Cape Town, the Mother City, is known for its mix of cultures and experiences. Beyond the views of Table Mountain and the coastline, the city offers a strong food scene shaped by both global influences and local traditions. This reflects Cape Town’s history and heritage. Cape Town dining options for international travelers are an important consideration when planning well-rounded itineraries that reflect local food culture.
At Ascot Tours, we believe that understanding a destination also comes through its food. For this reason, we have put together a selection of restaurants we regularly recommend to our travel partners. These are more than dining venues. They are places that form part of the overall travel experience and often become highlights of a visit.
From the fertile valleys of the Winelands to the productive waters of the Atlantic, Cape Town’s chefs take inspiration from the ingredients available around them. The result is a clear culinary identity that focuses on seasonal produce and modern cooking methods, earning the city international recognition.
This guide focuses on Cape Town dining options for international travelers that are reliable, accessible, and suitable for first-time visitors to South Africa. This is an essential part of any visit to Cape Town and suits travelers who want a deeper understanding of South Africa through food.
Amura
Nestled within the iconic Mount Nelson Hotel, Amura is a love letter to the ocean. Here, Michelin-starred chef Ángel León, a pioneer of sustainable seafood, has brought his visionary approach to the shores of Cape Town. We at Ascot Tours are captivated by the way Amura celebrates the Cape’s marine biodiversity, transforming humble, often overlooked, ingredients into culinary masterpieces. The menu is a symphony of oceanic flavors, a journey into the depths of the sea that is both exciting and deeply respectful of nature.
Signature Dish: The Yellowtail with a green escabeche sauce is a revelation, a perfect balance of delicate fish and vibrant, zesty flavors. It’s a true taste of the Atlantic, elevated to fine-dining perfection.
Ascot Tip: The African connection here is profound, with the entire menu being a tribute to the Cape’s oceans. We say you can’t miss the experience of tasting the humble by-catch fish, transformed by fire-cooking and fermentation into something truly extraordinary. It’s a powerful reminder of the treasures our local waters hold.
La Colombe
Prepare for a touch of magic at La Colombe, a restaurant that consistently ranks among the world’s best. Tucked away in the tranquil forests of Silvermist Wine Estate, this is where culinary artistry and theatrical flair collide. We at Ascot Tours are always enchanted by the whimsical and inventive dishes that emerge from the kitchen, each one a delightful surprise. A meal here is not just a meal; it’s a captivating performance, a story that unfolds with every course.
Signature Dish: The iconic Tuna La Colombe, served in a sealed tin, is a playful and unforgettable start to your culinary adventure. It’s a dish that perfectly encapsulates the restaurant’s innovative spirit.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is woven into the very fabric of La Colombe, with the chefs drawing inspiration from the surrounding fynbos and seasonal ingredients. We recommend you take a moment to savor the “dove’s nest” starter, a charming and whimsical creation that pays homage to the restaurant’s name and its idyllic forest setting.
Fyn
For a dining experience that is both bold and refined, look no further than Fyn. Perched high above the city, this loft-like restaurant offers a fascinating fusion of South African ingredients and Japanese culinary techniques. We at Ascot Tours are in awe of how Chef Peter Tempelhoff and his team have created a menu that is so deeply rooted in our local landscape, yet so forward-thinking in its execution. It’s a culinary dialogue between two cultures, a journey of discovery that will challenge and delight your palate.
Signature Dish: The Springbok with garlic buchu is a must-try. This dish is a beautiful expression of South African flavors, with the indigenous buchu herb adding a unique and aromatic dimension to the tender game meat.
Ascot Tip: The African connection at Fyn is unmistakable, with the menu celebrating the wild and untamed ingredients of our land. We say you can’t leave without trying the abalone. It’s a true taste of the Cape, prepared with the precision and artistry of Japanese gastronomy.
Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia
Imagine dining in a glass cube, suspended above a valley of vineyards. This is the breathtaking setting of Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia, a restaurant that has become a perennial favorite. We at Ascot Tours love the relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, and the tapas-for-two concept is perfect for sharing and savoring a variety of exquisite dishes. Chef Ivor Jones’s creations are a celebration of fresh, seasonal produce, much of it sourced from the farm’s own gardens.
