Secret Cape Town, Cape Town Seasons
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Cape Town Seasons: Expect Four in One Day

The gorgeous city of Cape Town is one of the most interesting places to visit in South Africa. Alongside the amazing scenery and fun activities, it is also well known for its unpredictable weather. Locals will jokingly warn you to expect all four seasons in one day.

Even during high summer, an icy breeze can pick up in the afternoon, making you grab a jacket by the evening. Or after days of rain in the winter, a beautiful wind-still sunny day will surprise you with the prospect of a beach outing. The rule of thumb for a Cape Town holiday is be prepared for anything!

Here’s a little insight into the seasons, their temperatures, and unique qualities to help you prepare for your Cape Town holiday.

Weather Conditions and Seasons in Cape Town

Cape Town naturally has a warm and temperate Mediterranean style climate. During the peak of summer temperature can reach up to 35°C. And in the winter it can drop below 10°C in the mornings and evenings, hovering around 15°C midday.

Cape Town Weather

Spring and autumn are usually filled with just the right temperatures to visit the natural scenery around the city. Summer time is perfect for appreciating the icy ocean. And the rainy winters are perfect for snuggling up in front of a fire with a glass of wine.

Your choice of holiday time in Cape Town will greatly depend on what kind of trip you are planning. If you intend to make the most of the Mother City’s wide variety of outdoor activities, peak summer or winter time will not be ideal.

Summer in Cape Town

In Cape Town the locals refer to the months of November till February simply as “season”. This is the time of year the most tourists ascend on the city. The peak season is during December when the local tourists from across South Africa also visit the beloved city.

Weather Conditions and Seasons in Cape Town

On average, the temperature can reach up to 30°C, with the warmest months being January and February. The maximum summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C. Evening temperatures drop to around 14°C, but the wind factor can add an icy chill to the air. Try to carry a light jersey or jacket in your bag.

Summertime is the best time to enjoy the beautiful Cape Town beaches. But beware, you won’t be the only one who jumps at the opportunity to head over to the beach on a lovely wind-still day. If you head over to popular beaches such as Camps Bay or the Clifton beaches, you will have contend with big crowds. Especially during local summer school holidays (beginning-December to mid-January), and significant public holidays.

Related: Best Secret Beaches in the Cape

The ideal time to visit, is mid-March when the busy tourist season starts to fade and the weather is still pleasantly warm. Keep in mind that when traveling to Cape Town during peak season you will not only be joined by higher volumes of tourists, your flights and accommodation rates will also be more expensive. Make sure that you book everything in advance to avoid disappointment and snatch up special prices.

Autumn and Spring in Cape Town

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Cape Town if you are looking for cheaper accommodation rates and flights. The autumn temperatures start dropping from late-March. In the mornings the temperature hovers around 15°C and by mid afternoon it ascend to the low 20’s. Evenings become chillier. This is a great time to visit the historic wine farms in the area surrounding Cape Town. It’s also perfect weather for hiking and biking.

Spring arrives by late August, early September with temperatures inching closer to the mid-teens during the morning. During the day the peak temperatures are in the low 20’s. Evenings can still be chilly. It’s the perfect time to explore the outdoor scenes of Cape Town, without worrying about being too hot and bothered. Read our post Where to see The Wildflowers in the Cape for one of the most spectacular moments of the Western Cape’s nature.

As mentioned, traveling to Cape Town during these seasons will give you cheaper rates for air travel and accommodation, except for late March to early April when the Easter weekend takes place and the school holiday.

Winter in Cape Town

Winter arrives by late June and lasts till August, sometimes hovering into early September. The cold fronts start rolling across the Atlantic Ocean, bringing strong winds and rain. In the mornings temperatures drop below 10°C and only climb to the high teens during the middle of the day. The evenings can be icy cold.

Cape Town weather, winter

Mostly this is the least popular season in Cape Town because of the rainy weather. Which means you can grab the best flight and accommodation deals. But winter in Cape Town has its own charms. The countryside turns a luscious green and you can also enjoy the whale season before the area becomes too crowded. Read our post 5 of the Best Ways to See Whales around Cape Town for a few tips.

