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13 Best Affordable Restaurants in Cape Town with a View to Remember
Cape Town’s food scene spoiled me with many irresistible choices. On every visit, I would look for a food spot to enjoy a delicious meal with a view that could rival any postcard.
One time I ate my favorite morning toast while gazing through the Atlantic’s endless blue. It’s magical!
Whether you’re a traveler on a budget or a foodie seeking unforgettable views, Cape Town has something special for you. Let me take you to the best spots where you can feast your eyes and taste buds without blowing your budget.
The Brass Bell
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Address: Main Rd, Kalk Bay
Contact Number: +27 21 788 5455
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 10 PM
- Weekends – 7 AM to 11:30 PM
Pricing: R100-R150
Once a bathing pavilion and pool, The Brass Bell is now a restaurant with a scenic seaside view. Located across False Bay, the Kalk Bay mountains, and the working Kalk Bay Harbour, it’s Kalk Bay’s go-to food spot for locals and tourists.
Their menu is seafood-focused, with dishes largely inspired by the coastal location. However, there are also dishes besides seafood and pizza on the menu.
| Pro tips: The restaurant gets busy. Book at least 24 hours in advance to secure your spot. Also, make a reservation if you’re planning to visit during peak hours. Their fish and chips are a crowd favorite. For R145, you’ll get a full portion, which is an amazing deal. |
Harbour House Waterfront
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Address: V&A Waterfront, Quay Four, Dock Rd
Contact Number: +27 21 418 4744
Business Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12 NN to 11 PM
Pricing:
- Meal: R100-R200
- Beverages: R80-R120
Get a more modern and elegant feel at Harbour House Waterfront. You get the perfect dining experience while looking at Cape Town’s harbor and Table Mountain.
When my friends and I visit here, we always order the seafood platter. It consists of fresh fish and shellfish from the dock—all perfect for sharing. But if you’re craving meat, I recommend their gourmet burgers and steaks.
| Pro tip: The restaurant offers unique and inventive cocktails, such as Crazy Cranbucha. Worth R118, it’s an eccentric mix of vodka, lime, cranberry juice, and kombucha. Pair it with their prawn kiss for a refreshing, flavorful experience. |
Tiger’s Milk Camps Bay
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Address: 33 Victoria Rd, Camps Bay
Contact Number: +27 21 137 1850
Business Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11 AM to 12 AM
- Friday to Sunday – 9 AM to 12 AM
Pricing: R150-R250
Tiger’s Milk has many locations around the city, but its Camps Bay branch has the finest view yet. Perfect for socializing, the restaurant did a fantastic job of combining a quirky and classy vibe in its dining environment.
Their menu here is jam-packed. However, their burgers, particularly Triple Bypass, caught my interest because of their generous portions and crazy toppings. You can savor the sharp tang of the cheese, complemented by the juicy bacon and creamy homemade truffle mushroom sauce.
| Pro tip: Get three different burger sliders for just R155! The Triple Threat Tiger Sliders include the Evil Twin, Rockstar, and Smash That Chicken in one order. It’s a fantastic deal for anyone craving a variety of flavors without breaking the bank! |
Blowfish Restaurant
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Address: 1 Marine Dr, Bloubergstrand
Contact Number: +27 21 556 5464
Business Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 11 PM
Pricing: R150-R200
Located at the Dolphin Beach Hotel, Blowfish Restaurant you can eat while looking at Table Mountain and the bay. It’s the best, especially during sunset, since the views are breathtaking.
I enjoyed their spicy, creamy Szechuan calamari. After I bit into its crispy coating, I found a delightful chewy interior. The spicy Japanese mayo added a rich, creamy texture and fiery kick.
A kiddie menu is also available here.
| Pro tip: Enjoy selected sushi items at half-price on Wednesdays and Sundays. Make sure to visit from 4 PM to 9 PM so you won’t miss this great deal! |
Den Anker
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Address: Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Contact Number: +27 21 419 0249
Business Hours:
- Monday to Sunday -11 AM to 10:30 PM
If you want a taste of Belgium with stunning views, you can get it at Den Anker. Dining here is a sophisticated affair, with a picturesque view of Table Mountain and the harbor. The harborside terrace is perfect for enjoying Belgian beers and seafood dishes.
One of my favorites is their Moules Marinieres—succulent mussels cooked to perfection. Combining hearty mussels with crispy fries makes it a comforting meal that’s irresistible.
| Pro tips: I would suggest dining on the terrace if the weather permits. The fresh air and beautiful views add to the serene experience. Den Anker also specializes in Belgian beer, which includes De Koninck and La Chouffe. Don’t be afraid to ask your server for recommendations about which beer pairs best with your meal. |
Dunes Beach Restaurant & Bar
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Address: 1 Beach Cres, Scott Estate, Hout Bay
Contact Number: +27 21 790 1876
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 10 PM
- Weekends and public holidays – 9 AM – 10 PM
Pricing: R150-R300
Dunes Beach Restaurant & Bar is somewhere I go when I’m craving grilled seafood. Plus, its terrace offers tranquil views!
As a meat lover, I always order their sirloin steak, served with herb butter, roasted vegetables, and chips and paired with a glass of cocktail.
