Richard Holmes

While socks and chocolates are a good start (forget the supermarket bars; rather head for one of these boutique chocolate stores in Cape Town), what most dads really want (trust us on this one) is to spend a little quality time with their loved ones. To get you started, we’ve rounded up some of the best Father’s Day events, menus, and activities taking place across the city and surrounding Winelands.  South Africa - along with the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany - will be celebrating Dad on 15th June, some countries like to buck the trend. Down Under it’s on the first Sunday of September. In countries with a strong Catholic population, Father's Day is observed on Saint Joseph's Day, 19th March. Thailand goes completely off on a tangent, celebrating fathers on 5th December, coinciding with the birthday of former King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Now that you’ve sorted your next pub quiz category, it’s time to start planning. Whether your father figure enjoys whisky and Wagyu or woodwork and wine farms, Cape Town has something for everyone this Father’s Day, catering to every budget. So why not skip the socks and treat Dad to a memorable day out. 

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.

For travellers with a savvy sense of style — and very deep pockets — Elite Traveler’s global compendium of ‘Elite Suites’ is the ultimate starting point when booking a holiday abroad. Billed as “a definitive index of the most opulent, extravagant, and decadent accommodations on the planet,” the suites that make the grade are chosen for their “exceptional amenities, stunning design, and attention to detail.  With wellness travel now more than just a buzzword — in fact, it's an industry worth almost $1-trillion each year! — it’s no surprise that the Elite list has now zeroed in on the world’s best Wellness Suites. “For this year’s wellness edit, we took that refined selection of suites and elevated those that truly excel in the art of wellbeing,” says Elite Traveler. “That includes everything from a holistic approach to wellness, thoughtful design that encourages reconnection, restorative multi-day treatment programs, nourishing cuisine and serene surroundings.” Of the 140 suites worldwide that made this year’s list, four remarkable destinations are right here in Cape Town. So if you’ve got a credit card burning a hole in your pocket — or a tax refund waiting to be spent — how about a night in one of these gorgeous escapes?

From corner stores to high-end members-only lounges, Cape Town’s cannabis scene has flourished over the last five years. With evolving legislation and shifting public attitudes, both locals and visitors have embraced a growing culture of cannabis consumption in the Mother City.  What was once sold furtively under the counter or on a street corner has gone thoroughly mainstream, with elegant members' lounges offering upmarket destinations for lighting up. Across the Mother City, buying marijuana in Cape Town is now possible (if not strictly legal) at dozens of outlets, with retailers offering everything from flower and edibles to concentrates and pre-rolls. Much of this transformation stems from a pivotal 2018 Constitutional Court ruling that decriminalised private cannabis use. That legal shift laid the groundwork for the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act, gazetted in 2024. However, while the Act outlines a legal framework for private use and cultivation, it has yet to be fully operationalised. In practice, there is still a lack of clarity around key aspects such as possession limits, transport allowances, and enforcement. For now, the law permits adults to grow and use cannabis in private, but public consumption, buying and selling remain explicitly illegal. Let's say it once more, to be clear: buying and selling are illegal. Even with limited ‘Section 21’ medical exemptions allowing for medical use, these rules are often murky and inconsistently applied. The law may say sa

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. Lester Kiewit is the voice that helps Cape Town wake up and make sense of the day. As the host of Good Morning Cape Town on CapeTalk, Lester brings curiosity, courage, and a deep love for storytelling to the airwaves. From radio to TV, he’s done it all: from grilling politicians and diving into community issues, Lester has built a solid reputation as a journalist who asks the hard questions while keeping it human.  Born and bred in Cape Town, he’s proudly local. When he’s off-air, you’ll probably find him wandering the city’s backstreets, exploring old buildings, or brushing up on indigenous Cape history. Lester doesn’t just report on Cape Town, he lives it, which makes him the perfect fit for Local Intel. MORE CELEBS SHARE THEIR LOCAL SECRETS Comedian Alan Committie on his favourite breakfast spot Where designer Sindiso Khumalo shops for gifts Where Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis heads for coffee The GoodLuck guide to 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.

South Africa’s love affair with meat means you'll find a steak featured on almost any restaurant menu across the city, from fast-food to fine-dining. But as any committed carnivore will tell you, a single option buried deep on a long menu doesn’t really count. Instead, if you’re after a fine steak and likely a good glass of red to match, you’d do well to head straight to one of the Mother City’s celebrated steakhouses. Many of Cape Town’s best steakhouses have been in business for decades; a testament to their quality and, often, personality. In recent years many have also honed in on what really matters: serving the best cuts sourced from local farmers, and grilled to perfection. Rump or sirloin, T-bone or hangar... whichever you prefer, these are the best steakhouses in Cape Town. 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 written by local experts.

