Richard Holmes

Let’s be honest. As much as we love the modern set-up of DHL Cape Town Stadium, the food at large events is, well, kind of forgettable. Apart from the long queues that mean you’re likely to miss that crucial try or your favourite song, the food is never going to be a highlight. And to drink? Sigh. The selection behind the bar isn’t going to have you cheering from your seat, will it?  Our advice? Rather, make the most of what Cape Town has to offer outside the stadium gates. Fortunately, Green Point and the surrounding neighbourhoods near the DHL Cape Town Stadium are brimming with superb pre- and post-match venues that offer far more than soggy chips and boring-brand beers. So, whether you're in the mood for a quick burger, arrive early to indulge in a classic Italian or are looking for a craft brew with a view, there’s something within walking distance to satisfy both your palate and your pocket. Somerset Road is packed with lively bistros and local favourites, as well as a few late-night hangouts to keep the party going after the final whistle. Of course, don’t forget the V&A Waterfront either, which is just a short walk from the stadium gates.  Whether you're donning green and gold for the Bokke, following your favourite artist on tour, or just want to soak up the stadium vibes, here’s your essential guide to the best places to eat and drink near Cape Town Stadium. Time for just one more tip? Don’t forget to book a table well ahead of game day... RECOMMENDED: 😋 The bes

“Salads don’t win scrums” Ox Nche said it best, and are we going to argue with a 120-kilogram Springbok prop who puts the bomb into the feared ‘Bombsquad’? Heck no. What does win scrums, according to Nche, is cake. The celebrated scrummager loves the stuff. So much so that a local supermarket chain gifted him a year’s supply of baked deliciousness after the Boks beat England in the 2024 World Cup. His favourite, we’re told, is chocolate caramel and when there’s a birthday in the ’Bok camp, it falls to Ox to take care of catering. So with the Boks looking to teach Australia a lesson at DHL Stadium this weekend, Time Out Cape Town thought we’d do our bit to help the cause. Ox, you can take off the apron and put away the icing sugar. If you need a slice of cake to power you onto the field this weekend, we’ve got your back. Here’s our expert pick of the best bakeries in Cape Town for a slice to help win those scrums. Drop us a line and we’ll even deliver it ourselves. Go Bokke! RECOMMENDED:  😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town🍣 The best sushi in Cape Town🍷 The best wine farms in and around Cape Town📍 The best things to do in Cape Town🛏 Where to stay in Cape Town

Cape Town is – let’s not be coy – the culinary capital of Africa. Whether you’re throwing on a jacket for an evening of world-class fine dining in landmark settings, or hanging with the locals in a neighbourhood mezcaleria where the queue is out the door, the Mother City is one place where you’re always spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out. What makes the city so special? Diversity. You’ll find menus that celebrate Cape ingredients and heritage, others that riff on global trends, and plenty that do both at the same time. It’s a city where casual ramen bars share the spotlight with world-class fine-dining destinations that crack global awards lists. And all at a fraction of what you’d pay overseas But with a city jam-packed with fine food, where do you start? Right here, of course, with the Time Out guide to the best restaurants in Cape Town. And no, it’s not all about expensive multi-course menus and tweezered micro-herbs. On this list you’ll find the best pizza joints, unforgettable sushi bars and – of course – the creative chefs that make Cape Town one of the world’s gourmet heavyweights. It’s a list that evolves as quickly as the city’s restaurant scene, so check back often to see what’s hot this month. Come hungry, explore widely and – our advice? – always leave space for dessert. RECOMMENDED:  🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town🍷 The best wine farms in and around Cape Town🍕 The best pizza in Cape Town📍 The best

Cape Town is a truly global city, fusing vibrant African flair with European savoir faire, and that cosmopolitan character is on full display in the city’s shops and boutiques. From the inner city to the seaside, Cape Town’s shopping precincts and characterful suburbs offer no end of retail therapy, whether you're after big-name brands or local creatives. Not sure where to start? Try these must-visit stores... RECOMMENDED:☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Cape Town📍 The best things to do in Cape Town🥣 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town This article was recently updated by Richard Holmes, a travel writer based in Cape Town. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines and check out our latest travel guides written by local experts.

With the Atlantic Ocean on the doorstep and Table Mountain National Park as the ‘back garden’, it’s little wonder Cape Town is hailed as one of the world’s most beautiful cities. But beneath the visual spectacle there’s a rich cultural and historical tapestry to be discovered. Centuries of history as a trading port have given Cape Town a cosmopolitan multiculturalism that fuses warm African hospitality with Mediterranean charm. It’s a city where you’ll spend your days outdoors and your nights enjoying the city’s legendary culinary scene. Not sure where to start? Don’t miss these must-do experiences handpicked by a local writer.  RECOMMENDED: 🛏 A guide to where to stay in Cape Town🍴 The best restaurants in Cape Town🐧 The best beaches in Cape Town🏡 The best Airbnbs in Cape Town🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. FNB This content is proudly brought to you by FNB, a Division of FirstRand Bank Limited, an Authorised FSP and Credit Provider.

