New restaurants and experiences to discover and share

 

Your new favourite spot is waiting to be discovered…

There’s a discovery around every corner in Cape Town, just waiting to be found. New restaurants pop up every month, and some are truly special and unique. Who knows? You might even find your future favourite among our choice of new places to explore.

DIG INTO CBD-INFUSED FOOD AND GET THE GOOD VIBES FLOWING

Infusion on Long is revamped and ready to host Cape Town’s foodies. You’ll find affordable prices, neon-bright decor, good vibes and delicious CBD-infused meals. No, you won’t get high. CBD is known for its calming effects, and can help reduce anxiety and pain. The restaurant’s menu offers a variety of options, from tapas and starters to mains and desserts. Mains include a succulent beef fillet for only R150, a 600g rack of ribs for R160 (with chips and onion rings), a juicy cheeseburger for R95, and other intriguing dishes. Don’t forget to snap a photo with your crew at the grass wall with a #cannabuddy sign or at the huge mirror with a “pretty dope” sign when you visit Infusion on Long.

Must-try: The “half pound” ice cream sundae in a churro cup, definitely a dessert to share.
Hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays 11:30am-10pm
Price-range: R35 – R190

VISIT A BEACH BAR IN PAARL

La Grapperia is the cute beach bar in the Winelands, complete with a sandy white beach and loungers. People come to kick back, relax and try the cocktails and menu of “sexy snails” (served naked) for starters and specialty meals like eisbein and kassler. You can also choose from a diverse selection of wood-fired, thin based pizza and flammkuchen at La Grapperia’s Beach Bar

Must-try: The rum cocktail made with the new Rogue rum and on the extra sunny days, enjoy a Wilderer Gin & Tonic slushy.
Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11 am to 6 pm; Friday & Saturday 11 am to 9 pm
Price range: R30 – R185

Megan Pedro | The Mood Blog and digital magazine |www.themood.co.za

A FABULOUS MENU + SURPRISE SHOWS AT ZSA ZSA’S

Zsa Zsa Restaurant on Hout Street has a decadent menu that includes a truffle-infused parmigiana di melanzane, a delicate and delicious sole meuniere and a deadly (but so worth it) Don Julio lemon sorbet. Plus, don’t be surprised if you get a live performance from opera singers, an entire brass band, or even if an Elvis Presley, Elton John or Mick Jagger impersonator serenades your dinner table at Zsa Zsa Restaurant.

Must-try: The hostess says that she’d happily go vegetarian if it meant she could eat meals like the parmigiana di melanzane everyday
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 4pm – 11pm
Price range: R95 – R290

TAKE IN OCEAN VIEWS AT THE GRAND PAVILION IN SEA POINT

Early coffee, or work meeting? Brunch with bubbly? Fine dining lunch or beach style snacking? What about those end of day drinks in the late afternoon sunshine before moving further towards something that evolves into an evening you never want to end – or forget. Sea Point’s new discovery, the Grand Pavilion opens 18 March.

EAT AT PICNIC CAFE & DELI SURROUNDED BY GREEN

Picnic Cafe & Deli at Montebello Design Centre in Newlands has a novel concept: order your food from the deli counter and it will be served to you in a picnic basket. You can choose to have it at one of the tables under the trees – some with couches, others with chairs – or you can take a blanket and find somewhere more secluded in the centre, or even as far away as Kirstenbosch (you’ll have to pay a R200 deposit). The food covers a broad range but is healthy, fresh and delicious: all-day breakfast croissants or smoothie bowls, scrumptious sandwiches and colourful layered salads in jars, dips and pates for easy nibbles, and don’t forget a sweet treat to finish. Wash it all down with freshly squeezed juices, shake or iced drink. For parents, there’s also a play area for kids, and there are games for the older crowd to play at Picnic Cafe & Deli

Opened: December 2020
Must-try: Buttery croissants, a trio of hummus (kale, beetroot, regular) with cheese straws for dipping, layered salads in jars, icy smoothies, and decadent gooey chocolate brownies.
Hours: Mondays to Sundays, 7am till 4pm
Price range: R36-R250

LITTLE STREAM FARMHOUSE DELI HAS THE PERFECT PICNIC SPOTS

Out in the foothills of Constantia nestled between Klein Constantia and Buitenverwachting wine estate is Little Stream Farmhouse Deli. It’s a green treasure trove of idyllic picnic spots, beautifully landscaped gardens, hidden sculptures, a secret swingset and a giant bamboo fort. Other than the pretty scenery, there’s also a deli that serves a freshly prepared tea garden-style menu. You’ll find flaky croissants, muffins, scones, pasta and paninis, as well as jars of homemade goodies, at Little Stream Farmhouse Deli.

