There are very few foodie destinations in the world that can compete with Cape Town. Here new and exceptional restaurants pop up faster than you can say Bon Apetit and locals are quite frankly, spoiled, spoiled, for choice.
And it is not just the fact that, year after year, Cape Town based chefs rank among the best in the world. Their culinary feats are matched, perhaps even surpassed, by the incredible views and vistas that greet you wherever you turn in the city. There is a reason why the Telegraph nominated Cape Town as one of the Best City in the World for 8 consecutive years.
That is why it was not easy to select the six top restaurants in Cape Town that offer consistently exquisite cuisine plus exceptional sea and mountain views. But here goes. You can try them for yourself and let us know what you think of our choices.
SIGNAL RESTAURANT
Signal Restaurant offers a “Taste the Veld” dining experience like no other. Designed for sharing, each dish is a celebration of savoury or sweet veld and flower sensations and offers diners an adventurous culinary journey through the Cape’s botanical heritage and abundant, evocative mountain and ocean landscapes.
Signal Restaurant’s is menu inspired by the indigenous fynbos of the Cape and some well-known local food heroes. One such food hero is Cape Fish, known for their unique dry-aged tuna. While dry-aged fish is popular worldwide, the process has only recently reached South African shores. Dry-aging allows for the intensification of flavor. Singal Restaurant reimagines Cape Fish’s dry-aged tuna into a world-class, signature dish.
Why we love it: How could we not love it?! Handcrafted menus exploring a feast of flavours, warm and attentive staff, knowledgeable sommeliers and the best views of Table Mountain imaginable. All wrapped up in a blanket of luxury and elegance.
Where to find it: In the heart of the Cape Grace hotel
Bookings: +27 (21) 410 7080, signal@capegrace.com
PIER
Panoramic views of Cape Town harbour, underplayed tableside theatrics (oysters poached in MCC) and arguably the most artfully prepared menu in the city, are just a few of the reasons why Pier is a must-visit for those who appreciate intimate, multi-course fine dining.
Why we love it: Apart from everything? The little extra’s like the exquisite bread course, the all-local cheese course and the petit fours with the bill.
Where to find it: Pierhead Building, V & A Waterfront, Cape Town
Bookings: 021 879 6328, reservations@pier.restaurant
THE WATERSIDE
Situated just below Pier is its more casual sister, The Waterside. Like Pier, it too is part of the La Colombe family of restaurants. It has been described as a “light, bright pared-down space with a deck that makes you feel as if you are dining on a superyacht.” Here you will find not only unparalleled views of the Waterfront but also refined, beautifully plated fare with a focus on local produce.
Why we love it: Who doesn’t love dining on a superyacht?
Where to find it: Pierhead Building, V & A Waterfront, Cape Town
Bookings: 021 879 6328, reservations@waterside.restaurant
SALSIFY
Us Capetonians are rather sentimental about our historic buildings and the Roundhouse, a former hunting lodge (circa 1786), is no exception. If you fancy the idea of cuisine imagined from local and foraged produce by award-winning chef Luke Dale-Roberts, served in an historic setting, with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and majestic Lion’s Head as your backdrop, then put a visit to Salsify on your itinerary.
Why we love it: When history, mountains, antiques, art, great food and ocean views come together, that is quintessential Cape Town. Their Sunday Lunch is also a reason to love Salsify.
Where to find it: Halfway between Camps Bay beach and the slopes of Lion’s Head – on Roundhouse Road, Camps Bay
Bookings: 021 010 6444, reservations@salsify.co.za
HARBOUR HOUSE – KALK BAY
Harbour House is situated on the opposite side of the Peninsula to all the others restaurants featured here. This is the salty, arsty, bo-ho area of the city, yet the food and drink offerings here are sophisticated. The menu comprises mostly seafood but there are meat and vegetarian/vegan options too. With waves pounding against the rocks the restaurant is perched on and endless views of the ocean, this place has a timeless charm that you will want to return to, again and again.
Why we love it: There is a good chance you’ll observe the colourful, wooden fishing boats racing for harbour after a long day at sea. Oh, and you will feel like you are possibly in an episode of World’s Deadliest Catch, if you visit on a stormy day.
Where to find it: It is situated in the quaint working harbour of Kalk Bay.
Bookings: 021 788 4136
CHEF’S WAREHOUSE AT TINTSWALO
We just might have kept the best for last because there are fewer places in the city where you can dine closer to the sea than at Chef’s Warehouse at Tintswalo. Try to book on the outdoor deck because even though the interior is beautiful, on the deck you are virtually at sea, embraced by spectacular views of Chapman’s Peak whichever way you look.
Why we love it: The Tapas Sharing Menu. Say no more.
Where to find it: Chef’s Warehouse is situated where Chapman’s Peak meets the sea, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay.
Bookings: 021 541 0165