Cape Town is a melting pot of cultures, and nowhere is this more evident than in its diverse and dynamic food scene. From Mediterranean flavours to East Asian delights, the city offers an array of international cuisines that transport diners to different corners of the world.
Ouzeri – A Taste of the Mediterranean
Location: 58 Wale St, Cape Town City Centre, 8000
Website: https://www.ouzeri.co.za/
Located in the heart of Cape Town, Ouzeri is a vibrant spot that celebrates the flavours of Greece and Cyprus. This charming eatery specializes in traditional meze—small plates meant for sharing—alongside refreshing ouzo cocktails. From grilled halloumi to lamb souvlaki, every dish is a nod to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean.
Saigon – Vietnamese Delights
Location: Kloof Street, Cape Town Central 8001
Website: https://www.facebook.com/SaigonCapeTown/
For a journey to Southeast Asia, Saigon features contemporary Asian Fusion with strong Vietnamese roots. Located in Kloof Street, this elegant yet relaxed restaurant offers a menu brimming with Asian flavours including sushi, fragrant pho, fresh summer rolls, and perfectly spiced curries. The balance of sweet, sour, spicy, and savoury makes for an unforgettable dining experience.
Gogi – Korean BBQ at Its Finest
Locations:
- 1 Dean St, Newlands, Cape Town, 2092
- 1st floor, St Peters square, 423 Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925
Website: https://www.instagram.com/cpt_gogi/
Gogi brings the sizzling flavours of Korea to Cape Town with its top-notch Korean BBQ experience. Guests can grill their own meats at the table, accompanied by an array of traditional side dishes like kimchi, pickled radish, and spicy gochujang sauces. Their bibimbap and Korean fried chicken are also standout favourites. The branch in Observatory features a Halal menu, and both locations have plenty of vegan options.
Addis in Cape – An Ethiopian Feast
Location: 168 Loop St, CBD, Cape Town, 8001
Website: https://addisincape.co.za/
For an immersive dining experience, Addis in Cape offers a slice of Ethiopia right in the city. The restaurant serves traditional injera (a sourdough flatbread) alongside a variety of flavourful stews and lentil dishes. Eating with your hands, as is customary, adds to the authenticity of the experience, making it a cultural and culinary delight.
Mozambik – The Flavours of Southern Africa
Location: Cnr of Century Way and, Ratanga Rd, Century City, Cape Town, 7441
Website: https://www.mozambik.co.za/
Bringing the vibrant spirit of Mozambique to Cape Town, Mozambik is known for its bold flavours and Afro-Portuguese cuisine. Their peri-peri prawns, flame-grilled chicken, and seafood platters are packed with rich, aromatic spices. Pair your meal with a refreshing R&R (rum and raspberry) cocktail for the full experience.
Madam Taitou – Exotic Ethiopian Ambiance
Location: 77 Long St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000
Website: https://www.dining-out.co.za/md/Madam-Taitou/9418 (From Dining-Out)
Another Ethiopian gem, Madam Taitou is known not just for its incredible food but also for its unique décor. Set in a cozy, treehouse-style setting, this restaurant offers an intimate dining experience where guests can enjoy hearty Ethiopian dishes like doro wat (spicy chicken stew) and misir wot (spiced lentils). The eclectic interior, with African art and antiques, adds to the charm.
Nikkei – Japanese-Peruvian Fusion
Location: 87 Bree Street, Cape Town, 8000
Website: https://nikkei.co.za/
Nikkei brings an exciting fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavours to Cape Town, offering a contemporary twist on classic dishes. With fresh ceviche, sushi, and tiraditos (Peruvian-style sashimi), the menu is a vibrant mix of umami and citrusy flavours. The elegant setting and creative cocktails make it a top pick for a sophisticated night out.
Persian Peacock – A Persian Culinary Gem
Location: 176 Upper Buitenkant St, Vredehoek, Cape Town, 8001
Website: https://www.persianpeacock.co.za/
Tucked away in the suburbs, Persian Peacock is a hidden gem offering authentic Persian cuisine. The restaurant’s fragrant saffron rice, tender kebabs, and slow-cooked stews transport diners to the heart of Iran. Their rosewater-infused desserts and traditional Persian tea complete the experience.
Bao Down – Asian Fusion Excellence
Location: First Floor, Exhibition Building, 79 Main Rd, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005
Website: https://www.baodowncapetown.com/
Bao Down is a must-visit for lovers of Asian fusion cuisine. This cozy eatery specializes in soft, fluffy bao buns filled with an array of creative ingredients, from crispy pork belly to tempura prawns. With a menu designed for sharing that features inventive small plates and a stellar cocktail selection, Bao Down is a favourite among foodies looking for bold flavours in a casual yet trendy setting.
Kyoto Garden – Authentic Japanese Fine Dining
Location: 11 Kloof Nek Rd, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001
Website: https://www.kyotogarden.co.za/
For an authentic Japanese fine-dining experience, Kyoto Garden is the place to go. This award-winning restaurant offers expertly crafted sushi, sashimi, and seafood dishes that highlight the purity and freshness of Japanese cuisine. The tranquil ambiance, coupled with an exquisite selection of sake, makes Kyoto Garden a top destination for those seeking an elegant and immersive dining experience.
A Tavola – Authentic Italian food
Location: Shop 1, Library Square, Wilderness Road, Claremont, Cape Town, 7735
Website: https://www.atavola.co.za/
A Tavola features fresh, home-style Italian fare and seasonal ingredients, with an emphasis on simplicity and flavour, bringing the real taste of Italy to Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs. The menu pairs authentic seasonal classics with diverse weekly specials, with plenty of vegetarian and gluten free options. A Tavola has been a fixture in the city’s restaurant scene since it first opened in 2008.