Opened: Keep your eyes peeled for their new restaurant opening in February
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9am – 4:30pm
Must-try: Right up front in the deli are Little Stream Farmhouse Deli’s most decadent doughnuts. Each one is topped full with mini marshmallows, caramels bits, nuts and sprinkles.

ESCAPE THE CITY, BOOK IN AT CASA LABIA

Its seaside location, authentic Italian aesthetic and rich heritage makes the Casa Labia by Ideas Cartel, in Muizenberg, a perfect escape from the city. Originally home to Count and Countess Natale Labia, the Casa Labia, which was restored by the family and opened to the public in 2010, has become synonymous with Italian luxury and style. You can now stay there for a stay-cation (or work-ation) and get quick access to the beach and nearby cafés and restaurants. Its own restaurant offers exceptional food, and an excellent wine and gin list. Plus you can also now work remotely at the Casa Labia.

Opened: Late last year
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8am – 5pm; Friday, 8am – 9pm
Price-range: R2560 – R3200 per night

DISCOVER FINE-DINING AT BEYOND RESTAURANT

With award-winning restaurants such as Greenhouse and FYN to his credit, Peter Tempelhoff is set to make it a hat trick with beyond, at Buitenverwachting in Constantia. Buitenverwachting translates to “beyond expectation” in English, and the restaurant’s name is derived from that. Local sustainable produce informs the menu, which showcases hero ingredients and relative simplicity. The result is banging flavours and uncomplicated presentation, backed by excellent service and a wine list deserving of time and attention at beyond restaurant.

Opened: November 2020
Must-try: Oysters and bubbly to begin, the perfectly balanced Durban prawn with tandoori cauliflower steak to start, followed by Ibérico pork, and chocolate and coffee roll with parsnip crème fraiche ice cream to finish.
Hours: Mondays to Saturdays, 12pm-3pm + 7pm-9.30pm; Sundays, 12pm-3pm (last reservation 2.30pm)
Price range: Starters R95-R147, mains R175-R275

Buitenverwachting Wine Farm and Restaurant, 37 Klein Constantia Road, Constantia, beyond restaurant, Beyond Restaurant | Facebook

HERITAGE SQUARE GETS A FRESH BOOST WITH MAZZA RESTAURANT

Heritage Square, at the top of Shortmarket Street in the CBD, has got an injection of new life with the addition of Local, a market, as well as a 55-seater Middle Eastern restaurant called Mazza, which means “to share”. The brainchild of Liam Tomlin, of Chef’s Warehouse fame (in Bree Street, at Beau Constantia, Maison in Franschhoek and Tintswalo in Hout Bay), Mazza is a tribute to Beirut in particular and the Middle East in general, with a menu that reflects the 17 countries of the region. You can order main meals and delicious plates to share, and the bonus is that prices are reasonable at Mazza restaurant and Local market at Heritage Square.

Opened: December 19, 2020
Must-try: Taboon flatbread with hummus and crunchy chickpeas; smoked cauliflower with bastourma rub, pistachios and yoghurt dressing; Turkish lamb kofta served smoking to the table.
Hours: Mondays to Saturdays, 12pm till 9pm (level 3 8pm)
Price range: R20-R240

Heritage Square, 99 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town, [email protected], instagram.com/local_at_heritage_square

BARSTAURANT IN GLENCAIRN WELCOMES KIDS (+DOGS)

Glencairn Hotel’s brand new restaurant Barstaurant is open and ready to welcome in visitors, and it’s an excellent addition to the South Peninsula’s offering. Set across from Glencairn beach (one of the best swimming beaches in Cape Town) between Fish Hoek and Simon’s Town, Barstaurant is the brainchild of three restaurant veterans, Tintswalo Atlantic’s seasoned general managers Ryno and Melissa du Rand, as well as sushi aficionado Clint Fennel. The kids can run wild in and around the jungle gym while parents can help themselves to an extensive menu of cut-of-the-week steaks, roast chicken, tacos and sushi at Barstaurant Restaurant.

Opened: 1 December 2020
Must-try: Share a platter or two of their freshly made sushi
Hours: Monday to Thursday & Sunday, 8am – 9pm & Friday to Saturday, 8am – 10pm
Price range: R40 – R189

14 Glen Rd, Glencairn, [email protected], facebook.com/BarStaurant

UNIQUE COCKTAILS, WINES AND WHISKEYS

There are two signature cocktails offered at YOBO, as well as a selection of wines and whiskeys produced by exclusive young winemakers. You must try the Dirty Bubbles (and ask Sivu to tell you the story behind this unique bottle of bubbles). Bring your friends for a night of good wines, music and company at YOBO Wine & Whiskey Bar.