Their Kingklip is another crowd favorite. It’s a local white-fleshed fish, lightly grilled and topped with lemon butter sauce.
| Pro tips: Arrive early to secure a table with a view. Especially on weekends, the restaurant can get busy. Aside from the view, the terrace would be an amazing spot to enjoy the ocean breeze. |
Sundoo South Indian Tapas Bar in Sea Point
Address: 77 Regent Rd, Sea Point
Contact Number: +27 21 300 5779
Business Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12 NN to 10:45 PM
Pricing:
- Lunch: R90-R180
- Tapas: R60-R160
For tapas and Indian food, Sundoo South Indian Tapas Bar is the perfect place. This South Indian restaurant focuses on small plates or tapas-style dishes.
My favorite is their wok-fried squid with lime, coriander, and green chili sauce. The combination of heat, citrus, and fresh herbs left a lasting impression on my palette.
You can also find Sundoo South Indian Tapas Bar in Newlands and Woodstock.
| Pro tip: Tapas-style dining is the best way to share many dishes with your group. You can also enjoy traditional Indian drinks like lassi and their local craft beer. |
On The Rocks
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Address: 45 Stadler Rd, Bloubergstrand
Contact Number: +27 21 554 1988
Business Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 10 PM
Pricing: R150-R350
Cape Town’s beloved restaurant, On the Rocks, is celebrated for its elegant atmosphere. With indoor and outdoor seating that provides breathtaking views of Table Bay and Table Mountain, the restaurant’s design offers a welcoming environment suitable for families, couples, and groups.
Their menu has local and international dishes, including kudu filet, seafood bisque, and Cape Malay curry. Their grilled salmon is by far the bestseller. There’s a slight crispiness to the skin, and the flesh is tender and flaky, while its natural oils deliver a buttery flavor.
| Pro tip: Want to enjoy a stunning sunset view? Arrive early morning because the views are breathtaking during this time. |
Ons Huisie
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Address: Stadler Rd, Bloubergstrand
Contact Number: +27 21 554 1553
Business Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM
Pricing: R150-R250
Classic seafood dishes served in a historic beachside house are yours to enjoy at Ons Huisie Restaurant. Initially built as a small beach cottage, the establishment continues to celebrate Cape Town’s heritage and culture. This restaurant holds a special place in my heart because I can see Robben Island from afar.
My personal favorite here is hake and chips. It’s a deep-fried hake, battered to golden perfection, and served with crispy chips. Plus, the tartar sauce and a slice of lemon in the dish add a fresh, tangy contrast.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss the local favorites. Dishes like West Coast potjie, beef bobotie, or malva pudding add a rich cultural experience to your trip, making your journey through South Africa more memorable. |
Wang Thai
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Address: Lagoon Beach
Contact Number: +27 21 551 6684
Business Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12 NN to 9 PM
Pricing: R150-R300
Craving for Southeast Asian dishes in Cape Town? Look no further than Wang Thai, a vibrant celebration of Thai cuisine. You can find authentic Thai dishes crafted with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
The curries have a balance of flavors—spicy, sweet, sour, and savory. Geang Panaeng curry is the crowd favorite here because it’s creamy with a bold red hue from the red chili paste.
| Pro tip: If you’re not into spicy flavors, you can always ask for recommendations on the spice level and request adjustments based on your preference. You can also order takeout and enjoy your food at home. |
The Melkbos Kitchen
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Address: 47 5th Ave, Melkbosstrand
Contact Number: +27 21 001 8210
Business Hours:
- Monday & Wednesday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Thursday to Sunday – 10 AM to 9 PM
Pricing: R150-R200
When I think of a charming restaurant, The Melkbos Kitchen comes to mind. It’s known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful ocean views. This spot caters to every palate with a diverse menu, including vegan-friendly dishes.
For me, the prawn toast is the perfect appetizer. It has a layer of finely minced prawns spread over slices of bread. Its crunchy exterior and succulent prawn topping made it a delight.
| Pro tip: The Melkbos Kitchen is located in a residential area with strict zoning restrictions. Check the closing times and plan your last food and drink orders accordingly. |
The Lighthouse Cafe
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Address: 90 St George’s St, Simon’s Town
Contact Number: +27 87 700 6421
Business Hours:
- Sunday & Monday – 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday – 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Pricing:
- Meal: R50-R135
- Beverage: R13-R30
The Lighthouse Cafe is my go-to cafe in Simon’s Town. I love staying here for the cozy and welcoming atmosphere, which is excellent for casual dining throughout the day.
The mussels are my favorite dish. They prepared it in a way that emphasized its natural sweetness and brightness.
| Pro tip: If you plan to visit in the morning, try their sweet corn fritter stack for breakfast. Its well-rounded flavor profile and satisfying textures are the reasons patrons love it. |
Rockpool
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Address: 205 Beach Rd, Sea Point
Contact Number: +27 21 433 1530
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Weekends – 9 AM to 11 PM
Pricing: R100 to R150
Do you want a view of the Atlantic Ocean? You can have it in Rockpool! Also, you can enjoy their beach bar with outdoor tables, local beer, and homemade pizza.
The breakfast menu is very tasty here. Crowd favorites like eggs Benedict and smashed avocado on toast are the best ways to start your day.
| Pro tip: Rockpool has a fully-stocked bar with reasonably priced cocktails that are worth trying. |
