EAT AND DRINK

Discover Cape Town's exciting new dining destinations

Uncover the vibrant dining scene in Cape Town with these 7 exceptional restaurants, perfect for date nights, gatherings with friends, or simply trying something new

3 min read
Cape Town's food scene is constantly evolving, with exciting restaurants offering everything from intimate chef-led tasting menus to globally inspired cuisine and contemporary South African cooking
Cape Town's food scene is constantly evolving, with exciting restaurants offering everything from intimate chef-led tasting menus to globally inspired cuisine and contemporary South African cookingPicture: Pexels

Cape Town's dining scene never stands still. From intimate chef-led restaurants and stylish neighbourhood bistros to globally inspired dining destinations, there's no shortage of exciting new places to discover. Whether you're planning your next date night, catching up with friends, or simply looking to try somewhere different, Cape Town has no shortage of exciting dining destinations.

 

These restaurants are well worth adding to your list

 

BARE is one of Cape Town's newest restaurants, bringing a fresh, ingredient-led approach to the city centre.
BARE is one of Cape Town's newest restaurants, bringing a fresh, ingredient-led approach to the city centre.Picture: Bare/Instagram

Bare

Minimalist by name and nature, BARE is one of Cape Town's newest restaurants, bringing a fresh, ingredient-led approach to the city centre. The menu celebrates seasonal produce through contemporary dishes that are simple, refined and packed with flavour, while the understated interiors make it an easy choice for date nights or long lunches. If you're looking to discover somewhere new, BARE is well worth adding to your list.

Hidden above Galjoen on Harrington Street, Seebamboes is one of Cape Town's most intimate dining experiences
Hidden above Galjoen on Harrington Street, Seebamboes is one of Cape Town's most intimate dining experiencesPicture: Seebamboes /Instagram

Seebamboes

Hidden above Galjoen on Harrington Street, Seebamboes is one of Cape Town's most intimate dining experiences. The 16-seat restaurant, led by chef Adél Hughes, celebrates the Western Cape through a seasonal tasting menu that explores the connection between land and sea. Expect locally sourced ingredients, inventive cooking and carefully selected South African wines served by the glass.

Chef Bertus Basson's newest venture at Longkloof is all about bold flavours and relaxed dining.
Chef Bertus Basson's newest venture at Longkloof is all about bold flavours and relaxed dining.Picture: Ongetem/Instagram

Ongetem

Chef Bertus Basson's newest venture at Longkloof is all about bold flavours and relaxed dining. The menu is playful, nostalgic and designed for sharing, with dishes that showcase familiar favourites with a modern twist. Add a lively atmosphere and plenty of personality, and it's easy to see why Ongetem has quickly become one of the city's hottest new tables.

Chef Ridian's Rose's Table has found a permanent home on Roeland Street in District Six
Chef Ridian's Rose's Table has found a permanent home on Roeland Street in District SixPicture: Rose's Table/Instagram

Rose's Table

Chef Ridian's Rose's Table has found a permanent home on Roeland Street in District Six. Named after the chef's mother, the intimate 22-seat restaurant blends African flavours with Asian influences, serving an ever-changing menu crafted from seasonal local ingredients. Paired with South African wines and surrounded by art, every meal is designed to feel personal and memorable.

Le Bistrot de JAN brings a relaxed take on French bistro dining to the V&A Waterfront.
Le Bistrot de JAN brings a relaxed take on French bistro dining to the V&A Waterfront.Picture: Le Bistrot de JAN/Instagram

Le Bistrot de JAN

Located at the InterContinental Table Bay, Le Bistrot de JAN brings a relaxed take on French bistro dining to the V&A Waterfront. Created by Michelin-starred chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, the restaurant serves an à la carte menu inspired by classic French cuisine with South African influences, all in an elegant yet welcoming setting.

The Melting Pot has opened a permanent home in De Waterkant
The Melting Pot has opened a permanent home in De WaterkantPicture: The Melting Pot/Instagram

The Melting Pot

After building a loyal following through pop-ups and Time Out Market Cape Town, The Melting Pot has opened a permanent home in De Waterkant. The chef-driven restaurant focuses on globally inspired small plates made with local ingredients, creating a menu that's perfect for sharing and discovering new flavours.

East City Grill and Yakiniku offer two distinct dining experiences under one roof.
East City Grill and Yakiniku offer two distinct dining experiences under one roof. Picture: East City Grill /Instagram

East City Grill & Yakiniku

Housed inside the landmark hemp building at 84 Harrington Street, East City Grill and Yakiniku offer two distinct dining experiences under one roof. East City Grill specialises in premium cuts cooked over open flames with Asian-inspired flavours, while Yakiniku invites diners to grill their own meats Japanese-style at the table, making for an interactive meal that's ideal for groups

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