The other big treat, is that during the peak of winter, you can go snow hunting on the outskirts of the city. Read our post Where to See the Snow in Winter in Cape Town and consider booking a few nights outside of Cape Town to appreciate the rugged beauty of the Western Cape. And make sure you look out for accommodation that offers a fireplace in the room or dining area to complete your winter getaway.

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5 Best Things to do in Cape Town in Winter
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5 Best Things to do in Cape Town in Winter

The Mother City may be best known for her golden sunshine, summer beaches and outdoor activities, but there’s a lot more to this beautiful gal than six months of summer. If you haven’t gone Cape Town-exploring in the winter months, we guarantee you’re missing out on some of the most memorable experiences the city has to offer. We’ve scoured the city and surrounds for 5 best things to do in Cape Town in winter. So grab an umbrella and let’s head out.

Surfers do it in winter

Cape Town is famous the world over for her surfing spots. From Blouberg to Long Beach and all the way to Muizenberg, there’s always a wave to catch. In the winter months of June, July and August, the Cape of Storms puts on an impressive display of heart-pounding swells for the more accomplished surfers out there. On the other hand, if you’re more comfortable with smaller, manageable swells, you’ll find those too throughout the Cape Town winter months.

Surfing - 5 Best Things to do in Cape Town in Winter

There’s no better way to end a day in the surf than to head for Muizenberg’s legendary Empire Café. It’s here you’ll get some of the best views over the wild wintery sea with a delicious chunk of freshly-baked chocolate cake in front of you and your fingers wrapped around a cup of steaming coffee.

Cozy theatre in a Cape Town winter

Still one of the best ways to pass a winter afternoon or evening – Cape Town’s lively theatre culture offers a smorgasbord of acting talent, dance, comedy, opera  and musicals. You can head for well-known venues like Artscape, the Baxter Theatre, The Fugard or Masque Theatre or the oldest cinema in South Africa – the Labia Theatre for regular screenings of independent art films and festivals.

Cozy theatre in a Cape Town winter - 5 Best Things to do in Cape Town in Winter

You could also take the road less travelled and try out some of the mini-theatres and bars that can be discovered all over the Mother City. The Alexander Bar Upstairs Theatre is worth a visit, or stop by the Rosebank Theatre or Little Theatre attached to the University of Cape Town’s Centre for Theatre, Dance and Performing Studies.

Waterkloof

Take a drive outside Cape Town, to the Waterkloof winery on the Sir Lowry’s Pass Road outside Somerset West for a feast of the finest in wine, cuisine, biodiversity and architecture. This is a wine estate with a few surprises thrown in. Like spectacular views over carefully preserved natural vegetation and animal life that won the vineyard Champion Status by the World Wildlife Fund’s Biodiversity & Wine Initiative. Spend a winter afternoon beside the designer open fireplace in the tasting room or settle in the restaurant to indulge in chef, Gregory Czarnecki’s incredible cuisine. Need to burn off those calories? Take a guided walk or horseback ride through this spectacular wine estate.

HintHunt Escape Game

On those cold, rainy days when you absolutely have to stay indoors, one of the best things to do in winter in Cape Town is lose yourself in an escape game. Located at the quaint Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock, HintHunt gives you an hour and plenty of clues, puzzles and mysteries to help you escape from one of the locked room – all theme-designed for maximum authenticity and ambience. You can take up the challenge in groups of three to six players as long as you’re older than 15 years of age. You can catch your breath afterwards at any of the restaurants in the vicinity, or allow yourself to be drawn in by at least a few of the artisanal retail experiences the Old Biscuit Mill has to offer.

A divine winter pairing of art and wine

Of course we know that wine and art are the perfect pairing. But instead of strolling around a gallery, glass in hand, at a Wine Jamming Event at the Rockwell Hotel in Greenpoint, it’s all about a love of wine and your personal creativity. You’ll spend a magical evening – the last Wednesday of every month – in the hotel garden that’s been decked out in sparkling fairy-lights.

A divine winter pairing of art and wine - 5 Best Things to do in Cape Town in Winter

Now for a glass of wine, an A3 canvas, paint brushes, an easel and non-toxic acrylic paint. You can be guided by an expert instructor or express yourself from the heart – it’s all about fun and exploring your inner Picasso!

