Richard Holmes

Is there a better smell than a slice of slow-fermented sourdough layered with butter? Well, maybe only pain au chocolat, fresh from the oven. Hmm, I’m also partial to a pastéis de nata, though. Perhaps I’ll just take one of each. And happily, in Cape Town it’s not hard to indulge your carb-laden fantasies. Why would you settle for spongy, tasteless, never-go-stale supermarket loaves when you can seek out artisanal, handcrafted bread instead? Prefer pastries? You’re in luck, with the Mother City blessed with bakeries old and new, turning out flaky croissants, fine patisserie and indulgent crookies (scroll down to find out more about those!) But whatever floury fantasy is your favourite, you’ll find that Cape Town has a deep bench of bakeries worth crossing town for. From the city to the coast, here’s the Time Out Pick of the Best Bakeries in Cape Town. Bakeries where craft still counts, and you’ll find proper fermentation, real butter, local flour, and regulars who know to get there before the best stuff sells out. RECOMMENDED:  😋 The best restaurants 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 This article was written 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 writ

Cape Town’s food scene has become one of the most exciting reflections of the city's multicultural, slightly chaotic approach (in the best way) to seasonal winter flavours.Across the city, chefs are drawing on Japanese ramen bars, Thai spice markets, East Asian small plates, Italian comfort food, African coastal ingredients and Cape nose-to-tail cooking - while still grounding their menus in local produce.  One minute, you could be slurping deeply savoury ramen on Bree Street at Yatai, the next you’re eating Thai-inspired winter dishes at Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia. Settle into the rich simplicity of Giorgio Nava’s silky Chicken Alfredo from Carne (winter comfort in a bowl!). The ocean flavours and African storytelling at Seebamboes and COY are inspirational. While the bottomless bubbles will fire up your Sundays at The Pot Luck Club. Equally enticing is how confidently Cape Town chefs are blurring the line between fine dining and comfort food. At Test Kitchen Fledgelings, Korean fried chicken sits comfortably alongside smoked snoek pâté and bone marrow brioche. The Belly of the Beast Group is giving East City’s ever-evolving food culture life, where menus are driven less by rigid structure and more by the seasonal intention for that particular day. The results are a winter menu offerings that take risks without losing its local food instinct or dialect! So go on, be adventurous - don't just stick to your favourites. Try something different with menu specials catering

Cape Town doesn’t just do good coffee and croissants – it’s also a city with a serious cake culture. From brightly decorated show-stoppers that steal the spotlight at parties, to elegant patisserie that wouldn’t look out of place in Paris, the Mother City’s bakers have a knack for turning simple ingredients into something memorable. This isn’t about ordinary sponge and icing. Here, cakes double as edible art; croissants are reimagined into cult pastries with queues to match; and red velvet is elevated to signature status. You’ll find family bakeries keeping traditions alive, contemporary patisseries serving glossy gateaux for the Instagram generation, and small studios where cake design leans into the world of couture. Whether you’re after a tiered centrepiece for a milestone, a slice of carrot cake with your morning cappuccino, or a box of carefully piped cupcakes that add polish to any celebration, Cape Town offers a bakery for every taste. We’ve rounded up the standouts. Here’s where to find the best cake in Cape Town, one carefully considered slice at a time. 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

Despite no shortage of golden arches or promises of a whopping great meal, the best burgers in Cape Town are not to be found in your well-known global takeaway chains. In fact, steer well clear of those – this city is scattered with countless vibrant burger bars and laid-back eateries that leave ’em all for dust. South Africans love a good braai (aka barbecue) and the allure of a juicy flame-grilled patty – served on a great bun, with an inventive array of toppings – means burger restaurants have flourished across the city. Happily, the menus typically tap into South Africa’s burgeoning craft-beer scene too. So with a beer in one hand and a brew in the other, you’re all set. Not sure where to start? From the best Deep South taprooms to stylish inner-city eateries and local gems that offer no ordinary burger, local writer Richard Holmes has done us a solid and set out in search of new spots to add to our list of the best burgers in Cape Town. RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town🍣 The best sushi in Cape Town🍕 The best pizza 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.

Welcome to Mother Sippy, where we shine a light on the talented winemakers, brewers, distillers and mixologists that make sure the Mother City never goes thirsty! From new wine releases to taprooms pouring perfect pints, Mother Sippy is your guide to all that’s good and great in Cape Town’s world of drinks.  In May 2026, the Cape winelands were hit by one of the most destructive floods in recent memory. Days of severe rain pushed rivers above their banks… and then pushed even higher. Hundred-year flood lines were breached, and farm buildings once thought to be safe were up to their eaves in floodwaters. Roads were washed away, bridges damaged, and vineyards and orchards destroyed. Farmers across the Western Cape were left counting the cost.  In the Breede River Valley, the impact was especially brutal. Vineyards – some newly planted at considerable cost – were left underwater, irrigation systems ripped away, cellars flooded, and bottled stock damaged. Estates and producers around Robertson, Bonnievale, Worcester and the Breedekloof face a long and expensive road ahead to clean up, restart and restore.  Van Loveren alone reported floodwaters nearly two metres high inside parts of the winery and the loss of an estimated 1.3 million bottles. Around 90 hectares in Springfield were underwater, while Alvi’s Drift reported the loss of 40 hectares of vines. They might have the resilience to clean up and keep trying, and some have the resources to get back up to speed quickly. But for