There’s no shortage of choice when it comes to finding a bed in Cape Town, and that perfect trinity of comfort, charm and location can be dialled up or down according to the depth of your pockets. If you’re watching your budget, you’ll want to start with our guide to the Best Affordable Hotels in Cape Town, which is filled with pocket-friendly picks. But if you’re splurging a little? Well then, you’ve come to the right place. From glorious urban hideaways that could have been plucked from the streets of Paris or Amsterdam, to seaside escapes with the most unforgettable views, you’ll be spoilt for choice for luxury hotels in Cape Town. There are historic charmers and contemporary creations, and if you’ve been dreaming of a room with a view, you’ve come to the right city. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Cape Town😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town🏄‍♀️ The best beaches in Cape Town🛍 The best markets in Cape Town🖼 The best museums and galleries in Cape Town Planning your next trip? Check out our latest travel guides, written by local experts. Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do allow us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. FNB This content is proudly brought to you by FNB, a Division of FirstRand Bank Limited, an Authorised FSP and Credit Provider.

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay and relax in Johannesburg, visitors are spoiled for choice. However, it can be a tricky decision. To make your life a little easier, we've highlighted the best hotels in Johannesburg in this convenient list. From high-end luxury stays to spending a night surrounded by nature, here are Johannesburg's best places to rest your head and set up base to explore the wonders of the City of Gold. RECOMMENDED 📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here. FNB This content is proudly brought to you by FNB, a Division of FirstRand Bank Limited, an Authorised FSP and Credit Provider.

Winter in Cape Town means it’s often more tempting to pull on your woollen slippers than your dancing shoes, but with the cold and wet weather comes plenty of great opportunities for locals to get out and discover Cape Town and the Winelands. With fewer tourists around to book rooms, and restaurants looking to entice diners to often-empty tables, now’s the time to seek out bargain deals at some of the city’s best and brightest hotspots. So, whether you fancy a weekend away in the Winelands or a glam night out in the city, here’s how to make your Randelas go further this winter. Just don’t forget the brolly. RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best indoor activities for kids in Cape Town🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Cape Town📍 The best things to do in Cape Town  

Want to know where the locals love to go? In this exclusive series on Time Out Cape Town, ‘Local Intel’ taps into some of the city’s best-connected characters to unearth the corners you simply can’t miss in the Mother City. Over the past decade, few chefs have shaped Cape Town’s fine dining scene quite like Ryan Cole.  Cole’s journey began at 16, hustling through kitchen shifts before honing his craft in some of London’s top restaurants. A chance meeting with Luke Dale-Roberts brought him home in 2015, where he rose to Head Chef at The Test Kitchen, at the time Africa’s best restaurant. After four years of working alongside Dale-Roberts at The Test Kitchen, three of those as Head Chef, “it got to a point where I needed to go and do my own thing,” he says. In 2018 he left to open Salsify at The Roundhouse, and never looked back, creating a dining destination firmly rooted in the city he calls home. Today, as executive chef of Salsify at The Roundhouse, he’s had an impressive year: clinching the 2025 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant of the Year award, earning a coveted three-star rating, and seeing Salsify debut at #88 on the prestigious World’s 50 Best Restaurants extended list. It’s an impressive run for a restaurant that, since opening in 2018, has quietly forged its own identity in the city’s culinary landscape. And it is the city that inspires him still. “I’ve been lucky enough to work and train overseas, lived abroad and travelled a bit. But I absolutely love Cape Town. I’m

I won’t lie: Cape Town has a lot of bad pizza. Bland pizza. Doughy pizza. Cold pizza. Undercooked pizza. Overpriced pizza. Pizza that would make a nonna weep. But there’s absolutely no reason to spend good money on bad pizza here. Not when the city’s chefs are embracing slow ferments and authentic fior di latte. When you can choose between Neapolitan puff and Roman crisp. Where wood-fired ovens are lovingly tended and the dough is given the respect it deserves; where seasonality is celebrated, and local produce – and producers – are championed. So when that pizza craving hits in the 'Mama City' (and it will), look no further than these talented pizzaioli spread from the city to the suburbs. The pizza scene in the Mother City is on fire right now, so we’ve expanded and updated our guide to make sure you’ve got the inside slice on the best pizza in Cape Town. RECOMMENDED:  😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town🍣 The best sushi in Cape Town🍷 The best wine farms in and around Cape Town📍 The best things to do in Cape Town🛏 Where to stay in Cape Town  