Check Out Rockwell Hotel Cape Town Facebook Page @RockwellHotelCT

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Where to See the Snow in Winter in Cape Town

Feature image courtesy of @snowreportsa

Snow in South Africa remains a fascinating weather phenomenon. Maybe it’s because we’re used to mostly sunny skies and warm days. It’s a great adventure to go snow hunting in winter, and in Cape Town we’re lucky enough to have snow almost on our doorstep.

WHERE TO SEE THE SNOW IN WINTER IN CAPE TOWN_

A quick road trip within a three-hour drive, and you can pretend for a moment that you’re driving somewhere in Europe. We’ve sourced the best places for you to see the exciting little white fluffy stuff.

Snow season differs every year but late June to late July you’re mostly guaranteed to see some good downfall. Good thing this period falls over the school holidays! Perfect excuse to stare in amazement at the snow-capped peaks. And there’s nothing more romantic than a weekend getaway to the snowy hills. The best way to stay in the loop with snow in South Africa, is Snow Report SA. They are also active on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. If you plan a trip over the weekend, there are great farm stays in the surrounding areas.

Best Places to See Snow in The Western Cape

There are four main areas in the Western Cape that consistently receive snow: Tulbagh, Ceres, Cederberg, and Worcester.

Tulbagh is the closest to Cape Town, an hour and bit drive away. The quaint little town has beautiful Cape Dutch homesteads, tucked away between the mountains. On its outskirts lies many farms. These scenic mountains and open fields are often transformed into a white wonderland in the winter season.

Ceres is a little bit further away, just over two-hours drive. The fruitful valley produces an array of fruits. The second highest peak in the province is found here and the South African Ski Club calls it home. The reserve located outside the picturesque town is perfect for snowman building, snowball fights, skiing, and snowboarding. But if you want to truly enjoy the snow, you need a 4×4 to access it.

WHERE TO SEE THE SNOW IN WINTER IN CAPE TOWN

Also about a two-hour drive away, you can hunt the snow in the Cederberg. In the summer time the region is infamously hot and dry. But in winter it boasts with beautiful bright-blue skies and snow-capped mountains. The region’s highest peak, Sneeuberg, always has a sprinkle of snow adorning it in the winter months.

Two and a half hours away, you can enter the wine valley to view snow and lush green pastures. The wine growing region stretching from Worcester to Robertson often boasts with snowy mountains in the winter time, even if it’s only on the higher peaks. You can keep yourself busy here for hours with wine tasting, trout fishing, and historical winter walks hosted in the town.

Matroosberg Private Nature Reserve

Where: Farm Erfdeel, Matroosberg, Breede River, Ceres

www.matroosberg.com

Most of the time during snow season, this is your best bet to see snow. The Matroosberg mountain range boasts with the highest peaks in the Western Cape. In a good winter season, you can access the snow with a regular car on the lower slopes. With a 4×4 you can make your way to the higher peaks to explore the deeper snow.

Matroosberg Private Nature Reserve,Where to See the Snow in Winter in Cape Town

The reserve has its own official ski slope and hut. There’s a wide range of accommodation options available in the area, something for every budget.

Klondyke Cherry Farm

Where: Breede River, Ceres

www.cherryfarm.co.za

Situated on the other side of Ceres, this cherry farm is often powered white during winter. Sometimes it’s just the tips of the Matroosberg surrounding it, but in a good season the snow lies thick on the farm. The farm offers both camping and self-catering accommodation options.

Guinevere Guest Farm

Where: R46, Tulbagh Road, Tulbagh

www.guinevereguestfarm.com

This beautiful farm is ideal for an overnight stay on your way to the snow hunting.

Guinevere Guest Farm-Where to See the Snow in Winter in Cape Town

During high snowfall seasons you might wake up to a white wonderland, with the magnificent mountains as a backdrop. If not, you will be close enough to the other snow-rich areas a short drive from the town.

Mont Rouge

Where: Strekstroom Road, Tulbagh

www. montrouge.co.za

Another great overnight option in the Tulbagh area. It’s centrally located to offer you the best chance of driving to see the snow in the surrounding areas. Often formidable peaks surrounding the farm is snow-capped in the heart of winter.

De Wilge

Where: Robertson

www.dewilge.co.za

This guesthouse in the Nuy Valley used to be an 19th century wine cellar. It was revamped into two stunningly luxurious apartments. Looking out onto the magnificent Langeberg Mountains, it’s a great spot to celebrate your successful snowhunting endeavours.

