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The Best Affordable Restaurants in Cape Town That Don’t Compromise Taste
As someone who’s spent countless weekends exploring Cape Town’s food scene, I’ve found that some of the best meals don’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
Cape Town may be known for its top-tier fine dining, but it’s also home to some hidden gems where you can enjoy fantastic food without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or a hearty meal, here’s my list of the best affordable restaurants in town that are sure to satisfy both your taste buds and your wallet. Why not give them a try?
Aiko Sushi
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Website: https://aikosushi.co.za/
Address: 4 Bree Street
Phone: +27 21 418 0064
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
When I have a sushi craving but want to stick to a budget, I head to one of the three Aiko Sushi spots in Cape Town. Their à la carte menu has items like 6 pieces of maki for R85, 3 pieces of nigiri for R85, and 8 pieces of California rolls for R95.
However, the all-you-can-eat option at R199 offers great value if you want to try a variety of dishes without worrying about the cost. It’s a smart choice for enjoying sushi while keeping the bill affordable.
| Pro Tip: Don’t overindulge, as you’ll be charged for any uneaten sushi left on your plate. |
Arnold’s
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Website: https://www.arnolds.co.za/
Address: 60 Kloof St, Gardens
Phone: +27 21 424 4344
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 6:30 AM to 10 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 7 PM to 10 PM
For over 25 years, Arnold’s has been a Kloof Street favourite, offering hearty breakfasts at great prices. I personally enjoy their breakfast special, featuring two eggs with bacon, sausage, and toast, which is a bargain at just R35.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit fancier, their eggs Benedict and buttery croissants are worth trying. Plus, they serve breakfast all day and have a wide-ranging lunch and dinner menu.
| Pro Tip: Make sure to take advantage of their daily R49 cocktail special from 2 PM to 6 PM. |
Borruso’s
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Website: https://www.borrusos.pizza/
Address: 2 Mains Ave, Kenilworth
Phone: +27 21 761 5822
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 5 PM to 10 PM
Whenever I stop by Borruso’s, I’m always struck by the warm and inviting ambience. It’s no surprise that the place is bustling every night, even without a reservation.
While they offer pasta and salads, I keep going back for their thin-based, wood-fired pizzas. Although the wine selection isn’t extensive, I’m happy to bring my own bottle since there’s no corkage fee.
| Pro Tip: Arrive before 7 PM to avoid the rush, as tables can be hard to come by after this time. |
Café Extrablatt
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Website: https://www.cafe-extrablatt.co.za/
Address: Exhibition Building, Green Point
Phone: +27 21 434 3759
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 9 AM to 1 AM
- Friday & Saturday – 9 AM to 2 AM
Café Extrablatt serves a wide range of dishes, from simple baked potatoes to hearty eisbein (corned ham hock) and seafood platters. Their dishes and the weekend breakfast buffet are priced under R200.
I’m a big fan of their Happy Hour from Monday to Friday when cocktails are just R25 and jumbos are R30. The weekly specials are fantastic too! I love the two-for-one burgers on Wednesdays and the two 30 cm pizzas for R199.90 on Mondays.
| Pro Tip: Consider utilising the free parking available across the street. However, if you’re looking for a greener option or just want to enjoy a leisurely stroll, the MyCity Greenpoint Stop is conveniently located just a short walk away. |
Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room
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Website: https://www.clarkesdining.co.za/
Address: 133 Bree Street
Phone: +27 87 470 0165
Operating Hours:
- Monday – 7 AM to 4 PM
- Tuesday to Friday – 7 AM to 10 PM
- Saturday – 8 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 8 AM to 3 PM
Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room is my go-to for a satisfying burger, with options starting at R90. The beef burgers come with a juicy patty nestled in a buttery brioche bun.