Gaze skywards on any sunny day in Cape Town – especially in the summer, or when there’s a game on at DHL Stadium – and chances are you’ll hear the distant drone of a Piper Super Cub making its way slowly across the Mother City skies. And following not far behind: an advertising banner. The banner could be touting business for an (in)famous gentleman's club or a sports betting brand, estate agent or online retailer. Whoever might be hoping for your eyeballs, one thing’s almost certain: you looked.   View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Cape Town (@timeout.capetown) Because in a world awash with transitory advertising, social media messaging and ceaseless input, there remains something nostalgic, arresting somehow, in spotting a plane that has slipped the surly bonds of Earth. Chances are, you’ll look up and remember the brand. And while the announcement of new dancers may generate the most consideration (or condemnation) in Cape Town, it’s certainly not the only brand buying into the world of high-flying advertising. Photograph: Sky Messaging It’s a bright winter’s morning when I pull into Cape Winelands Airport, just off the N1, to find out more. While a R7-billion investment is set to transform the airfield into a new air hub for Cape Town, today it's a low-key operation used mainly by flight schools, charter flights, private pilots... and a company called Sky Messaging. Sky Messaging is South Africa’s only company dedicated solely to b

Cape Town is known as the culinary capital of Africa, so no surprise that this cosmopolitan coastal city boasts dozens of sushi restaurants, from upscale fine dining with all the frills to unpretentious izakaya-style local joints. And with International Sushi Day celebrated in a haze of wasabi every June, we've pulled together the very best sushi spots the Mother City has to offer.  It’s always a pleasure to sample sushi with a sea view on the Atlantic seaboard – though bear in mind you’ll pay (a lot) more for the privilege, so if you want to indulge on a budget, you’d be better off heading for the suburbs. And another bit of advice: for a more sustainable sushi fix, opt for tuna over salmon. Yellowfin, longfin and bigeye tuna are all abundant in local waters, especially in the summer months. So say goodbye to food miles and hello to super-fresh sashimi. RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town🍷 The best wine farms in and around Cape Town📍 The best things to do in Cape Town🛏 Where to stay in Cape Town Planning your next trip? Check out our latest travel guides, written by local experts.

This compact space on Bree Street packs a flavour-punch across a menu of South Cantonese street-food with a kick. The setting may be minimalist, but the food is front and centre. Owner-chef Andrew Kai delivers punchy plates rooted in childhood memories, without much fuss. It’s the kind of place that rewards lingering at the counter, diving into bold flavours plate by plate. What’s on the menu? TOMSON brings South Cantonese favourites with bold flavours: think wonton noodle soup, sliced Sichuan pork with kimchi kick, sticky roast Cantonese duck, soft‑steamed white fish, salt‑and‑pepper prawns, Hainanese chicken rice, and simple, punchy sides like smacked cucumber and Chinese stem cabbage Is there outdoor seating? Yes. TOMSON is tiny, but it offers pavement‑bench seating that’s a winner in good weather. Inside, a few counter‑seats look directly into the open kitchen, offering a feast for the senses. How do you get there? Head to the buzz of Bree Street from St George’s Mall, Long Street, or buses stopping near Wale Street. Walk‑ins are welcome, but bookings via Dineplan are highly recommended Why go? TOMSON stands small but mighty. It’s a culinary underdog with serious flavour and personality. Few frills, all flavour, in the heart of Bree Street’s vibrant dining scene.

One of the most exciting openings in 2025 reinvents the dining experience at Ellerman House. Set in the hotel’s striking Wine Gallery, Curate is a deeply contemporary space where South Africa’s culinary heritage is reimagined through a multi-course menu from Executive Chef Kieran Whyte. What’s on the menu? Expect a refined reinterpretation of South African staples. Amagwinya (steamed bread) is paired with smoked snoek and caviar; Afrikaans melktert appears as an earthy mushroom course; bobotie is reinvented in shape and texture; and pap is transformed into a fermented dessert. Each dish celebrates the food South Africans know and love, elevated to the standard of world-class fine dining. Carefully considered wine pairings showcase rare wines and single-vineyard selections from the Ellerman cellar. Is there outdoor seating? No. Curate is set within the atmospheric Wine Gallery. How do you get there? Ride-hailing is the most convenient option, as street parking is limited. Guests not staying at the hotel should book ahead via Dineplan. Why go? Curate offers a singular fine-dining experience in Cape Town: a storytelling menu that elevates everyday South African dishes into unforgettable culinary art. Textured stone, moody lighting, and architectural drama create an immersive setting that feels both intimate and artistic.

