Cape Town is a singular city that’s full of contrasts – where ocean meets mountain, heritage blends with innovation, and every meal seems to come with a view. And over the past decade, this South African gem has blossomed into one of the most captivating culinary destinations in the world. As we’ll see, from sun-drenched vineyards to inventive city kitchens, Cape Town’s food and wine scene is as diverse and beguiling as the landscape that surrounds it.
A feast of flavours and influences
Cape Town’s cuisine tells a story of many cultures. Dutch, Malay, Indian, and African influences mingle in the kitchen and on the plate, creating a tapestry of tastes that you won’t find anywhere else. Dishes like bobotie (spiced minced beef baked with an egg topping), Cape Malay curries, and biltong (air-dried beef) reflect centuries of cultural exchange.
At The Pot Luck Club, perched atop The Old Biscuit Mill, chef Luke Dale Roberts delivers bold flavour combinations and tapas-style dishes with a view of Table Mountain. Meanwhile, FYN, regularly ranked among the world’s best restaurants, reimagines fine dining with Japanese techniques and South African ingredients – think kudu with miso, or local fish served in a delicate dashi broth.
Wine country on the city’s doorstep
Just a short drive from Cape Town, the Cape Winelands offer rolling vineyards, historic estates, and some of the most scenic tasting experiences on the planet. Regions like Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Constantia are home to award-winning wineries where you can sip crisp Chenin Blancs, elegant Pinotages, and complex blends surrounded by mountain views.
Groot Constantia, South Africa’s oldest wine estate, offers a glimpse into the country’s vinicultural past, while Babylonstoren, a working farm and garden estate, pairs organic wines with seasonal dishes straight from its own soil. For something more modern, Creation Wines in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley serves tasting menus designed to complement each glass, turning lunch into a full sensory experience.
Casual dining with real soul
Cape Town’s dining scene isn’t all white tablecloths and tasting menus. The city thrives on relaxed, soulful spots where food, music, and community come together. The Old Biscuit Mill and Mojo Market are buzzing with food stalls selling everything from fresh oysters and artisanal cheeses to bunny chow and Cape Malay koeksisters (sweet fried pastries).
Seafood lovers shouldn’t miss out on Kalk Bay, a charming fishing village where restaurants serve just-caught hake and calamari overlooking the harbour. For a more laid-back experience, locals head to The Foodbarn in Noordhoek, where chef Franck Dangereux turns rustic farm ingredients into elegant yet unpretentious dishes.
A city fuelled by creativity and connection
What makes Cape Town’s culinary scene truly special isn’t just the quality of its ingredients; it’s the spirit behind them. Many chefs and winemakers here are deeply committed to sustainability, community, and celebrating South Africa’s rich biodiversity. Local markets champion small producers, while wine farms embrace organic farming and regenerative practices.
Whether you’re looking to sample a world-class tasting menu, enjoy a glass of Chenin at sunset, or share some Cape Malay curry on a street corner, Cape Town has a way of making every bite feel like a discovery. It’s a city where the food tells stories, the wine flows generously, and the views linger long after the meal is over.