Opened: December 2020
Must-Try: Their signature YOBOtini cocktail
Hours: 12pm – 10pm

84 Shortmarket St, Cape Town City Centre, [email protected], facebook.com/yobodesign

THIS DELI IN A NURSERY DISHES UP EXCELLENT FARE + A CHILLED VIBE

Quince restaurant and deli opened inside the Little Orchard Nursery in Diep River in December 2019. It’s a popular suburban eatery where you can while away the summer hours on the patio. Come winter, there’s a fireplace in one of the rooms that is what remains of the original centuries-old homestead. There is also a children’s menu and a playground at Quince Restaurant Deli.

Opened: December 2019
Must-try: The signature Farmhouse Tartines, open sandwiches piled high with yummy toppings, and the scones still warm from the oven
Hours: Mondays to Sundays, 8.30am till 4.30pm
Price range: R50-R180

7 Massinger Rd, Diep River, [email protected], quince.co.za

CBD-INFUSED ICE CREAM, DOUGHNUTS AND OTHER TREATS

A new dessert bar by LIS Vegan Cannabis Ice Cream (the ice-cream suppliers to Lekker Vegan) has opened up in Woodstock. They’ll be serving doughnuts and sweets as well as cheesecake and carrot cake slices – all vegan and all CBD-infused. You can also look forward to comedy and game nights at LIS Dessert Bar.

Opened: November 2020
Must-try: The CBD infused crème brule flavoured doughnut.
Hours: Monday to Friday from 12pm – 5pm and 10am – 3pm on Saturdays

TUCK INTO TACOS AND TEQUILA

A Hout Bay landmark restaurant has been given a new lease on life. Formerly Deez, where locals went for their after-hours merriment for a good couple of decades, Mexicola Locale now serves a compact menu of tacos, nachos and bochas – bowls – which are perfect for sharing. There’s a fine selection of top class tequilas, meant for sipping not shooting, including local brand Hope On Hopkins’ Esperanza Blanco. Snack on tortilla chips and green olives, or try the deep dish nachos for a new spin on a traditional dish. Tiny, casual, and all the food is cooked over an open fire…it’s hot in more ways than one at Mexicola Locale.

Opened: October 2020
Must-try: The cleverly named Walter White classic cocktail with a double shot of Cabrito tequila, Triple Sec and lime juice, shaken or frozen.
Hours: 12pm-10pm (bar closes at 11pm)

4 The Promenade Road, Hout Bay, [email protected], find them on Facebook

THE KALK BAY THEATRE GETS A NEW SEASIDE HOME

The Kalk Bay Theatre has moved to The Brass Bell restaurant which brings a bigger, more versatile stage for all kinds of different performances planned for the year. Expect dinner (cocktails included) and a show with live music, comedy and a stunning ocean view. Man Band 2, Crosscurrent, Leah van Niekerk and more are set to perform on the new Kalk Bay Theatre stage.

Opened: Will open from 6 November.
Must-try: The Kalk Bay platter comes with a host of sustainable fish to share with the family and is a local crowd-favourite.
Hours: 8pm-9:30pm from Tuesday to Saturday.

Main Rd, Kalk Bay, [email protected], kalkbaytheatre.co.za

ENJOY CLASSIC SOUTH AFRICAN DISHES WITH A FINE DINING TWIST

Indulge in all the classic favourites such as milk tart, boerewors rolls and curries, but with a chic and trendy edge. Tindlovu restaurant brings a menu filled with delicious meals such as 8-Hour Slow-Braised Oxtail with Dombolo (steamed dumplings) and butter beans, in a rich, hearty tomato and red wine gravy and Creamy Butter Curry, blended with aromatic spices in a yoghurt Sauce. Stop by for an exciting culinary experience at Tindlovu in Camps Bay.

Opened: December 2019
Must-try: Kalahari tataki – a modern take on classic carpaccio, with some Asian flavours as well as a local twist. Spiced, seared and sliced venison, dressed with ponzu, sesame oil, fresh jalapeno, spring onion, coriander and toasted sesame seeds.
Hours: 7 days a week from 12pm to 9pm

75 Victoria Rd, Camps Bay 021 200 5944, facebook.com/TindlovuCampsBay 

A NEW CHEF AND A NEW MENU FOR BACINI’S

Bacini’s on Kloof is an institution in Cape Town and the Napoli family behind the Italian restaurant gave it a revamp. A new chef with a new menu and a stylish interior are what you’ll find next time you visit. Plus, they’ve added in a decadent new deli. By day it’s a deli serving fresh produce in wooden baskets and by night it’s a quaint dining area perfect for a romantic dinner out at Bacini’s.