Their soup is hearty and comforting, and the grilled cheese sandwich has a crispy crust with gooey melted cheese that’s simply irresistible. I also love their breakfast specials before 9 AM; they come with two farm eggs on toast and coffee for just R45.
| Pro Tip: If you’re a digital nomad, grab a seat early and take advantage of free Wi-Fi while enjoying your meal. |
Dunes Beach Restaurant
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Website: https://www.dunesrestaurant.co.za/
Address: 1 Beach Cres, Scott Estate
Phone: +27 21 790 1876
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 10 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 10 PM
Just a few steps from the beach in Hout Bay, Dunes Beach Restaurant is one of my go-to spots. While tourists often flock to the pricier restaurants at Mariner’s Wharf nearby, I love the generous portions and kid-friendly atmosphere here.
With meal prices starting at R45, it’s a great deal considering the stunning views you get with your fish and chips, wood-fired pizzas, or hearty grills. Plus, there’s even a sushi bar and a wine list featuring excellent local estates at reasonable prices.
| Pro Tips: Make sure to reserve an outdoor table to enjoy the stunning views of Hout Bay Beach.Opt for a meal during sunset to witness the breathtaking scenery as you savour contemporary seafood dishes. |
Eastern Food Bazaar
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/easternfoodbazaarct/
Address: 96 Longmarket Street
Phone: +27 21 461 2458
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 10 AM to 9 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 10 AM to 9:30 PM
If you’re like me and prefer saving a bit of cash over dining in style, this canteen-style spot in the city centre is perfect. There are a few tables if you want to eat in, but most people grab their food to go.
The bustling kitchens churn out everything from Cape biryanis to Turkish kebabs. However, I always go for the traditional Durban bunny chow (a half-loaf of bread stuffed with curry) for its rich, spicy curry that seeps into the bread.
| Pro Tip: Consider visiting before 12 PM or after 1:30 PM. This way, you’ll sidestep the busy lunchtime crowd typically made up of office workers. |
Life Grand Cafe
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Website: https://www.lifegrandcafe.com/restaurants/v-a-waterfront
Address: 2 Pierhead Road, V&A Waterfront
Phone: +27 21 205 1902
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 11 AM to 10:30 PM
Life Grand Café, right on the harbour’s edge, offers stunning views and a stylish interior with a lovely veranda by the water. While not everything on the menu is budget-friendly, you can still find affordable options like the oysters for R70 or a salad for R80.
I often choose the linguine for R128, which is good for sharing but I can’t resist finishing on my own. Plus, the large glass of Franschhoek Cellar white wine at R50 is a great value. It’s practically half a bottle!
| Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask for a cosy blanket from the staff to enhance your comfort as you dine and enjoy the cool ocean breeze. |
Kalky’s
Media from kalkys_restaurant
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kalkys.seafood/
Address: Kalk Bay Harbour
Phone: +27 21 788 1726
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 10 AM to 7 PM
If you’re after seafood with a view and good prices, I recommend Kalky’s. It’s a no-frills spot where you order at the counter, find a wooden table with a view of False Bay, and wait for your number to be called.
I always go for the snoek; it has a mildly smoky flavour that pairs really well with the crispy chips. If I’m in the mood for something extra, I upgrade to prawns, which are nicely seasoned, or try the seasonal line fish for a fresh, subtly sweet taste.
| Pro Tip: Visit in summer to enjoy some of the most affordable crayfish in town. |
Maria’s Greek Café
Media from mariasgreekcafe
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MariasGreekCafe/
Address: 31 Barnet St, Gardens
Phone: +27 21 461 3333
Operating Hours:
- Monday – 11 AM to 10 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday- 8:30 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM
When I visit Maria’s Greek Café, I love how the tables spill out onto the leafy pavements. It creates a relaxed, outdoor vibe that’s perfect on a warm summer evening.
