Cape Town, South Africa
The 24 best spots on and around Cape Town’s Bree Street
The best of Bree Street, Cape Town
Bree Street in Cape Town is an energetic hub that perfectly captures the city’s eclectic spirit. With its mix of historic buildings and trendy new spaces, from cutting-edge art galleries to stylish boutiques and top-notch restaurants, Bree Street offers a little bit of everything, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. In this guide, we’ll take you through the must-visit spots that highlight the best of what Bree Street has to offer. Whether you’re here to stay, eat, shop or just soak in the atmosphere, these places will give you a glimpse at what this street is all about.
Table of Contents
Stay
Cape Heritage Hotel
Steeped in history yet brimming with contemporary flair, the Cape Heritage Hotel is a standout on Bree Street. Housed within a building complex dating back to 1771, this boutique hotel offers a stay that’s as rich in history as it is in comfort. Each of its 17 rooms is individually decorated, blending original features like high-beamed teak ceilings with modern touches. The hotel also has a beautiful courtyard where you can relax under the shade of a grapevine that’s over 200 years old. Perfectly located on Heritage Square, you will have a variety of restaurants and shops right at your doorstep.
Cape Heritage Hotel
90 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of Cape Heritage Hotel
Eat & drink
Anthm
Anthm, one of Cape Town’s latest cocktail bar, combines the rustic elegance of a kominka – a traditional Japanese folk house – with the vibrant energy of New York City. Located in the CBD, this unique venue features antique furniture, wooden floors and customised glassware, creating an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and chic. The ground floor’s 40-seater restaurant offers an intimate dining experience, while the upstairs live music lounge pulses with jazz and rock ’n roll. The cocktail menu, inspired by classic songs, includes standout drinks like Smokestack Lightin’, a smoky concoction of scotch whiskey, amaro and porcini. Pair it with the crudo – sirloin tartare with spicy miso and yuzu – for a perfect fusion of South African ingredients and Japanese flavours.
Anthm
63 Loop St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Anthm
Boma on Bree
Boma on Bree brings the flavours of Africa right to the heart of Bree Street. The concept behind Boma on Bree is inspired by the traditional African boma, a communal meeting place often used for gathering, storytelling and sharing meals around a fire. The restaurant’s design reflects its African roots, with earthy tones, woven baskets and colourful textiles creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Boma on Bree also has a lively vibe when there are live music performances. We recommend trying Oom Eddie’s grass-fed Karoo lamb ribs, tender, juicy meat that’s been expertly cooked over an open flame and also give the Braaibroodjie-Jaffle a go, 90-day aged comté cheese, tomato chutney and onion, all encased in a crispy jaffle.
Boma on Bree
107 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Boma on Bree
Burger & Lobster
Burger & Lobster on Bree Street takes the classic surf-and-turf concept to the next level, focusing on just three things – burgers, lobster and lobster rolls. Their signature dishes include the classic B&L Burger, the decadent Lobster Roll and the indulgent Whole Lobster, all served with crispy chips and a fresh salad. The interior of Burger & Lobster is casual yet trendy, with exposed brick walls, wooden tables and a lively atmosphere that makes it a great spot for both lunch and dinner. They also have a well-stocked bar, offering impressive craft cocktails and a selection of local and international beers.
Burger & Lobster
105 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Burger & Lobster
Chef’s Warehouse & Canteen
Chef’s Warehouse & Canteen on Bree Street marks a thoughtful revival by renowned chefs Liam Tomlin, David Schneider and Adrian Hadlow. The ground floor is a harmonious blend of rustic and contemporary design, with stone walls and sleek leather seating creating a space that feels both intimate and dynamic. A wood-burning fireplace adds a cosy touch, making it an inviting spot for diners to enjoy the carefully curated global tapas menu. The communal table encourages a shared dining experience, a fitting way to appreciate the collaborative efforts of the chefs. Signature dishes, like the expertly seared tuna and earthy wild mushroom risotto, are a testament to the team’s commitment to bringing back the beloved flavours of the original Chef’s Warehouse, reimagined for today.
