Cape Town is known for it’s wide selection of places to eat and drink. For those who are new to the city or simply wanting to try a new spot, we’ve got you covered. Here is a list of places to try on your next visit to the Mother City.
CAPE TOWN CENTRAL
A popular spot in the city centre, Alexander Bar and Lounge boasts interesting decor with old-world charm. While the bar has a food menu, it’s made up of light meals and charcuterie boards, so if you’re looking for a place to grab a sizeable dinner, this is not it. This is the perfect spot, however, for the post-work or pre-dinner drinks.
Good to know: There is a theatre upstairs where guests can catch a unique show almost every day of the week. Wednesdays are quiz nights.
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Also known as the secret gin bar, this Cape Town favourite is situated behind (or is that through?) Honest Chocolate. It’s in the courtyard at the back, which makes it feel just that much more exclusive. The space is small and intimate, but the gin selection is vast. You will have to go back a few times to try them all.
Good to know: If you’re a big group, call ahead to book in the upstairs section as no reservations can be taken in the courtyard area.
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WATERFRONT AREA
Tobago’s Bar and Terrace at Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront
At this sea-side bar, guests are able to soak up the sun, enjoy the refreshing sea breeze, dine on delicious food and indulge in delectable drinks, all while taking in a spectacular view. Located just on the outskirts of the Waterfront and at the start of the Promenade, it’s the ideal spot for some sundowners before dinner.
Good to know: There are a number of weekday specials running at the moment. During March and April, Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays are reserved for Happy Hour (from 5pm until 7pm) where guests can buy one glass of house wine or Striped Horse light or lager and get one free, while sushi lovers can enjoy the sushi menu on Wasabi Wednesdays and an eight-piece sushi platter plus a glass of Da Luca Prosecco for R115 per person.
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The location of this bar is perhaps one of its strongest draw cards. Sitting within the V&A Waterfront vicinity, Mitchell’s is perfect for those wanting to watch a big sports game as the venue has screens dotted around so that you don’t miss a beat or a ball. Arrive thirsty and hungry as both the drinks and food menu are extensive.
Good to know: During all major televised sporting fixtures, you could pick up a Mitchell’s Classic Burger and a Jack Daniel’s Old No.7 with mix for R95.
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ATLANTIC SEABOARD
Based at the 12 Apostles Hotel, the Leopard Bar is for those wanting to splash out a bit and impress their company. The drinks menu features a number of classic cocktails as well as a selection of cognacs and fine wines.
Good to know: There is live music in the evening from Monday to Saturday. Book ahead if you are interested in one of the unique bar experiences such as the gin and tonic and canape pairing, the gin-making experience, or the craft beer and canape experience.
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Sitting on the Camps Bay strip, this rooftop bar offers views of the Atlantic ocean in a relaxed setting. The decor is boho-chic, but with an upmarket feel. It’s perfect to catch the last bits of summer.
Good to know: There’s a mix of DJs on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
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FALSE BAY
Situated at the popular Surfer’s Corner, Tiger’s Milk Muizenberg is one of the hot spots in the area. This lively spot is good for dinner and drinks and has stunning views of the Muizenberg area. It can get quite full, so go early or call ahead to get a good table.
Good to know: There’s two-for-one on selected drinks from 4pm – 6pm.
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An old favourite among the locals, Cape to Cuba has been going in Kalk Bay for many years. This immersive Cuban experience will surprise and delight newbies while keeping the regulars enthralled with its colourful setting, delicious drinks and filling meals.
Good to know: There’s often live music from 4pm on a Sunday.
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SOUTHERN SUBURBS
It’s no surprise that Banana Jam has been a favourite Cape Town hangout for many years. Having started out in the space on the Kenilworth Station parking lot, Banana Jam soon grew too big and had to move across the road. This Southern Suburbs favourite has an extensive beer menu with brands from around the world and the food is delicious too.
Good to know: Rum lovers will enjoy the wide rum variety, while cocktail lovers should make the most of the daily cocktail happy hour between 5pm and 6pm.
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This Claremont Bar is one of Cape Town’s favourites. Oblivion is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and gets into quite a party mode after dinner. There are a number of different areas to enjoy – the inside has leather couches and open fires, while on the roof there’s a garden-like setting for those keen on open-air dining and drinking.
Good to know: There are board games that you can play while you are there, and every Monday is quiz night. There is a two-for-one pizza special every Wednesday night.
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NORTHERN SUBURBS
Great for families and friends, Bossa is perfect for dinner, drinks and celebrations. With a number of outlets all across the Northern Suburbs of Cape Town, you are spoilt for choice when choosing where to go. Bossa is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Good to know: There’s a special almost every day of the week, including Burger Mondays (R59 for almost all burgers on the menu), Prime Tuesdays for the steak lovers, kids eat free on Wednesdays and supper Sundays where a number of meals are marked down after 4pm.
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Ok, so this one is a little different in that it’s based in a casino, but if you love jazz and you are looking for a place to enjoy live music, then try out Hanover Street at Grand West Casino. It’s good for after-dinner drinks and live music.
Good to know: There is a DJ and live entertainment every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday
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STELLENBOSCH
If dining and drinking with views of the Stellenbosch winelands is more your thing, then definitely check out Sansibar at Asara wine farm. Open daily from 12pm, guests can choose to dine inside or outside. The food is bistro style, while the bar is fully stocked with gins from around the world – over 500 of them. There is also a wide range of whiskies, cognacs, cocktails and non-alcoholic cocktails.
Good to know: Those wanting to learn more about gin can indulge in one of four gin tasting experiences. Be sure to book ahead of time.
This family-owned and run establishment in Stellenbosch is known for making patrons feel right at home every time they step through the door. The little Italian spot is very much for pre-dinner drinks or early dinner as it is open from 10am to 6pm. There is a chalkboard menu that changes on a daily basis and is made up of classic Italian dishes. There are a few Italian wines on offer here that can be had with dinner or in the tasting room.
Good to know: Those brave enough can try the Grappa tasting menu.
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Image source: Supplied
