The past few months have been particularly exciting as we’ve seen a number of eateries making the Central City their home and adding even more options. Here’s our selection of “must visit” restaurants in the CBD this summer – from the newer venues to old favourites.
LA TÊTE
La Tête, which prides itself as being Cape Town’s only nose-to-tail dining eatery, is the result of the culinary dream of brothers, Giles and James Edwards. Popular dishes at La Tête include mussels with bacon and cider, roast shallots, mint and pork terrine, hake, chard and anchovy, beef and kidney pudding and ox heart with chips and horseradish.
17 Bree St | www.latete.co.za | 021 418 1299
MAMA AFRICA
Mama Africa was established in 1995 as a celebration of South Africa’s new democracy and of the vibrant diversity and hospitality of our continent. Since then, Mama has served as an oasis for both locals and tourists to meet, eat, drink and interact in a warm welcoming environment.
178 Long St | www.mamaafricarestaurant.co.za | 021 424 8634
BOOTLEGGER COFFEE COMPANY
Bootlegger Coffee Company prides itself on only serving coffee made from the best beans its team can find as well as making “honest food” using fresh local produce and farm fresh eggs. Visit its beautifully designed Harrington store in East City.
50 Harrington St | www.bootlegger.co.za | 021 201 6708
THE ELECTRIC
Located in a repurposed auto-electrician building that burnt down, The Electric describes itself as “an ongoing experiment”. It’s a juice and nut-milk bar, sandwich shop and bakery. And with its bright-yellow building, is one the most instagrammable venues in the CBD.
48 Canterbury St | www.the-electric.com | 021 461 0916
LEKKER VEGAN
This plant-based junk-food heaven offers mouthwatering chicken-style burgers, beef-style gatsbys, cheese-style spring rolls, chicken-style nuggets and dairy-free softserve ice cream creations.
Corner Barrack & Harrington streets | www.lekkervegan.co.za
CLARKE’S BAR & DINING ROOM
A firm favourite among many in the Central City, Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room offers great vibes and mouth-watering food. You’ll love the fresh juices, all-day breakfasts, sandwiches, brunch, oysters, dinner and excellent cocktails.
133 Bree St | www.clarkesdining.co.za | 087 470 0165
GIULIO’S CAFÉ
An award-winning eatery, Giulio’s Café is a place of comfort whether you’re popping in for a quick coffee or looking for a cosy spot to have breakfast or lunch. Giulio’s Café was recently recognised as the “Best Italian-Inspired Eatery in the Western Cape” at the Eat Out Mercedes Benz Best Everyday Eateries awards.
16 Loop St (cnr Riebeek St) | www.giulios.co.za | 021 418 6304
THE HOT SKILLET
The Hot Skillet is all about good food, good people and good vibes. The eatery is located inside an artist hub, Youngblood Gallery, meaning you can enjoy the delicious summer menu while also taking in some art.
72 Bree St | www.facebook.com/TheHotSkilletSA/ | 061 522 5296
MANGA
At Manga, you’ll find it tough to choose between the wide-ranging mix of eclectic and classic sushi, sushi salads, poké bowls as well as inventive main creations packed with punch and Asian flavours.
The Piazza on Church Square, 32 Parliament | St www.manga-capetown.co.za | 066 211 9107
THE POKÉ CO.
If you’re looking for one of the most unique and delicious food experiences around, The Poké Co. is your best bet with their Hawaiian-style poké.
90 Loop St | www.pokecoct.com | 087 470 0125
SMAK DELICATESSEN & RESTAURANT
Smak was founded on the belief that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. On the menu, you’ll find a variety of breakfast and lunch options as well as delicious pastries and cakes.
22 Bree St | www.smak.co.za | 021 824 5023
HONOURABLE MENTIONS
Kleinsky’s Delicatessen
32 Parliament St
Between Us
176 Bree St
TOMO Japanese Restaurant
86 Loop St
Marrow
83 Loop St
La Parada Tapas Restaurant & Bar
107 Bree St
Hail Pizza
133A Bree St
New York Bagels
44 Harrington St
Monk’s Chinese Food
33 Loop St
Yours Truly
63 Loop St & 175 Long St
Images by The Electric, Scott Arendse