Cape Town is fast becoming a world-class food destination and continues to receive international accolades and awards
Cape Town is a food lover’s paradise. The Mother City has restaurants a-plenty, from traditional African fare to the more exotic such as Asian, Indian, Mexican and Italian, the sheer variety of choices on offer speaks to the city’s incredibly diverse heritage.
Family-friendly
Cape Town is known for being a family-friendly destination and the newly refurbished restaurant in the Company’s Gardens was clearly built with families in mind, with a number of quaint little hideaways for the kids to play in, while their parents enjoy their meals. Basilico in leafy Newlands is a parent’s dream – from the wholesome Italian dishes to the magnificent views of Table Mountain and the ample parking (perfect for transporting prams) to most importantly, plenty of space for both youngsters and the family dog. At Café Roux At Noordhoek Farm Village, adults can enjoy breakfasts and lunches (and beer) from Café Roux while keeping a careful eye on the youngsters having a whale of a time in the playpark that borders the restaurant. The village shops are also open from 8:30am to 5:30 pm in summer and from 9 am to 5 pm in winter.
Indian
If you’re looking for Indian food in a luxurious setting, then Bombay Brasserie at The Taj Hotel is the place to visit. Situated inside the old Reserve Bank, there are high ceilings and design that gives an overall feeling of luxury. Tajmahal fine-dining Indian restaurant offers up a taste of authentic Indian with a splash of romance thanks to the story of the Tajmahal, after which it is named. With premises in Hout Bay and Sea Point, it’s no surprise that some of the most highly recommended dishes are the sea food ones! The Tajmahal is also strictly halaal. A relaxed family restaurant, Bombay Chilli is a well-kept secret. With delicious food, a chilled vibe and an extensive menu that is sure to meet everyone’s taste, it’s a must-visit when the need for Indian food arises. There are two branches with the flagship in Muizenberg and a smaller one in Plumstead. The Plumstead branch does not serve alcohol, but you can take your own.
Italian
Magica Roma is one of the most popular restaurants in Cape Town. A warm and welcoming atmosphere – generated in no short supply by co-owners Enzio and Franco – and a substantial number of pasta dishes on the menu, all prepared to perfection, make Magica Roma a must-visit before the big day. Italian Kitchen opened in Tokai and married an inviting atmosphere with a great menu to capture the hearts of Cape Town. The Newlands branch was recently opened and has continued the trend with patrons lining up for their gourmet pizzas and wide range of pastas. There is also a dedicated kids menu making it perfect for families. Found in the busy, bustling Kloof Street, Bacini’s is a firm favourite and always busy. Owner Romondo and his family mingle amongst the guests giving Bacini’s a great family vibe.
Sports bars
Sport in South Africa is close to religion. Every weekend, Capetonians across the city descend on local bars and restaurants to catch their teams in action. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to watch the soccer, rugby games, or league football, here are some of the best places in Cape Town to watch sport! Forrie’s is an institution in Cape Town and an absolute favourite among the Southern Suburbs crowd. Just a couple of kilometres away from the Newlands Rugby Stadium, this perennially busy spot is always packed for the rugby. They also screen other sport, including soccer – and they make flag shooters so you can celebrate each goal in style. There are big screens all over the venue, but get there early to get a good vantage point for the games.
Perseverance Tavern, District Six, city’s oldest pub, is a great place to watch your team in action. With 11 beers on tap, an awesome beer garden and LCD screens to show the sport, you can’t go wrong with Percy’s. People have drinking here since 1808, so they are clearly doing something right. Toad in the Village, Noordhoek has a solid rugby pedigree with former Springbok Bob Skinstad one of its founders. The Toad, of course, is often filled wth people who’ve come to watch sport on weekends, with a number of big screens to make sure you don’t miss a thing.