An Uncomplicated Guide for a Cape Town First Timer
Each time we go to South Africa, we spend some time in Cape Town to see family. Our stays are typically short, but each moment is filled. This is not a sleepy city. Cape Town is packed with good food, adventure, and culture.
Here is a short, straight forward, uncomplicated guide for Cape Town first-timers:
dessert at the Potluck Club
To Eat
There are so many amazing dining experiences in this city, you really can’t go wrong. I’ve listed some of my favorites as well as a few I have on the list for the next trip.
one side of the view from the Pot Luck Club
The Pot Luck Club – rooftop dining
This place was soo good. Located in the Old Biscuit Mill, it has beautiful views of the waterfront and Table Mountain. Food was sharing style, and each dish was unique and packed with flavor. The wine list is extensive and local, and the ambiance is cool. Reservations are necessary.
The Food Barn – lunch after the beach
If you're visiting Cape Town in the summer and looking for a quick bite to eat after a day at the beach, look no further.
The Greenhouse Restaurant – tasting menu but local dishes
The Greenhouse Restaurant advertises as a “modern, South African experience.” While I’m not always keen on tasting menus, this is a good one to try for a new taste on traditional flavors and local ingredients.
Nourish'd – vegan café
I realize this might not be an option for everyone, but it's worth throwing in here. Cape Town is home to eclectic flavors and now modernized healthy cuisine.
Willoughby and Co – on the waterfront
Cape Town is an excellent spot for seafood, and Willoughby and Co. does the job. This restaurant has been the perfect location for our big family dinners each time we go. There's something for everyone and even my favorite, sushi.
Thali – Indian food
This restaurant is an intimate setting for delicious Indian dishes. It is beautifully decorated and offers vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
La Colombe - a different dining experience
Not only does this restaurant offer inventive French-Asian cuisine, but they also have small-batch house gin – an African specialty. A bit of a trek to get to but well worth it.
Bo-Kaap Kombuis - traditional cuisine
If you're like me and like eating as authentic as possible, here's your spot. Nothing fancy but all-encompassing of traditional Cape Malay Cuisine, this restaurant will surely give you a taste of the culture.
Ons Huisie - Cape Malay Fish Curry
Ons Huisie is located right by the water and APPARENTLY has fantastic Cape Malay Fish Curry. This is another traditional dish that you must try when visiting Cape Town. I have yet to try Ons Huisie's, but it's on my list for next time, no doubt.
Gordon's Bay - fresh fish
Gordon's Bay is actually a location, not a restaurant, but it's known for its fresh fish. You can't go wrong picking a spot for a quick bite about 45 minutes outside the city.
Bobo's - seaside dining
When looking at options to have our annual family dinner, Bobo's looked ideal. This restaurant was very accommodating for a group of 20 and had delicious food and beautiful sea views. We drove in right at sunset and were not disappointed. The atmosphere is fun and beachy, yet chic, if that makes sense… Even if it doesn't, don't pass this place up.
Food to Try:
Koesisters
Koeksisters and Koesisters are a similar traditional treat. However, Koesisters are the Cape Malay version. These sweet coconut-and-spice-covered fried dough balls light up fireworks in your mouth. Don't pass up an opportunity to try them. Traditionally they are served on Sundays. We searched for some on Saturday, and after talking to the hotel concierge, we found out places were closed. BUT hospitality expectations were exceeded when she offered to bring up some of her homemade koesisters the next day before our flight home. A dream!
Cape Malay Curry
There's a lot of Southeast Asian influence in Cape Town, with curry being one of them. There are a few different types of this curry, such as fish, vegetables, and meat. Each one is packed with flavor and tradition.
Rooibos Tea
Known for its detox and antioxidant benefits, this herbal tea is grown in South Africa. You should be able to find it at any café or restaurant. Give it a try!
Jack Black Beer
One of the rangers on our safari recommended this, and I can't say I was disappointed. Jack Black is a locally brewed craft beer. Head to the brewery for a pint and a bite to eat, or find it at pretty much any bar or restaurant.
To Do
Spend the day or see a sunset at Camp's Bay
Camp's Bay is known for its white sand beach, cute cafes, and dramatic views of Table Top Mountain. There are many hotels and restaurants. Grab a drink and watch the swimmers or take a picnic. One of our favorite things to do here is watching the sunset. You'll get lovely pinks and purples surrounding the mountain.