De Pakhuys

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Pakhuis pass.

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Where: Clanwilliam

www.depakhuys.com

This spot is popular with hikers and rock climbers.  Situated 26km from Clanwilliam on the way to Wupperthal village, it’s ideal for camping or glamping.

Tucked away in the beautiful Agter-Pakhuis valley, it will give you the opportunity to savour the moment of your glorious snow hunting.

Goatherds House

Where: Matroosberg

www.matroosberg.com

It’s not every day that you get to stay in a hundred-year-old farm house. This immaculately restored humble abode is located at the foot of the Matroosberg Mountain, and it’s fitted with a few cosy comforts to heat you up during an icy winter moment.

Fairfield

Where: Ceres

www.fairfieldcottages.co.za

Easily accessible from Ceres, this lovely mountain retreat is only 6km from the town. It is nestled between orchids, at the foot of the Skurweberg Mountains. Perfect spot to stay after you’ve visited the Matroosberg Private Nature Reserve.

Seven Oaks Vineyard Cottages

Where: Worcester

www.sevenoaksvineyardcottages.co.za

These self-catering cottages are situated on a 63-hectare active wine farm. Located in the Breede River Valley, the little cosy cottages offer you glorious mountain views.

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5 of the Best Ways to See Whales around Cape Town_
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5 of the Best Ways to See Whales around Cape Town

When words like breaching, fluking, spouting and spyhopping, can be heard around Cape Town, it means it’s whale season. From June to November, Southern Right Whales enter Cape Town waters – their 60-ton, barnacle-covered bodies can be seen frolicking not far from the coastline where they come to breed and calf each year on their annual migration from Antarctica. Between May and November it’s the turn of Humpback whales who have for millennia made the journey from the polar region to the Cape of Storm where they court and give birth before setting out with their young to Mozambique and Madagascar. Whale season in Cape Town is as exciting for locals and tourists as it is for the whales, so we’ve picked five of the best ways to see whales around Cape Town.

  1. Simon’s Town Boat Company

Little more than a thirty minute drive from Cape Town’s city centre, historic Simon’s Town is one of the best places to whale-watch. Simon’s Town Boat Company is happy to help with a number of sea tours and boat charters – definitely the best way to experience the beautiful False Bay coast that stretches from Strandfontein all the way to Cape Point where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet. The area, tucked away from the open ocean and surrounded by sheltering mountains at the southern tip of Africa, is an ideal winter home for whales. You might be lucky enough to see them from the shoreline or you can get a closer view of these gentle giants in their natural habitat by setting out on one of four custom-designed vessels, skippered by highly qualified crew and your very own expert tour guide. Keep an eye out for other ocean visitors like Humpbacks, Orcas and dolphins.

boatcompany.co.za

Facebook: @boatcompany

Brooders Whale watching IN Cape Town Top 5 Ways To Watch Whales

  1. Ocean Wonder

Ocean Wonder offers boat-based ocean wildlife encounters, guided by Paul Lipschitz and his knowledge of the Table Bay area and the creatures who live in it, whether whales, dolphins, penguins, sun fish or seals. These guided trips take you wherever the ocean giants can be reached – and along the way, you’ll be enchanted by the facts and stories Paul can tell you, about the ocean’s wildlife and the breathtaking habitat they call home. The boat is a 7.2 meter Ballistic semi-rigid inflatable (SRI), certified by the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) for use as a commercial charter boat. You can expect an exciting and comfortable ride that can accommodate 11 passengers.

oceanwonder.co.za

Facebook: @oceanwondercapetown

5 of the Best Ways to See Whales around Cape Town - Dyer Island -Cruises-01

  1. Dyer Island Cruises

Dyer Island Cruises is based in Gansbaai, a two-hour drive from Cape Town. The area surrounding Dyer Island and “Shark Alley” is the world renowned home of the Marine Big 5. Depending on the time of year, you can see whales, dolphins, seals, African Penguins and Great White Sharks – sometimes in a single trip! Peak season is July to December, and Southern Right Whales are prolific between August and November.