The menu is reasonably priced, and I’ve always enjoyed the Mediterranean dishes there. The chicken souvlaki, at R68, stands out with its tender, marinated meat and a tangy, herb-infused sauce that adds a refreshing kick.
| Pro Tip: While the starter-sized mezethes are great, they can become pricey, so consider ordering a generous main course instead. |
Mariam’s Kitchen
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Website: https://mariamskitchen.com/
Address: 31 Heerengracht St, Foreshore
Phone: +27 21 421 3636
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 4 PM
I’ve visited Mariam’s Kitchen several times, and it’s clear why this family-run spot has been a local favourite for generations.
The menu offers a range of options, from toasted sandwiches to curry salomies (flaky flatbread). However, the Gatsby (R120) stands out. It’s a foot-long sandwich packed with steak, chips, and salad, and it’s the dish that really put Mariam’s on the map.
| Pro Tip: Take advantage of their convenient online store for a hassle-free experience. You can easily place your orders from the comfort of your home and enjoy their delicious offerings delivered right to your doorstep. |
Primi
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Website: https://primi-world.co.za/
Address: Shop 7226, Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre, Breakwater Blvd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Phone: +27 21 419 8750
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 12 PM to 10 PM
Primi is a laid-back, urban restaurant known for its steaks, burgers, pastas, and pizzas. I enjoy visiting the Waterfront location because you get a nice view of Granger Bay and Robben Island.
From my experience, the prices are reasonable: the Tuscan chicken flatbread is R95, the carbonara is R78, and the Primi beef burger is about R98.
| Pro Tip: Enhance your dining experience by taking a ride on The Cape Wheel. It’s a fantastic way to digest that delicious meal while soaking in panoramic views of Cape Town’s skyline and the Atlantic Seaboard. |
Tasha’s
Media from tashascafe
Website: https://www.tashascafe.com/
Address: Shop 7117, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Phone: +27 21 421 4350
Operating Hours:
- Monday & Sunday – 8:30 AM to 9 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday – 8:30 AM to 10 PM
Tasha’s is a budget-friendly South African chain that’s great for lunch or dinner. I’ve only been to the Waterfront branch, but I really enjoy its light and airy atmosphere.
Tapas range from R42 to R66 each, and the beer-battered cauliflower is a tasty choice. For a filling meal, the whole peri peri chicken and chips is a great value at around R120, with enough portions for leftovers.
| Pro Tip: Take advantage of the restaurant’s pet-friendly policy and make your dining experience a memorable one with your furry friend by your side. |
The Poké Co
Media from thepokeco.za
Website: https://www.pokecoct.com/
Address: Ground Floor – Shop 3, The Point, 76 Regent Rd, Sea Point
Phone: +27 87 701 9692
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 8 AM to 9 PM
- Thursday – 8 AM to 8:30 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM
At The Poké Co., eating healthily on a budget is surprisingly easy. They serve satisfying bowls with rice and various vegetables, paired with your choice of fish, meat, or vegan options.
I’ve enjoyed their healthy breakfasts too, and everything starts at a budget-friendly R99. From my experience, choosing the local line-caught tuna over the imported salmon is a smart move. It’s a better value for your protein needs!
| Pro Tip: Grab a takeaway and enjoy it while strolling along the nearby Sea Point promenade. |
Quay Four Tavern
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Website: https://quay4.co.za/
Address: Quay, 4 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Phone: +27 21 419 2008
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 8:30 AM to 11 PM
Quay Four is a harbourside seafood spot I love for its relaxed vibe and occasional live bands. The restaurant has two areas: the more affordable downstairs section and the elegant upstairs area where you pay a bit more for those stunning views.
I often choose downstairs where you can snag great deals like sirloin steak and chips, fish and chips, or spatchcock chicken for R129. Plus, you can get a kilogram of prawns for R299, a huge seafood platter for R295, or 6 oysters with a glass of bubbles for R149
| Pro Tip: For an electrifying evening, make sure to visit on a Tuesday night. Starting at 7 PM, the venue comes alive with the Battle of the Bands, showcasing a variety of local talent. |
