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12 Best Outdoor Restaurants in Cape Town: Amazing Views to Dine Under
Eating in a restaurant is always nice, but there’s something special about dining outdoors and soaking in nature. It just hits differently.
I once had a meal near the beach, and while the food was tasty, the sunset stole the show. The sound of the waves and the grilled seafood platter made it a moment to remember.
If that sounds like your kind of vibe, you’re in luck. I’ve put together a list of outdoor spots in Cape Town where you can enjoy good food and a great view. Give them a try. You won’t regret it!
Azure Restaurant
Media From: 12apostleshotel
Address: Queen Victoria St, Oudekraal (Nature Reserve)
Phone: +27 214 379 000
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Website: https://12apostleshotel.com/dining-and-drinks/the-azure-restaurant
Price Range: $$
Let’s kick things off with Azure Restaurant, one of Cape Town’s gems. Perched on Table Mountain, it offers incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and Lion’s Head. The setting is unforgettable, with the ocean stretching out before you.
I tried their Fish of the Day, a grilled kingklip for R325. The fish was buttery and tender, and the fresh sea breeze made the meal even better. With those sweeping views, it’s an experience worth trying.
| Pro Tip: Wrap up your meal with the double-baked cheesecake. Its rich, creamy texture and just-right sweetness make it a satisfying finish. Enjoy it while soaking in the ocean view. It’s the perfect way to end the experience! |
Bistro Sixteen82
Media From: thewinehustler
Address: Steenberg Rd, Tokai
Phone: +27 212 053 866
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Website: https://www.steenbergfarm.com/
Price Range: $$
Bistro Sixteen82 is tucked away in the Constantia Valley Winelands inside the Steenberg Estate. Surrounded by lush gardens and framed by the stunning Steenberg Mountain, the bistro offers a peaceful and picturesque spot to enjoy a meal.
When I dined there, the experience was truly relaxing, with lush gardens and soothing water features setting the perfect vibe.
The beef tataki, priced at R160, stole the show—seared to perfection and paired with a tangy ponzu sauce.
| Pro Tip: Pair your meal with Steenberg Estate’s sauvignon blanc. Its fresh, zesty lemon zest and gooseberry notes make it a great match for the fresh, local ingredients at Bistro Sixteen82. |
Brass Bell
Media From: brassbellkalkbay
Address: Main Rd, Kalk Bay
Phone: +27 217 885 455
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Friday – 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
- Saturday – 7 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
- Sunday – 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Website: https://www.brassbell.co.za/
Price Range: $
Dining at Brass Bell offers a great seaside experience with views of False Bay. Located in the heart of Kalk Bay, the terraced dining areas sit right by the ocean, so you might even feel the waves splashing!
The fresh seafood and relaxed vibe make it a solid spot for a good meal.
I had a great time here. The fish and chips were crispy with a light, crunchy batter, and the hot fries and tangy tartar sauce really hit the spot. It was a solid meal, especially with the ocean view—and all for just R139!
| Pro Tip: Aim for a table on the terrace during high tide if you don’t mind getting splashed a bit. It adds an extra touch of excitement to your meal. |
The Bungalow
Media From: thebungalowclifton
Address: Glen Country Club, 3 Victoria Rd, Clifton
Phone: +27 214 382 018
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Website: https://www.kovecollection.co.za/the-bungalow/
Price Range: $$
Perched at the water’s edge in Clifton, The Bungalow offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, framed by the Twelve Apostles and Lion’s Head. As the sun sets, the golden hues create a magical backdrop, making every moment memorable. The chic, beachy décor, and comfy seating perfectly blend sophistication with relaxed seaside vibes.
I tried their espetada, a tasty twist on the traditional Portuguese dish, for R425. The tender beef, marinated in garlic and salt, was skewered on bay leaves and grilled perfectly, with a juicy and flavorful result.
| Pro Tip: Head to The Bungalow at 4 p.m. and listen to live music! They play jazz, soul, and blues for that wonderful beachside vibe. |
The Grand Africa Café and Beach
Media From: grandafricacafeandbeach
Address: 1 Haul Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Phone: +27 214 250 551
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 a.m. to 12 midnight
Website: https://grandafrica.com/grand-africa-cafe-beach/menu-grand-cafe-and-beach/
Price Range: $$$
The Grand Africa Café and Beach isn’t your usual beach cafe; it’s got that casual yet stylish vibe, perfect for a laid-back meal by the sea. While you’re eating, you’ll be taking in stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Robben Island, making for a really chill atmosphere.
If you’re there, definitely try the grand salmon salad priced at R195. It has fresh rocket, perfectly cooked medium-rare salmon, parmesan shavings, and pine nuts—light but super satisfying.
| Pro Tip: Reserve a table on the outdoor deck! The spot can easily get crowded because it offers magnificent panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean and Robben Island. |
Café Paradiso
Media From: cafe_paradiso_cpt
Address: 110 Kloof St, Gardens
Phone: +27 210 038 102
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 a.m. to 12 midnight
Website: http://www.cafeparadiso.co.za/
Price Range: $$
If you need a break from the beach, Café Paradiso is a great spot to enjoy the view of Table Mountain National Park. The café has a cozy garden terrace with a peaceful atmosphere, offering a nice escape from the city’s hustle. It’s a perfect place for brunch or a laid-back meal surrounded by nature.