Chef’s Warehouse & Canteen
91 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Chef’s Warehouse & Canteen
Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room
Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room is an iconic spot on Bree Street, renowned for its relaxed vibe and friendly service. Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room is one of our favourites for many reasons, but the most important is of course the breakfast. We love the classics! Full English breakfast? Check. Egg Croissant? Check. Three Egg Omelette? Check. Plus they bake their own buns, croissants and breads – there’s nothing better than a freshly baked croissant. With its central location and consistently great food, it’s no wonder Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room is a staple in Cape Town’s breakfast scene.
Clarke's Bar & Dining Room
133 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room
Culture Wine Bar
Culture Wine Bar is a chic establishment, adjacent to the renowned Grub & Vine bistro, that offers a curated selection of South Africa’s finest wines, including rare gems and cult classics. The bar’s ambience is sophisticated yet cosy, with leather booths and exposed brickwork creating a perfect setting for unwinding. Their weekly events, like Vine Night and Culture Club, provide opportunities to learn about wine in a fun, engaging way. The bar also offers a small but innovative menu featuring gourmet bites like charcuterie and cheese platters, perfect for pairing with your wine.
Culture Wine Bar
103 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Culture Wine Bar
Hemelhuijs
Renowned for its artistic approach to breakfast, Hemelhuijs blends unique flavours with impeccable presentation. The interior design is chic and inviting, reflecting the restaurant’s focus on fine living and eating. Chef Jacques Erasmus is the creative force behind Hemelhuijs. His culinary philosophy centres on sourcing and growing the finest ingredients. Chef Jacques Erasmus curates a menu that features dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Start your day right at Hemelhuijs with their signature pomegranate and pink apple Mimosa. We also highly recommend the homemade potato rösti with herbed crème fraîche and soft poached eggs breakfast – absolutely divine!
Hemelhuijs
71 Waterkant St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Hemelhuijs
I Love the Dough
Located on Bree Street, I Love the Dough is a fun and quirky pizza bar that has been serving up some of Cape Town’s best Neapolitan-style pizzas since 2019. The restaurant’s quirky design with pops of colour and neon lights, sets the tone for a fun night of pizza and cocktails in one of Cape Town’s trendiest streets. The signature dough, known for its thin base and chewy crust, is the star of the show, complemented by a variety of fresh toppings. I Love the Dough also features an impressive cocktail menu, with classics and some creative inventions and they are all Instagramable! Besides the pizza, we also recommend trying their dough sticks and dipping sauce – the perfect doughy snack. Pair that with one of their slushy cocktails and you are set for a festive night!
I Love the Dough
101 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of I Love The Dough
Iron Steak & Bar
Iron Steak & Bar is where you go for a steak experience that’s as ironclad as its name suggests. This steakhouse prides itself on offering high-quality, flame-grilled steaks with a focus on sustainability. Every cut of beef here is sourced from free-range, grass-fed cattle, ensuring you get a steak that’s both delicious and responsibly sourced. The dining experience at Iron Steak & Bar is casual yet refined, with a fun, energetic atmosphere that’s perfect for a night out with friends or a relaxed dinner date. One unique feature that sets Iron Steak & Bar apart is its complimentary soft-serve ice cream, a sweet touch to end your meal on a high note.
Iron Steak & Bar
114 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Iron Steak & Bar
Merchant Bar & Grill
Chef Liam Tomlin, along with David Schneider and Adrian Hadlow, presents Merchant Bar & Grill, one of three exciting concepts at 91 Bree Street, alongside Chef’s Warehouse & Canteen and Room 91. Set in a 19th-century building with modern industrial accents, Merchant features The Larder, a glass-enclosed showcase of house-made charcuterie, cheeses and preserves. The restaurant embraces nose-to-tail cooking, highlighting South Africa’s top producers with dishes like pasture-raised lamb and pickled mushrooms. Fermentation and preservation are key. The bar’s lively atmosphere complements the five-course Merchant Feast experience, blending old-school culinary values with a contemporary twist.
