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Exquisite flavors await you at the 10 best restaurants in South Africa!
South Africa is brimming with diverse restaurants, offering everything from fine dining to laid-back local favorites.
As a passionate foodie and proud local, I’ve explored countless corners of South Africa to uncover the hidden gems and iconic spots that serve unforgettable meals.
Join me on this culinary journey. Your next favorite dining spot might be just around the corner!
La Colombe
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Address: Silvermist Wine Estate, Main Road, Constantia Nek
Phone: +27 217 942 390
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. | 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Website: https://www.lacolombe.restaurant/la-colombe
Price Range: $$$
La Colombe is definitely a top dining spot in South Africa. It’s earned several awards, including Best Restaurant in Africa by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants.
The menu mixes fresh local ingredients with a bit of French flair. Every dish feels carefully crafted, and you get to enjoy stunning views of vineyards and mountains through their floor-to-ceiling windows.
I had the vegetarian course for R1,995, and their litchi dessert was delicious. The sweet, slightly tart flavor and juicy texture made for a refreshing and memorable end to an amazing meal.
| Pro Tip: When dining at La Colombe, try pairing your meal with the Craven Pinot Gris 2021. Its bright acidity and fruity notes complement many dishes, especially the seafood options. |
The Test Kitchen Fledglings
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Address: The Old Biscuit Mill, 373 Albert Rd
Phone: +27 214 472 337
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday (Dinner) – 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Thursday to Saturday (Lunch) – 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Website: https://ttkfledgelings.co.za/home/
Price Range: $$$
When it comes to innovative dishes, The Test Kitchen Fledglings (TTK) instantly comes to mind. It’s consistently rated as one of South Africa’s best restaurants and has earned international recognition.
The menu mixes traditional and modern flavors, using top-quality South African ingredients. You also get to see the creativity in action with their open-plan kitchen.
I had their 2-course meal for R445, and it was a real treat! The Korean fried chicken had a crispy coating with a flavorful gochujang glaze, perfectly balancing sweet, spicy, and savory notes.
For the main, the springbok was rich and flavorful, with hazelnut XO, earthy celeriac, and a sweet honey jus tying everything together.
| Pro Tip: For the full Test Kitchen Fledglings experience, go for their six-course menu. It’s a chance to explore a variety of beautifully crafted dishes. It’s a true showcase of the chefs’ creativity and skill! |
Wolfgat
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Address: 10 Sampson St, Kliprug
Opening Hours:
- Wednesday and Thursday – 12:30 p.m. to 12:35 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday – 12:30 p.m. to 12: 35 p.m. | 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Website: http://www.wolfgat.co.za/
Price Range: $$$
Experience the flavors of the West Coast at Wolfgat, a 2021 recipient of the Best Restaurant in Africa by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Known for its commitment to sustainability, it features local, seasonal ingredients and keeps things intimate with just 20 diners per sitting.
What makes Wolfgat special is its ever-changing menu, updated monthly. Chef Kobus van der Merwe highlights the region’s culinary heritage by incorporating local Indigenous ingredients, many of which are foraged nearby.
I was lucky enough to try their signature butter made with bokkom. The creamy richness paired perfectly with the umami-packed flavor of the cured fish. The price of R750 was worth it!
| Pro Tip: Paternoster has limited cell service, but you can take it as a chance to disconnect and fully immerse yourself in the dining experience. |
FYN
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Address: 5th Floor, Speakers Corner, 37 Parliament St
Phone: +27 212 862 733
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday – 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. | 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Website: http://fynrestaurant.com/
Price Range: $$$
FYN is a concept restaurant ranked among South Africa’s top 100 by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. It fuses Japanese techniques with South African flavors, creating dishes that are as creative as they’re delicious.
The floor-to-ceiling windows also offer breathtaking panoramic views of Cape Town, elevating the experience.
Sustainability is at the heart of FYN. They focus on local ingredients, support nearby farmers, and ensure everything is responsibly sourced.
I had the chance to try their seven-course meal for R1,575, and the neoteric nigiri with aged shoyu was a delight. The Mozambican sustainable blue crab was delicate and sweet, paired with a crisp seaweed salad for the perfect crunch.
| Pro Tip: The Beluga caviar and truffle shavings are not on their menu, but you can request them as an add-on. |
La Petite Colombe
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Address: Leeu Estates, Dassenberg Rd
Phone: +27 212 023 395
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Website: http://www.lapetitecolombe.com/
Price Range: $$$
If you’re after global influences mixed with South African flavors, La Petite Colombe is a must-visit. The chef here uses modern techniques like sous-vide cooking and molecular gastronomy to create dishes with exceptional flavors and textures. Their work even earned them 3 stars at the Eat Out Awards!
Plus, the large windows offer stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains, creating a serene, luxurious atmosphere.
The seven-course meal for R1,795 is a highlight. Each dish is paired with carefully selected wines, enhancing the experience.
