Cape Town, South Africa
The 2024 hot list: Cape Towns 21 best new restaurants, bars and cafés
The list of all-new 2024 Cape Town restaurants, bars and cafés
Do you want to know where to eat and drink in Cape Town, South Africa, right now? Restaurant aficionados want to know what’s new, what’s popular and where their favourite chefs have settled — and with a slew of highly anticipated debuts, there are more places to explore than ever before. We maintain a current list of all new Cape Town restaurants, bars and cafés that have opened in the last year, conveniently divided down month by month so you can see exactly when they opened. Here is the complete guide to Cape Town’s newest, best and buzziest restaurants, bars and cafés.
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Top photography courtesy of Claire Gunn and Chef’s Warehouse & Canteen
November
18/11
Yatai Ramenbar
Yatai Ramenbar, tucked below Nikkei on Bree Street, takes inspiration from Japan’s yatais – traditional food stalls that pop up on busy streets, serving simple, delicious dishes from ramen to skewers. Chefs Rikku O’Donnchu and Warwick King elevate this street food concept with rich, slow-cooked ramen broths, hand-pulled noodles and a menu that goes beyond the bowl, featuring yakitori, dumplings and small plates. Yatai brings a taste of Japan’s vibrant food culture right to Cape Town, keeping the cosy, lively vibe of a classic yatai with a modern, refined twist.
Yatai Ramenbar
87 Bree Street
CBD
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Yatai Ramenbar
1/11
Terrarium
Terrarium at the Queen Victoria Hotel sees Chris Erasmus, the chef behind Franschhoek’s Foliage, return to Cape Town’s dining scene. Known for his focus on regenerative, eco-friendly cooking, Erasmus – alongside head chef Anlou Erasmus – brings hyperlocal sourcing to the table, with ingredients from small butcheries, sustainable fisheries and local farmers. Diners choose between two eight-course menus: Fauna, highlighting regional seafood and lesser-used cuts of meat, and Flora, which is plant-based. An à la carte menu features seasonal, smaller plates and Marlvin Gwese’s wine list champions lesser-known, natural South African wines. Inside, expect art by emerging local artists, with live blues and folk music adding an authentic touch.
Terrarium
Queen Victoria Hotel
5 Portswood Rd
V&A Waterfront
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Terrarium
September
28/9
Grumpy & Runt
Grumpy & Runt’s return has everyone talking, now located within Ditto’s flagship on Kloof Street. This spot is where plant-based dreams come true, merging Ditto’s creamy oat milk ice creams and waffles with Grumpy & Runt’s beloved vegan donuts and sandos. Expect the kind of treats that tempt you to try everything: from a chocolate lava donut filled with gooey fudge and topped with brownie chunks to the breakfast waffle, stacked with a hash brown base, tofu scramble, mushrooms, spinach and baked beans.
Grumpy & Runt
119 Kloof St
CBD
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Grumpy & Runt
25/9
Rooi
Rooi at One & Only Cape Town takes the braai tradition to another level, grilling up South Africa’s best. The menu is all about top-quality local ingredients, with cuts like Wagyu, aged mutton and Kalahari venison, alongside standout seafood options like flame-grilled rock lobster and masala-spiced kingklip. Designed to feel like home but with serious style, the space is loaded with South African touches: Ankole-inspired wooden seats, protea-embossed menus and a mural by artist Elise Wessels. The bar is packed with local rums, brandies and signature cocktails inspired by South Africa’s nine provinces, plus a Cap Classique cart doing the rounds. Rooi is a place where fire, flavour, and local flair come together perfectly.
Rooi
One & Only Cape Town
Dock Roadbr
V&A Waterfront
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Rooi
14/9
Brash
Brash is the latest smashburger spot making waves on Regent Road in a seriously stylish space, brought to life by best friends Gabriel Wulfsohn and Benji Fisher. After crushing it with their Brashmobile food truck, they’ve now set up a permanent spot with a simple but perfected menu: two smashburgers. Go for the classic with American cheese, onions, pickles, ketchup and mustard, or level up with the Mack Daddy – double patties and their own special sauce. It’s all about those crispy, caramelised edges. Wash it down with Radley & Finch wine or a Devil’s Peak lager for the full experience. Brash keeps it straightforward, flavour-packed and seriously fun.