Signature Dish: The menu changes frequently, but you can always expect a delightful array of inventive and flavorful tapas. Each dish is a work of art, a testament to the chefs’ creativity and passion.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is all around you at Chefs Warehouse, from the stunning views of the Constantia Valley to the farm-to-table philosophy. We recommend requesting a table on the terrace on a sunny day. The combination of the exquisite food, the award-winning Beau Constantia wines, and the magnificent scenery is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Pier
Located at the V&A Waterfront, Pier offers a dining experience that is as spectacular as its setting. As its name suggests, the restaurant extends over the water, offering diners breathtaking views of the harbor and Table Mountain. We at Ascot Tours are impressed by the restaurant’s focus on seafood, with a menu that showcases the best of the Cape’s oceanic bounty. The dishes are artfully plated, a visual feast that is as delightful as the flavors themselves.
Signature Dish: The multi-course tasting menu is an exploration of the ocean’s treasures. Each dish is a surprise, a new and exciting way to experience the flavors of the sea.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is the ocean itself, the lifeblood of Cape Town. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to dine at a restaurant that so beautifully celebrates our connection to the sea. The experience of enjoying a world-class meal while surrounded by the sights and sounds of the harbor is truly special.
Ouzeri
Transport your clients to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean at Ouzeri, a convivial eatery on Wale Street. We at Ascot Tours love the vibrant and authentic flavors of Cyprus and Greece that Chef Nic Charalambous brings to life. The menu is a celebration of his heritage, a collection of dishes that are both traditional and innovative. The lively atmosphere and eclectic music make for a fun and memorable dining experience.
Signature Dish: The Eliopita, his gran’s olive bread, is a must-try. It’s a taste of home, a simple yet incredibly flavorful bread that will have you coming back for more.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the spirit of sharing and community that is so central to both Mediterranean and African cultures. We recommend ordering a selection of dishes to share. It’s the perfect way to experience the full range of flavors and to enjoy a truly social dining experience.
Salsify at the Roundhouse
High above Camps Bay, in a historic building with a storied past, you’ll find Salsify at the Roundhouse. We at Ascot Tours are captivated by Chef Ryan Cole’s modern South African cuisine, a celebration of local and foraged ingredients. The menu is a journey of discovery, a brilliant exploration of our country’s culinary heritage. The contemporary decor and art create a dynamic and youthful energy that is a wonderful contrast to the historic setting.
Signature Dish: The 10-course menu is a showcase of the best of South African ingredients, from amasi and sorghum to spekboom and num-nums. Each dish is a work of art, a testament to the chefs’ creativity and skill.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the very soul of the restaurant, with the menu paying homage to the indigenous ingredients and culinary traditions of our land. We say you can’t miss the experience of starting your meal in the graffiti-lined Preservation Chamber, where you’ll enjoy a welcome drink and get a glimpse into the chefs’ creative process.
JAN Franschhoek
For a truly once-in-a-lifetime dining experience, we at Ascot Tours recommend JAN Franschhoek. This sublime pop-up restaurant, from Michelin-starred chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, is a culinary masterpiece. Set in an 18th-century cottage amidst the lavender fields of La Motte wine estate, a meal here is a journey into a world of fantasy and flavor. The menu is a reinterpretation of nostalgic family meals and regional South African cuisine, a feast of reimagined favorites that will evoke both nostalgia and a sense of discovery.
Signature Dish: The menu is a closely guarded secret, changing with the seasons and the chef’s inspiration. But you can always expect a one-of-a-kind interpretation of the South African family table, retold with innovation and a touch of glamour.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the heart of the restaurant, with the menu celebrating the nostalgic flavors of our childhoods and the rich culinary heritage of our country. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to experience this culinary magician at work. It’s a journey that will transport you out of the here and now and into a world of pure imagination.
La Petite Colombe
In the heart of the Franschhoek valley, you’ll find La Petite Colombe, the sister restaurant to the acclaimed La Colombe. We at Ascot Tours are always impressed by the exquisite and artfully plated dishes that emerge from the kitchen. The menu is a celebration of the finest local and seasonal ingredients, a symphony of flavors and textures that is both delicate and deeply satisfying. The elegant and understated decor creates a sense of tranquility, the perfect backdrop for a truly memorable meal.