When the winter cold fronts hit the Mother City, many people reach for their wooly slippers. But savvy Capetonians reach for their weekend bags and puffer jackets instead. Winter is officially the Western Cape’s ‘secret season’, and without the crowds of summer, hotels and guesthouses across the Cape drop their rates to fill their rooms. Which means it’s prime time for locals to get out and explore, without breaking the budget. Besides, it’s just rain, right?  While the odd cold front may make the mercury fall, that’s just an excuse to light the fire and open a bottle of something red. Or, lace up those boots and enjoy the fynbos when its most lush and green. Whether you’re looking to soak in a wood-fired hot tub – we’ve got the best hot tubs getaways over here – while the rain patters on a canvas roof, or find a five-star fireside sanctuary in the heart of the city, we’ve tracked down the most enticing offers for the winter. Haul out your weekend bags, check the diary, and hit the road... RECOMMENDED: 🚵 The best mountain bike getaways in the Cape🍴 The best restaurants in Cape Town🐧 The best beaches in Cape Town⛰️ The best mountain getaways close to Cape Town🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town Born and raised in the city, Richard Holmes is 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. 

Welcome to Mother Sippy, where we shine a light on the talented winemakers, brewers, distillers and mixologists that make sure the Mother City never goes thirsty! From new wine releases to taprooms pouring perfect pints, Mother Sippy is your guide to all that’s good and great in Cape Town’s world of drinks.  South Africa’s gin landscape has come a long way since ‘craft gin’ first became the country’s favourite excuse for a long lunch and a fancy tonic (Barker & Quinn for me, thanks).   What began as a hipster niche has gone thoroughly mainstream, and any restaurant worth its bartender has a collection of craft spirits at the back. Look a little harder, and you’ll find distillers dabbling in indigenous botanicals, small-batch production and distinctly South African flavour profiles. From Inverroche’s fynbos-led bottles and Musgrave’s rose-scented pink gin to Hope Distillery, Six Dogs, Pienaar & Son... the list goes on...  South African gin has earned its stripes here and abroad.  This week, the latest World Gin Awards added fresh weight to our high-proof reputation, with a handful of South African gins earning international recognition in the 2026 results. Leading the local charge is KWV, which landed a double triumph at this year’s awards. Imagin Classic was named South Africa’s Country Winner in the Classic Gin category, while Cruxland Kalahari Truffle took the same top national honour in the London Dry Gin category. Both were also awarded Gold in their respective categories

Whether you’re a born-and-bred local or a tourist coming to Cape Town, you probably find that corners of the city roll off your tongue without a second thought. Shall we go for lunch in Kalk Bay?  How about a walk at Mouille Point? Yikes, the water at Bakoven is cold this week!  But have you ever stopped to think about why you’re meeting at an anchorage, lunching on the lime deposits, or taking a dip in a Dutch oven?  Probably not. Have you read: the (thirsty) story behind the Table Mountain dams And yet Cape Town’s rich history is revealed in the names of its suburbs and places. While some simply describe what early settlers saw – the wood, reeds or rocks – others carry the names of sailors, surveyors, farmers and faraway seaside towns. We’ve done our best to uncover the real story behind each name, but of course, South African history is a tangled tapestry, and not all its threads tell the truth. If you have a clue to share, drop us a DM on Instagram.  If not, use this etymological introduction to the ‘Mother City’ to annoy your partner with newfound trivia, win your next pub quiz, or simply see the names and places of Cape Town in a whole new light. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Cape Town🍝 The best restaurants in Cape Town🏖 The best beaches in Cape Town🛍 The best shops in Cape Town Born and raised in the city, Richard Holmes is 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 o

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 Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram! This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

Where do you usually find yourself at 8am on a Saturday morning? Still in bed? At the shops? Enjoying a flat white and croissant at your local coffee shop? For millions of people worldwide, 8am on a Saturday means only one thing: it’s time for parkrun. Since the first-ever parkrun – in London’s Bushy Park on 2 October 2004 – parkrun has grown into a global phenomenon. And it all began with 13 friends and a stopwatch: the brainchild of South African-born Paul Sinton-Hewitt. The idea was, and remains, wonderful in its simplicity: a free, timed 5km jog/walk/run in a public park, staffed entirely by volunteers, welcoming runners and walkers of all ages and paces. parkrun explained Today, parkrun spans hundreds of cities in 22 countries, with South Africa one of the movement’s most passionate adopters and Cape Town a postcard-perfect playground for a Saturday morning outing. Did you know that there are 226 parkrun events across South Africa each weekend? That’s because parkrun strips running back to the road-running trinity of fresh air, exercise and community. There’s no entry fee and no finish-line FOMO. You can chase your PB, jog with a pram, stroll with a mate, or tail-walk in a volunteer vest and earn applause for finishing last (by design). Every parkrun is laid out on a measured 5km route, each with a Run Director and a small army of volunteer marshals, timekeepers, scanners, funnel managers and a tail walker to ensure no one is left behind. How to enter If it’s your f

