Cape Town Restaurants

180° unsurpassed views of Cape Town, Table Mountain, Robben Island and all the way up the West Coast to Blouberg is hard to beat. Maestro's on the Beach is situated right on the dunes at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean next to the Milnerton lighthouse. The patio area is open, weather permitting, and features its own bar. This area is a very popular spot as one gets the feeling of being on the deck of a cruise ship with the waves of the Atlantic Ocean almost breaking at your feet.

The warm and friendly ambiance blends smoothly with the traditional character tastefully furnished with crisp white napery, upholstered booths and attractive wood and bamboo ceiling. The menu offers substantial dishes and excellent starters such as Tuna Carpaccio and the Antipasto Italiano, which comes highly recommended. Main dishes such as the tender veal is a definite must-try including variety of traditional dishes such as Schnitzel, Piccata and Saltimbocca. Pasta dishes offer plenty for vegetarians and all the pasta is homemade or imported to ensure top quality. Round off the meal with home made sorbets, Crème Bruleé or decadent Tiramisu. The wine list proffers a wide range of Italian wines and an extensive Grappa trolley.

Mama Africa boasts popular meat combos served in generous portions with samp and pap, prepared mostly with game meat. There are various choices such as Malay specialties, which can be enjoyed alongside the well-priced wine list. Mama Africa can be found buzzing away in African festivities over lunch and dinner in Long Street.

Housed in an old turn of the centaury cottage that’s been beautifully restored, this spacious eatery and wine bar wines and dines palates with delicious contemporary pub cuisine. The pub exudes a restful ambiance, with passion and flavour evident in the food and wine. During summer months, take advantage of the beautiful terrace dressed in a Parisian feel and enjoy alfresco lunches, sundowners or tea at the attractive round tables shaded by umbrellas.

Mamma Mia (literally My Mother) is a warm and welcoming restaurant dressed in plush fabrics and quirky Italian artefacts offering authentic Italian faire for discerning and easy-going palates. With an impressive variety of speciality pastas, meat, veal, local seafood and poultry dishes, you will find an extensive selection of world-renowned Western Cape wines well suited for enhancing your flavourful meal. Mamma Mia seduces the palate with authentic Italian comfort food perfect for romantic evenings dining by candlelight on the warm wrap-around patio. For lazy summer Sundays enjoy lunch outdoors and linger around to sample the delectable homemade tiramisu or Cape brandy pudding followed by a rich Italian coffee. Situated in Steenberg village centre Mamma Mia offers a truly relaxing dining experience reminiscent of Italian family gathering sharing a good meal over an aromatic glass of wine.

Located in Observatory, Mango Ginger’s philosophy on food is about health, nutrition and flavour. Enjoy intimate and professional baked goods, wheat free organic pies, wholesome breakfasts and lunches that change daily. For lunch try the Potato Rosti with smoked salmon, herbed cream cheese and salad, Parmesan Chicken Strips on crostini with a cooked tomato salsa, pesto and garnished with rocket and olives. For wheat intolerance diners, try the Wheat Free Crepes filled with lemon, artichoke chicken and garnished with freshly blanched asparagus. Winter warms the palate with hearty Lamb, Almond and Ginger Casserole with a side serving of short-grain organic brown rice. Mango Ginger takes care of all palates and caters for all appetites that enjoy healthy, hearty and nutritious food.

This small, modern space caters for well-heeled clientele in stylish surrounds offering all day brunch affairs that will tantalise and pamper the palate. The menu leans towards contemporary and tapas style dining with popular choices such as Salmon, avocado and perfectly poached egg on to die for coconut bread is must try. Brunch selections range from boiled egg with toast soldiers to gourmet open sandwiches supplemented by delectable tapas, gourmet salads and lunch specials such as luscious white wine and chicken risotto or seared beef fillet. Indulge further with delicious walnut loaves, or date bread and silky cupcakes from the take away menu.