Signature Dish: The multi-course tasting menu is a journey of culinary discovery. Each dish is a work of art, a testament to the chefs’ skill and creativity.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the restaurant’s commitment to showcasing the best of our local produce. We recommend the vegetarian tasting menu. It’s a celebration of the earth’s bounty, a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight even the most discerning palate.
Rust en Vrede
There’s a timeless elegance to Rust en Vrede, a restaurant that is as renowned for its award-winning wines as it is for its exceptional cuisine. We at Ascot Tours love the romantic and intimate atmosphere of the original 1785 cellar, the perfect setting for a special occasion. Chef Fabio Daniel’s six-course tasting menu is a harmonious blend of his Brazilian-Italian heritage and local South African ingredients, a culinary journey that is both exciting and deeply personal.
Signature Dish: The six-course tasting menu is a masterpiece of flavor and technique. Each dish is a surprise, a new and unexpected combination of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the restaurant’s deep roots in the Stellenbosch wine region, one of the oldest and most prestigious in the country. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to experience the wine pairings. The sommelier’s selection of local and international wines is the perfect complement to the exquisite food.
The Foodbarn
For a more relaxed but no less delicious dining experience, we at Ascot Tours recommend The Foodbarn in Noordhoek. Here, Chef Franck Dangereux, a pioneer of the fine-dining scene in Cape Town, has created a warm and welcoming space where families and friends can gather to enjoy honest-to-goodness food. The menu is inspired by his roots in the south of France, with hearty and flavorful dishes that are perfect for a leisurely lunch or a casual dinner.
Signature Dish: The menu changes with the seasons, but you can always expect delicious and satisfying food. The tapas dinners are a great way to sample a variety of dishes, and the wine pairings are always spot-on.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the sense of community and conviviality that is so central to life in the Cape. We love the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere of The Foodbarn. It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a delicious meal with loved ones.
Hōseki
At Delaire Graff Estate, you’ll find Hōseki, a jewel of an Asian eatery. We at Ascot Tours are captivated by the elegant and sophisticated decor, a perfect blend of modern design and traditional Japanese aesthetics. The menu is a celebration of modern-Japanese dining, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and sustainable sourcing. Head chef Virgil Kahn’s creations are a feast for the senses, a symphony of flavors and textures that will transport you to the heart of Japan.
Signature Dish: The five- or six-course omakase menu is a culinary journey of discovery. Each dish is a work of art, a testament to the chef’s skill and creativity.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the restaurant’s commitment to using locally grown and foraged ingredients. The estate has its own greenhouse where they grow Asian herbs and vegetables, and they also forage on the mountain slopes. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to taste the wagyu steaks, a true indulgence that is perfectly complemented by the restaurant’s exquisite selection of wines.
Arum
On the historic Boschendal Wine Estate, you’ll find Arum, a restaurant that is a true celebration of farm-to-fire cooking. We at Ascot Tours are impressed by the way Chef Peter Tempelhoff and his team have transformed the original 1812 cellar into a beautiful and inviting space. The menu is a showcase of the estate’s superb produce, with a focus on simple, honest flavors and traditional cooking techniques. It’s a true taste of the farm, a culinary journey that is both rustic and refined.
Signature Dish: The Angus beef from the farm, simply grilled over the fire, is a must-try. It’s a beautiful expression of the farm-to-table philosophy, a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that will have you coming back for more.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the restaurant’s deep roots in the land. The menu is a celebration of the estate’s rich agricultural heritage, a tribute to the farmers and gardeners who work the land. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to taste the bespoke Arum label of single varietal wines, a collaboration between the chef and the Boschendal winemakers.
Salon
From the visionary chef Luke Dale Roberts comes Salon, an intimate and evocative fine-dining experience. We at Ascot Tours are captivated by the restaurant’s Art Deco-inspired decor and the multi-course extravaganza that reflects the chef’s life and travels. The menu is a whirlwind journey of global flavors, from Britain and France to Asia and South Africa. It’s a triumph of creativity, a culinary adventure that will surprise and delight you at every turn.
Signature Dish: The global tasting menu is a journey of discovery. Each dish is a work of art, a testament to the chef’s skill and creativity.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the restaurant’s celebration of South African flavors, which are woven throughout the menu. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to experience the duck suzette, a classic dish that is reimagined with a modern and creative twist.