This buzzy little spot on Sea Point’s Main Road has put premium agave spirits firmly on Cape Town’s map. Opened by brothers Gavin and Sean Binder, it’s equal parts mezcalería and Mexican-inspired eatery, drawing locals and visitors alike for vibrant plates and seriously good cocktails. By the time Friday night rolls around, the queue at the door says it all. What’s on the menu? The kitchen, led by Head Chef Dian Botes, dishes up Mexican-inspired plates made for sharing. Start with guacamole and totopos or the tangy “street corn” ribs, then move on to masa corn tacos – the Jalisco-style beef birria is a must. Empanadas, ceviche and small plates round out the menu, making it easy to linger over a spread. Is there outdoor seating? A handful of pavement tables spill onto Regent Road. Inside, the space is warm, casual, and always buzzing. How do you get there? Una Más is on Regent Road in central Sea Point. Street parking is limited, so ride-hailing is your best bet. MyCiTi buses stop nearby. Why go? With more than 200 agave spirits alongside a food menu that’s as lively as the drinks, Una Más is both a neighbourhood hangout and a destination bar. Whether you’re there for sipping mezcal from clay copitas, a round of margaritas, or a taco-filled dinner, it’s one of Cape Town’s most vibey nights out. Did you know that Cape Town’s favourite Mexican eatery is now open at the Time Out Market Cape Town?

Chef Ryan Cole – the culinary force behind award-winning Salsify at The Roundhouse – serves up a more relaxed take on fine dining at this spot on the water’s edge at the V&A Waterfront. Expect an ocean-inspired menu blended with moody, design-led interiors and postcard views of the marina and Table Mountain. What’s on the menu? The main event is COY’s seven-course ‘COY Experience’ tasting menu, which changes with the seasons and leans heavily into seafood, drawing on local ingredients and techniques. Vegetarian/vegan menus are available on request. Think tuna tartare with caramelised coconut and sugarcane, seared linefish with mussels, peri-peri and askoek [ash bread], and chargrilled squid with pearl barley and rum sauce – plus considered meat courses. The wine pairings and list are as carefully curated as the food. Also look out for their SunDAZE concept menu available in winter. Is there outdoor seating? Yes. A small waterside terrace with a handful of tables, perfect for sundowners and harbour-watching when the weather cooperates. How do you get there? Park at the V&A’s Portswood garage and walk towards the Bascule Bridge from Time Out Market. MyCiTi’s Waterfront/Breakwater stops are nearby. Why go? For a polished but unpretentious take on fine dining with a proud focus on the ‘African pantry’. COY delivers a sense of occasion without any stuffiness and offers some of the best food in Cape Town with views to match.

A firm favourite with locals looking for authentic Asian flavour. Bao Down serves up a pan-Asian collection of plates, from inventive bao buns to small plates perfect for sharing. What’s on the menu? Bao Down specialises in Asian-fusion small plates designed for sharing. Expect to order four to six plates per couple, allowing you to fully explore the menu. Signature baos – perfectly soft and pillowy –  include Korean Fried Chicken, Pork Belly, and Sweet Potato with Gochujang, all served with vibrant dressings and pickles. Beyond the baos, small plates range from beef tataki and Thai-style mussels with milk loaf buns to tuna sashimi with spicy tamarind and coconut cream. There’s a great selection of Cape wines to accompany.  Is there outdoor seating? Yes. The restaurant features a large, airy balcony that overlooks the lively Green Point strip. How do you get there? Bao Down is in Green Point’s Exhibition Building on Main Road: easy to reach by car, ride‑hail or MyCiti. The central location also makes it walkable from nearby suburbs and the V&A Waterfront. Why go? Bao Down delivers small‑plates with big flavour, served in an intimate yet stylish space. The baos are consistently good, and the small plates ever-inventive.

Ongetem – Afrikaans for ‘untamed’ – is the latest outing from celebrated chef Bertus Basson, who has crafted a bold, straightforward hangout within the stylish Hilton Canopy Hotel in Gardens. It’s a fire-cooked, hip-hop soundtrack-driven rallying cry for diners seeking delicious food in a distinctly urban environment.  What’s on the menu? Bertus Basson takes us back to basics here, with flame‑cooked, produce‑driven dishes that stay true to their ingredients. Menu highlights include a juicy mature‑beef burger, whole grilled baby chicken, and pork neck. There’s also a long-awaited return of the Grand Marnier soufflé he made famous at Overture restaurant.  Is there outdoor seating? Not really, as the restaurant is housed inside the hotel. How do you get there? Walk or ride‑hail to Park Road, just off Kloof Street, in Gardens. The MyCiti bus service on Kloof Street runs nearby. Why go? Bertus Basson’s first sit‑down spot in Cape Town is the kind of place where cowhide-topped tables meet burgers, martinis, and soft-serve with flair. For a restaurant that’s fun, fearless, and genuinely local, Ongetem ticks all the boxes. 

The Time Out Market is a unique global concept that aims to celebrate the authentic flavours, foods and chefs of a city under a single roof. What began in 2014 with Time Out Market Lisbon has become a global phenomenon, and in 2023 Cape Town became the first city in Africa to host a Time Out Market. Located in a renovated historic building in Cape Town’s popular V&A Waterfront precinct, Time Out Market Cape Town brings together more than a dozen of the city’s top chefs, serving up a diverse menu of dishes that find inspiration both in Africa and beyond. Alongside the food, a dedicated wine bar showcases the acclaimed New World wines of South Africa, while a trio of bars serves up everything from local craft beers and artisan spirits to signature Time Out Market cocktails. It’s a vibrant space of communal tables – with plenty of outdoor seating dishing up amazing mountain and harbour views – with an easy ordering and collection system. Our How To Order guide and FAQs will answer all your questions about a visit to Time Out Market Cape Town. 📍 For everything you need to know about Time Out Market Cape Town, visit our homepage.   

