bar and restaurant built around a 150-year-old olive tree adorned with fairy lights. Known for its punchy Asian-inspired plates and live music on Sundays, Asoka is a Kloof Street favourite.
Cosy Cred: A central fireplace, soft fairy lights, and glowing candles create a warm, welcoming vibe.
Personal Insight: “The first time I visited Asoka, I was struck by its eclectic decor and the lively energy of the place. It’s the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner.”
2. Aubergine
Location: 39 Barnet Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Contact: 021 465 0000
Opening Hours: Monday – Wednesday + Saturday, 6pm – 10pm; Thursday + Friday, 12pm – 2pm, 6pm – 10pm
Aubergine is one of the most iconic Cape Town eateries, and is the brainchild of renowned chef Harald Bresselschmidt. There is a fusion of Eastern and Western influences on the menu, and one of the city’s best wine lists can be found here.
Cosy Cred: A large central fireplace and a comfortably sophisticated atmosphere.
Personal Insight: “Aubergine feels like a hidden gem. The food is exquisite, and the fireplace adds a touch of elegance to the dining experience.”
3. Elgr
Location: 75 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Contact: 021 422 0384 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Friday, 6pm – 11pm; Saturday, 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
ELGR offers a modern dining experience with dishes that are inspired from around the world, led by Swedish-born chef Jesper Nilsson.
Cosy Cred: A double-sided fireplace near the open kitchen keeps things toasty.
Personal Insight: “Elgr’s minimalist interiors and buzzing courtyard cocktail bar make it a standout. The fireplace adds a cosy touch to the otherwise sleek design.”
4. Kloof Street House
Location: 30 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Contact: 021 423 4413 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Monday, 12pm – 2am; Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 2am
Housed in a 20th-century Victorian house, Kloof Street House exudes Gatsby-esque charm with its twinkling fairy lights and velvet cushions.
Cosy Cred: Not one, not two, but three fireplaces!
Personal Insight: “Kloof Street House feels like stepping into another era. The fireplaces make it one of the cosiest spots in the city.”
5. Upper Union
Location: Cape Cadogan Hotel, 3 Upper Union Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Contact: 021 891 0360 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 4pm, 6pm – 10pm
There are a number of restaurants within the More Family Collection, such as Upper Union, which features a wood-burning stove in the contemporary style as well as a Victorian fireplace.
Cosy Cred: Victorian fireplaces and emerald-green walls create a luxurious yet inviting atmosphere.
Personal Insight: “Upper Union’s heritage building and global-inspired menu make it a must-visit. The fireplaces add a touch of old-world charm.”
6. Vadivelu
Location: 151 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Contact: 021 300 5777 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday, 12pm – 10pm
Vadivelu reinvents modern Indian cuisine with its vibrant decor and mouthwatering menu.
Cosy Cred: A Victorian fireplace and space heaters on the verandah.
Personal Insight: “Vadivelu’s bold flavors and warm ambiance make it a standout. The fireplace adds to the welcoming vibe.”
7. Boma on Bree
Location: 107 Bree Street, Cape Town
Contact: 021 109 0039 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 12pm – 2am; Sunday, 12pm – 6pm
Boma offers an open-fire cooking experience inspired by Karoo and Kalahari landscapes.
Cosy Cred: A bar-stool table by the open kitchen lets you soak up the fireside vibe.
Personal Insight: “Boma’s fiery decor and sizzling dishes make it a unique dining experience. The open flames add to the warmth.”
8. The Planet Bar at Mount Nelson
Location: 76 Orange Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Contact: 021 483 1000 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 1am
This iconic pink-hued bar offers chic, laidback luxury with a roaring fireplace.
Cosy Cred: Plush alcoves and comfortable armchairs by the fire.
Personal Insight: “The Planet Bar is perfect for after-work drinks or special occasions. The fireplace adds a touch of elegance.”
9. Azure at The Twelve Apostles
Location: Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town
Contact: 021 437 9029 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Daily, 7am – 10.30am, 12.30pm – 3.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Perched above the Atlantic Ocean, Azure offers a five-course winter tasting menu and sustainably sourced seafood.