Buzzing, lively and smart, this laid back and trendy eatery sets the mood with a cool take on décor menu that proffers continental and contemporary cuisine, café style. Short and reasonably priced, the menu offers delights such as tender calamari, generous Caesar salad, and a subtly delicious prawn curry enjoyed alongside a wine list favouring local wines and wines by the glass.

The boldly painted exterior catches the eye, situated in the historic Bo-Kaap area with colourful murals and artwork wrapped around this old warehouse building. Marco’s African Place resides within an old converted warehouse, complete with high ceilings, spacious interior and authentic décor. The staff and chef are hands on, cooking, greeting and welcoming with African hospitality. The ambiance is bustling and festive, with a large mixture of sophisticated Africans, suburbanites and tourists enjoying the culture of Africa. The menu is traditional and tasty, with colourful creations and flavourful dishes. Expect plenty game meat such as springbok, ostrich, kudu, and even crocodile tail, (enjoyed mostly by tourists). Locals savour more traditional favourties such as tripe with onions, savoury chicken pieces with onions and peppers, or samp and beans prepared in true African style. Visit Marco’s African Place for a taste of Africa and traditional culture enjoyed alongside the live music and colourful cuisine.

The cosy and casual vibe makes dining at Marika’s a anytime dining experience. Dressed in rustic holiday art that adorns the walls and casual décor with heavy striped crockery up scaling the tables. The menu brims with starters, which include old favourites, like dolmades and skordalia, flame grilled sardines or fried whitebait. Try the slow baked lamb for mains, or the vegetarian moussaka topped with a souffléd white sauce. Desert is heaven on plate, try the halva ice cream blended to creamy-nutty heaven and if the nougatine cake is in stock, grab it!

Ideal for corporate events, private celebrations or parties, Marimba has a certain energy about it that makes it an ideal choice for events. Live music featuring laid back jazz, a grand piano and shaky marimbas get the mood and feet moving while appetites indulge in mouth-watering African and continental dishes. The ambiance leans towards an up market feel, setting the stage hosting the perfect event. Alongside dining, dancing and live music, enjoy aromatic coffees, sundowners and light conversation on the terrace before putting your dancing shoes on and shaking your moves to the Marimba.

Relaxed and informal, Mario’s delights the palate with an array of locally sourced ingredients ranging from homemade pasta to game. The menu proffers traditional Italian fare such as Pina's delicious bean, popular in the winter months, crumbed calf brains with capers, or marrow bones served with toast. Veal Saltimbocca with Parma ham, sage, brandy and white wine remains popular as does starters of Parmigiana de Melanzane - sliced fried brinjals with mozzarella and cooked tomatoes. Try Pina's signature dish of stuffed baby chicken served with roast potatoes, vegetables and Pina’s homemade fruit mustard. Infuse the palate with authentic Italian fare at one of Cape Town’s dining institutions.

Delicious Indian cuisine with a conscience – Masala Dosa proffers healthy Indian dishes at great prices. Try the aloo bombs to start with and then give the dish of its namesake a go. The dosa is a delicious option and comes with a variety of fillings. There is a limited wine list as with Indian restaurants in general. A beer is a better accompaniment with Indian food, or a delicious and refreshing lassi. The decor is reminiscent of Bollywood movies but has a modern influence to keep things contemporary and stylish. A great place for healthy, guilt-free Indian cuisine, Masala Dosa is a must-try.