Merchant Bar & Grill
91 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Merchant Bar & Grill
Nikkei
Whether you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine, Peruvian flavours or simply looking for a new dining adventure, Nikkei on Bree Street is the place to be. Chef Rikku Ó’Donnchü is a globally recognized culinary artist known for his innovative approach to fusion cuisine. A quintessential Peruvian dish, Nikkei’s ceviche is a must-try, featuring fresh fish marinated in citrus juices, with a perfect balance of flavours. The restaurant features a rich deep green palette, complemented by hints of gold and simplistic wood panelling. The interior is adorned with small visual cues and refined touches that reflect the harmonious existence between the two cultures.
Nikkei
87 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Nikkei
Pizza Shed
The concept behind Pizza Shed is simple: bring people together over great food in a relaxed, welcoming environment. The restaurant is housed in a cosy space with a laid-back vibe, complete with wooden furnishings and an open kitchen where you can see the chefs working their magic. Pizza Shed is known for their contemporary Neapolitan pizzas, using a signature slow-proofed dough that is nurtured for over 48 hours before being baked in wood-fired ovens. If you’re looking for an authentic slice of pizza, this is the spot for you. We love the classic Margherita, best enjoyed on the little front patio seating, on a sunny Cape Town day!
Pizza Shed
231 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Pizza Shed
Rosetta Roastery Café
Rosetta Roastery Café on Bree Street is perfect for those who appreciate finely crafted coffee. The baristas at Rosetta Roastery Café are true coffee geeks, always happy to share their knowledge and help you find the perfect brew. Whether you’re into pour-overs, espresso or cold brew, you’ll find something to love here. The modern design of the café provides a calm and inviting space to enjoy your coffee. Rosetta Roastery Café is well known for its single-origin coffees, highlighting the distinct flavours of different coffee regions. We think the pour-over coffee is a must-try, it brings out the detailed notes and aromas of the beans. For those serious about their coffee, a visit to Rosetta Roastery Café is an absolute must.
Rosetta Roastery Café
101 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Rosetta Roastery Café
Seabreeze Fish & Shell
Seabreeze Fish & Shell is located on Bree Street, one of Cape Town’s trendiest culinary streets. The restaurant showcases a sleek, modern interior with a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, it’s a popular spot for both casual lunches and formal dinners. Seabreeze Fish & Shell specialises in showcasing the best of South African seafood with a menu that changes daily depending on the catch, ask their friendly servers for the catch of the day and get ready to be treated with a fresh, innovative seafood dish. We think their fish tacos are a hit for lunch or dinner – tortillas filled with fresh line fish, tangy slaw and a punchy dressing that brings all the flavours together beautifully.
Seabreeze Fish & Shell
213 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of SeaBreeze Fish & Shell
Sloppy Sam
Sloppy Sam is back! After a brief hiatus, Sloppy Sam has found its perfect new home in Cape Town’s Heritage Square, housed within the characterful old brick walls that seem to have been waiting just for it. Owner Hooman Saffarian, a beloved figure in the local dining scene since 1985, has created an intimate, inviting space adorned with Persian carpets and vintage curios, evoking a warm, lived-in atmosphere. The menu celebrates Middle Eastern flavours with a focus on Greek, Turkish and Persian influences. Diners are encouraged to share mezze-style plates, with standout dishes like the succulent lamb riblets, pan-fried calamari and Hooman’s legendary hummus. The crispy Turkish Borek, filled with spiced potato and cheese, is also a must-try.
Sloppy Sam
Heritage Square
100 Shortmarket St
CBD
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Sloppy Sam
Shop
Always Welcome
Always Welcome features a thoughtful collection of furniture, lighting, ceramics and textiles by local designers like Joe Paine and Dokter and Misses. You’ll find items that transform spaces into something extraordinary, from sleek minimalist chairs to bold, artful décor pieces. The space itself is beautiful, with clean white walls and exposed brickwork that highlight the beauty of the products on display. The store often hosts pop-ups and exhibitions, making it feel like a living, breathing gallery where design constantly evolves.