Cape of Good Hope
Although it is often mentioned as the most southern tip of Africa, it’s not quite true. However, it's still a great place to visit and enjoy beautiful views and nature. When driving into this national park, you might see windsurfers on your left and a zebra or ostrich on your right. Head to the lighthouse to see the dramatic seaside. There are three ways to get there – the jagged stairs from the coast, the paved road from the carpark, and the funicular – difficulty in that order. No matter the route you choose, beware of the wind. It nearly blows you off your feet.
Visit Simon's Town for lunch
After taking in some breathtaking views, head back towards Cape Town through Simon's Town. This seaside village is a lovely spot to stop for lunch or souvenirs.
Go by Boulders Beach to see penguins
After refueling your stomachs, take a short drive down to Boulder's Beach to see the famous South African Penguins. These endangered species of penguins play in the Atlantic waves and make their home in the sandhills. While you can't go on to the beach with them, you can take a walk down a small path for an up-close look at these funny guys.
Hike Table Mountain (or take the tram)
I would HIGHLY suggest hiking to the top of Table Mountain. I will say that the "easy" trail wasn't all that easy even for experienced hikers, but it wasn't bad! And based on what I've heard about the "hard" route, I'm glad we decided to undermine our hiking abilities. The easy hike takes about 2-2.5 hours and can be accessed just a way down the road from the cable car station. Look out for signs for Platteklip Gorge Trail. The views were incredible, and we couldn't have asked for a better day. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and water.
The other option is to take the cable car to the top. The car runs basically all day. However, one year we visited, it was down, so plan accordingly if this is your only visit to Cape Town. The cable car takes gives you a smooth(ish) ride to the top, where you can explore this flat peak.
Wander through a market
If you’re visiting Cape Town on a Saturday use your time wisely by wandering through one of the Saturday markets. The Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill (also home to The Potluck Club mentioned above) houses artisanal treats and good food. The Oranjezicht City Farm Market is a cozy nonprofit farm celebrating culture and community.
Visit the V&A waterfront
Another Cape Town classic is visiting the V&A waterfront. This area is home to restaurants, shops, and a Ferris wheel. Enjoy a meal here or spend the day wandering the mall and various other attractions.
Head out to wine country
Actually, I can't say I've done this one, unlike my other suggestions. But it is definitely on my list for next time. Stellenbosch is known for its pure South African wine. Take a day trip or spend a few days at some of the lovely hotels. Don't be afraid to bring some home.
Visit the infamous Robben Island
Once a leper colony, then village, then prison housing Nelson Mandela, this island combines history and nature. Take a tour of the prison and keep your eye out for tortoise, birds, and more African penguins. Take a look at the tour options here.
A few more…
To Stay
The last few visits, we have stayed at The Westin by the waterfront (if you travel a lot get your points!!). This conveniently located hotel offers beautiful views of Table Mountain as well as the waterfront. Check out the sauna and indoor pool to relax and take in some incredible sights. Here are a few more options I’ve put together.
For a bit of a spend
For a middle-ground option
For better on a budget
heading up the steps to the hotel
I can't write this section without mentioning a special place to me. My great-grandmother's home and the place my grandmother was born was recently renovated into a boutique hotel at the top of Signal Hill, The Dorp Hotel. Although we didn't stay here (we actually didn't know it existed until we showed up), the owners let us roam through the quirky and inspiring rooms. Go for a drive through colorful Bo Kaap, then head up for tea and some beautiful views.
To Bring
Winter/Early Spring Edition
We have always gone in their winter, which isn't much of winter if you're from the Northeast or mountain towns in the US. But it does get chilly. Like a southern California winter, when the sun shines, it can warm up. If there's a cloud in the sky or the sun goes down, it can get a bit brisk. I might sound repetitive but bring layers. A light sweater or jacket, maybe even a short-sleeved shirt for daytime, and a warmer top layer for evenings.
Pants/jeans for day and evening
Lightweight, long sleeves
Short sleeves for sunnier days
Jacket/windbreaker
Coat/leather jacket for evenings
Sweater dress or dark/black jeans for dinner (depending on where you're going)
Sneakers for exploring
Hiking boots/sturdy tennis shoes for hiking Table Mountain
Boots or low heels for dinners
Scarves, gloves (optional, check the weather)
Hat
Small bag/daypack with zipper
Sunglasses
Camera
Chargers
Type M adaptors
Cash/credit cards
PASSPORT
Negative COVID test
Reusable water bottle
Toothbrush + toothpaste
Hairbrush + hair ties (specifically for combatting the wind at Cape of Good Hope)
Face wash + moisturizer
Deodorant