Opened: 21 September 2020
Must-try: The beef fillet with porcini sauce is a must.
Hours: Sunday to Tuesday, 12pm-10:30pm and Monday to Saturday, 8am-9pm

177 Kloof St, Gardens, 021 423 6668, bacinisonkloof.co.za 

VEGAN FOOD EVEN MEAT-EATERS WILL LOVE

The Vegan Butcherie in Woodstock has just opened with mouth-watering meatless dishes even die-hard meat lovers will enjoy. Husband and wife duo Romeo and Vero Mujinga are experts when it comes to vegan ‘meat’ which they make from mushrooms, soya, gluten-free flour and a whole bunch of aromatic spices. Their aim is to create plant-based takeaways with the texture and flavour of meat but without the cruelty at The Vegan Butcherie.

Opened: August 2020
Must-try: The vegan chicken kebabs, ribs or chops will have you feeling pleasantly surprised.
Hours: Monday to Saturday

104 Queens Road, Woodstock, +27 (0)67 876 3039, veganbutchery.weebly.com 

WANT TO SEE A GHOST RIDING A MOTORBIKE?

A resident ghost may drift past you as you appreciate life, custom motorcycles, surfing culture, art, food, beer, music, boards, tattoos and everything in between in a Cape Dutch building dating back to the 17th century at Hout Bay’s Deus Ex Machina Homestead Of Perpetuity.

Opened: 13 December 2019
Must-try: Salmon poké bowl with salmon freshly-bought from the Hout Bay Harbour
Hours: Sunday to Wednesday: 7am–10pm; Thursday to Saturday 7am–12am

The Homestead Of Perpetuity: 140 Main Road, Hout Bay, +27(0)21 569 0625, [email protected]

ENJOY A CBD INFUSION EXPERIENCE ON LONG (CBD OPTIONAL)

Get buzzed with a delectable introduction to cannabidiol (CBD), the chemical found in the Cannabis sativa plant. A Cape Town first, Infusion on Long brings a menu filled with CBD-infused drinks and Meditteranean-style dishes. You can stop by for a quick lunchtime meal or unwind after a long day at Infusion On Long.

Opened: 31 January 2020
Must-try: CBD-infused calamari, coated in hemp flour with garlic crisps and coriander mayo
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday; 7am-10:30pm (kitchen closes 10:30pm; venue closes at midnight)

57 Long Street, Cape Town, [email protected], +27(0)83 377 7007

LA COLOMBE’S INDIAN-INSPIRED EATERY TO OPEN IN FRANSCHHOEK

La Colombe’s new off-shoot, Epice (French for spice) is a warm and intimate 45-seater that has recently opened in Franschhoek. The restaurant was inspired after a recent trip to India by the owners and head chef. It’s co-owned by Scot Kirton and James Gaag of La Colombe, and is headed up by La Colombe’s former sous chef, Charné Sampson. The tasting menu focuses on bold flavors and is available with or without wine pairing at Epice in Franschhoek.

Opened: 19 December 2019
Must-try: Epice’s seabass with Cape Malay curry chowder is made from the freshest of ingredients and sprinkled with crispy squid for a perfect balance of flavour and  texture. Their pineapple, ginger, turmeric mojito is their new take on the classic mojito.
Opening hours: Lunch hours are Friday to Sunday, 12pm–1:30pm; Dinner hours are Monday to Sunday 6:30pm–8:30pm

9 Huguenot Street, Heritage Square| Franschhoek | +27 (0)21 492 4044 | epice.co.za

FAST AND HEALTHY PLANT-POWERED FOOD

The spacious and modern light and bright Bamboo Plant Power caters to grab ‘n go customers, but comfortable seating, collections of hanging plants and pendant lights, and a cheeky neon sign invite groups to sit down and linger longer. Log into the Wi-Fi and grab something to drink at the coffee, smoothie and juice bar as you check out the plant-powered menu at Bamboo Plant Power in Loop Street.

Opened: 9 December 2019
Must-try: Bamboo Plant’s most popular dish is their Classic Burger, a Beyond Beef burger made from pea protein and a side serving of air-fried chips with homemade beetroot ketchup. Grab yourself a freshly made green or red juice to wash it down.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 8am-9pm; Sunday 9am-6pm

210 Loop Street, Cape Town | [email protected] | +27(0)62 969 5566 | bambooplantpower.co.za

FICKS: HERMANUS’ IDYLLIC SUMMER HANGOUT

Although it launched late in 2019, lockdown meant that this gem of a wine and pinchos bar remained largely undiscovered. Ficks Pinchos & Wine is an outdoor eatery right on the sea. It overlooks the tidal pool by the same name, which was built in the 1930s. The restaurant was brought to life beautifully by Netherlands’ family Joke, Just and Daan Gongrijp, who’re behind the success of Dutchies on Grotto Beach. Snack on pinchos and sip on wine at Hermanus’s open-air restaurant, Ficks.