Dyer Island Cruises’ marine tour guides know this area like the back of their hand and are not only extremely knowledgeable about all things ocean, but are also keen to ensure that your trip is as enjoyable as it possibly can be onboard the Dreamcatcher – a 5-star, custom-built whale-watching vessel.

Whalewatchsa.com

Facebook: @WhaleWatchSA

5 of the Best Ways to See Whales around Cape Town - Dyer Island -Cruises - 03

  1. Southern Right Charters

Southern Right Charters’ purpose-built catamaran “Miroshca”, is a great way to experience the marine playground of Hermanus. This area hosts most of the Southern Right Whales that visit the South African coastline. Humpback and Brydes Whales are also a common sight, along with many other marine creatures. Tours leave from the Hermanus’s New Harbour – dubbed the “Capital of the Cape Whale Coast” – and head out to Walker Bay, one of the best whale-watching areas in the world.

Southern Right Charters describes itself as a “progressive, environmentally-sensitive company that operates according to the ‘Observing NOT Disturbing’ principle’, which puts the safety and conservation of whales and marine life first”.

The charter company also offers on-land facilities at New Harbour. The Whale Shack on the water’s edge has refreshments, WiFi and free internet access, a DVD pre-viewing area, local crafts and souvenirs, as well as regular whale sightings in peak season.

Southernrightcharters.co.za

Facebook: @HermanusWhaleWatching

5 of the Best Ways to See Whales around Cape Town - Hermanus Land Based Whale Watching

  1. Hermanus

Hermanus – rated one of the top 12 whale-watching locations in the world by the World Wildlife Fund – offers not only boat charters, but opportunities to view the whales from land, for those who’d prefer not to get their feet wet. Since the whales often come within metres of the shoreline, a number of viewing terraces have been set up at the Old Harbour and Gearings Point. One the unique experiences of whale season is the Whale Crier – who blows on a traditional kelp horn to alert locals and tourists to the presence of whales. If you’re able to visit in August, you can experience the Kalfiefees(the Calving Festival) or wait for the first week of October when the seaside town hosts its annual whale festival—a unique event to welcome the whales home, and celebration all things cetacean.

hermanustourism.info

Facebook: @hermanustourism

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restaurants with fireplaces in Cape Town
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Baby It’s Cold Outside: 10 Restaurants with Fireplaces in Cape Town

Cape Town is well known for its unpredictable weather, and winter is no exception. From rainy days to summer-like warmth, venturing out for a meal can be a challenge. After experiencing four seasons in one day, these restaurants will draw you in with cosy fireplaces and delicious food.  There’s something for every taste bud. From high tea, to burgers and three-course meals – escape the winter chill at one of these amazing restaurants.

Top 10 List sourced from the exciting new Dineplan app

#1 High Tea at Truth

Steam punk mixed with high tea seems like an unlikely pairing, but Truth effortlessly fuses the two to create a unique and fun experience. High tea options include a Classic non-alcoholic version for R360, Pol Roger Champagne High Tea for R480, or Pol Roger Winston Churchill Champagne High Tea for R990. Everything is served in three different courses prepared by French-born chef Kamal Hamzaoui, starting with the Amuse Bouche, followed by the Café Course, and finishing off with Le Grande Révélation.

Your choice from an entire selection of Single Origin and Nigiro Teas are perfectly paired with nine different Petit Fours including a chocolate éclair, cream scone with homemade jam, or a smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwich. With its edgy vibe and inventive taste combinations, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.

High Tea: Sunday 1 pm and Monday—Saturday 3 pm-5 pm

36 Buitenkant Street | Cape Town | +27 (0) 200-0440 | za.truth.coffee/pages/high-tea

#2 Homage 1862

Homage isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an immersive dining experience. The handmade crockery, dining tables made out of salvaged ceiling wood, and plants on the wall accentuate the warm ambiance. With a large wood fireplace located in the open space and comfortable, retro furniture it feels like you have been transported back in time.

The menu features flame-grilled South African favorites combined with Asian undertones to create small plates. With an attentive staff and seasonal menu, Homage creates a unique and delicious experience. A secluded area is located upstairs and is the perfect place for cocktail hour. The music and comfortable furniture create a relaxed atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.