The Time Out Market is a unique global concept that aims to celebrate the authentic flavours, foods and chefs of a city under a single roof. What began in 2014 with Time Out Market Lisbon has become a global phenomenon, and in 2023 Cape Town became the first city in Africa to host a Time Out Market. Located in a renovated historic building in Cape Town’s popular V&A Waterfront precinct, Time Out Market Cape Town brings together more than a dozen of the city’s top chefs, serving up a diverse menu of dishes that find inspiration both in Africa and beyond. Alongside the food, a dedicated wine bar showcases the acclaimed New World wines of South Africa, while a trio of bars serves up everything from local craft beers and artisan spirits to signature Time Out Market cocktails. It’s a vibrant space of communal tables – with plenty of outdoor seating dishing up amazing mountain and harbour views – with an easy ordering and collection system. Our How To Order guide and FAQs will answer all your questions about a visit to Time Out Market Cape Town. 📍 For everything you need to know about Time Out Market Cape Town, visit our homepage.   

While her eponymous restaurant in the V&A Waterfront is already hugely popular for its elevated take on South African cuisine, The Siba Deli dishes up a more relaxed culinary experience, all while retaining Siba’s focus on freshness. Look out for a subtle infusion of local flavours in everything from her wholesome salads and delicious dips, to traditional sticky wings and spicy chakalaka sauce.   THE SIBA DELI MENU Starters Sticky chicken winglets and salsa mayo R135 Charred corn ribs in creamy coconut sauce R80 Siba’s famous chakalaka with a chimichurri dressing R80 (a side for mains and starters)  Siba’s signature quiche R95  Mains Our Salads Tuscan artichoke, chickpea, sundried tomato, crispy capers, parmesan salad with a tangy vinaigrette R165 Maple glazed baby rainbow carrots, roasted beetroot, wild rocket feta salad on a bed of hummus with a chimichurri dressing R130 Miso-glazed roasted sweet potato bowl with sautéed courgetti spirals, mixed cabbage, tahini-dressed broccoli R175 Spicy and zesty Asian pickled spiral cucumbers with edamame, sugar snap peas, salad on a bed of baby spinach leaves R110 Roasted butternut, couscous, red pepper and feta salad with pickled red onion and creamy dressing R165 Our toppers Lemon, garlic and parmesan chicken kebabs R60 Teriyaki trout R70 Braised beef short rib R80 Roasted miso mushrooms and aubergine kebab R60 Soy and chimichurri tofu kebab R50 Dessert Granadilla and lemon curd baked cheesecake R95  (vegan option available)  Water

Want the scoop on the most creative ice cream in the Mother City? You’ll find it at Unframed, thanks to the innovative flavour creations dreamt up by founder Yann Rey. Ever wondered what lemon-infused olive oil and white chocolate ice cream might taste like? Here’s your chance to find out. Every flavour combination is crafted from scratch, in small batches and from quality ingredients, drawing heavily on what’s fresh and in season in the Cape. No surprise then that Unframed has been rated amongst the world’s greatest ice-cream parlours. UNFRAMED MENU   Scoops 1 Scoop R49 2 Scoops R79 3 Scoops R89   Indulge Tasting Flight R99 (5 flavours) Sundaes R109 (3 scoops, toppings, whipped cream)   Waffles Waffle R59 (Icing sugar, whipped cream) + Extra Scoop R25 + Extra topping R10  

South Africa may fall into the so-called ‘New World’, but the country’s winemaking heritage dates back more than three centuries, with the first wines pressed here as far back as 1659. All of which means there’s a long and complex history to South African wine, and though you may be familiar with white Burgundy, or Left Bank Bordeaux, understanding the strengths and stars of the Cape’s diverse vineyards requires expert insight. That’s where chef Matt Manning comes in, bringing Bree Street’s hugely popular Culture Wine Bar to Time Out Market Cape Town. The extensive wine list includes an impressive range offered by the glass, allowing you to sip your way from the cool-climate vineyards of Elgin and big-hitters of Stellenbosch to the pioneers breaking new ground in the Swartland. Culture Wine Bar captures the best of the Cape in the glass.

