Hey there, I’m Jess ✨. On The Signature, I share reflections on beauty, routines, travel, wellness, culture, and everyday life. For those drawn to a calmer, more intentional way of living, I send a free newsletter each month on the 7th. You're welcome to join.
As I shared recently, I am a frequent traveller and I love returning to the same places often. It gives me a sense of belonging to reconnect with places I love(d) around the world and get to know them beyond what a quick visit can offer.
I have reached the point I cannot physically count how often I have been to South Africa since the 1990s, once the country opened up to fellow Africans like me. First I went frequently to Johannesburg and its outskirts (as my father took up residence there for a decade) and since the 2000s, I have been going to Cape Town on a regular basis.
So I know a thing or two about great places for a meal there, from the most upscale ones to the ones where you meet the locals for a less photogenic yet tasty meal.
In Cape Town
Belly of the Beast (Location)
City Grill Steakhouse (Location)
This laid back steakhouse is located by the Waterfront and has a tight yet great menu for grilled meats. You can go without a reservation and this is how we went the first time, as we were strolling around the V&A. Service is great and efficient and be ready for a local spectacle as dancers and performers are welcomed in at night for your entertainment.
Oranjezicht City Farm Market (Location)
The Oranjezicht City Farm Market is a must-visit in Cape Town. From fresh produce to artisan bites and homegrown coffee, this weekend market has the best stalls and local gems. We love going there for breakfast and also enjoy the weeknight vibe when they sporadically open on Wednesday evenings. A place not to miss and that deserved its own review.
Jess
Pier (Location)
We have just been to this restaurant that belongs to the same group as La Petite Colombe in Franschhoek, one of our favourites. It was a stunning fine dining experience I soon will write about.
Sevruga (Location)
Located at the Waterfront, this is a very friendly seafood restaurant when you can have the freshest seafood platters. We love going when we don't want to make a reservation or have a fussy meal.
TANG Asian (Location)
Located at the Waterfront, TANG is a bit less laidback than other restaurant at the V&A. At this Asian-inspired restaurant, you will see people dressed to the nines and the front office hostess will ask you if you have a reservation to the point you will shake if you don't have any. Yet, aside from peak dinner hour, there is always a spot to sit at. I love to start with their cocktails.
tashas (Location)
tashas is a café located by the road entrance of the V&A Shopping. It is open from morning until dinner time so you can have any meal there or just a coffee. I loved their food and service is always attentive.
Breakfast at tashas waterfront
Truth Coffee Roasting (Location)
Buitenkant Street is one of the most vibrant in Cape Town. It is superbly located in the city centre, in the confluence of The Castle of Good Hope, the District Six Museums and the Company Gardens. I have done all of those on foot and all the paths lead to Truth Coffee Roasting, a steampunk café located at number 36.
I was immediately struck by its central bar décor, with exposed copper piping, vintage machinery, and leather-bound booths and chairs. Here you can have a full on breakfast or just coffee with a pastry. You will be surrounded by lots of people working, with their devices plugged to cables coming down from the ceiling, to perpetuate the industrial vibe. Truth is also where we love buying our coffee beans to take back home. Our favourite blend is Resurrection.
Snippets from Truth Coffee Roasting
In Hout Bay
Chefs Warehouse at Tintswalo Atlantic (Location)
We went to this restaurant for the first time for one of my husband's birthdays. We drove along Chapman’s Peak to Tintswalo Atlantic and indulged in a dreamy seafood feast by the ocean. It was a moment we’ll never forget with Cape Town, in all its stunning, sea-swept glory-
Jess
In Franschhoek
Chefs Warehouse at Maison (Location)
Have you ever dreamed of a luxury vineyard lunch under a towering oak tree? Maison Winery in Franschhoek offers scenic views, delightful tapas, and the finest bubbly. A must-visit destination for wine lovers seeking a perfect blend of nature, flavor, and relaxation.
Jess
La Petite Colombe (Location)
Getting to La Petite Colombe is a grand experience in itself: the Leeu Estate where it is centrally located is one of the most pristine, beautifully and lushly organised piece of land, surrounded by the mountains around Franschhoek. And the dining experience is an unforgettable one.
Jess
Miko at Mont Rochelle (Location)
I will not tell you to get out of your way to go and eat at Miko restaurant when in Franschhoek but if you stay at Mont Rochelle, you absolutely have to eat there.
Jess
Protege (Location)
Located in the centre of Franschhoek at Le Quartier Français hotel, we celebrated my husband's latest birthday at Protege. This restaurant is also from the group that owns La Petite Colombe, so we had high expectations. Review soon.
As we continue returning to Cape Town over the years, I'll keep updating this guide whenever we discover somewhere truly worth recommending.
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