What began as a few friends running together in a London park has grown into a global movement that sees hundreds of thousands of walkers and runners lace up and tackle a five-kilometre route each Saturday morning. And while Cape Town has plenty of wonderful parkrun events to join, you might want to stretch your runs a little further afield. Whether it’s a dawn mission or a weekend away with a little exercise worked in, the Overberg, West Coast and Cape Winelands offer a range of wonderful parkrun events to add a little sweat to your Saturday.  Mix and match them all, and you can create a roster that runs from a flat gravel route beneath Paarl Rock to Swartland trails and the forests of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. If you’ve done all the city circuits and feel like trading tarmac and traffic for open skies and gravel, these are the Cape country parkruns worth hitting the road for.  RECOMMENDED:⛰️ Ryan Sandes: my favourite trail runs in Cape Town📍 The best day hikes in Cape Town🏃‍♂️ The complete guide to parkrun in Cape Town This article was written 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 latest cold front bringing heavy rain, damaging winds and rough seas to the city, you might think that this week’s storm is one for the history books. And yes, while there are trees down across the city and widespread damage to homes and roads, it is certainly a week to stay off the mountain, avoid the seas and keep a hot water bottle at the ready. But perhaps be especially glad that you weren’t standing on the shores of Table Bay on 15 May 1865. Back then, Table Bay was not the protected working harbour we know today. The breakwater had only recently been started, the Alfred Basin was still years from completion, and ships arriving at the Cape often lay exposed at anchor in a bay that could turn violent when north-westerly gales came rolling in.  In the second week of May 1865, though, there was little sign of what was coming. A spell of warm, calm weather settled over Table Bay, and sailors in the bay were probably enjoying a pause before winter came rolling in. It was, literally, the calm before the storm. On 15 May 1865, the barometer began to fall. The wind shifted to the north-west. By the following day, the sea had risen, anchors were dragging and captains were signalling frantically for help. One of the first casualties was the Stag, crewed by 14 local seamen, which was swamped while running out anchors and cables. Then the storm hit. For around 18 hours, the nor’wester tore into Table Bay. Ships were driven ashore, masts fell like trees cut down and wild wav

There’s a lot of construction going on in Claremont right now. If they’re not digging up Imam Haron Road or blocking the side streets, houses are being pulled down and apartments are going in.  But for the last month or two, it’s the shopfront of 109 Belvedere Road that’s caught my eye, not least because one of the first things to go on the wall was a new sign.   “Chingu. Authentic Korean Food.” The Backstory   This corner of the southern suburbs is a surprisingly diverse hotbed of global cuisine. Lebanese Bakery is perhaps the OG of the area, but I’m also partial to Pho House next to Coimbra Bakery. Further down the road, Edo Sushi hits the quality/price notes just right. The kitchen at Hot Stuff always looks a little dubious, but their naan breads and Pakistani plates are superb. But Chingu is the first Korean restaurant in this part of town, and long may it last. While the restaurant may be new, the energy in the kitchen comes with a Cape Korean pedigree. Chingu is the new outing from Chone-Hee Cho, who also runs the popular Korean Kitchen in Stadum on Main. At Chingu, she works hand in hand with Saburo Adaniya. “At Korean Kitchen, we found that a lot of Muslim customers would come in and ask about the food, but unfortunately, we sell pork there,” explains Saburo. “So she had the idea to open a restaurant that would be more inclusive for Muslim diners. ‘Chingu’ means ‘friend’ in Korean, and she wanted the restaurant to feel friendly and for customers to build a relations

There are plenty of places to find good fish and chips in Cape Town, but often they’re let down by plastic tablecloths and indifferent service, or only offer a simple takeaway menu. The food might be good, but the occasion is forgettable. The leafy suburb of Newlands might not immediately spring to mind when it comes to finding great seafood, but when you throw in a central location, lovely décor and a restaurateur with decades of experience in the business, you have a restaurant worth seeking out. Say hello to Fishmonger. The Backstory Fishmonger may be new to Cape Town, but for once those Joburg foodies are ahead of the game. This is the first Cape Town outpost for a restaurant brand already familiar to many diners in Gauteng, where you’ll find branches in Rosebank, Bryanston and Centurion. That it arrives in Newlands is thanks to owner Aki Hadjipetros, who brings 40 years of restaurant experience to this new venture, adding a much-needed seafood option to a corner of Cape Town filled with its fair share of cosy pubs, coffee shops and Italian eateries.  In fact, with Fishmonger adding to the menu of restaurants in Newlands, the suburb is turning into quite the foodie hotspot! The Vibe Let’s be clear: this might be part of a (small) chain, but it’s not the seafood-chain experience you might have had elsewhere. From the moment you step through the front door, the feeling is upmarket yet relaxed. Modern, with a bit of vintage style. It’s a restaurant of two halves, but the low

Set on the historic Blaauwklippen wine farm, founded in 1682, the rebuilt manor pairs Cape heritage inspiration with contemporary interiors. It’s all surrounded by generous gardens to offer an easy sense of winelands escape on the quieter fringes of Stellenbosch. With wine tasting and plenty of activities on the farm, it’s as much a base for exploring as it is a destination in itself.  Why stay at Blaauwklippen Manor? Start with the setting. Blaauwklippen is close enough to Stellenbosch to make it easy to explore this historic university town. It’s not quite close enough to walk, but a few minutes’ drive and you’ll soon discover the vibey streets of the Eikestad. But there’s also plenty to keep you settled in on the estate without feeling the need to venture out. Because this is not simply somewhere to sleep after a day of indulgent tastings. On Blaauwklippen you’ll find estate walks and tastings on site, as well as weekend markets and family-friendly activities (more on that in a bit). The hotel’s understated sense of luxury is another draw, and from the concierge-style service on arrival to the considered approach to hospitality, there’s a boutique charm to Blaauwklippen. What are the rooms like? Blaauwklippen Manor offers a choice of room categories, spread across the restored Manor House and the adjoining Jonkershuis. Far and away my favourite are the four expansive suites in the restored Manor House, all shaped by high ceilings, layered interiors and a modern-heritage ae