The food was really good. I had their sweet potato and butternut gnocchi for R150, which was made with sweet potatoes and butternut squash. It had a great mix of flavors and a creamy texture. The dish also had a bit of sage and a light drizzle of browned butter, making it a lovely choice while taking in the views of Table Mountain and Lion’s Head.
| Pro Tip: Try their lemon meringue pie for dessert! It has the perfect balance of tangy lemon filling and sweet, fluffy meringue. |
Dunes
Media From: duneshoutbay
Address: 1 Beach Cres, Scott Estate
Phone: +27 217 901 876
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Website: https://www.dunesrestaurant.co.za/
Price Range: $$
Head to the Dunes for a great view of Ocean Grove surf beach and the surrounding sand dunes. Through its floor-to-ceiling windows, you can enjoy the ever-changing sight of the waves crashing on the shore while dining in a laid-back, beachfront setting.
I had their Hollandse Biefstuk for R250, and it’s one of the best Dutch dishes I’ve had! The beef was tender, smothered in brandy and mushroom sauce, and paired with homemade chips.
| Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on their complimentary hush puppies. They’re a favorite of regulars. These golden, crispy bites made from savory cornmeal batter have a fluffy interior and a slight crunch on the outside, making them the perfect appetizer to start your meal. |
Quay Four
Media From: q4_tavern
Address: Quay, 4 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Phone: +27 214 192 008
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Website: http://www.quay4.co.za/
Price Range: $$
At Quay Four, you get a great view of the V&A Waterfront and the harbor, with Table Mountain in the background. Find a spot on the outdoor terrace, relax, and enjoy the vibe while taking in the views.
I’ve tried the lamb cutlets worth R265. The tender lamb loins, seasoned with wholegrain mustard, were pan-fried just right. They came with vibrant mange tout and fondant potato, plus a mint jus that added a nice refreshing touch.
| Pro Tip: Order the Nederburg Rose Wine. It’s a local favorite and pairs well with many of Quay Four’s dishes. |
Belthazar
Media From: belthazar_capetown
Address: Shop 153, 19 Breakwater Blvd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Phone: +27 214 213 753
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Website: http://www.belthazar.co.za/
Price Range: $$$
Enjoy panoramic views of the busy harbor at Belthazar, with boats gently bobbing on the water and Table Mountain standing tall in the background. And if you’re into big portions, their steaks won’t disappoint!
I wasn’t kidding about the portions. The tomahawk steak I ordered for R895 weighed 1 kilogram! Even with its size, the meat was tender and juicy, with a perfectly seared crust.
| Pro Tip: Be prepared to wait when dining here, as their steaks can take up to 40 minutes to be served. |
Kloof Street House
Media From: kloofstreethouse
Address: 30 Kloof St, Gardens
Phone: +27 214 234 413
Opening Hours:
- Monday – 12 p.m. to 12 midnight
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 a.m. to 12 midnight
Website: http://www.kloofstreethouse.co.za/
Price Range: $$
Need a break from city life? Check out Kloof Street House, a charming spot in a Victorian house. It’s a garden-style restaurant where you can eat under palm trees and fairy lights.
I loved their sourdough pizza, priced at R220. It was crispy yet fluffy, topped with peppers, mushrooms, and herbs. The melted mozzarella added a creamy touch.
| Pro Tips: Try their signature drink, Banana in Pajamas. It’s a mix of banana liqueur, vanilla vodka, and cream, served with a fun presentation that complements the garden dining vibe. For dessert, order their popcorn cheesecake, a creamy salted caramel cheesecake paired with a unique popcorn sorbet. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and salty with a crunchy twist! |
Maria’s Greek Café
Media From: mariasgreekcafe
Address: 31 Barnet St, Gardens
Phone: +27 214 613 333
Opening Hours:
- Monday – 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Tuesday to Saturday – 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Sunday – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MariasGreekCafe
Price Range: $$
Another great garden restaurant is Maria’s Greek Café. It has outdoor seating under palm trees, creating a relaxed local vibe.
Their Greek lamb souvlaki, priced at R343.20, was authentic and delicious. The lamb leg I tried was tender and perfectly grilled. It came with a generous portion of Greek salad, pita bread, tzatziki, lemon, and triple-cooked chunky chips.
| Pro Tip: Pair the lamb souvlaki with retsina, a traditional Greek wine. Its piney notes balance the rich flavors of the dish, giving you a real taste of Greek dining. |
Iron Steak and Bar
Media From: ironsteaksa
Address: 114 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre
Phone: +27 214 221 175
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 12 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Website: http://www.ironsteak.co.za/
Price Range: $
Looking for an urban vibe? Check out Iron Steak and Bar, where you can sit outside surrounded by historic buildings, with pedestrians, cyclists, and street performers adding to the atmosphere.
I tried their Wagyu burger for R335, and it didn’t disappoint. It has two tender 100 g Woodview Wagyu patties, topped with matured boerenkaas cheese, truffle aioli, and pickles. All this comes on a warm, toasted brioche bun with a side of crispy Wagyu beef-dripping fries.
| Pro Tip: Arrive early so you can enjoy their complementary Wagyu beef-dripping popcorn. The freshly popped corn, coated in rich and flavorful Wagyu beef drippings, is a tasty and fun way to kick off your meal! |