Mertia
In the heart of Stellenbosch, you’ll find Mertia, an intimate and sophisticated restaurant that is already winning awards for its approachable fine-dining style. We at Ascot Tours are impressed by the way the two young chefs, Marais Kirsten-Uys and Matt van den Berg, have created a menu that is both elegant and deeply personal. The seasonal tasting menus are a celebration of the flavors of home, a nostalgic journey that is full of delightful flourishes.
Signature Dish: The seasonal tasting menus are a showcase of the chefs’ skill and creativity. Each dish is a work of art, a testament to their passion for food.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the restaurant’s deep roots in the Stellenbosch community. The two chefs are both sons of Stellenbosch, and their menu is a tribute to the flavors and traditions of their home. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to experience the wine pairings. The sommelier’s selection of local wines is the perfect complement to the exquisite food.
Edge X Vue
At Edge X Vue, Chef Vusi Ndlovu is on a mission to explore and celebrate the rich gastronomic heritage of Africa. We at Ascot Tours are inspired by his inventive and deeply thoughtful approach to cooking, which has live fire and storytelling at its heart. The menu is a journey of discovery, a celebration of under-explored ingredients and progressive techniques. It’s a snapshot of Africa on every plate, a culinary adventure that will open your eyes to the beauty and depth of our continent’s cuisine.
Signature Dish: The menu is a celebration of African ingredients, from sorghum and egusi to ujeqe and heerenbone. Each dish is a surprise, a new and exciting way to experience the flavors of our continent.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the very soul of the restaurant. The menu is a tribute to the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Africa. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to taste the mussels cooked in Black Label beer, a classic South African dish that is given a modern and creative twist.
Coy
With sparkling views of the harbor and Table Mountain, Coy is a restaurant that is as beautiful as its setting. We at Ascot Tours are impressed by the restaurant’s commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing, with a menu that tells a story on the plate. The focus is on seafood, with the chefs looking to the ocean for inspiration and exploring the coastline around the continent to discover forgotten ingredients and age-old preparation techniques.
Signature Dish: The seven-course Coy Experience is a journey of culinary discovery. Each dish is a work of art, a testament to the chefs’ skill and creativity.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the restaurant’s exploration of African produce and preparation techniques. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to taste the grilled ox tongue with Yassa, a classic West African dish that is given a modern and creative twist.
Ongetem
Bertus Basson’s first foray into the innercity is a triumph. Ongetem, which means “untamed” in Afrikaans, is a raw, fearless, and unapologetically bold culinary experience. We at Ascot Tours love the South African nostalgia that comes through in the superb collection of small plates, wood-fired flatbreads, and punchy mains. The raffish decor and lively beats create a cool and vibrant atmosphere that is perfect for a night out on the town.
Signature Dish: The Karoo “cassoulet” is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold winter’s night. It’s a taste of home, a classic South African dish that is given a modern and creative twist.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the restaurant’s celebration of South African nostalgia. The menu is a tribute to the flavors and traditions of our childhoods. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to taste the wood-fired flatbreads, which are perfect for sharing and savoring with a variety of delicious toppings.
Beyond
On the beautiful Buitenverwachting farm, you’ll find Beyond, the wine-country cousin of the acclaimed Fyn. We at Ascot Tours love the elegant and understated decor, with huge windows that frame the vineyards and remind diners of nature’s bounty. Chef Sebastian Stehr’s menu is a celebration of classic European tradition, with a focus on seasonal produce and foraged ingredients. It’s a slow-food approach to dining, a culinary journey that is both inventive and deeply satisfying.
Signature Dish: The six-course Tasting Experience is a showcase of the chef’s skill and creativity. Each dish is a work of art, a testament to his passion for food.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the restaurant’s commitment to using locally grown and foraged ingredients. The kitchen has its own garden of edible indigenous plants, which adds a unique and flavorful dimension to the menu. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to taste the heirloom varieties of vegetables, which are a true taste of the farm.
Le Bistrot de Jan
From the Michelin-starred chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen comes Le Bistrot de Jan, a younger, slightly rebellious sibling to his acclaimed Jan restaurant in the south of France. We at Ascot Tours love the timeless flavors of French bistro cuisine, which are mingled with the soul of Cape Town. The menu is a celebration of simple, honest dishes, such as Jan’s signature chicken pie with truffle sauce and steak Florentine with a wedge salad and fries. The theatrical decor and beguiling cheese room create a fun and engaging atmosphere.