During my visit, the Mauritian sea bass stood out. Paired with aubergine, squid, mussels, leeks, and chorizo, it perfectly balanced textures and flavors. The flaky sea bass, smoky chorizo, and tender seafood were complemented by velvety aubergine and sweet leeks.
| Pro Tip: If you’re dining with a group, try the private dining experience at Everard Read Gallery. It’s a chance to enjoy great food surrounded by stunning local art. |
Eike
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Address: 50 Dorp St, Stellenbosch Central
Phone: +27 210 074 231
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday – 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. | 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Website: https://bertusbasson.com/
Price Range: $$$
If you’re into experimental dishes, Eike is worth a visit! With 2019 Eat Out San Pellegrino & Acqua Panna Chef of the Year Chef Bertus Basson leading the kitchen, every meal feels special.
Their set menus draw inspiration from nostalgic food memories and local flavors. The rustic décor and warm candlelight create a homely, inviting atmosphere that adds to the experience.
The five-course menu at R990 really brings something special to the table. The wildebeest parcels served on a giraffe’s shoulder bone stood out for me with their dramatic presentation. The tender, flavorful meat in a crisp, golden pastry was not only delicious but also made the dish feel so unique.
| Pro Tip: Don’t miss the chance to try the Opsitkers candle made from beef drippings. It’s a nod to South African farm traditions and adds a unique touch to your meal. |
Salsify
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Address: Roundhouse, Round House Rd
Phone: +27 210 106 444
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. | 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Website: https://salsify.co.za/
Price Range: $$$
If you’re into nature-inspired dishes, Salsify is a must-visit. This two-time winner of the Reviewers’ Choice Restaurants award serves modern, locally sourced cuisine, often foraged from land and sea. Their tasting menu features six to ten courses that highlight the best regional ingredients.
The restaurant is a true gem. Housed in a historic 1700s guardhouse, it offers stunning views and a romantic atmosphere.
Dining here was a memorable experience. The grapefruit-cured sashimi had a melt-in-the-mouth texture and a tangy, vibrant flavor that paired perfectly with the delicate fish. The artful presentation, with edible flowers and microgreens, made it a feast for both my eyes and palate.
| Pro Tip: Taste the bread! It’s baked in-house and comes with unique flavored butter or spreads, adding a special touch right from the start. |
Tjing Tjing Momiji
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Address: 165 Longmarket St, Cape Town City Centre
Phone: +27 214 224 374
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 12:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Website: http://tjingtjing.co.za/
Price Range: $$
If you’re looking for an Asian-inspired spot in South Africa, Tjing Tjing Momiji is a great choice. This restaurant specializes in modern Japanese dishes, using fresh, seasonal ingredients that capture the essence of Japanese cuisine.
The menu changes daily based on what’s in season, so there’s always something new to try. And if you’re up for a drink, the rooftop bar offers stunning views of Cape Town, making it the perfect spot to unwind.
I had their sushi omakase for R725, and it took me straight to Japan. Each piece had a perfect balance of freshness, umami, and sweetness that made it a truly memorable experience.
| Pro Tip: Pair your meal with sake from their great selection. It complements the Omakase menu perfectly and enhances the flavors even more. |
The Shortmarket Club
Media From: theshortmarketclub
Address: 1 Oxford Parks, 199 Oxford Rd
Phone: +27 100 062 323
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. | 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Website: http://www.theshortmarketclub.co.za/
Price Range: $$
At The Shortmarket Club, you can enjoy a mix of modern European and Asian cuisine. Their menu offers a great selection of fresh produce, meats, and seafood, with a creative twist that makes each dish stand out.
Their European-style brasserie has rich tones, warm lighting, and leather accents, giving it a cozy feel.
I tried the Asian glazed pork belly for R325, and it was incredible. The tender pork, crispy skin, and savory-sweet glaze with a touch of lemongrass made for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
| Pro Tip: Give the Shortmarket Club cocktail a try. It’s a refreshing blend of Monkey 47 gin, dry vermouth, raspberry, lime, and egg white. |
Rust en Vrede
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Address: Annandale Rd, Stellenbosch
Phone: +27 218 813 881
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Website: http://rustenvrede.com/
Price Range: $$$
For a truly unique experience, dine underground at Rust en Vrede. Located in a 1694 wine cellar with tunnels and vaulted ceilings, the rustic setting is perfect for wine tastings and a memorable meal.
The menu is carefully crafted, with each dish paired with wines from an extensive international list. Ingredients are fresh, seasonal, and sourced from sustainable producers.
I tried their six-course meal for R1,190, and it was worth every cent, especially the duck breast. It was tender and juicy, with crispy skin, complemented by the sweetness of black garlic and caramelized onions. It was perfectly paired with the Newton Johnson Walker Bay Pinot Noir 2023’s ripe cherry, earthy truffle, and silky tannin structure.
Pro Tip: Take home a bottle of their Estate Syrah 2021. It’s their best-seller, with notes of creamy cherry puree, blackberries, and floral hints, plus fine tannins and fresh acidity.
