Cape Town is a city that effortlessly blends its natural beauty with its culinary innovation in order to create a wonderful experience. There is no doubt that it is a paradise for vegans. It doesn’t matter if you’re a lifelong plant-based eater or if you are just dipping your toes into veganism for the first time, Cape Town’s vibrant vegan scene has something for everyone. There are so many vegan eateries and vegan-friendly restaurants to choose from in the Mother City – from smoothie bowls to gourmet burgers, this guide will show you the best places to eat that are 100% vegan.
Key Takeaways
- Cape Town’s vegan scene is diverse, offering everything from fine dining to casual street food.
- Sustainability and ethical eating are at the heart of many of these eateries.
- Don’t miss the Messy Gatsby at Lekker Vegan or the Tagliatelle Carbonara at Plant.
Why Cape Town’s Vegan Scene Stands Out
Cape Town’s vegan movement is more than just a trend—it’s a lifestyle. The city’s chefs and restaurateurs are passionate about creating dishes that are not only delicious but also sustainable and ethical.
“I’ve traveled to over 30 countries, but Cape Town’s vegan food scene is truly special. The creativity and dedication to fresh, local ingredients are unmatched.”
100% Vegan Eateries in Cape Town
1. Nourish’d
Locations:
- Corner Kloof and Hof Street, Gardens
- 186 Lower Main Road, Observatory
Opening Hours: - Kloof Street: Mon-Thu 7am–5pm, Fri 7am–4pm, Sat 8am–2pm, Sun 8am–12pm
- Observatory: Mon-Fri 8am–4pm, Sat 9am–2pm, Sun 9am–1pm
Contact: 063 648 1040 | [email protected]
Nourish’d is a wellness-focused café that embodies owner Natasha Napoli’s philosophy of harmony between body, mind, and spirit. Their menu features fresh, homegrown ingredients in smoothie bowls, gourmet sandwiches, and nutrient-packed juices.
“Their smoothie bowls are a work of art—colorful, delicious, and Instagram-worthy. Plus, the parking lot next door is a lifesaver in the bustling city center.”
Must-Try: Acai Bowl, Green Goddess Smoothie
2. The Sunshine Food Co
Location: Corner Glengarriff and Main Roads, Three Anchor Bay
Opening Hours: Daily, 8am–8pm
Contact: 081 825 0925 | [email protected]
This bright, cheerful café is the brainchild of Elisha Madzivadondo, who grows many of the ingredients himself at Oude Molen Eco Village. Their vegan burgers and sushi-inspired veggie-rittos are legendary.
“The falafel burger topped with hummus and avocado is a flavor explosion. It’s no wonder this place has such a loyal following.”
Must-Try: Falafel Burger, Veggie-Ritto
3. Plant
Location: 8 Buiten Street, corner Loop Street, Cape Town
Opening Hours: Tue-Sat 8am–10pm, Sun-Mon 8am–4pm
Contact: 072 521 9252 | [email protected]
Since 2013, Plant has been a pioneer in Cape Town’s vegan dining scene. Their menu caters to vegans, vegetarians, and those with food allergies, offering dishes that are as delicious as they are nutritious.
“The Vegan Tagliatelle Carbonara is a game-changer. Creamy, rich, and completely plant-based—it’s comfort food at its finest.”
Must-Try: Tagliatelle Carbonara, Mushroom Burger
4. Lekker Vegan
Location: Shop 11A1 Palmhof Shopping Centre, 105 Kloof Street, Gardens
Opening Hours: Mon-Thu 10am–10pm, Fri-Sat 10am–12am, Sun 11am–9pm
Contact: Instagram | Facebook
Lekker Vegan is the go-to spot for indulgent vegan comfort food. Their Messy Gatsby is a local favorite, but be warned—it’s as messy as it is delicious.
“The Messy Gatsby is a must-try, but don’t wear white! It’s a saucy, flavorful masterpiece that’s worth every napkin.”
Must-Try: Messy Gatsby, Kombucha
5. Vegan Test Kitchen
Location: Bay Harbour Market, Hout Bay
Opening Hours: Fri 5pm–9pm, Sat-Sun 9:30am–4pm
Contact: 027 79 399 3520 | [email protected]
This weekly pop-up is a treasure trove of plant-based delights, from vegan croissants to protein-packed smoothies.
“The Vegan Test Kitchen is proof that vegan food can be both affordable and gourmet. Their chia pudding is a must-try!”
Must-Try: Vegan Croissants, Chia Pudding
Restaurants with Vegan Menus
1. Mary Ann’s Emporium & Eatery
Location: 3 Park Street, Mouille Point
Opening Hours: Daily, 9am–5pm
Contact: 021 433 0166 | [email protected]
Mary Ann’s is a sustainable dining haven, offering organic and vegan dishes with minimal environmental impact.
Must-Try: Vegan French Toast
2. Scheckter’s Raw
Location: 98 Regent Street, Sea Point
Opening Hours: Daily, 8:30am–8pm
Contact: 021 434 1364 | [email protected]
This serene eatery specializes in raw, organic, and nutrient-dense vegan dishes.
Must-Try: Golden Mylk, Matcha Flapjacks
FAQs
Q: Are these restaurants suitable for people with food allergies?
A: Yes, many of these eateries cater to gluten-free, nut-free, and other dietary requirements. Always inform the staff of your allergies.
Q: What’s the average cost of a meal at these restaurants?
A: Prices range from R80 for a smoothie bowl to R200 for a gourmet main course.
Q: Do these restaurants offer takeaway options?
A: Most do! Check their websites or call ahead to confirm.
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.
Ready to explore Cape Town’s vegan food scene? Share your favorite spots in the comments below!