Signature Dish: Jan’s signature chicken pie with truffle sauce is a must-try. It’s a classic dish that is elevated to fine-dining perfection, a true taste of comfort and luxury.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the restaurant’s fusion of French cuisine and Cape Town soul. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to experience the cheese room, an essential part of the Jan repertoire. It’s a celebration of the art of cheese-making, a true indulgence for any food lover.
The Pot Luck Club
For a dining experience that is both fun and flavorful, we at Ascot Tours recommend The Pot Luck Club. Inspired by the 1950s “potluck” dinners, this restaurant introduced Cape Town to the small-plate sharing concept. The menu is a delightful journey of the senses, a fusion of global flavors that will take you from Southeast Asia and the Mediterranean to Mexico and South Africa. The gritty and view-struck location on the top floor of the Old Biscuit Mill is the perfect setting for a night out on the town.
Signature Dish: The 10-course Sunday brunch extravaganzas are legendary. With bottomless bubbles and a dazzling array of creative and flavorful dishes, it’s the perfect way to end the weekend.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the restaurant’s celebration of South African flavors, which are woven throughout the menu. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to experience the umami-forward global menu. It’s a culinary adventure that will blow you away with its flavor combinations.
Dusk
This shadowy, mysterious, and opulent dinner-only eatery is the brainchild of chefs Darren Badenhorst and Callan Austin. We at Ascot Tours are captivated by the restaurant’s focus on sustainability and fermentation, with a menu that is both innovative and deeply thoughtful. The 14-course tasting menu is a journey of discovery, a celebration of the chefs’ passion for food and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of culinary creativity.
Signature Dish: The 14-course tasting menu is a showcase of the chefs’ skill and creativity. Each dish is a work of art, a testament to their passion for food.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and its exploration of ancient food preservation techniques. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to experience the fermentation-laced dishes. It’s a culinary adventure that will open your eyes to the beauty and complexity of our food systems.
Grub & Vine
At Grub & Vine, British-born chef Matt Manning does “no-nonsense, good tasty food and honest cooking.” We at Ascot Tours love the intimate and relaxed atmosphere of this innercity bistro, the perfect setting for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner. The refined six-course seasonal tasting menu is a celebration of the best of local and seasonal ingredients, and the wine pairings are always spot-on.
Signature Dish: The six-course seasonal tasting menu is a showcase of the chef’s skill and creativity. Each dish is a work of art, a testament to his passion for food.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the restaurant’s commitment to championing local winemakers. The wine list regularly gains Star Wine List accolades, and the selection of wines from around the world is impressive. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to experience the wine pairings. It’s the perfect complement to the beautifully prepared and plated dishes.
The Table at De Meye
For a truly idyllic dining experience, we at Ascot Tours recommend The Table at De Meye. Set on a beautiful and under-the-radar wine farm, this restaurant is the epitome of la dolce vita. The set three-course menu of refined, slow-cooked comfort food is served on shared platters, creating a sense of community and conviviality. In winter, the tables move inside the white-washed farmhouse, where you can cozy up beside a wood-burning stove and enjoy the views over the lawns.
Signature Dish: The set three-course menu is a celebration of seasonal and hyper-local ingredients. The freshly baked bread, homemade butter, and delightful desserts are the perfect complement to the delicious and satisfying main courses.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the restaurant’s celebration of slow-cooked comfort food, a tradition that is central to many African cultures. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to stretch out on a picnic blanket in-between courses. It’s the perfect way to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Epoché
For a truly extraordinary dining experience, we at Ascot Tours recommend Epoché. This summer, two-Michelin-starred chef Edwin Vinke is bringing his culinary genius to South Africa for a three-month residency at Hasher Family Wines. The menu is a celebration of our indigenous South African ingredients, which are seen through a new lens. It’s a rare opportunity to experience the beauty and complexity of our local terroir, as interpreted by a world-renowned chef.
Signature Dish: The 15-plate, six-course menu is a journey of discovery. Each dish is a work of art, a testament to the chef’s skill and creativity.
Ascot Tip: The African connection is in the restaurant’s exploration of our indigenous South African ingredients. The chef is foraging for wild ingredients and sourcing from local fishermen, creating a menu that is a true taste of our land. We say you can’t miss the opportunity to experience the wine pairings, which feature wines from the Hasher Family Wines estate.