Always Welcome
108 Shortmarket St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Always Welcome
Budism Couture
Budism Couture is a hidden gem in Cape Town that feels more like a creative sanctuary than a typical clothing store. Founded by Budi Adji and Philipp Althof, this boutique is renowned for its exquisite, hand-embroidered gowns and daywear couture. Each piece is a testament to the highest level of artisanship and luxury, tailored exclusively for each client. The store’s interior, featuring muted tones and clean lines, perfectly complements its unique clothing range, which spans everything from statement dresses to refined basics. If you are looking to add a one-of-a-kind statement piece to your wardrobe, Budism Couture is a must-visit.
Budism Couture
88 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Budism Couture
Dear Rae Jewellery
Dear Rae Jewellery is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates handcrafted, ethically made jewellery. Founded by South African designer Karin Rae Matthee in 2010, Dear Rae has gained a reputation for creating minimalist, yet striking pieces that are designed to be worn every day. The brand is deeply committed to sustainability, using only recycled gold and ethically sourced gemstones in their creations. The store’s interior is bright and fresh, with a minimalist design that highlights the beauty of their handcrafted jewellery. The space is adorned with local treasures and decor, including ceramics and home living pieces, which add a personal touch to the environment.
Dear Rae Jewellery
164 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Dear Rae Jewellery
Duck Duck Goose
Duck Duck Goose store is a celebration of South African fashion and lifestyle, featuring a curated selection of independently owned brands. The shop is welcoming, with natural tones that make the products stand out. Duck Duck Goose offers a variety of products, from clothing and accessories to home decor, all reflecting the creativity and craftsmanship of local designers. Brands like Good Good Good, Calla Droomer and Rich Mnisi are just a few of the names you’ll find here. Duck Duck Goose also hosts regular pop-up events and collaborations with local artists and designers.
Duck Duck Goose
120 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Duck Duck Goose
Metro Handmade
Established in Cape Town in 2015 by Alexandra Höjer and Barry Armitage, Metro Handmade is a boutique dedicated to celebrating local craftsmanship and sustainable design. Inspired by the mother city’s rich cultural heritage and skilled artisans, the brand emphasises a return to soulful, handcrafted products. Their concept revolves around creating limited-batch, handmade garments and accessories that honour the nobility of traditional workwear. The store offers a diverse range of products, including hand-dyed cashmere scarves, cotton jerseys and unique footwear like Moonstar sneakers.
Metro Handmade
156 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Metro Handmade
See & do
THK Gallery
THK Gallery is known for its cutting-edge exhibitions that often mix different media like photography, digital art and more traditional works. Founded by German photographer Frank Schönau in 2018, the gallery has quickly made a name for itself by showcasing innovative and experimental works. The gallery’s mission is to present alternative perspectives and aesthetics, often challenging conventional norms. The gallery’s crisp, minimalist space serves as a blank canvas for its dynamic exhibitions. This gallery is perfect for those who appreciate art that’s as much about the conversation it sparks as the visuals themselves.
THK Gallery
52 Waterkant St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of THK Gallery
What If The World
What If The World is set in a refurbished warehouse, making it one of the coolest spots to see contemporary art in Cape Town. The space has a trendy, industrial feel, which perfectly complements the modern, often edgy works on display. Since its inception in 2008, the gallery has been a platform for both established and emerging artists from Africa. The space is known for its ambitious solo projects and multidisciplinary installations, often addressing socio-political issues. What If The World also has a strong focus on publishing, having produced numerous catalogues and artist monographs. Beyond the exhibitions, the gallery hosts artist talks and panel discussions, where you can gain deeper insight into the works on display.
What If The World
16 Buiten St
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of What If The World
Youngblood Africa Art Gallery
This three-story gallery is part of the Youngblood Arts and Culture Development Foundation, which aims to provide a platform for emerging artists across various genres. The gallery’s atmosphere is dynamic and welcoming, designed to inspire creativity and engagement. The space regularly hosts exhibitions, performances and cultural events. Youngblood Africa Art Gallery also features an on-site café, where you can enjoy fresh juices, coffee and light meals while surrounded by art. The proceeds from the café and gallery sales are reinvested into arts and culture initiatives, supporting local artists and their projects. We recommend visiting the gallery during Cape Town’s monthly First Thursdays event, this is when the street comes to life and the atmosphere is energetic!
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