Cosy Cred: Two beautifully designed fireplaces and unhindered ocean views.
Personal Insight: “Dining at Azure feels like a dream. The fireplaces and ocean views make it a truly magical experience.”
10. Bao Down
Location: 1st Floor, Exhibition Building, 79 Main Road, Green Point, Cape Town
Contact: 066 022 1165 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday, 6pm – 11pm; Saturday, 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Bao Down is a Green Point gem offering Asian small plates in a beautifully calm space.
Cosy Cred: A roaring fire by the bar and cosy booths.
Personal Insight: “Bao Down’s intimate setting and delicious bao buns make it a must-visit. The fireplace adds to the charm.”
11. Salsify at The Roundhouse
Location: The Roundhouse, Roundhouse Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town
Contact: 021 010 6444 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 12.30pm – 3pm, 6pm – 9pm; Sunday, 12.30pm – 3pm
Salsify offers modern cooking inspired by nature and driven by the seasons.
Cosy Cred: Fireplaces in the Seasonal Room.
Personal Insight: “Salsify’s seasonal menu and chic interiors make it a standout. The fireplaces add warmth to the elegant setting.”
12. The Greek Fisherman
Location: 78 Regent Road, Sea Point, Cape Town
Contact: 021 418 5411 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Daily, 12pm – 10pm
The Greek Fisherman offers classic Greek fare in a peaceful courtyard setting.
Cosy Cred: Victorian fireplaces in each dining room.
Personal Insight: “The Greek Fisherman feels like a trip to the Mediterranean. The fireplaces add to the cosy ambiance.”
13. The Strangers Club
Location: 1 Braemar Road, Green Point, Cape Town
Contact: 021 434 3540
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday, 9am – 4pm; Saturday, 9am – 2pm
This hidden treasure offers a maze of rooms and a leafy courtyard eatery.
Cosy Cred: A crackling wood fire indoors.
Personal Insight: “The Strangers Club feels like a step back in time. The fireplace adds to the nostalgic vibe.”
14. A Touch of Madness
Location: 12 Nuttall Road, Observatory, Cape Town
Contact: 021 447 4650 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Thursday, 12pm – 11pm; Friday + Saturday, 10am – 12am; Sunday + Monday, 12pm – 10pm
A Touch of Madness is a quirky restaurant and bar with live jazz and open mic nights.
Cosy Cred: Fireside tables are a hot commodity.
Personal Insight: “This place is full of character. The fireplace adds to the eclectic vibe.”
15. Tryn at Steenberg
Location: Steenberg Estate, Steenberg Road, Constantia Valley, Cape Town
Contact: 021 713 7178 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Daily, 8am – 11am; 12pm – 3pm; 6pm – 10pm
Tryn offers elegant cuisine in the heart of Constantia Winelands.
Cosy Cred: Warm gold banquettes and a roaring fire.
Personal Insight: “Tryn’s combination of fine dining and cosy ambiance is unbeatable. The fireplace adds a touch of warmth to the elegant setting.”
16. Beyond
Location: Buitenverwachting, 37 Klein Constantia Road, Constantia, Cape Town
Contact: 021 794 0306 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 12pm – 2pm, 6pm – 8.30pm; Sunday, 12pm – 2.30pm
Beyond is a sophisticated dining destination with a slow-food approach.
Cosy Cred: A grand marble fireplace with a roaring fire.
Personal Insight: “Beyond’s focus on seasonal produce and impeccable service makes it a standout. The fireplace adds to the luxurious ambiance.”
17. Foxcroft
Location: Shop 8, High Constantia, Corner Groot Constantia and Constantia Main Roads, Constantia, Cape Town
Contact: 021 202 3304
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 8.30pm
Foxcroft offers laidback, urban chic dining with impeccable food.
Cosy Cred: A central fireplace keeps things toasty.
Personal Insight: “Foxcroft’s relaxed vibe and excellent food make it a favourite. The fireplace adds a cosy touch.”