Massimo’s Pizza Club is located in the tranquil setting of Oakhurst Barn in Hout Bay. Here you will find a bustling, cosy setting filled with laughter and the aroma of wood-fired pizzas in the company of warm smiles and friendly faces. Choose a Pizza Feast or a Full Italian Experience for a set price and enjoy as many mouth-watering pizzas as you can eat. Feast your appetite on fusion of flavours starting with a Green salad, dressed with olive oil & balsamic, toasted pine nuts and parmesan shavings followed by a selection of pizzas topped with Coppa Ham & Rucola (rocket), Duck & Pan-Fried Mushrooms and Banana, Ricotta, Honey & Almonds to mention a few. If you can still manage to squeeze in a little more opt for the delicious homemade ice creams and Tiramisu followed by Limoncello, an Italian after dinner drink made with local organic lemons and Biceri or a traditional Torniese chocolat liquor. Enjoy the selection of South African beers and wines, including some Italian varieties grown locally which make a superb accompaniment to your pizza.

A stunning restaurant started by 3 Michelin-starred chef, Maze at One & Only, Cape Town must be experienced.Using local ingredients and celebrating local flavours, maze proffers the finest creations for breakfast, lunch and supper, with a dedicated children’s menu as well. Steaks lovers will particularly enjoy the succulent cuts of meat, specially prepared with an imported broiler which heats the steaks to 650°C for superb flavour. The open kitchen allows for patrons to watch the chefs creating the mouth-watering masterpieces.The decor is striking and inviting, having been designed in keeping with the name of the restaurant. A fantastic wine loft offers a vast and eclectic selection of 5000 bottles, featuring both well-known and soon-to-be well known South African vintage wines.Enjoy a stylish celebration of South African cuisine at maze.

Set on the lapping banks of the Ritvlei Wetland, McPherson’s Restaurant seduces the senses and unwinds daily life with expansive views of Table Mountain and the Ritvlei Wetland. The views set the stage for alfresco dining, on the deck or lovely covered garden area, and as winter sets in, you can enjoy dining indoors. The fabulous menu caters for all palates, starting with breakfast and the McPherson's Delux Breakfast consisting of eggs, back bacon, sausage, mushrooms, grilled tomato saute’ potatoes & served with your choice of toast. A lovely alfresco lunch deserves traditional Fish and Chips served with savoury rice or chips or the Bacon, Feta and Avo Toasted Sandwich. On Sundays, bring the family and enjoy a day out and the legendary McPherson's Sunday Roast, which includes a variety of roasts, grilled potatoes and vegetables concluded by Malva Pudding.

Melissa’s The Food Store in Cape Town’s V & A Waterfront is owned by Mark and Melissa van Hoogstraten. They have taken their love of food and fine things and translated into Cape Town’s best known deli. Visitors can feast on range of deliciously prepared meals, snacks and tasty treats. The Melissa’s range is made up homemade delectables prepared with the best ingredients and lots of love. All the food is freshly prepared with the intention that good food should be made using only the best ingredients. The ethos at Melissa’s is great food made with highest quality ingredients: the value of quality food produced in a traditional, old-fashioned way using locally sourced, seasonal, all natural local ingredients. Melissa’s at the Waterfront serves breakfast, lunch and light suppers, as well as a buffet from which patrons can choose a range of freshly made quiches, pies and assorted salads. Breakfast delights include fresh baked croissants with homemade jams and preserves, eggs Benedict and a traditional English breakfast, as well as healthier options including homemade muesli, yoghurt and fresh seasonal fruit. For lunch or dinner, diners can feast on deliciously prepared fresh sandwiches, homemade chicken and leak pie, sweet potato wedges with garlic aioli, Asian seared beef carpaccio and a range of yummy home cooked pastas and fresh salads.

Meloncino Ristorante is not your average Italian restaurant.Daring to push the boundaries of Italian cuisine, this elegant and stylish venue on the trendy Waterfront provides a dining experience that revolutionises traditional perceptions.Three skilful and dedicated chefs from Rome take the utmost pride in creating new and exciting dishes that delight and satisfy. Superb flavour combinations, impeccable presentation and flawless quality ensure that diners will enjoy every mouthful of their chosen meal.Expect home-made pasta with authentic Italian sauces, steaks and seafood from their charcoal grill, traditional wood-fired pizza and an extensive menu to choose from. In order to stay faithful to the original, various ingredients like cheese, coffee and wine are imported from ItalyChic, modern decor provides the decadent surroundings and a stunning backdrop of the mountain makes this a superb setting for a mind-blowing gastronomic experience.