Opened: 6 December, 2019

Must-try: Fick’s vegetarian flammkuchen topped with crème fraiche, onions, peppers, mushrooms, and avocado is a delicious take on pizza, but lighter, fresher and healthier.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 11am – 9pm

Image credit: @MAKUvisuals | Ficks, Marine Drive, Westcliff, Hermanus | [email protected] | +27 (0)28 312 4082 | ficks.co.za

LIGHT AND BRIGHT OASIS TO RELAX AND LEARN ART SKILLS IN THE CITY

An art gallery, a kids corner designed by a 4-year-old, pink babycinos, and First Thursdays celebrations is what you will find at The Ladder on 136 Bree Street. The name is inspired by a book from antiquity called the Ladder of Divine Ascent, which speaks of a path of growth and ascent towards perfection. At The Ladder on 136 on Bree Street, husband and wife team, Nicholas and Anastasia Esterhuizen, hope to imitate this desire for constant growth in their art and offerings at the gallery, coffee shop, and artist-led workshops at The Ladder on 136 Bree Street.

Opened: 4 December 2019
Must-try: The chicken mayo and avo is a crowd favourite, as well as their fresh rooibos ice tea (especially during the hot summer days). Both are freshly made on-site and available to go.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30am-4pm

136 Bree Street, CapeTown CBD | [email protected] | +27(0)82 451 1572 | theladderon136.com

THE TASTE OF PORTUGUESE PREGOS IN SEA POINT

You know what to expect from this quaint eatery with a name that roughly translates to “Prego Factory”. “It’s the pursuit of preparing a consistently great prego inspired by our love of all things Portuguese,” says Orlanda Simal,  owner of Fabrica Do Prego. Visit to experience terracotta hues, interesting Portuguese ceramics, beautiful illustrations and fresh branding at Fabrica Do Prego.

Opened: November 2019
Must-try: Steak prego roll with tempura green beans
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday; 9am – 8:30pm

Artem Centre, 277 Main Road, Sea Point, +27(0)87 470 0259; Shop 1, Silwood Centre, Campground Road, Rondebosch, +27(0)21 686 0421

CHARM ALL FIVE SENSES AT MAAYA CAPE TOWN

Eating out at Maaya Cape Town promises to engage every single sense. First there’s sight: the decor is Insta-worthy – textured walls covered with wall gardens of bright green, wooden table with velvet seating, which covers touch, too. Then there’s taste and smell – the food takes care of that. Finally, sound: think the clinks and sizzles of a top-class kitchen, plus loungey music that steps up the beat later in the evening at Maaya Cape Town.

Opened: 13 November 2019
Must-try: Maaya’s Japanese-Peruvian fusion Amazon sushi roll made with fresh mango, rice, salmon and avocado takes the prize as the crowd favourite. Pair it with their Paloma cocktail made with Paloma tequila, grapefruit, limes, sugar syrup, and triple sec.
Opening hours: Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 9am-2am

168 Loop Street, Cape Town | [email protected] |+27(0)82 500 5669 | maayacapetown.com

LISTEN TO VINYL, DRINK WINE AND SNACK ON PIZZA BAGELS

The Mother City is a world-class historic wine destination, but there are only a handful of wine bars. Matthew and Simon Freemantle are bringing another to our doorstep, where you can get serious wine in a carefree space while A11 founder, Andrew Aitchison, delights your earbuds with vinyl sets from Cape Town’s best DJs. Sip on world-class wines with selections from Mullineux & Leeu, Crystallum, Scions of Sinai and Richard Kershaw at Leo’s Wine Bar.

Opened: 7 November 2019
Must-try: The delicious pizza bagel with a Pomodoro sauce, mozzarella, basil, chilli oil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese is a hot favourite. As a wine bar, Leo’s serves the most exciting local wine, with a tendency towards natural and minimal intervention wines.
Opening hours: Thursday to Saturday, 5pm-11pm

120 Bree Street, Cape Town | [email protected] | +27 (0)76 042 0224 | leoswinebar.com

WHY DOES EVERYONE LOVE THE DOUGH?

I Love The Dough? What’s that all about?  “Marco came up with the name from a Notorious BIG track, ‘I Love the Dough,’” says co-owner Niki Bjorn Reschke. “It gives the double meaning of loving the pizza dough and the slang for money being dough”. Whether it’s money or pizza, there’s a lot of dough to love between these pink walls and cheeky neon signs at I Love The Dough in Bree Street.