There’s certainly no shortage of great steakhouses in Cape Town, whether you prefer yours old-school in the mould of Hussar Grill, or something more contemporary like the recent addition of East City Grill. But in a crowded landscape, CARNE stands apart, and has done ever since chef Giorgio Nava first opened the doors to his Milanese-inspired steakhouse in 2007. In a city where restaurants come and go, a run of almost 20 years is pretty darn impressive, but it’s not hard to see why. The Backstory CARNE – ‘meat’ in Italian – is the work of Giorgio Nava, one of the best-known chefs in Cape Town’s Italian restaurant scene. He first made his name in the Mother City with 95 Keerom, which fast became one of the city’s favourite Italian restaurants, before the pandemic put paid to this palace of pasta (and so many other delicious dishes). But, just a few steps away, across Keerom Street, CARNE endured. In a similar vein to 95, Nava opened CARNE with a simple but powerful idea: apply Italian refinement, and a discerning approach to ingredients, to cuisines South Africans love to eat. It worked for pasta at 95, and proved a hit when it came to meat at CARNE. The Vibe Unlike the leather booths and dusty-wine-bottle aesthetic of many steakhouses, the Keerom Street setting of CARNE is elegant and contemporary without being flashy. It’s changed little since opening, and yet still feels on point. Translucent ‘ghost’ chairs, art on the walls, low ceilings. It’s intimate, sexy and modern, wi

There are plenty of polished farm stays in the Cape Winelands, but perhaps few manage to weave together quite the tapestry of luxury accommodation, rich heritage and fine food, quite so elegantly as Vergenoegd Löw, which traces its histoy back to 1696. Mix in proper eco-credentials and a flock of Insta-worthy runner ducks and it’s easy to see why this farm at the gateway to Stellenbosch has become so popular as a quietly luxurious Winelands retreat. Why stay at Vergenoegd Löw? For starters, location. It’s minutes from the N2, putting it within easy reach of the airport, Somerset West and Strand, while also being convenient for Stellenbosch and the surrounding Winelands. Then, you’ll love the breadth of experiences on offer. You can come for a romantic Winelands escape and spend your days moving between your private pool deck, a long lunch at Geuwels and an afternoon tasting in the Wine Lounge.  But you can just as easily lean into the estate’s sustainability story, with its regenerative farming, rich birdlife, working vineyards and famously eco-friendly pest control courtesy of a flock of Indian Runner ducks. There’s a delightful spa that taps into the farm’s fynbos bounty, as well as a pair of restaurants led by one of the Cape’s best-loved chefs. And that’s before we even mention the wine, which you could discover over lunch, or at a specialist tasting. What are the rooms like? This isn’t a one-size-fits-all wine-farm hotel. Depending on what kind of stay you’re after, ther

Cape Town isn’t short on steakhouses, but East City Grill certainly manages to cut through the noise. For starters, it’s more contemporary than your average grill room, with a modern aesthetic that takes the familiar language of premium beef and adds a distinctly Japanese accent. The Backstory East City Grill sits on the first floor of 84 Harrington Street and forms one half of a dual concept, alongside the more intimate sister restaurant Yakiniku. While the Yakiniku section leans into the Asian aesthetic with blonde woods and a traditional grill-it-yourself concept, East City Grill weaves some of those same flavours into a menu brimming with steakhouse classics given a lift and a twist. And with the steak coming from the owner’s family farm in the Swartland, there’s a farm-to-fork philosophy at work here too. The Vibe The setting is a big part of East City Grill’s appeal. Up a flight of stairs from Harrington Street and you’re transported into a moody space of dark timber, coppery warmth, leather banquettes and low lighting. Copper panels by Bronze Age line the walls, while timber-slatted walls and ceilings are offset by a Shou Sugi Ban timber wall. It’s polished, elegant, and the first clue that this isn’t your run-of-the-mill steakhouse. It’s perfect date night material. The Food The menu reads like a greatest-hits list for meat lovers, but with enough twists to keep things interesting. Of course there are the expected premium cuts — rib eye, sirloin, fillet, rump, plus Wa

Recently voted one of Time Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places 2026, Park Hyatt Johannesburg brings a low-key luxury to what is perhaps my favourite corner of the city. Set within a restored 1930s mansion in leafy Rosebank, this is the South African debut of the Park Hyatt brand, and while it may be one of the smallest outposts in Hyatt’s huge global portfolio, it makes a strong first impression with heritage architecture, beautiful interiors and warm and attentive service like only Jozi can do. There’s a sense of arrival from the outset, from the suited doormen at the entrance to the art-filled interiors within. And be sure to take a moment to admire the collection of Assouline tomes that grace the lobby! Original architectural details nod to the old manor house, while the design of this new property layers in plenty of elegant details: parquet floors, marble finishes, fluted glass and a curated arts programme inspired by South African landscapes and botanical history. It all feels indulgent without trying too hard. Why stay at Park Hyatt Johannesburg? Johannesburg has no shortage of luxury hotels, but Park Hyatt Johannesburg stands out for both its scale (small enough to feel personal) and mood (quietly upmarket). With only 31 rooms and suites, it feels far more intimate than the city’s larger five-star properties, and that smaller footprint gives it the feel of a private urban guesthouse – but with all the hotel bells and whistles – rather than a conventional business hot

