They say that a place is only worth its salt if the bathroom can deliver proper Instagrammable-selfies. Well, that and its menu, of course! Cape Town and its surroundings are filled to the brim with beautiful spots to grab a bite to eat or just a much-needed coffee. Charming views aside, we’ve decided to create a list of 7 Instagrammable restaurants and coffee shops in and around Cape Town where you can lay your eyes upon some alluring interiors (and delectable food).
Legado Coffee
Stellenbosch
If there’s one thing this Boland town doesn’t have a shortage of, it’s coffee shops. That’s good news for the coffee enthusiasts! Centrally located in Andringa Street, Legado’s flagship store opened its doors in 2019 and is an absolute aesthetic delight. Pop in for a coffee or a delicious croissant, and enjoy this beautifully designed coffee bar in the heart of the Cape winelands.
Where? 19 Andringa Street, Stellenbosch
When? Weekdays: 07:00 – 17:00, Saturdays: 08:00 – 14:00
Closed on Sundays
Stay here
Bonne Esperance Guest House – Avemore Jan Cats 5 – Coopmanhuijs Boutique Hotel & Spa
The Werf – Boschendal Farm
Franschhoek
There are many reasons to visit this historic farm; good wine (that’s a given), picture-perfect views, and, of course, The Werf Restaurant. The Werf offers a fine dining experience with the Franschhoek mountains as backdrop. Once the old cellar of the Manor House, the restaurant has been transformed into a contemporary farm-to-table haven with modern Seventeenth Century style portraits lining the walls and touches of blue and white reminiscent of Delftware. Sit down for a three-course or four-course meal made from local, ethical and sustainable ingredients. 90% of the menu is produce from the farm, including the Black Angus beef. Wine tasting is now also available under the oak trees in front of The Werf.
Where? R310, Boschendal Wine Estate, Pniel, Franschhoek
When? Lunch: Wednesday to Sunday: 12:00 – 15:00
Dinner: Wednesday to Saturday: 18:00 – 21:00
The Werf Bar: Monday to Saturday 12:00 – 21:00
Werf Wine Tasting: Monday – Sunday 10:00 – 18:00
Stay here
Vuurberg Self-Catering House – Orange-Ville Lodge & Guesthouse – Klein Waterval Riverside Lodge
The Dark Horse Bar
Cape Town
Cape Town has a flair for turning forgotten old houses into fashionable social-gathering hotspots. The Dark Horse Bar is no exception. Upon entering this shindig in Gardens, you’ll realise that it is indeed a dark horse. Painted dark charcoal on the outside, the interior beams with eye-catching turquoise walls, decorated in all things wonderful and kitsch. From Prego steak bruschetta to steamed baos with hoisin pork belly ─ the menu offers something for everyone, not to mention the classic cocktails! Be sure to get your photo for the Gram on the green velvet couch!
Where? 145 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
When? Wednesdays to Saturdays from 16:00 until late
Stay here
Palmkloof Penthouse – 702 on Kloof – Langholm
Cafe Furlough
Stellenbosch
Cafe Furlough is located in Stellenbosch’s famous Dorp Street. The clean lines and chic interior will have you snapping a few photos, but be sure not to miss out on their heavenly baked goods, such as brownies, cake of the day, or buttery croissants. The cafe is also the ideal place where you can unwind after a busy day at the office or behind the books and enjoy a glass of wine. If you’re around on a Wednesday evening, pop in for their famous Bao evenings! Booking is essential.
Where? 86 Dorp Street, Stellenbosch
When? Weekdays: 07:00 – 18:00
Saturday: 08:00 – 15:00
Sundays: 08:00 – 14:00
Stay here
107 Dorpstraat Boutique Hotel – The Vibe Dorp Street – The Black Horse Accommodation
The Athletic Club & Social
Cape Town
View this post on Instagram
Looking for a 1920s hangout? The Athletic Club & Social is the perfect place for after work drinks and Mediterranean-style tapas. This speakeasy-style bar is located in Buitengracht Street in a three-storey, nineteenth century building, offering you all of those old glamour feels. Their balcony is the ideal spot to enjoy the sunset with views of Signal Hill and Lion’s Head in the distance. Order a refreshing glass of wine and a cheeseboard to compliment the views!
Where? 35 Buitengracht Street, Cape Town
When? Monday to Wednesday: 12:00 – 23:00
Thursday: 12:00 – 23:45
Friday and Saturday 12:00 – 02:00
Closed on Sundays
Stay here
Cartel House Hotel on Waterkant – Apartment with Urban Elegance – 145 Waterkant Street
Gigi Rooftop Restaurant and Bar
Cape Town
Gorgeous George is a newcomer to Cape Town’s hotel scene. It’s located right next to the St George’s Mall, which answers any questions about the name. Other than gorgeous accommodation, this hotel boasts a stunning rooftop restaurant which will make you forget that you are, in fact, in Cape Town. The menu offers both small and big plates and you can expect deliciousness such as fresh Saldanha Bay mussels, Korean fried chicken, duck leg confit, potato gnocchi, and slow-braised beef flatrib. And if you’re not hungry, enjoy the sights and sounds at the Gigi Bar open from 12:00 daily.
Where? 118 St Georges Mall, Cape Town City Centre
When? Daily: 07:30 – 00:00
Stay here
Afribode Fountains 815 – 813 Fountain Suites – 1009 Fountains Hotel
Honest Chocolate
Cape Town
Honest Chocolate has become somewhat of a local haunt. If you’re craving chocolate in any size or form, then this quaint little cafe should be on your choccie bucket list! Located in Cape Town’s CBD, you can escape the city’s rush in their cosy little courtyard (weather permitting). Made from their very own chocolate, Honest Chocolate’s cafe boasts chocolate delights in all shapes and sizes. So, if you’re craving chocolate cups, truffles, cake, macarons, dark chocolate tarts, banana bread bunny chow, you know where to go! If you’re keen for something else, you can conveniently make your way to The Gin Bar in the back that offers seventy different gins unique to South Africa.
Where? 64A Wale Street, Cape Town
When? Sunday to Thursday: 09:00 – 18:00
Friday and Saturday: 09:00 – 21:00
Stay here
City Loft 702 – Manhattan Penthouse – Panoramic City View Apartment
Charge that phone, update that app, and make your way to these gorgeous eateries in and around the Mother City. Think you can top this list? Share your most instagrammable hangouts with us on Instagram!
Feature image: BigStock