Opened: 15 October 2019
Must-try: The crowd favourite is the simple, classic pizza with a tomato base, buffalo mozzarella, basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, and salt. Their signature cocktail, the Delila Delila, is also a hit: it’s made with Jameson’s whisky, pineapple, honey, mint, cucumber, and angostura bitters.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 12:30pm-late

101 Bree Street, Cape Town CBD| [email protected] | +27(0)72 145 9988 | instagram.com/ilovethedoughct

FUN, WIT AND FOOD WITH A TWIST IN THE BARD’S NAME

Northern suburbs grown-ups rejoice: a treasure is about to enter the stage of Durbanville’s culinary scene. Interiors are unique old furnishings and crockery brought in from all over the country. There’s a 404-year-old bible, printed a year before the playwright’s death, on display and a 90-year-old baby grand piano. It’s going to be a place of wit and fun where artists will perform nightly at Shakespeare’s in Durbanville.

Opened: 9 October 2019
Must-try: Shakespeare’s confit pork belly with mustard potato pureé is rich and delicious, and the fruity rum-based Jabu Special is the perfect antidote to summer heat.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 11:15am-3pm; Sunday 11:15am-3pm

Shop 9ab Heritage Square, Vrede Street, Durbanville | [email protected] | +27(0)21 569 0244, WhatsApp bookings +27(0)21 569 0244 | shakespeares.co.za

STRIKE WHILE THE IRON IS HOT

At Iron Steak and Bar on Bree Street, you can dig into a juicy steak or try the coal-grilled sea bass, or indulge in chips cooked with wagyu beef dripping. Then wash it all down with an Instagram-worthy cocktail like the Clover Club or the Hanky Panky, or with one of the on-tap beers. Enjoy a meal expertly made by veteran head chef Roche Rossouw in the glass, steel and leather setting of Iron Steak and Bar.

Opened: October 2019
Must-try: The flat iron steak, imported from Spain and grilled to your perfect temperature, easily tops their most popular picks. Wash all that meaty goodness down with their classic old fashioned.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 11am-11pm

114 Bree Street, Cape Town CBD | [email protected] | +27 (0)21 422 1175 | ironsteak.co.za

STEENBERG’S OLD FAVE GETS A HOT MAKEOVER (AND MENU)

Catharina’s Restaurant on Steenberg Farm has had a revamp: Now called Tryn, it’s a fresh, contemporary space with a leisurely charm and new fine-dining menu, matched with an excellent wine list. Tryn is dedicated to the 17th-century founder of Steenberg, Catharina Ras, or Tryn as her friends and family called her. It encapsulates her persona, says Steenberg’s executive chef Kerry Kilpin, a Silwood School of Cookery graduate. Read more about Tryn at Steenberg.

Opened: 2 September 2020
Must-try: Served with pickled daikon and cooked in a variety of Asian spices and sauces, Tryn’s new take on a classic steak tartare with an Asian twist has quickly become a crowd favourite.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, breakfast 7am-10:30am; lunch 12-3pm; dinner 6pm-9:30pm

Steenberg Farm, Steenberg Rd, Tokai, Cape Town, 7945 | [email protected], | +27 (0)21 713 7178 | steenbergfarm.com

IN KOREA YOU BRAAI AT THE TABLE

Korean cuisine is healthy, delicious, and sociable. Think piquant flavours, crunchy textures, and satisfying variety. A new place in town brings you the best of this East Asian nation’s food, with friendly service. Peek into Korean culture at Chopsticks & Table restaurant.

Opened: September 2019
Must-try: Chopsticks & Table’s unlimited Korean BBQ is their house favourite. This unique experience allows customers to grill their own meat and taste 12 different types of Korean dishes. If you haven’t before, sample the Soju, a clear liquor made from distilled rice.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 12-10:30pm

50 New Church Street, city centre | +27(0)21 422 1884 | chopsticksandtable.business.site

FOOD AND MASSAGES: WHAT’S BETTER?

Down Woodstock’s Albert Road is a garage door with cool graffiti of Nelson Mandela’s face. What lies behind the door is even cooler: Hong Da. Every Saturday night, you can dine at shared tables and enjoy a set menu of twice-cooked crispy duck and other Asian meals. There’s live music, and you can also get a shiatsu massage on-site. Make yourself at home at Hong Da Restaurant.

