Photo by Elina Sazonova
With the warm spring weather getting everyone outdoors, al fresco dining in Cape Town provides the perfect way to enjoy delicious meals, crisp wines, cold beers and amazing views… all at the same time. There is an abundance of charming sidewalk cafes, Winelands courtyard restaurants, seaside dining hubs and even balcony dining options to be found, depending on your mood and tastes.
This spring, make the most of the balmy days and mild evenings to enjoy a good meal at one of these excellent outdoor dining restaurants to be found across Cape Town.
Our Favourite Outdoor Dining Spots in Cape Town
In the mood for oysters as you admire ocean views? How about a pizza with all the works as you watch the city below? Whether you are keen for breakfast, lunch, dinner or even some snacks and drinks, here are some out favourite spots to enjoy outdoor dining in Cape Town.
- Radisson Blu, Waterfront – The Radisson has been a popular choice for locals and visitors for many years, boasting excellent views of the sea, harbour and rocks along with a decent menu offering a wide range of snacks, mains and meals. If you are lucky, you may be able to get the comfy lounge seats that are always in demand, otherwise you can relax at a table as you enjoy good food, good company and good vibes.
- La Vie, Sea Point – from its vantage point opposite the promenade, La Vie is a great place to enjoy pizza, light meals, yummy cocktails and awesome sunsets. On Sunday afternoons and evenings there is live music too, along with a laid-back atmosphere. Prices are fairly good here, and parking can often be found along Beach Road.
- Beluga, De Waterkant – known for its half price sushi, decadent cocktails (be sure to try the Toblerone martini), oysters and trendy vibe, Beluga lies within De Waterkant’s vibrant dining and bar district. A large courtyard allows you to enjoy open-air dining in the daytime and evening, and while booking is usually advised, you can sometimes get a table if your plans are last-minute. Prices can be on the high side, but the sushi specials still provide good value.
- Rafiki’s, City Bowl – with a name that means ‘friend’ in Swahili, Rafiki’s is one of the most popular haunts for locals as well as visitors. The restaurant and bar is situated on Kloof Nek Road, with views of the mountain and the busy street below. Grab a balcony table and try the chili poppers, or share a platter with friends. They do good seafood dishes (with their prawns being especially tasty!), pizzas, burgers, hot chips and a range of other dishes, along with all the usual local beers, wines and ciders – all at good prices.
- Harbour House, Kalk Bay – during Whale Season, Harbour House is excellent for oysters, salads, seafood and other cuisine, as you look out for whales in the waves below. Huge windows that are often open on warm days provide excellent views, while a good wine list and stylish beachfront décor brings to mind lazy lunches with crisp sea breezes. Afterwards, go for a walk along the Main Road to browse interesting shops, art galleries and curios.
While these are just some of the options you have for outdoor dining, you will find many other spots to try across the city as well. Constantia is home to many great Winelands restaurants with scenic outdoor restaurants, while Long Street is filled with sidewalk cafes, balconies and quirky eateries that boast outdoor areas. The Cape Winelands is home to many world-class estates where five-star dining can be enjoyed al fresco too. Wherever you go, be sure to dine outdoors this spring to enjoy the delightfully warm days and evenings as we progress into summer.
