Cape Town‘s coastline and maritime heritage make it a seafood lover’s paradise. There is a diverse array of seafood restaurants in the city, catering to every taste. With personal insights, detailed information, and practical tips to make your dining experience unforgettable, this guide will take you on a culinary journey through the 10 best seafood restaurants in Cape Town.
1. Baia Seafood Restaurant
Where Elegance Meets the Ocean
“When you think of a special occasion paired with seafood in Cape Town, Baia is the first name that comes to mind.”
Perched upstairs at the V&A Waterfront, Baia offers a dining experience that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. With panoramic views of the harbor and Table Mountain, white tablecloths, and polished service, this restaurant exudes sophistication.
What to Try:
- Black Mussels in Riesling: A Cape Town favorite, these mussels are cooked to perfection in a fragrant Riesling broth.
- Portuguese-inspired Seafood Platter: A feast of prawns, calamari, and langoustines that transports you to the Mediterranean.
- Linefish Sashimi: Fresh, delicate, and expertly prepared.
Good to Know:
- The restaurant is spacious, with several dining nooks. For the best views, request a table on the glass-walled terrace.
- Perfect for romantic dinners or celebratory gatherings.
Opening Times:
- Monday – Thursday: 6pm – 10:15pm
- Friday – Sunday: 12pm – 3:15pm, 6pm – 10:15pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 421 0935
- Email: [email protected]
- Location: Shop 6262, Victoria Wharf, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Price Range:
- Starters: R120 – R250
- Mains: R300 – R600
- Desserts: R100 – R150
Pros:
- Stunning views
- Extensive seafood menu
- Impeccable service
Cons:
- Can be pricey
- Popular, so book ahead
2. Kyoto Garden Sushi
Japanese Excellence in the Heart of Cape Town
“Kyoto Garden is a hidden gem in Tamboerskloof, offering a Zen-like escape with some of the best sushi in the city.”
This intimate Japanese eatery is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With its dimly lit ambiance, bamboo screens, and meticulous attention to detail, Kyoto Garden delivers an unforgettable dining experience.
What to Try:
- Miso Soup with Tempura Scallops: A comforting yet luxurious starter.
- Alaskan King Crab Sushi: Fresh, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- Grilled Squid with Lemon Squid Ink: A unique dish that’s both flavorful and visually striking.
Good to Know:
- Owner Scott Wood is passionate about sourcing unusual ingredients, ensuring a unique menu.
- The wasabi is grated fresh at your table using a traditional sharkskin grater.
Opening Times:
- Tuesday – Friday: 12pm – 11pm
- Saturday: 5:30pm – 11pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 422 2001
- Email: [email protected]
- Location: 11 Kloof Nek Road, Gardens, Cape Town
Price Range:
- Sushi Platters: R300 – R800
- Mains: R200 – R500
Pros:
- Authentic Japanese cuisine
- Unique ingredients
- Tranquil ambiance
Cons:
- Limited seating
- Higher price point
3. Galjoen
Sustainable Seafood at Its Finest
“Galjoen is a celebration of local, sustainable seafood, served in a chic, industrial setting.”
Located in the heart of the city, Galjoen is a must-visit for eco-conscious diners. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every dish, with a focus on responsibly caught South African seafood.
What to Try:
- Rockpool: Farmed abalone, seaweed broth, and pickled kelp.
- Braaied Aged Yellowtail: Served with apricot and tamarind, this dish is a flavor explosion.
Good to Know:
- Reservations open on the first day of each month at 10am for the following month.
- The set tasting menu changes frequently, ensuring a fresh experience every time.
Opening Times:
- Dinner: Monday – Saturday, 6:45pm
- Lunch: Thursday – Saturday, 12:30pm
Contact:
- Phone: 079 093 0559
- Email: [email protected]
- Location: 99 Harrington Street, Cape Town
Price Range:
- Tasting Menu: R850 per person
Pros:
- Sustainable practices
- Creative, ever-changing menu
- Intimate dining experience
Cons:
- Limited seating
- Advanced booking required
4. Nobu
Luxury Dining with a Japanese-Peruvian Twist
“Nobu is where culinary artistry meets luxury, offering a dining experience that’s worth every penny.”
Located at the One&Only Cape Town, Nobu is synonymous with sophistication. The restaurant’s Japanese-Peruvian fusion dishes are a feast for the senses, complemented by sleek interiors and impeccable service.
What to Try:
- Black Cod Miso: A signature dish that’s rich, buttery, and unforgettable.
- Omakase Tasting Menu: Let the chef surprise you with a series of exquisite dishes.
Good to Know:
- Perfect for special occasions.
- Vegan and vegetarian options are available.
Opening Times:
- Monday – Sunday: 6pm – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 431 5888
- Email: [email protected]
- Location: One&Only Cape Town, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Price Range:
- Mains: R400 – R900
- Tasting Menu: R1,200 per person
Pros:
- World-class cuisine
- Stunning ambiance
- Excellent service
Cons:
- Expensive
- Dress code enforced
5. Olympia Café
A Kalk Bay Institution
“Olympia Café is where locals and visitors alike gather for hearty, no-frills seafood dishes.”
Known for its legendary seafood linguine and bustling atmosphere, Olympia Café is a Kalk Bay staple. The daily blackboard menu features fresh catches and comforting classics.
What to Try:
- Seafood Linguine: Loaded with prawns, mussels, calamari, and white fish.
- Mussels in Cream and White Wine: A creamy, indulgent delight.