Winter swells are rolling into Surfer's Corner, and Cape Town's most famous beginner break is buzzing with longboarders chasing waves. And now finding a park just got that little bit easier. The City of Cape Town's Coastal Management branch this week opened the rebuilt eastern parking area – the section that sits between the Muizenberg Civic Center and the beach. It's not much, and parking is still a pain when there's a bit of swell and an offshore blowing, but every space helps! "We know how important the parking areas are at this very popular beachfront," said Alderman Eddie Andrews, Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment. "I'm sure visitors will enjoy the new paved area, and improvements. Some minor work is still ongoing and the soft landscaping will be implemented in due course." The parking revamp is part of a two-year refurbishment of Muizenberg beachfront , which includes major upgrades to seawalls, toilet blocks, public spaces and the surrounding walkways. Work on the western gravel lot next to the railway line is still underway, while the much-anticipated connection to the St James Walkway is set to reopen in time for the festive season. It's all a little chaotic for now, but in time, the upgrade will be well worth it, as this reboot of the historic beachfront in this seaside suburb promises better beach access, public spaces and climate-resilient infrastructure that will keep one of Cape Town's most iconic surf spots paddling

For the last three summers, the hottest table in the Cape Winelands hasn't been at a glamorous estate or chic hotel. Instead, the seat every foodie in town hopes to book is in a humble cottage beneath a stately oak tree, surrounded by impossibly-pretty lavender fields. And on the menu? The lavish creations of South Africa's only Michelin-starred chef, Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen. He earned that star for his eponymous restaurant JAN in Nice, France, although a handful of lucky locals may also have tasted his cooking at KleinJAN in the Tswalu Kalahari Reserve in the Northern Cape.  And since 2022 JAN has opened a summer pop-up in the Veepos cottages on La Motte estate in the Franschhoek valley. This year he's back with JAN Franschhoek Season IV, serving up a menu that takes its cue from seasonality, produce and the unfiltered joy of sharing food across a well-laden table.   What's on the menu? Who knows... Well, Jan Hendrik, obviously, but the rest of us will have to wait and see. Expect plenty of pickles, preserves and local produce within the hearty embrace of traditional South African cooking traditions and techniques. All paired with fine wines from the region, of course. JAN Franschhoek Season IV is open for dinners from Wednesday to Saturday, from 3 September 2025 until 30 April 2026. The experience starts with a welcome at the La Motte Manor House at 6.30pm and dinner begins promptly at 7pm. On Sundays, JAN Franschhoek evolves into an extended lunch experience, starti

It's the first time in more than a decade that the Wallabies have run out for a rugby test match in Cape Town, and with the Springboks thirsty for revenge after their 22-38 mauling at Ellis Park, the Springboks vs Wallabies game at the DHL Cape Town Stadium on Saturday, 23 August, is going to be a match to remember. But, with more than 55 000 fans expected to fill the stands of the DHL Cape Town Stadium, getting to and from the stadium smoothly – and well before the first whistle blows – requires a little planning.  Need to Know What time do the stadium gates open: 12pm What time is kick-off: Springboks vs Australia, 5.10pm    Getting There: Park & Ride The City of Cape Town is expanding its free Park & Ride service, and there will be shuttles running to the stadium from Bellville Velodrome, Century City, the CTICC, Thibault Square and the Civic Centre. Buses will start operating from 11.30am, with return trips running until 9.30pm.   Where to Park Civic Centre: Free parking for ticket holders from 11.30am (first-come, first-served). Park here and hop onto the MyCiTi shuttle Century City: Park at the Steelbridge e-Parking (Century Boulevard) and ride the shuttle. Limited free parking, with paid options at the mall. Bellville: Park at the Velodrome and catch the shuttle straight to the stadium precinct. CTICC: Shuttles depart from the City Sightseeing stop on Walter Sisulu Avenue. If you're parking in the CBD, remember on-street parking is free from 1pm.   Getting There: B

Nearly 30 years after they burst onto the global pop music scene with their infectious blend of Irish-inflected feel-good tunes, The Corrs are ' Forgiven, Not Forgotten' for taking so long to announce dates for their first-ever South African tour.  The Corrs are Ireland's most successful musical family, blending pop-rock melodies with Celtic folk flair. Formed in Dundalk in the early 1990s by siblings Andrea, Sharon, Caroline and Jim Corr, the band shot to fame with their global breakthrough Talk On Corners . They followed it up with a string of hit singles – “Runaway,” “Breathless,” and “What Can I Do” – on the way to becoming international superstars selling more than 40 million albums worldwide. And now they will bring their Talk On Corners Summer 2025 Tour to Cape Town and Pretoria this November! Expect the family foursome to deliver the sleek pop-rock and Celtic folk fusion that made them household names in the '90s. Fans can look forward to singalongs of all the classics in what promises to be an electric night out. After starting the tour in Pretoria, they will play in Cape Town for one night only, so be sure to get your booking early! Dates for The Corrs Talk on Corners Summer 2025 Tour: 22 November 2025: SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria 25 November 2025: Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town Ticket pre-sale opens at 9am on Thursday 21 August for members of the Big Concerts Fan Club, with general sale open from Friday 22 August via Ticketmaster. Tickets are on sale n