Opened: September 2019
Must-try: Hong Da Restaurants’ speciality dish is their Duck, which is served in many ways and can come with your choice of either a rice or noodle side.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 11am-7pm; Saturday, 10am-4pm

357 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town| [email protected] | +27 (0)65 006 3867 | facebook.com/HONasianEatery

CABBAGE TO THE RESCUE OF YOUR HEALTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Who needs a bowl (especially a non-environmentally-friendly one) when you can load a cabbage leaf with a colourful mix of vegetables, top it with meat or fish – or vegan options – and eat the whole thing? Now you can with carb, gluten, and plastic-free catering company and soon-to-be market stall, McKay Cabbage Bowls.

Opened: 3 August 2019
Must-try: Try their Oh So Earthy vegan bowl, their It Looks a Bit Fishy fish bowl and their The Original Coleslaw Bowl with chicken.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 10am-10pm

30 Regent Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8060 | [email protected] | +27(0)83 653 0680 | instagram.com/mckaybowls

(CLOSED) COUNTRY-STYLE NOSE-TO-TAIL DINING AT VIANDE

TV celebrity chef Pete Goffe-Wood joins The Grande Roche’s new restaurant, Viande. Highlights on the menu include the 30-day dry-aged bistecca Fiorentina, as well as the 1kg T-bone steak with a rocket salad and chips as well as a creamy Béarnaise sauce.  Dine beneath an elaborate chandelier or by the fireplace at Viande.

Opened: 1 July 2019
Must-try: You can wash that all down with their signature cocktail, the Viandier, a barrel-aged mixture of maker’s mark bourbon, Galliano Apperitivo and Martini Rosso.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, lunch 12-2:30pm; dinner 6pm-9:30pm

Grande Roche Hotel, 1 Plantasie Street, Paarl |[email protected] | +27 (0)21 863 5100 | granderoche.com/viande-restaurant

ANOTHER GOOD REASON FOR A ROAD TRIP TO SWELLENDAM

If you’re looking for a cosy weekend getaway (or wedding venue), the rustic Rotterdam Boutique Hotel in Swellendam is an incredible location, especially now that they have a revamped restaurant. This is where chef Josh Conradie (2014 finalist kykNET’s popular cooking show Kokkedoor) and his French wife, Christelle, make country-style food to complement the rustic setting of lush grounds, majestic oak trees and dreamy mountains views at Rotterdam Restaurant.

Opened: 30 June 2019
Must-try: For breakfast try Rotterdams signature Boere Benedict which is a freshly baked croissant topped with garden greens, tomato, cheese, bacon, two soft poached eggs and hollandaise sauce with biltong powder. For dinner, their slow-braised lamb shank with red wine sauce most definitely outshines the rest.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Thursday, 9am-9pm; Friday to Saturday, 9am-10pm; Sunday, 9am-5pm

Rotterdam Boutique Hotel, Olivedale Rd | Buffeljags River Swellendam | [email protected] | +27(0)67 383 4664 | therotterdam.co.za

THE RESTAURANT MADE FROM A CONVERTED SHIPPING CONTAINER

Along a pretty, pot-lined garden pathway leading through a business park in the Strand, there’s a small haven of green tranquility housed in a well-designed, converted ship container. The steel box is now a hip matt-black and wooden space, with a rustic laser-cut screen and long trough filled with succulents. Plants decorate the walls and hang from the ceilings, and there are tables and chairs inside the space and at the coffee bar at Garden Cafe.

Opened: 28 June 2019
Must-try: Treat yourself to a warm cup of coffee and to their signature vetkoek stuffed with curried mince.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30am-2:30pm; Saturday, 8am-12:30pm

8 Henry Vos Close, Asla Park, Strand | [email protected]| +27(0)82 783 7207 | facebook.com/hellogardencafe

A COFFEE SHOP WHERE YOU CAN ORDER THE VELVET BEAN

The walls are lined with the flags of Africa’s 54 countries, and the soundtrack is African jazz. It’s also a museum of sorts, with artefacts from various liberation struggles in Southern Africa, framed posters and scans of historical documents, such as the first legal press release from the South African Communist Party. Get Burundian coffee and mucuna (the velvet bean) at The African Way coffee shop in Obs.

Opened: 10 June 2019
Must-try: Along with their best selling coffee, The African Way coffee house provides a unique take on the classic cheese toastie. The beef and cheese toastie is a favourite too, with the meat marinated in a mixture of Cape Malay spices.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 8am-4pm

441 Main Road, Observatory | [email protected] | +27(0)87 808 6176 | facebook.com/africanwaycoffee

COMING IN JUNE: TURKISH FOOD, DRINKS AND DECOR AT EATSTANBUL

In Istanbul, the iconic Turkish city with a mix of ancient cultures and heritage connecting Europe and Asia, a foodie and a serial entrepreneur met at a restaurant called Saray (palace in Turkish). It inspired them to open a restaurant of the same name when they moved to Cape Town. On 7 June 2019 they are opening a second Halaal restaurant, called EatStanbul based on a personal joke, “… because when we visit Istanbul, all we do is eat.” Read more about EatStanbul.