Turn the clock back a century, and Muizenberg was one of the Cape’s most fashionable seaside resorts. With grand homes along the so-called Millionaire’s Mile and a lively beachfront culture, famous visitors included everyone from Cecil John Rhodes, who died at Rhodes Cottage in 1902, to Rudyard Kipling, Agatha Christie and George Bernard Shaw. And now, with Muizenberg’s massive beachfront renovation well underway, it looks like this corner of the city is about to enjoy its next heyday, as visitors flock to the warm waters, gentle surf and an ever-growing menu of cafés and restaurants. While The Happy Rooster, which opened in late-2025, might be on the ‘wrong’ side of the tracks, across the railway from the beach, it’s worth the short walk to take a seat in this laid-back Portuguese-style restaurant, where trinchado steak and peri-peri chicken are served up at great prices with a side order of knock-out sea views. The Backstory 15 December 1882 was a big day for Muizenberg. A Friday in Cape Town, and I’d like to think that the good and great of this seaside suburb turned out in numbers to watch the first train huff and chuff its way along the railway line that had finally reached False Bay. Suddenly, this corner of the city’s coastline was easy to reach for day-trippers and holidaymakers, and Muizenberg’s first heyday as a seaside resort was about to begin. But it would be another 31 years before the grand red-brick train station – that still stands today – was built. With its

Opening a restaurant days before the peak summer season in Cape Town requires a certain kind of confidence. Opening a restaurant catering for up to 300 diners, right on the tourist-packed pavements of Kalk Bay, days before the peak summer season? Well, that’s just a little bit crazy. But since opening in December 2025, The Reef has survived and thrived in the first three months of summer, so Time Out Cape Town pulled in for a taste of what’s on offer. Ocean views, succulent seafood, and a laid-back beach vibe make this a welcome new addition to the Kalk Bay strip. The Backstory The False Bay coastline is home to what is surely one of the most scenic commuter railway routes in the world. Once the line from Cape Town reaches Muizenberg, the tracks run so close to the coast that you’re liable to get spray on the windows when there’s a big swell running. Alongside the railway, you’ll find signal gear, stations (of course), and a collection of railway houses and buildings, many of which are shuttered and in various states of disrepair.  And it was one of these railway buildings, just on the outskirts of ever-popular Kalk Bay, that today houses The Reef. Renovated, reimagined, and boasting superb sea views, it’s a great example of old buildings being given a new lease of life, adding to the myriad attractions of the city. Kalk Bay has a few seaside restaurants (hello Brass Bell), and The Reef is a welcome new addition to the suburb.  The Vibe Low-key, straight from the beach, as la

Arum is a modern Winelands restaurant with a clear brief: cook from the farm and add flavour with flame. “Farm to fire” is how they frame it here, and whether you’re gazing out at the vegetable gardens from your table or admiring the dry-ageing fridge near the kitchens, there’s a very real sense of being close to your food. It’s elevated cooking, but without pretence or fuss. It’s the smartest table on Boschendal Farm, but also low-key in its approach to polished service and authentic hospitality, which is always on point. Though it’s only been open a few months, it’s sure to become a dining destination in the region. The Backstory Arum is the latest outing from chef Peter Tempelhoff — he of FYN fame — and his team, with chef Travis Finch guiding the menu and handling the day-to-day running of the kitchen. It’s a kitchen that works closely with the estate’s farmers, with much of what you see on the menu coming from the farm. The Vibe Arum sits in Boschendal’s original werf building, and the design leans into contemporary aesthetics rather than historic farm vibes. That’s thanks to a crack design team: Rotem Shachar and Megan Bond of MR. Design Studio, working alongside architect Jacques Mouton, and under the guidance of acclaimed designer Tristan du Plessis. There’s a comfortable flow through different spaces, from the heritage room (a delight in winter) through to the garden-facing section. The views here across the Food Garden are superb, with a large terrace if the weather

At DUSK, in the heart of Stellenbosch, executive chef Callan Austin has made a name for himself with a bold menu of refined cuisine, conceptual plates, and adventurous tasting menus. But Plenitude is not that. Instead, although it is located inside Majeka House boutique hotel, Plenitude leans firmly into the realm of a neighbourhood restaurant. The kind of place where you’ll return every other week, and the staff will know exactly how you like your martini. It’s still early days, but Plenitude is starting to find its feet out on the floor and in the kitchen. The Backstory Plenitude – which means ‘abundance’ – is part of a broader refresh at Majeka House, which was recently taken over by The Living Journey Collection, a group that runs hotels across the Cape. Austin oversees creative direction, but it’s chef Orlando Reid who leads the kitchen day-to-day and is most likely cooking your dinner.  His goal is straightforward: a restaurant with the style of a small hotel but the welcoming feel of your local eatery. And on the menu? A choice of approachable plates, elevated just enough to make it feel like a treat. The Vibe There are two spaces at Plenitude, and where you dine will depend on your mood and perhaps the weather. The small terrace is a delight, especially at lunchtime when you’ll want to be out in the warm Winelands air looking over the small gardens. Come evening, head indoors for a more refined dinner setting, with white tablecloths, fine stemware, and a rather-grand