Housed in a charming historic building, which was rumoured to be an old blacksmith, Mel’s Village Kitchen is the place to hearty breakfast, lunches and dinners. The menu proffers a variety of meals ranging from hamburgers, salads, ciabattas, breakfasts, oxtail and lamb shanks, which remain very popular. Enjoy buffet lunches, homemade pies and hearty stews at Mel’s Village Kitchen in Rondebosch.

The décor swoons heavily draped tapestries, kelms and woven carpets lit by pretty coloured lampshades and plump cushions scattered around low copper tables. Relax, kick back and soak up the ambiance enjoying wine from the extensive wine list and delighs such as lahana (cabbage leaves stuffed with mussels, spicy rice, nuts, currants and cinnamon) and kizartma (fried brinjal with green pepper, baby marrow and garlic yoghurt) are fabulous, as is puree (potato with chicken fillet breast, spring onion and garlic). Experience that taste of Kurdish tradition at Mesopotamia Kurdish Restaurant.

Located within the Hilton Hotel, Mezbaan pairs the finest cuisine, with the best elements from India and Arabia with a sleek modern twist. Authentic and inspiring, this culinary jewel is one of Cape Town’s most original restaurants boasting Mughlai cuisine originating from North India. The flavours touch on authentic tastes from India, Middle East and Persia. Try the searing hot curries, creamy yoghurts, mouth watering tandoori murgs and delicious seek kebabs infused with a modern European twist. Meezbaan is a culinary jewel waiting to be discovered in the heart of Cape Town.

Expect fresh seafood, prime beef cuts and fish caught fresh that day served in your choice of Cajun, Moroccan or Malay style, seared to succulent perfection. Homely service and unpretentious surrounds make for an enjoyable or intimate dining experience with a warm lived in feel - home away from home. If calamari tempts the palate, try the Cajun calamari as a starter or the melt-in-the-mouth steak bordelaise robustly flavoured and decadently rich. Miller’s Thumb is your home away from home experience, brimming with melt-in-the-mouth food and warm personality.

Located at the Oude Molen Eco Village, Millstone Cafe is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, an enchanting experience set in natural surrounds. The lovely garden setting sets the mood with fresh summery alfresco dining, allowing children to play and be free in the fairytale tree house. The menu brims with delights and indulgences such as breads straight from the wood fired oven, great coffees, freshly squeezed juices, homemade preserves and wholesome snacks and meals using organic garden produce.

Millstone is in an exceptional country-style setting. The restaurant/cafe is open from 9am to 5pm, Tuesday to Sunday. The garden has a a great tree house for the kids and the quiet atmosphere is exactly what any parent needs. Millstone also caters for children's parties. Have some delicious coffee or fresh orange juice with a wholesome meal. The cafe sells organic products and the bread is made in a wood-fired oven. Try some homemade jams and preserves.

Mimi is a family run business that offers an extensive menu and early bird breakfasts, cooked to perfection with a nice cup of coffee, enjoyed at leisure before work. A reputable haven for many locals who visit to entice their senses with the delights on offer and expertly prepared coffee by trained barista in a cosy and relaxed setting.

A great place for delicious light bites from healthy start breakfasts to sumptuous sandwiches for a lunchtime meal, Miss K Food Cafe doesn’t disappoint. The team behind this popular establishment really know what they’re doing when it comes to satisfying light meals. The service is impeccable and very friendly, making every patron feel welcome and appreciated. A great spot to stop off for a quick refill or a lazy lunch with friends, try Miss K Food Cafe.