Hours: Tuesday 12pm-4pm, Wednesday to Saturday 11:30am-11:30 pm, closed Sunday & Monday

168 Loop Street | Cape Town City Centre | +27 (0) 422-0900 | www.facebook.com/homage.1862/

#3 Aubergine Restaurant

The eclectic restaurant has simple décor yet sophisticated vibes. German chef and owner Harald Bresselschmidt prepares innovative dishes with Eastern and Western influences that combine fresh, local ingredients sourced directly from farmers and trusted suppliers with seasonal flavors.

Dishes include lunch, dinner, and vegetarian options with either an A la Carte or Degustation Menu with optional wine pairing. Offering hand-selected local and international wines that are sure to compliment your entrée, Aubergine is all about creating a unique and sensory dining experience.

Lunch: Wednesday to Friday (October to April) 12noon-2pm

Dinner: Monday to Saturday (closed two Mondays per month) 6pm-10pm

39 Barnet Street | Gardens | Cape Town | +27 (0) 465-0000 | www.aubergine.co.za

#4 Lou Lou’s Bar

Classy, trendy, and unique—all three words perfectly capture Lou Lou’s bar. Whether you’re stopping by for an after-work drink, a night out with friends, or a romantic evening with your partner – you’re greeted with good vibes and a welcoming atmosphere. The dim lighting, golden accents, and leather-back booths transports you to a simple, happy time.

The fresh and flavourful food is hand-crafted to bring a new-age take on tapas, fusing Asian, Italian, and contemporary cuisines. After dinner, the music gets louder and the party vibe is pumped up. With unique food and great drinks, the fun vibe escalates on Friday and Saturday nights with “Dinner and Dance.” A live DJ plays some of your favourite oldies, blues, jazz, and dance music to get you bobbing to the beats.

Hours: Monday to Saturday 11am-2am; Sunday closed

10 Jarvis Street | Green Point | Cape Town | +27 (0) 418-0015 | www.loulous.co.za

#5 Rick’s Café Américain

 

Looking to have a comfortable meal out? With three open fireplaces and Moroccan-themed decor inspired by the film Casablanca, Rick’s is a great homey spot. No matter what your dietary preferences might be—vegetarian, omnivore, or straight-up carnivore—you’re sure to find a meal you love with Rick’s eclectic menu options and warm atmosphere.

With its vibrant, happy atmosphere and 600 different beverage options the bar is ranked among one of the top drinking spots in Cape Town. From wines to whiskies, beers to cocktails, aperitifs to brandies, and more than 30 different types of tequila in between Rick’s has something for everyone.

Hours: Monday to Saturday 11am- 2am; Sundays closed

2 Park Road | Gardens | Cape Town | +27 (0) 424-1100 | www.rickscafe.co.za

 

#6 Toni’s on Kloof

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Color and flowers. #simple #decor #colour #entrance

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Enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine and cooking at this local favourite spot. The relaxed and warm atmosphere create a comfortable environment to dine with friends and family. The vibrant yellow and blue traditional Portuguese colours paint the outside of the restaurant and accent the decor inside.

Consistent and loyal Portuguese dishes, made on order with quality, fresh ingredients are created with great care and passion. Enjoy local favourites such as Peri-Peri Chicken, Mozambican Curries, Feijoada, Prawn Rissoles, Portuguese Seafood Rice, and many more.

Hours: Monday to Sunday 12 pm-3 pm, 6pm-11 pm

88 Kloof St | Tamboerskloof | Cape Town | +27 (0) 423-7617  | www.tonis.co.za

#7 Den Anker Bar & Restaurant

The spectacular setting in the V&A Waterfront offers unparalleled views through floor-to-ceiling windows. With exceptional seafood creatively prepared it makes it easy to understand why Den Anker has been around for over 24 years. Tasty local South African specialties, which change weekly, give visitors and locals alike a wonderful and fresh experience. Their menus are centred around local, seasonal foods and offer specialties such as fresh crayfish, imported shrimp, foie gras brûlée, and decadent chocolate desserts.

Paying homage to their roots, the Den Anker Bar has six different imported Belgian beers, imported from small breweries and ensuring many different flavours and styles. These are brewed on tap and include De Koninck, Vedett Extra White, Liefmans Fruitesse, La Chouffe, Maredsous Blond, and the exclusively brewed Anker beer made in Lochristi by Den Anker’s Belgian founder, Denis Bouckaert. With one of a kind tastes, friendly and attentive staff, and picturesque views, your experience at Den Anker is sure to be unforgettable.