South Africa's most legendary riverside music festival returns to the banks of the Breede River from 5-8 February 2026, promising delicious local tunes, tasty food trucks and a long weekend of laid-back camping. Tickets for Up the Creek 2026 are now on sale, and if you want the best deals, you'd better be quick!  The 2026 Up the Creek Festival is also mixing things up a little when it comes to how tickets are structured. First off, you'll need to buy your Festival ticket. Your options for 2026 are: Early Creeker: R1595. Limited availability, obvs Phase 1 Creeker: R1895 Phase 2 Creeker: R2095 Add a R15 booking fee to all of the above, too. Once you've got your festival ticket – here's where things are different for Up the Creek 2026 – only then do you choose your camping style. Choices this time around include: Grassed camping: R150 Camping with your car: R275 (this area will now be ticketed to manage numbers) Powered campsites: R5000/R10 000 (4/10pax, plus vehicles) Glamping in Heartbreak Motel: R6990-R15 150 Booking fees apply, R10 – R100 And while it pays to get your booking early, you can book your preferred camping spot later if you're not yet ready to choose. The line-up for 2026 is still under wraps, but if past editions are anything to go by, you can expect a genre-bending roster of big-name South African acts, indie darlings and fresh new voices. And when the music pauses, the vibe carries on, from food stalls and bars to those unforgettable Creekside sunsets. Pr

Cape Town already hosts some of the world's most beautiful road marathons, but come 2027, the Mother City will also host one of the biggest events in the off-road running calendar. This week, it was confirmed that the 2027 World Mountain and Trail Running Championships (WMTRC) will be held on the slopes of Table Mountain! The 2027 championships will be the very first time the event is held in Africa, and from 6-10 October 2027, the competition will see some of the world's best trail runners tackling the rugged, technical and unforgettable trails of Table Mountain National Park. The announcement follows a successful joint bid by Golazo South Africa, Athletics South Africa, and Western Province Athletics. With its highly technical trails, capricious weather and steep ascents, Table Mountain is a dream (and sometimes a nightmare!) for trail runners, and the courses are sure to deliver everything from punishing climbs to calf-busting descents across a patchwork of terrains. "It is always exciting when a major athletics event is staged in a new continent for the first time, and this is no exception," said World Athletics President Sebastian Coe. "Cape Town hosting the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships marks not only an exciting opportunity for the local area, but also for the sport as a whole." The World Mountain Running Championships were first staged in 1985, while the World Trail Championships debuted in 2007. In 2021, the two combined to form the World Mountain an

South African National Parks is trumpeting all across social media this week, as it announces dates for annual SA National Parks Week. The initiative, which offers free entry to most of the 21 national parks across the country, will run from 22-26 September 2025, with selected Parks extending free access into the following weekend (27-28 September). But remember that free entry applies only to day visits, and does not include accommodation or activities. In the Cape, locals can look forward to free entry to the following National Parks on specified dates: Agulhas National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025 Bontebok National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025 Table Mountain National Park: 22 – 25 September 2025 (hold up: this excludes Boulders Penguin Colony, and use of the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway) Tankwa Karoo National Park: 22 – 28 September 2025 West Coast National Park: 22 – 26 September 2025 Although getting anything for free is welcome these days, it’s not hard to feel that SANParks could have been a little more generous in offering the public free access to what is, don’t forget, our shared natural heritage. I guess we’re fortunate that SANParks Week in 2025 will coincide with the 24 September Heritage Day public holiday (last year it was held from 9-13 September), but check those dates above and you'll find that entry to the two most accessible Parks – West Coast and Table Mountain – will be limited to weekdays only. Monday to Friday. Those days when, y’know, most of

Foodies, listen up. Charge your credit cards and mark your diaries for 22 August. That’s the date that two of South Africa’s most celebrated chefs will come together to serve up something oh-so-special in Camps Bay. The venue is Salsify at the Roundhouse, Cole’s flagship restaurant that this year cracked the World’s 50 Best Restaurants Top 100, coming in at #88. In the kitchen will be Ryan Cole and Margot Janse, widely seen as a pioneer of South Africa’s fine dining landscape. Through her 20 years in the kitchen at Franschhoek’s Le Quartier Français, she established the Winelands as the culinary capital of the country. “Margot basically put fine dining on the map in South Africa,” says Cole. “She’s been a pioneer her whole life, and she’s more South African than most of us – even though she’s Dutch.” So, skilled chefs? Tick. The menu itself? Well, that’s a surprise for now, but those decades of shared experience will be poured into an eight-course four-hands dinner that promises to blend both heritage and innovation. “For me, celebrating South Africa through food is about honouring the human connections that bind us, the rich heritage that shapes us and the diverse stories carried by every ingredient,” Margot explains. “I am truly excited to be collaborating with Ryan – our shared values and different perspectives will come together to create a unique, very personal and undeniably South African culinary experience.” This once-off event on 22 August is available for dinner onl