There’s plenty of new energy on the streets of Sea Point, and where there aren’t new stores and eateries opening up, there are cranes laying the foundations for them. Sea Point’s hotel scene has been quietly levelling up over the past few years, with The Cole easily the most exciting new addition to this corner of the Atlantic Seaboard. This five-star boutique hotel is part of the Kove Collection, which also runs The Marly in Camps Bay and The Alphen in Constantia, and brings their signature sense of understated style across both the rooms and public areas.  Set just off Beach Road, it’s close enough to the Promenade to slip out for a morning jog, or to join the swimmers doing laps at the Sea Point Pavilion swimming pool. Location aside, the building itself – by acclaimed local architect Robert Silke –  is also a looker. With its ocean-facing aspect, sinuous curves and a muted palette, the design narrative is a nod to mid-century Tropical Modernism. Why stay at The Cole? Let’s start with the location. Half a block down? The Sea Point Promenade. One kilometre stroll along? The Saunders Rock tidal pool and some of the best sunsets in town. Half-a-block uphill? Sea Point Main Road buzzes with restaurants, bars and boutiques. Beach day? Hop an Uber or the MyCiti public bus service to Clifton or Camps Bay. Want urban vibes? Do the same in the other direction to the city centre and V&A Waterfront.   What are the rooms like? The Cole offers four categories of rooms, across Class

The most exciting new route launch of the year is almost ready for take-off. In one month LATAM Airlines will launch its new direct service between Cape Town and São Paulo, creating a non-stop link between the Mother City and Brazil. The new route is scheduled to launch on 2 July 2026 (moved forward from the initial launch date of September 2026), with three weekly flights between Cape Town International Airport and São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport. For travellers heading east, flight LA8060 will depart from São Paulo at 10.45pm on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, landing in Cape Town at 10.55am the following morning. In the other direction, flight LA8061 will depart from Cape Town at 3.50pm on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, arriving in São Paulo at 8pm. The service will be operated using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, with 30 seats in business class and 270 in economy class. Launch fares for a standard fare in Ecoomy class (including baggage) start at around R16 000 return. The new route is a major boost for Cape Town’s long-haul network, and a particularly useful one for travellers keen to explore South America without routing via Johannesburg, Luanda, Europe or the Middle East. São Paulo is not only Brazil’s biggest city, but also the main hub for LATAM, opening up easy onward connections across Brazil and South and Central America. But there are also a few good reasons to use São Paulo as more than just a stopover. Formula 1 returns to Interlagos for the São Paulo

The Melting Pot is embracing winter with a delicious new midweek special that is set to add some fire to Tuesday nights in De Waterkant. Chef John van Zyl’s acclaimed global street-food restaurant has launched ‘Thali Tuesdays’, a weekly winter deal priced at R295 per person. The special is available every Tuesday this winter, with bookings recommended.  The menu at The Melting Pot has always taken its cue from travel, tapping into the bold flavours and generous, shareable plates that Van Zyl has devoured on his many travels across the world. Alongside a sprinkling of European influences (hello, mussels with fennel and sourdough! IYKYK) Asian and Levantine flavours loom large on the menu. But given that he was once Head Chef at the acclaimed Indian restaurant Thali, this latest foray into the flavours of the subcontinent makes perfect sense.  A thali is all about variety. It’s a platter of different dishes served together, typically balancing spice, texture, richness and freshness in one generous spread. For diners who love a little taste of everything, it’s the perfect solution. “People crave curry in winter, and we’re creating these thalis to be all about an abundance of nourishing, delicious and moreish winter food,” says John. “Indian food is all about the balance of savoury, sweet, sour, astringent and bitter. The beautiful thing about a thali is that you are able to include all of those elements in a single platter.” With Thali Tuesdays at The Melting Pot, you can expec

In 2014 Dominique Ansel gave the world the Cronut, fusing a croissant and doughnut into a single pastry. In 2016 came the Crone – a croissant and ice cream cone – followed quickly by the Cruffin, Cretzel and the Croaf.  But 2024 brought us the Crookie, created in Paris but made into a global craze by TikTok. In Cape Town three (or are there more? Tell us at hello@timeout.com) city bakeries serve up their take on the world’s latest pastry sensation The story begins in October 2022, when pâtissier Stéphane Louvard was tinkering in his bakery in the Opéra district of Paris. He sold a few, mostly as a novelty, but the idea never really took off. Until TikTok caught wind of it in December 2023, and Crookie videos were soon racking up millions of views. By February 2024 Maison Louvard was – sacré bleu! – selling 2300 Crookies a day, with queues around the block as locals and tourists lined up for a taste. The Crookie soon went global, and now the world’s newest pastry trend has made its way to the Mother City. From its main bakery in Salt River, Proof Bakery supplies bread and patisserie to more than 80 restaurants, shops and delis across Cape Town, but their small store in Claremont is the exclusive outlet for Proof’s artisanal take on the Crookie (R45).  ‘We’re always looking for new ideas, and my eldest son told me about them being so popular in Paris,’ says store owner Joanne Gloak. ‘The world’s going crazy about it, so I thought OK I’ll do it.’ At Proof the Crookie starts wit