18. Klein Constantia
Location: Klein Constantia Estate, Klein Constantia Road, Constantia, Cape Town
Contact: 021 794 5188 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm
Klein Constantia offers a country bistro lunch with a brand-new fireplace.
Cosy Cred: A newly installed fireplace for fireside lunches.
Personal Insight: “Klein Constantia’s seasonal menu and cosy fireplace make it a must-visit.”
19. Grub & Vine Norval
Location: The Norval Foundation, 4 Steenberg Road, Tokai, Cape Town
Contact: 021 216 0021 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 9pm; Sunday, 12pm – 2.30pm
Grub & Vine Norval offers refined bistro fare with stunning views.
Cosy Cred: Cosily blazing firepots for winter.
Personal Insight: “Grub & Vine’s hearty menu and firepots make it a perfect winter spot.”
20. Chapman’s Peak Hotel
Location: Chapmans Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Contact: 021 790 1036 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 9pm
Chapman’s Peak Hotel offers nostalgic dining with epic views.
Cosy Cred: A crackling fire indoors.
Personal Insight: “The fried calamari here are legendary. The fireplace adds to the cosy vibe.”
21. Harbour House Kalk Bay
Location: Kalk Bay Harbour, Kalk Bay, Cape Town
Contact: 021 788 4133 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm
Harbour House offers fresh seafood with stunning ocean views.
Cosy Cred: A fireplace by the giant glass windows.
Personal Insight: “The seafood platter here is a must-try. The fireplace adds warmth to the oceanfront setting.”
22. The Foodbarn Café and Tapas
Location: The Foodbarn, Noordhoek Farm Village, Village Lane, Noordhoek
Contact: 021 789 1390 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 8am – 9.30pm; Sunday + Monday, 8am – 4pm
The Foodbarn offers French-inspired cuisine with a laidback vibe.
Cosy Cred: A chunky central gas fireplace.
Personal Insight: “The Foodbarn’s tapas are a delight. The fireplace adds to the country-chic ambiance.”
23. Chocolat Bistro
Location: 46 Oxford Street, Durbanville, Cape Town
Contact: 021 975 2426 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 7am – 10pm; Sunday, 8am – 3pm; Monday, 7am – 5pm
Chocolat Bistro offers comforting dishes in a Provençal-style setting.
Cosy Cred: A dining room fireplace and space heaters outdoors.
Personal Insight: “The desserts here are divine. The fireplace adds to the homely vibe.”
24. Die Damhuis
Location: 32 Beach Road, Melkbosstrand, Cape Town
Contact: 021 553 0093 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Thursday, 12pm – 11pm; Friday + Saturday, 9am – 11pm; Sunday, 9am – 5pm
Die Damhuis offers family-friendly dining in a historic setting.
Cosy Cred: A fireplace in the Voorhuijs section.
Personal Insight: “Die Damhuis feels like a trip back in time. The fireplace adds to the charm.”
25. On The Rocks
Location: 45 Stadler Road, Bloubergstrand, Cape Town
Contact: 021 554 1988 | [email protected]
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 9am – 10pm
On The Rocks offers scenic views and delicious food by the sea.
Cosy Cred: A roaring glass-enclosed fireplace.
Personal Insight: “The views here are breathtaking. The fireplace adds warmth to the seaside setting.”
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit Cape Town’s fireplace restaurants?
A: Winter (June to August) is ideal for enjoying the cosy ambiance of fireplace restaurants.
Q: Are these restaurants family-friendly?
A: Most restaurants welcome families, but it’s best to check in advance, especially for fine-dining establishments.
Q: Do I need to make reservations?
A: Yes, especially during peak seasons. Many of these restaurants are popular and fill up quickly.
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 with the official Instagram, Facebook, phone number, address, and map links provided for each restaurant.
Cape Town’s fireplace restaurants are more than just dining spots—they’re experiences that linger in your memory long after the meal is over. So, grab a seat by the fire, indulge in exquisite cuisine, and let the magic of Cape Town warm your soul.