Mitchell’s Brewery is the V & A Waterfront’s liveliest pub. Live music, live sports broadcasts and a late license make this a popular destination. There are 6 beers on tap, all brewed by Mitchell’s: three ales, a bitter, a lager and a stout. The service is fast and friendly, the atmosphere is fun and lively, and the food is good hearty pub grub. Whether its oven baked pizza, fish and chips, steak, pasta or pudding, Mitchell’s is the place to be. With amazing views of the harbour and Table Mountain, Mitchell’s Brewery is a very popular place for those looking to settle in to a relaxed time out.

Indulge your senses with an extensive variety of gourmet pizzas in an authentic Italian pizzeria touched by dark wood, deep colours, low hung chandeliers and a warm ambient glow from the wood-fired oven. With a wide choice of vegetarian and wheat free options available, Morituri Pizzeria caters for most pampered palates to the health conscious with ease and creativity elevating wheat free dining to a gastronomic status. Enjoy enticing combinations such as Red Pesto, Proscuitto & Rucola (Rocket) pizza or delectable pastas and prawns tossed with Thai Pesto, Rosa Tomatoes, Olive Oil, Garlic & a hint of Fresh Chilli. With a good selection of wines flattered by uncomplicated recipes and a vibey ambience, Morituri Pizzeria boasts the belief they make the definitive wood-fired thin-based pizza in Cape Town. To believe it, you have to try it.

The modern African ambiance creates a sophisticated dining experience at Moyo, where the colourful traditions of Africa are celebrated through traditional dishes. Located at Eden on the Bay, the views stretch along sandy shores meeting the lapping ocean of the West Coast, and a stunning backdrop of Table Mountain and Robbin Island. Embracing African soul food, Moyo is a sustainable dining experience in a vibrant setting that is Proudly South African.

This café cum bar cum restaurant entices with lunch and nibbles and delicious coffee alongside a deli dedicated to nothing other than mozzarella. Serving light meals with an Italian influence and the best mozzarella in South Africa, you will find this bar the ideal place to drink coffee and read a paper, eat breakfast or nibble on a light lunch before shopping for mozzarella.

Myatt Café & Chocolatier is elegant and opulent; the decor is more like a designer haute couture showroom. Crockery from Villeroy and Boch, designer Vitra chairs and Eileen Grey tables all contribute a quintessentially chic experience. Fashioned on a French salon, a leading trend setter, this cafe offers patrons the utmost in style and sophistication, and a gourmet menu of delicious sweet treats and light meals. Breakfast ranges from croissant baskets with either homemade jams or hams and cheeses to fruit and muesli. There is also the Myatt Breakfast Treat, which consists of mini croissants filled with emmenthaler cheese, scone with clotted cream & preserve, selection of finger sandwiches, fresh fruit salad & macaroons, fresh orange or grapefruit juice, Myatt special blend of tea or coffee. Lighte meals include a delicious range of filled sweet and savoury croissants, gourmet sandwiches and salads, as well as a mouth watering range of freshly baked tarts. The High Tea, masterfully prepared by a renowned confectionary chef includes pastries, cakes, mini croissants and finger sandwiches freshly made to order. There is an out-of-this-world range of sweet treats to choose from, and a fabulous range of speciality teas and coffees. All the delicacies are available at the retail counter, along with a delectable delight of imported Belgian chocolates.

The décor sets the mood with crisp white lines and ambient lighting and a great Greek atmosphere. Occasional plate breaking and dancing compliment full-bodied flavours such as Kleftiko Lamb - slow cooked lamb shank served with an option of roast potatoes, vegetables or a fresh Greek salad. Try the popular Calamari Dish consisting of Patagonica tubes lightly grilled or fried to a crispy golden perfection, delicious and tender served with either roast potatoes, vegetables or a fresh Greek salad. Start your evening with a tasty Mezze Platter for four, brimming with Dolmades, Tsatziki, Saganaki, Keftedes and 4 tasty Chicken Skewers served with 2 fresh Pita's and round off the occasion with homemade yoghurt, honey and nuts!