Hours: Monday to Sunday 11 am-10 pm

Pierhead | V&A Waterfront | Cape Town | +27 (0) 419-0249 | www.denanker.co.za

#8 Life Grand Cafe Waterfront

With the motto, “Food you want to leave home for. Food you feel at home with.” you get a sense of what the Life Grand Café is all about. Its intriguing design and open, bright space creates a decadent dining experience.  Inside you’ll find a salad bar, crudo bar, coffee bar, and cocktail bar which offers a variety of creative and interesting cocktails, such as the Love Potion and Youth Elixir.

The menu offers over 100 entrees, ranging from Mediterranean-style food to classic entrees with a twist – all prepared in a wood-burning oven. With five fireplaces and beautiful views of the vibrant Waterfront Pier, it is an ideal location for great food and a warm atmosphere.

Hours:  Monday to Sunday 7am-11pm

2 Pierhead Road | V&A Waterfront |Cape Town | +27 (0) 205-1902 | www.facebook.com/lifegrandcafesa/

 

#9 Dash Restaurant & Bar

Reportedly named after the Queen’s favourite pet, Dash offers panoramic views of Table Mountain and a live pianist during dinner from Tuesday through to Saturday. Although it sits in the Queen Victoria Hotel, the restaurant and bar are open to the public. With a menu that changes every few weeks and a dedicated chef, you are sure to have a unique and exquisite dining experience every time you visit.

Looking for a place to have drinks after work? The bar at Dash, with its signature royal purple bar stools, offers an extensive selection of single malt whiskies and wines. Mirror ceilings reflect the double-sided fireplace and remarkable artwork, surrounding you with feelings of warmth and elegance.

Hours: Monday to Sunday 6:30am- 10:30pm

Queen Victoria Hotel | V&A Waterfront | Cape Town | +27 (0) 418-1466 | newmarkhotels.com/places/restaurants/dash/

 

#10 The Stud Burger & Saloon

Enjoy great vibes, good music, and delicious burgers at this trendy bar and burger spot. With a focus on gourmet burgers and grills plus true dedication to their mantra “preparing quality food,” this eatery is a great local favourites. Creative themed dishes add to the relaxed and fun environment.

There is something for everyone at The Stud Burger & Saloon with great vegetarian and vegan burger options as well. Complement your burger with one of the wide range of craft beers on tap, bottled beers and ciders, or a glass of red or white wine. Stay warm at a table inside near the fire and enjoy the view of the vibrant Woodstock street life.

Hours: Monday to Saturday 12pm-4pm, Sunday 4pm-11pm

Happy Hour: 6pm to 7pm Tuesdays & Thursdays

76 Roodebloem Road | Woodstock | Cape Town | +27 (0) 447-4613 | www.facebook.com/thestudburgersaloon/

How We Discovered Our Top 10 Restaurants with Fireplaces in Cape Town

 

Dineplan was launched on December the 1st, 2012. In 2011, Greg Whitfield and Martin Rose, started dreaming about creating software that would revolutionize the South African restaurant industry. They went to school together and with their solid friendship as foundation, they started an exciting entrepreneurial journey together.

The dynamic duo approached local restaurants to find out more about their reservation needs. From their finding they created software to help manage bookings. Restaurants across the country use their innovative system, from the Cape Peninsula to Phalaborwa.

After six years of finetuning the reservation system, they launched the Dineplan app in early 2018. They already have access to the behind the scenes booking information and can now offer dining patrons the ability to tap into this information and make instant bookings at the Dineplan restaurants. Restaurant lovers can pick and choose from 1000’s of Dineplan restaurant users.

Using the Dineplan App

 

If you are looking for restaurants with a specific feature, Dineplan has categorized their vast database. Choose between a variety of filters including cuisine, price, attributes, and rating. The attribute options range from child friendly, romantic, and great views to sunsets, serves Halaal, and pet friendly.

Step 1: Select a Location

You can either use your current location or type in the city/suburb

Step 2: Access filters

Click on the menu icon at the top right

Step 3: Select Attributes

Click on the filter option to categorize the results

Download the app now on the iTunes or GooglePlay store

 

 

 

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