Brash
90 Regent Rd
Sea Point
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Brash
9/9
Flour Market
Flour Market is the latest gem from David Donde, the guy behind Truth Coffee, and it’s already got us hooked. Right on Hope Street in Gardens, this new bakery is cranking out some seriously impressive stuff – think flaky French-butter croissants, crusty baguettes and perfect sourdough with just the right chew. Pastry chef Laurence Smith, who used to be at Delaire Graff, has joined the team, so expect big things. It’s part bakery, part café, so you can chill with a pastry or order on Uber Eats. Flour Market is about to be our new go-to for all things baked.
Flour Market
105 Hope Street
Gardens
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Flour Market
August
27/8
Coy
Chef Ryan Cole, renowned for his work at Salsify, unveiled the much-anticipated Coy at the V&A Waterfront in 2024, offering breathtaking views of the harbour and Table Mountain. Designed by KT Interiors, the space exudes sophistication with dark wood panelling, amber accents and a central high-gloss fireplace. Coy’s menu focuses on sustainable, locally sourced seafood and African ingredients, using ancient techniques and forgotten flavours. Highlights include Simon’s Town squid with smoked sunflower and amaranth, and fermented amadumbi bread with kefir butter and quince. The African-inspired bar adds to the intimate vibe, making Coy a highly awaited destination for bold, ocean-inspired cuisine in a refined yet relaxed setting.
Coy
Shop 151, The Scherwyn Pavillion Building
V&A Waterfront
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Coy
13/8
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
7/8
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
3/8
Qué Linda
A 2024 addition to Regent Road, Sea Point, Qué Linda is a no-nonsense Spanish tapas and wine bar. Chef Dian Botes presents a focused menu featuring jamón Ibérico, patatas bravas and pulpo a la Gallega, alongside saffron-infused paellas. The bar offers a curated selection of local wines and Spanish varietals made from Spanish grapes. The space, with its rustic décor and soft lighting, provides a simple, comfortable atmosphere for enjoying well-crafted food and drink. Expect authentic flavours, sharp execution and no unnecessary frills.
Qué Linda
39 Regent Road
Sea Point
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Qué Linda
July
23/7
Pizza Shed St James
Pizza Shed has brought its famous Canotto-style Neapolitan pizza to St James, making it the ultimate post-beach spot. Known for its slow-fermented, 48-hour proofed dough, each pizza is hand-stretched by skilled pizzaiolos and cooked in a wood-fired oven for that smoky, chewy and perfectly puffed crust. Try the Margherita for classic Neapolitan flavour or go for the Bianca, topped with truffle oil, mozzarella and mushrooms. With a cosy interior featuring reed ceilings and pavement tables outside, it’s perfect for a slice after a swim in the St James tidal pool. This Deep South gem is all about real-deal pizza, served fresh and hot.
Pizza Shed St James
56 Main Rd
St James
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Pizza Shed
4/7
Bascule Bar
The newly reopened Bascule Bar at hotel Cape Grace offers a refined yet inviting escape, where the breathtaking views of Table Mountain set the scene for an unforgettable experience. Under the creative direction of 1508 London, the interior blends modern elegance with rich, velvety textures and cosy alcoves, enhanced by contemporary artworks from South African artists like Banele Khoza. The long bar, a central feature, invites you to explore the curated drinks menu, where cocktails like The Tide Is High shine, combining local ingredients with luxurious touches. Chef Gregory Czarnecki’s small plates, such as the linefish ceviche with pomelo and ponzu, capture the essence of the region’s flavours.
Bascule Bar
Cape Grace
W Quay Rd
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Bascule Bar
4/7
Botany Café
Botany Café at The President Hotel in Bantry Bay offers a refreshing retreat, where the serene setting perfectly complements its vibrant menu. Overlooking the hotel pool with glimpses of the ocean beyond, this deli-style café is a haven for those seeking a quick yet satisfying meal. The décor is bright and airy, with a focus on natural materials that echo the freshness of the locally sourced ingredients. The menu showcases an array of colourful salads like shredded beetroot with apple and coriander, alongside made-to-order sandwiches on Woodstock Bakery’s artisanal bread. Don’t miss the gorgonzola fig tart for a burst of rich, savoury flavour. Finish with a slice of their renowned chocolate cake and a perfectly brewed coffee for a truly delightful experience.
Botany Café
The President Hotel
4 Alexander Rd
Bantry Bay
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Botany Café
June
11/6
Maggy Lou’s
All the rage on Instagram for its photogenic qualities, Maggy Lou’s is a 2024 addition to Sea Point, offering a cosy all-day café experience on the corner of St. Johns and Main Road. Inspired by a 1960s Sea Point pioneer, the space combines vintage charm with modern flair. Warm wood tones, lush plants and retro lamps create the perfect backdrop for both remote work and casual meetups. Dishes like the fried chicken sandwich, prego-style beef fillet and green toast are crowd favourites. Pet-friendly with a convenient to-go coffee hutch, Maggy Lou’s provides wholesome meals, salty snacks and a laid-back, self-service vibe that’s both Instagram-worthy and welcoming.