Superb fusion food, a brilliant range of fine wines and impeccable service are just a few reasons to make sure you take a trip to Myoga at the Vineyard Hotel & Spa.The place to be for a lazy lunch or a more formal evening meal, the open plan kitchen allows diners to see their dish of choice being expertly prepared by the talented team. The waiters are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, always on hand to assist with any tough decisions.An elegant and decadent atmosphere comes care of the carefully chosen decor. In the daytime there is a spacious terrace with beautiful views of Table Mountain. A superb choice for a leisurely lunch or an intimate dinner, Myoga is one to try.

Located on the corner of Buitenkant Street, this local hotspot proffers a low-key ambiance and casual décor, and a reputation for delicious pizzas. The casual atmosphere and simple décor keeps the focus the food and makes ideal spot for a quick bite or pizza indulgence in Gardens.

The ambiance welcomes with a home-away-from-home feeling, with comfortable seating, low lighting and shelves of books, enjoyed with a glass of wine, curled up on the couch. The menu works well with drinks and social get-togethers and offers the likes of chilli poppers, chicken wings (in three flavours), nachos and more with full meals on offer and an array of waffle desserts. Sit on the large balcony overlooking Long Street, sipping a cocktail and indulging in some table snacks; a great social hangout spot. Neighbourhood is a unique and interesting spot perfect for a meal, relaxing or festive celebrations.

A well-loved spot exuding a cosmopolitan mix of meat lovers and old school ambiance, Nelson’s Eye brims with hearty, tasty and meaty dishes. From racks of ribs, t-bones, slabs of matured perfectly aged fillet all served with chips, spinach and moerish pumpkin. The wine list rolls heavy on reds with a few whites to compliment some dishes, but as many come for the steak; the wine list does not take centre stage. Located along Hof Street, Nelson’s Eye is a must try, even just to put steaks to test (as the menu promises).

Neptunes Seafood Kitchen is owned and operated by award winning chef Alan Tavares. With an extensive menu offering delectable choices of grilled and low fat meals you can be sure to reap the benefits of seafood. Alongside healthy options, Neptunes serves traditional seafood faire in a dimly lit minimalist setting typical of express seafood. Enjoy seafood platters, tiger prawns in mild chilli rice or traditional battered fish and salt-slaked chips with fresh dollops of tartar Sauce. Pop in for a quick bite or satisfy your craving for good old tasty seafood, Neptunes Seafood Kitchen is located on Rosemead Avenue in Claremont.

Sit outside enjoying the salty sea air with a good cappuccino or hearty breakfast. Indoors tempts with deli delights and endless assortment of goods to take home after your meal. Start with a breakfast smoothie (muesli, banana, honey and yoghurt) a meal on its own or a delicious big bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon. For lunch or light suppers try the Louisiana wrap with Cajun chicken, avocado, cucumber and watercress or the Greek with rocket, aubergine, deep-fried haloumi, sundried tomato and tzatziki. Winter warms with wholesome soups such as lentil and barley and beef and bean. Newport Market and Deli remains a jovial meeting place and place of indulgence to many locals and visitors alike.

For a truly unforgettable evening of decadent dining in stylish surrounds, try the world-famous Nobu. Fresh South African seafood is complemented with indigenous spices and the superior skill of talented chefs. The sushi and sashimi creations are a must for sushi lovers. A bar offering a selection of Sakes, plum wines and Japanese beer is situated on the upper level for those who wish to sample the best beverages that Japan has to offer. Sample the delights that Nobu has to offer and experience the many reasons why this chain of Japanese restaurants has become so popular across the globe.

If Pizza is your crazing, Nonna Lina can more than accommodate. This cosy and friendly establishment proffers superb pizzas with thin and crispy bases and a good selection of toppings. There are also options like veal, tuna and delicious pastas on offer with a nice wine list to accompany. Good service and a lively atmosphere make Nonna Lina is a place worth coming back to.