If ever there was a time to buy a copy of TIME, it’s now. This week, the Great African Seaforest – the vast underwater kelp forest that fringes the Cape Peninsula and extends north along the west coast towards Namibia – features as the cover story of TIME’s ocean-focused edition. With a spectacular photograph by Cape Town-based freediver and underwater photographer Helen Walne, the feature – titled ‘The Power Hiding in Underwater Forests’ – puts a global spotlight on one of South Africa’s most extraordinary natural wonders. Whether taking a dip in a tidal pool or wandering the coastline, most Capetonians rarely give the kelp forests a second thought. But this cold-water forest of sea bamboo plays host to – and supports – a remarkable diversity of sea life, from sharks, seals and cuttlefish to nudibranchs, limpets, rock lobster and abalone. With roots clinging to rocky reefs to withstand the pounding swells that hit the Cape Peninsula, these towering trunks and sunlight-soaking fronds create a three-dimensional habitat for thousands of marine species. Fed by cold, nutrient-rich upwellings along the Cape coast, the Great African Seaforest is considered the world’s only giant sea bamboo forest, dominated by sea bamboo – Ecklonia maxima – and split-fan kelp. It’s not the first time these kelp forests have made global headlines… this is also the underwater world made famous by the Oscar-winning documentary ‘My Octopus Teacher, which was filmed in the forests around the Cape Penins

Love wine but looking to add a little spice to your collection? The Wine Concepts Grape Escape Wine Festival brings together 40 top producers from across the Cape Winelands to pop the cork on more than 130 wines for an evening exploring the vinous road less travelled. Now in its sixth year, the festival has built its reputation on sharing wines beyond the same-old Sauvvie that you’re used to ordering. Here, the focus is on uncommon varieties, curious blends and bottles you might not find on the supermarket shelf. Think Viura and Mourvèdre. Verdelho and Sangiovese. Not heard of Nebbiolo? Now’s your chance to taste it. Barbera, Chenin Blanc and Chenin-led blends also make an appearance, as does a good selection of Rhône varieties, from Viognier and Roussanne to Syrah and Grenache. The roll call of producers doing the pouring is just as interesting, with both big-name brands and boutique trailblazers on the lineup. Jordan is pouring Assyrtiko and Riesling. Migliarina brings Albariño, Grenache Noir and a vine-dried Pinot Gris sweet wine. Morgenster is showing Vermentino, Nebbiolo and a Sangiovese blend, while Wightman and Sons adds Viura, skin-contact Chenin, Tinta Barocca and Carignan to the mix. Chenin fans are especially well looked after, and here the focus is on showcasing the sheer versatility of South Africa’s signature white grape, with styles ranging from old-vine and barrel-fermented examples to skin-contact and field-blend interpretations. Grape Escape: Need to know

Robben Island Museum has launched its NextGenHeritage Free Pass, giving South African children under the age of 15 free entry to the museum when accompanied by a paying adult. The offer runs from 1 June to 30 October 2026: that includes the winter and spring school holidays, as well as two public holidays! The aim, says Robben Island Museum, is to make heritage experiences more accessible for South African families, while encouraging younger visitors to engage with the country’s history and democratic journey. Round of applause for the Museum for that! It’s a timely reminder that Robben Island is not only one of Cape Town’s most popular visitor attractions, but also one of South Africa’s most powerful living-history sites. For many visitors, the most poignant stop is the former prison block where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in prison, including a visit to his small cell in Section B. But the wider island tour also gives a sense of Robben Island beyond the prison walls, from its military history and limestone quarry to the natural landscapes and views back to the city. Tours include the ferry crossing from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront, a guided bus tour of the island and a visit to the former maximum-security prison, with insight from guides who help bring the island’s layered history into focus. The free pass applies to one South African child under 15 per paying adult. A South African adult ticket costs R400, while additional children are cha

Cape Town’s cultured night owls are being invited to take over Zeitz MOCAA after dark this weekend, as the museum hosts a special Night at the Museum, filled with nocturnal adventure and no parents allowed! Open to children aged seven to 12 years, Zeitz MOCAA’s Night at the Museum takes place on Saturday, 30 May from 6pm to 10pm. There’s no word yet on whether any dinosaur skeletons, miniature cowboys or ancient pharaohs will come to life, but the same Ben Stiller-style spirit of after-hours adventure is very much on the cards. The evening promises a pyjama-friendly romp through one of Cape Town’s most iconic cultural spaces, with tunnel treasure hunts, fort building in the Atrium Bowl, storytelling, creative play, music, photo booth fun and a guided journey through The Stories that Ran Away exhibition. That exhibition adds a little magic of its own. The Stories that Ran Away celebrates Zeitz MOCAA’s children’s book series, which reimagines African myths, legends and creation stories for a younger generation. This second iteration introduces three new titles – Nkanyamba, One World, One Family and Why Fire and Water Are Enemies – alongside the first four books in the series, with original and digital artworks displayed in the museum’s tunnels. The after-hours programme runs from 6pm to 10pm, with children invited to arrive in their favourite pyjamas and slippers. There will be beanbag bedtime stories, hot chocolate with marshmallows, mini pizzas and hotdogs, and each child wil

It was a busy night at the Jack Black Brewery Taproom in Cape Town on Saturday, 24 May, as the who’s who of African beer rolled up to applaud – and raise a glass to – the winners of the 2026 African Beer Cup, the continent’s largest beer competition And in a night filled with accolades, it was Cape Town’s Woodstock Brewery that walked away with top honours, with its Funky Monk’s Wild Sour Ale named Best Beer in Africa. The awards night capped off BeerEx Africa, the annual trade expo and conference that brings together professional brewers, homebrewers, suppliers and beer lovers from across the continent for technical talks, tastings, demos and industry networking, with the African Beer Cup awards party closing out the week. This year’s competition attracted 244 entries from 16 African nations, including first-time entries from Mauritius and Cape Verde. And the competition continued to evolve in 2026, with 10 new categories added to the awards. “The new categories are mostly taken from the US Brewers Association guidelines. This was to make the competition more comprehensive and to better represent new trends in the industry,” says Lucy Corne, co-founder of the African Beer Cup. One of the most significant additions was ‘South African hop beer’, a new category, created specifically to recognise beers using 100% South African hops. Other Africa-forward categories include one focused on beers made with traditional African brewing grains such as sorghum and millet. Winning brews