Maggy Lou’s
206 Main Rd
Sea Point
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Maggy Lou’s
8/6
Butter Sea Point
Is there such a thing as too much butter? Butter in Sea Point offers a refreshing twist on the classic café experience, where simplicity meets subtle elegance. The interior, with its soft buttery tones and an abundance of greenery, feels like a breath of fresh air amid the city’s bustle. A hidden gem lies at the back – a secluded courtyard with a vertical garden and soft lighting that invites quiet moments away from the crowds. The menu is a playful exploration of flavours, with dishes like the French Banana – nutty banana bread reinvented as French toast, balanced with crème fraîche, crispy bacon and fresh strawberries. Each dish at Butter feels nod to comfort, which we really appreciate.
Butter Sea Point
176 Main Rd
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Butter
May
23/5
Hiro Izakaya
Hiro Izakaya at Constantia Uitsig, a historic wine estate in the heart of Cape Town’s Constantia Valley, offers a dining experience that feels worlds away. Step inside this transformed whitewashed cottage, and you’re immediately immersed in a moody, candlelit setting reminiscent of a hidden Osaka eatery. The black walls, highlighted by Danielle Oosthuizen’s vibrant artwork, and plush blue velvet banquettes create an intimate, sophisticated atmosphere. Outside, the verandah provides breathtaking views of the estate’s vineyards and surrounding mountains, a serene backdrop for a leisurely lunch. Chef Cheyne Morrisby’s Japanese-inspired small plates are a highlight, with standout dishes like the crispy tuna taco and the meticulously prepared baked kingklip in a 48-hour dashi broth, each offering a burst of flavour that lingers.
Hiro Izakaya
Constantia Uitsig
Spaanschemat River Rd
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Hiro Izakaya
April
18/4
Heirloom
Heirloom at hotel Cape Grace offers a refined fine-dining experience that combines minimalist elegance with indulgent flavours, all set against the stunning backdrop of Cape Town’s marina. The restaurant’s airy, plush interior is thoughtfully designed, allowing diners to enjoy sweeping views of bobbing yachts and the iconic Table Mountain. Chef Gregory Czarnecki’s daringly minimalist approach to his four- and seven-course tasting menus strips away the theatrics, focusing instead on the pure essence of each dish. Expect surprising touches, like confit tomato adding a bright acidity to the luxurious rock lobster Dugléré, or the earthy richness of morel and port jus elevating the poached chicken.
Heirloom
Cape Grace
W Quay Rd
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Cape Grace
March
1/3
Kenji Ramen
Kenji Ramen on Kloof Nek Road brings a dynamic slice of Japanese street food culture to one of Cape Town’s liveliest corners. The restaurant’s interior, with its sleek black leather booths and bar stools facing the vibrant street, invites diners to settle in and soak up the atmosphere. A dramatic dragon mural, which spans an entire wall, adds a sense of intrigue and tradition to the modern setting. The lively vibe makes it the perfect spot for sharing small plates like crispy chicken with red chilli or savoury gyoza before heading out for the evening. The pork ramen, with its rich broth and tender hand-pulled noodles, is a standout. Don’t miss the Japanese flan cheesecake, topped with a delicate miso-honey glaze, for a sweet finale.
Kenji Ramen
12, 16 Kloof Nek Rd
Tamboerskloof
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Kenji Ramen
1/3
Novo Pizza + Wine
Novo Pizza + Wine in Little Mowbray is a stylish, family-friendly spot where pizza lovers and wine enthusiasts converge. The interior blends cosy charm with modern flair, featuring low-hanging bulb lights, wooden tables, and vibrant greenery. While kids enjoy the colouring tables, adults can explore a curated selection of local wines, showcasing unique labels like Testalonga and Usana. The menu is a feast for the senses, with standout pizzas like the El Mariachi, topped with slow-roasted pulled pork, pickled jalapeños and fresh coriander. Starters like pork polpettes in tomato sauce and rich caponata offer bold flavours, while desserts such as tiramisu and chocolate brownies with ice cream provide a sweet finish. Novo is the perfect go-to for a relaxed, flavourful meal.
Novo Pizza + Wine
99 Durban Rd
Mowbray
Cape Town
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Novo Pizza + Wine
January
25/1
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
2/1
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
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