Discover Cape Town

A Brief Culinary History & Eating Out:

Things to do:

A Brief History of Cape Town and It's Culinary Influence

Cape Town, founded in 1652 as a Dutch colonial outpost, became a major port for ships traveling between Europe and Asia. This position attracted a multicultural blend of settlers, including enslaved people from Malaysia, Indonesia, and other parts of Southeast Asia. The Malay and French influences in Cape Town’s cuisine are largely a result of these communities, who brought vibrant spices, curry-based dishes, and unique cooking methods. Over time, their flavors blended with local ingredients, creating the distinctive Cape Malay cuisine. The Bo-Kaap area, known for its brightly painted houses, reflects this cultural legacy; the colors are believed to symbolize freedom and identity after apartheid, as residents of this predominantly Muslim community celebrated their heritage.

Food and Cuisine

Cape Town’s cuisine is famous for its mix of flavors, from rich spices to fresh seafood. Here are some standout dishes and popular restaurants:

Notable Cape Town Dishes:

1. Bobotie - A spiced meat dish with a creamy, egg-based topping.

2. Gatsby - A massive sandwich stuffed with meat, chips, and sauces.

3. Bunny Chow - Hollowed-out bread filled with curry, a dish from Durban, but popular here too.

4. Cape Malay Curry - Fragrant curries with influences from Malaysian and Indonesian cuisines.

5. Snoek Fish - Locally caught, often smoked or grilled.

Popular Restaurants:

• The Test Kitchen: Known for inventive South African cuisine.

• Kloof Street House: Eclectic decor with a diverse, flavorful menu.

• Mzansi Restaurant: Authentic African experience.

• La Colombe: French-influenced fine dining with a South African twist.

• Bo-Kaap Kombuis: Traditional Cape Malay dishes with stunning views of the Bo-Kaap.

1. Hike Table Mountain or Lion’s Head: For incredible city views and natural beauty, these hikes are must-dos.

2. Stroll Through Company’s Garden: A historical public garden with beautiful plantings and views.

3. Explore the Bo-Kaap: Walk through this historic neighborhood with its colorful houses and cobbled streets.

4. Visit the V&A Waterfront: A bustling area with live performances, shopping, and scenic harbor views.

5. Greenmarket Square: A historic square with a lively market selling African crafts and souvenirs.

Beaches Around Cape Town

1. Clifton Beaches (1st to 4th): Known for their beautiful, secluded coves and clear waters, Clifton's beaches are popular for both relaxation and socializing. Each beach has a different vibe, with the 4th beach often the busiest.

2. Camps Bay Beach: Lively and scenic, Camps Bay is lined with cafes and palm trees, drawing a crowd for its stunning sunsets and social atmosphere.

3. Boulders Beach: Famous for its colony of African penguins, this family-friendly beach has unique rock formations and sheltered coves.

4. Muizenberg Beach: Known for colorful beach huts and a laid-back atmosphere, Muizenberg is a favorite for surfing beginners and beachgoers alike.

5. Llandudno Beach: Tucked between granite boulders, this beach is quieter and popular with locals, offering ideal conditions for sunsets and surfing.

Tours & Activities

1. Robben Island Tour: Learn about South Africa’s history and visit the prison where Nelson Mandela was held.

2. Shark Cage Diving: For thrill-seekers, this allows close encounters with great white sharks.

3. Cape Winelands Tour: Enjoy wine tastings and tours in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.

4. Township Tours: To Cape Towns largest informal settlement lunch included on this vibey tour.

5. Chapman’s Peak Drive to Cape Point: with a picturesque stop for capturing the beautiful views.

6. Big 5 Game Safaris: Just two hours from Cape Town.

7. Adventure activates: Click the link below...

Tours & activates - pick up and drop off on your door step!