After last year’s race was cancelled at the last minute due to howling winds, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon returns to the city this weekend with much more than medals and PBs on the line. The 2026 race carries extra significance for runners, organisers and the city itself, as Cape Town continues its bid to become Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Major. But with 27 000 runners expected to take to the streets on Sunday (and thousands more at other weekend events!), road closures and parking restrictions are set to roll out across the city during Cape Town’s biggest running weekend.  When is the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon? The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon takes place on Sunday, 24 May, with runners starting in Green Point before following a 42.2km route through some of the city’s most recognisable suburbs and landmarks. Here is the full Cape Town Marathon route. But, race-weekend events begin on Saturday, 23 May, with the Peace Runs and trail events adding to the action around the Green Point and DHL Stadium precinct. Which roads will be closed? Throughout the race weekend, roads will be closed and traffic restrictions will be implemented along the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon route. Key affected roads in the city include: Helen Suzman Boulevard  Beach Road in Sea Point Beach Road in Mouille Point Granger Bay Boulevard Nelson Mandela Boulevard Somerset Road in Green Point Buitengracht Street As the runners head along Main Road, they (and the traffic disruption) will move into th

Great news for Cape Town travellers looking for a tropical escape exploring the beaches, spice markets and historic streets of Zanzibar. Regional airline Airlink has announced that it will launch the first-ever non-stop service between Cape Town and Zanzibar from October 2026. Even better? You can expect to fly in comfort on Airlink’s brand-new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft on the weekly route. Flights leave Cape Town at 8.15am, arriving in Zanzibar at 2.30pm (local time, which is one hour ahead of South Africa). The return flight leaves Zanzibar at 3.30pm, touching down in Cape Town at 8.50pm. And round of applause to Airlink for those departure times… routes to East Africa are often timed to arrive and depart late at night, and this schedule means you can avoid the bleary-eyed midnight departures and pre-dawn arrivals that often come with island escapes in the region. The new route is Airlink’s second service to Zanzibar, coming hot on the heels of the upcoming launch of Johannesburg-Zanzibar flights on 3 June 2026. And, here’s a gift: any Cape Town travellers already holding Airlink tickets for Cape Town-Johannesburg-Zanzibar itineraries will be able to switch to the new non-stop flight at no extra charge, provided the change is within the same cabin. Airlink will fly the route with its new Embraer E195-E2 jets, configured with 124 seats across two cabins. As with all Airlink flights, Economy-class seats are in a 2-2 configuration, meaning there are no middle seats, and passe

As the airline rebuilds its African network after months of disruption linked to the conflict in Iran, Qatar Airways is adding more flights to Cape Town. From 16 June 2026, the Doha-based airline will increase its service to Cape Town from seven flights a week to up to 10 flights per week, adding capacity between Cape Town International Airport and Hamad International Airport in Doha.  Long one of the most popular long-haul carriers from Cape Town, the additional frequencies will give travellers more choice of onward connections across Qatar Airways’ global network, particularly to Europe, Asia and the Middle East. The move forms part of a wider ramp-up across Africa, with Qatar Airways increasing frequencies, restarting routes and adding new destinations as it expands its international network to more than 150 destinations from mid-June. Cape Town is among several African routes receiving a much-needed boost from Qatar Airways. Flight frequencies will increase from three weekly flights to up to seven in Alexandria, from 28 weekly flights to up to 35 in Cairo, from three weekly flights to up to seven in Dar es Salaam, and from five weekly flights to up to seven on the Lusaka-Harare service. The Maputo-Durban service will also rise from four weekly flights to up to seven. The airline is also resuming four weekly flights to Seychelles and two weekly flights to Kigali from 16 June, with daily flights to Marrakesh starting on 1 July. A new Port Sudan service is set to launch on

While Franschhoek is mopping up after a wet and wild week, in just a few weeks the streets of the ‘French corner’ will swap winter greys for red, white and blue, as the Franschhoek Bastille Festival returns to the village for a weekend of Francophone food, wine and street celebration. This year’s festival – the 34th edition – takes place on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 July, bringing a little Gallic flair to the Cape Winelands. It’s one of Franschhoek’s most talked-about winter events, rooted in the town’s French Huguenot heritage and centred on what the valley does best: wine, food and an excuse to dress up! At the heart of the weekend is Iconic Bastille, hosted on Church Street, featuring wine and cheese tastings, live entertainment and the return of the Best Dressed Competition. This year’s music line-up features Amy Jones, The Blend Theory and the ever-popular Absolutely Fabulous duo. Tickets for Iconic Bastille are priced at R450 per person, with Saturday and Sunday passes available via Webtickets. For those seeking something a little more refined, Uncorked Exclusive at Bastille returns with a more intimate tasting experience, showcasing standout wines from participating estates. But beyond the ticketed tastings and events, the village itself will be getting in on the action. Expect food stalls, local chefs, markets, and street entertainment throughout the weekend along Church Street’s Food Fair walk. A Bastille Boules Tournament is also planned for Saturday. So dig out t