Good to Know:
- The café is always busy, so arrive early or be prepared to wait.
- The bakery at the back is perfect for grabbing fresh pastries or coffee.
Opening Times:
- Restaurant: Daily, 7am – 10pm (last orders at 9pm)
- Bakery Shop: Daily, 6:30am – 7pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 788 6396
- Email: [email protected]
- Location: 134 Main Road, Kalk Bay, Cape Town
Price Range:
- Mains: R150 – R300
Pros:
- Generous portions
- Lively atmosphere
- Affordable
Cons:
- No reservations
- Can get crowded
6. Willoughby & Co
Sushi Heaven at the V&A Waterfront
“Willoughby & Co is a sushi lover’s dream, offering consistently delicious dishes in a vibrant setting.”
Located in the V&A Waterfront, this restaurant is always buzzing with diners eager to sample its extensive sushi menu.
What to Try:
- 4×4 Dish: A mix of creamy rock-shrimp maki and Rainbow Reloaded rolls.
- Rock Shrimp Tempura: Crispy, flavorful, and addictive.
Good to Know:
- No reservations are accepted, so be prepared to queue.
- The counter seating offers a front-row view of the chefs in action.
Opening Times:
- Monday – Sunday: 12pm – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 418 6115
- Location: Shop 6132, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Price Range:
- Sushi Platters: R200 – R600
Pros:
- Excellent sushi
- Lively atmosphere
- Quick service
Cons:
- No reservations
- Can be noisy
7. Riva Italian Fish Restaurant
Mediterranean Flavors in De Waterkant
“Riva brings a taste of Italy to Cape Town, with a focus on fresh, flavorful seafood.”
This cozy restaurant in De Waterkant is a favorite for its warm hospitality and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
What to Try:
- Risotto Mare: A seafood risotto that’s rich and satisfying.
- Polpo: Slow-cooked octopus that’s tender and flavorful.
Good to Know:
- The menu changes weekly based on the catch of the day.
Opening Times:
- Monday – Saturday: 6pm – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 418 0657
- Email: [email protected]
- Location: 24/4 Napier Street, De Waterkant, Cape Town
Price Range:
- Mains: R200 – R400
Pros:
- Fresh, seasonal ingredients
- Warm, welcoming atmosphere
Cons:
- Limited seating
- Menu changes frequently
8. Live Bait
Seafood with a View in Kalk Bay
“Live Bait offers fresh seafood with breathtaking views of False Bay.”
Located right on the breakwater in Kalk Bay, this restaurant is perfect for a casual seafood meal with stunning ocean views.
What to Try:
- Fish and Chips: A classic done right.
- Seafood Linguine: Generously portioned and packed with flavor.
Good to Know:
- Whale sightings are an added bonus in winter.
Opening Times:
- Monday – Sunday: 12pm – 10pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 788 4133
- Email: [email protected]
- Location: Kalk Bay Harbour, Main Road, Kalk Bay
Price Range:
- Mains: R150 – R300
Pros:
- Stunning views
- Fresh seafood
Cons:
- Can get windy
- Limited parking
9. Café Orca
A West Coast Gem in Melkbosstrand
“Café Orca is a family-run restaurant that offers a relaxed vibe and delicious seafood.”
With its beachfront location and cottage-style decor, Café Orca is a hidden gem in Melkbosstrand.
What to Try:
- Linefish of the Day: Freshly caught and perfectly cooked.
- Seafood Platter: A generous mix of calamari, prawns, and mussels.
Good to Know:
- Groups larger than six are not accommodated.
Opening Times:
- Wednesday – Saturday: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 8:30pm
- Sunday: 12pm – 3pm
Contact:
- Phone: 021 553 4120
- Location: 88 Beach Road, Melkbosstrand
Price Range:
- Mains: R200 – R400
Pros:
- Relaxed atmosphere
- Fresh, simple dishes
Cons:
- Limited seating
- Remote location
10. The Lighthouse Café
A Taste of Thailand in Simon’s Town
“The Lighthouse Café combines Thai flavors with local seafood for a unique dining experience.”
This charming café in Simon’s Town offers a mix of traditional and innovative dishes, all served in a cozy setting.
What to Try:
- Thai Seafood Salad: A refreshing, flavorful dish.
- Beer-Battered Fish and Chips: A local favorite.
Good to Know:
- Pets are welcome, and water bowls are provided.
Opening Times:
- Tuesday – Saturday: 8:30am – 10pm
- Sunday + Monday: 8:30am – 4pm
Contact:
- Phone: 087 700 6421
- Email: [email protected]
- Location: 90 St Georges Street, Simon’s Town
Price Range:
- Mains: R150 – R300
Pros:
- Pet-friendly
- Unique menu
Cons:
- Limited seafood options
- Can get busy
FAQs
1. What is the best seafood restaurant in Cape Town for a special occasion?
Baia Seafood Restaurant is perfect for special occasions, offering stunning views and an upscale dining experience.
2. Where can I find the best sushi in Cape Town?
Kyoto Garden Sushi and Willoughby & Co are top choices for sushi lovers.
3. Are there any sustainable seafood restaurants in Cape Town?
Galjoen is a leader in sustainable seafood, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
4. What is the average price range for seafood in Cape Town?
Prices vary, but expect to pay between R150 and R900 per main dish, depending on the restaurant.
5. Do I need to make reservations at these restaurants?
Yes, especially for popular spots like Baia, Galjoen, and Nobu.
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 restaurants before visiting.