When it comes to that old mantra of location, location, location, it’s pretty darn hard to beat Chefs Warehouse at Tintswalo Atlantic. Perched just above the high-water mark on an exclusive Table Mountain National Park concession below Chapman’s Peak Drive, this elegant restaurant offers seaside dining at its most spectacular.  On the menu, Head Chef Cameron Luke Smith turns out a memorable set-menu of small-plate dining in step with the ethos of Chefs Warehouse restaurants across the Cape. Here, unsurprisingly, it features a saline infusion of seafood. And with the worst of winter (fingers crossed) behind us, this culinary landmark has reopened with a fresh new look – and a welcome expansion – that celebrates the seaside locale, while ensuring those signature sea views flow in through floor-to-ceiling glass panels. “After almost five years of trading in this incredible location, weathering the Cape winter storms and the scorching summer seasons, it was time for a refresh,” explains General Manager Jami de Witt. “Few places in the world offer dining this close to the crashing waves of the untamed Atlantic Ocean and we are very excited about the contemporary new look of the restaurant. Our new glass-framed space invites guests into a one-of-a-kind, multi-sensory encounter.” Photograph: Chefs Warehouse at Tintswalo AtlanticA seaside stunner The first thing you’ll notice is that the outdoor pergola has been integrated into the restaurant, while the addition of a striking long

If you've been paying attention in and around Newlands Cricket Ground lately, you might have noticed that something is up. Or, rather, that they're not. Look closely and you'll find that two of the five massive floodlight masts have been dismantled by cranes. On the remaining towers, many of the floodlights have been removed and carefully lowered to the ground. Is this the end of the much-loved day/night fixtures at South Africa's most beautiful cricket ground? Definitely not. Rather, it's about future-proofing the city's much-loved oval for an action-packed few years of international and domestic cricket. The upgrades form part of Cricket South Africa's preparations for the next Cricket World Cup, which will be hosted across South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia in October and November 2027. As part of the process, four stadiums in South Africa – The Wanderers, Supersport Park, Kingsmead and Newlands – are having their floodlights upgraded, replacing old-fashioned halogen lights with modern LED technology.  "We need to comply with the International Cricket Council standards around light levels," explains Western Province Cricket Association CEO, Corrie van Zyl. "As you can imagine, as time goes by, the lux levels on those existing lights drop. From a broadcast perspective, you need a certain lux level to have a proper product. LED is a much better light, and there's a lot more you can do with it." "Fans are definitely going to notice the improved brightness on the pitch, but wh

The 2025 Totalsports Women’s Race hits the streets of Cape Town on Saturday – 9 August 2025 – and while the runners will bring colour, community and cheer to celebrate Women’s Day, you can also expect a side order of traffic chaos in the city centre, with road closures in place from 7am to 10.45am. With a record-breaking 15 000 runners expected to line up at the start, the City of Cape Town has confirmed full and partial closures across Woodstock, District Six, the Gardens and the CBD. Parking will be tight, with limited bays available in the surrounding streets. And – heads up – the traffic cops will be out in force, with the City warning that illegally parked vehicles, especially those obstructing residents, will be towed. Now in its 19th year, the Totalsports Women’s Race is South Africa’s biggest Women’s Day running event, with races also held in Johannesburg and Durban. But, it all began here in the Western Cape, with the first race held in 2001! This weekend, over 30000 runners are expected to lace up across all three cities. "The Totalsports Women’s Race is more than just another running event," said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith. “It’s a bold celebration of health, strength, solidarity and empowerment. It’s always inspiring to see mothers, daughters, sisters and aunts take to the streets of the Mother City to commemorate Women’s Day in such a meaningful way.”  The flagship 10km route kicks off at 8am in front of City Hall on Darli

Fancy a bit of ‘wild swimming’ in a refreshing Table Bay tidal pool? Perhaps a sunset stroll on your way to dinner in Mouille Point? Sunrise watersports in a sheltered bay? While the V&A Waterfront is already one of Cape Town’s top attractions, locals this week have a glimpse of plans for expanding the Granger Bay precinct, with calls for public comment on an ambitious plan to ‘reclaim’ land for mixed-use developments. The expansion into Granger Bay is part of a R20-billion development pipeline for the Waterfront, which is set to unfold over the next two decades. “The V&A Waterfront’s ultimate vision for Granger Bay is opening up public access to a new protected area,” V&A Waterfront spokesperson Donald Kau told Engineering News earlier this year. “Our design approach will strengthen the shoreline and protect the bay, at the same time as creating a new leisure destination for swimming, walking and water-based activities.” At the heart of the plan is the reclamation of roughly 290 000 square metres of land from Table Bay: that’s about 35 rugby fields of new space for the planned mixed‑use development combining residential units, hotels, offices and retail spaces, along with public amenities. And it’s the public spaces that will be of most benefit to Capetonians, who can look forward to easy access to even more urban coastline. While the plans – now out for public comment – are scant when it comes to detail, they include two new breakwaters forming a sheltered bay, coastal p