Opened: 7 June 2019
Must-try: A real crowd entertainer is their flaming kebab platter, which arrives on your table flames and all. To drink, you can buy their traditional Turkish drink called the Elma Cay (pronounced chai) which is a deliciously sweet apple tea.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 11am-11pm

64 Kloof Street, Gardens | +27(0)214221989 | facebook.com/Eatstanbul

COOKING SERVICE FOR TIME-STRAPPED FAMILIES

“There is a difference between wanting to cook and having to cook,” says Nadia Slamang, owner of home-based cooking service Let Me Cook For You, which saves you the hassle of making home-cooked food, when all you want to do after a busy day is get home and onto the couch. Read more about the homemade, Halaal magic of think lobster sliders, beef fillet and tandoori chicken from Let Me Cook For You.

Opened: June 2018
Must-try: Nadia’s tandoori chicken served with a side salad and roti is a favourite, as is her butternut couscous with a smokey butter chicken.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 9am-6pm

64 Pluto Road Surrey Estate, Athlone Cape Town | [email protected] | +27(0)83 551 1552 | letmecookforyou.co.za

ALL ABOUT THE BOERIE AND THE TECH

“My wife made me a boerewors roll and it was so delicious, I knew I had to open a boerewors roll shop,” muses Canadian Boerewors King owner, Nicholas VTroll. The woman who can be attributed with starting it all, Nicholas’ wife, Saadiqah Omar, is from Cape Town. Honour one of South Africa’s favourite foods at Boerewors King.

Opened: May 2019
Must-try: The House Boerewors is their classic boerie roll that is grilled to perfection and served on a light bread roll with iceberg lettuce and caramelised onion.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:30am-6pm

3 Island Club Walkway, Century City |+27(0)67 850 8495 | facebook.com/BoereworsKing

WINE EVERY NIGHT

Wine Tonight? Yes, of course. Pick your perfect wine for every night of the week at this boutique wine store with a special weekly selection of wines to try. Located at Belvedere Square in Claremont since May 2019, there’s a second store on Mains Avenue in Kenilworth. Make sure you’re stocked up at Wine Tonight?

Opened: May 2019
Must-try: Although they do serve delicious food, Wine Tonight’s speciality is their wine which they love so much they’ve dedicated an entire wall to their top panel picks to help make your decision a lot easier.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 10am-6pm

Shop 1, Belvedere Square, Corner Keurboom and Belvedere Road, Claremont | [email protected] | +27 (0)87 898 7342 | winetonight.co.za

A KLOOF STREET PASSION PROJECT

What was once the rustic, worn-in space of auto workshop Fiorini Motors in Kloof Street, has come under the wing of people who are passionate about plants, antiques, interiors and food. Daniel Holland, the local owner of the Yours Truly group, has had his eye on the space at 117 Kloof Street for years. When it became available, he knew it would be perfect for his passion project. The group is known for the greenery that adorns its existing establishments and it made sense to amalgamate that with the passion for antiques and interiors into a single space. On Friday 3 May, it blossomed into an antique store, nursery, and coffee hatch where you can get Deluxe coffee and croissants, with a chef’s table coming near the end of May at 117Kloof.

Opened: May 2019
Must-try: Our Local’s weekday favourite is their classic smashed avo on sourdough bread topped with a side of hummus and roasted chickpeas. Pair your meal with a healthy Culture Lab kombucha.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9am-2pm

117 Kloof Street, Cape Town CBD | [email protected].zaa | +27 (0)64 642 5004 | ourlocal.co.za

INSPIRING DREAMS AT HOME BRU CAFÉ

Home Bru Café loves people – not just its paying customers – and is all about supporting small local suppliers. They also love the environment (all takeaway packaging is biodegradable), so you can feel good about soaking up the warmth of Obs’ latest local hangout. Read more about Home Bru Cafe.

Opened: 8 April 2019
Must-try: Home Bru knows that local is always lekker, which is why their local biltong salad with a chutney dressing is a winner.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Wednesday, 9am-7pm; Thursday to Saturday, 9am-10pm

First Floor, Gateway to Obz Building, Corner of Cranko Road and Lower Main Road, Observatory | [email protected] | +27(0)87 073 9464 | homebrucafe.wixsite.com/homebrucafe

PLUS: NOMINATE A FRIEND’S NEW BUSINESS

You never forget the people who supported you when you first started out. That’s why we’re giving you the chance to nominate your family member or friend’s new business to win R60 000’s worth of activations. Just click to fill out a form (less than a minute) to nominate a new business.