The chefs at Time Out Market Cape Town have launched a collection of delicious new dishes in step with warm days that demand bright flavours, fresh produce and lighter bites. ‘We’re excited to usher in the energy of summer with fresh, bold flavours that capture the spirit of the season,’ says Russ Meyer, General Manager of Time Out Market Cape Town. ‘Our chefs have truly outdone themselves, creating dishes that not only highlight local favourites but also surprise and delight with every bite. It’s a summer experience you don’t want to miss.’  Set in the heart of Cape Town’s ever-popular V&A Waterfront, Time Out Market Cape Town brings together a dozen of the city’s best chefs under a single roof, offering a snapshot of the best flavours from South Africa’s ‘Mother City.   And seeing as Cape Town was voted the best city in the world for food in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards – beating out the likes of Milan, Bangkok and Sydney – you could say this is some of the best food on the planet! 'Cape Town really comes to life in the summer, and our Market is at the heart of it all,' adds Meyer. 'We’re not just a food destination – we’re a place where the city’s creativity and culture come alive. Whether you’re here for a meal, a cocktail, or just to soak in the atmosphere, there’s always something new to discover.' Here’s a look at the best new plates to order this summer…

World Paloma Day is celebrated on May 22 each year, and honours one of Mexico’s most famous cocktails, the Paloma. Always a refreshing option on a sunny afternoon, a Paloma combines tequila with grapefruit, soda and a splash of lime in a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavours. Here in Cape Town, the Bascule Bar at the Cape Grace Hotel is shaking up its own proudly South African take on the classic: their Protea Pineapple Paloma features Patrón Reposado Tequila infused with the fragrant essence of protea flowers to pay tribute to the fynbos of the Cape.  The mixologists at the Bascule Bar will be shaking up their palomas until Sunday 25 May, but if you can’t make it to the Waterfront, try out one of these top cocktail bars that will get you shaking into the spirit of World Paloma Day!  

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. Ah, Bordeaux, the most renowned of French wine regions. The Left Bank. The Right Bank. Cabernet, merlot and white wine blends that will make you weep with joy. Prices that will turn those tears into sadness. Happily, Fairview rides to the rescue with the latest addition to their innovative Regional Revival series: Fairview’s homage to the classic wine regions of Europe, reimagined through a distinctly South African lens. Each wine in the series draws inspiration from Old World styles and grapes, but adds a distinct local character. This year, it’s the turn of Bordeaux, with the release of the Altesse 2024, a crisp white blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon—the classic combination for a ‘Bordeaux White’. Inspired by the sea breezes and high-altitude vineyards of Darling, and modelled on classic Bordeaux whites, this is a wine where terroir does all the talking. Photograph: Fairview The name Altesse is a tip of the hat to the two key aspects of the terroir that shape the wine: altitude and sea. With grapes harvested from vineyards near Darling, the vines on the hills above Yzerfontein soak up cool Atlantic breezes and enjoy long ripening days. The result? A vibrant, li

After legal battles and infighting, followed by a few more years of construction, the site that was once The River Club finally opened in late 2024 as Riverlands. It’s a mixed-use development combining office, retail, and restaurant spaces, alongside a strong cultural hub celebrating the First Nations of the Cape, the people who grazed cattle and settled on the grassy plains between what are today the Black and Liesbeek Rivers. While a corporate tech headquarters dominates the skyline (and conversation) at Riverlands, it’s certainly not just a precinct for office workers and apartment residents. Instead, across the expansive site, you’ll find a host of wonderful restaurants, a thoughtful shopping experience in the mall, and a lovely riverside walk that is open to the public and completely free to access. Whether you come for a bite to eat, some cultural insights, or retail therapy, it’s a vibrant, multifaceted new addition to Cape Town. Here's how to spend your time and money down by the riverside...

With the flurry of public holidays in the past month, it’s easy to forget that there’s another important date just over the horizon of this week... Mother’s Day! Mother’s Day dates back more than a century, beginning in the United States largely due to the efforts of one Anna Jarvis. After the death of her mother in 1905, Jarvis campaigned for a national day to honour mothers for their love, sacrifice, and care. The first celebration of Mother’s Day in the United States occurred in 1908, and in 1914, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson declared it a national holiday. In South Africa – along with the United States and Canada – Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in May. That’s this Sunday, 11 May 2025, by the way! However, it’s not the same around the world. In the United Kingdom and Ireland, ‘Mothering Sunday’ is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, which fell on 30 March 2025. In France, it falls on the last Sunday in May, and Norway goes completely left-field with the second Sunday in February. But when you celebrate is perhaps less important than ensuring that you do. While a home-cooked meal or serving breakfast in bed (as well as doing the dishes, don't forget) is a fine way to honour your mother figure, Cape Town also offers plenty of fabulous events and special offers if you want to celebrate in style. Here are some of the best Mother’s Day deals in town… Mother’s Day Magic at Wilde Vy Bistro Head for the most delicious new addition to the Durbanville winela

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.   

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.

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  

The menu of Asian restaurants in Cape Town may be small, but if you know where to look you’ll find some real gems, with talented chefs putting their own spin on the classics. How Bao Now is a great example, with two of the city’s top chefs – Matt van den Berg and Carla Schulze – bringing authentic Cape flavours to a concise menu of Asian plates at their Woodstock outpost of How Bao Now. Fluffy bao buns are, as you might have guessed, the star of the show, and at Time Out Market Cape Town this creative duo brings a local perspective as they plate up exclusive flavour combos such as crayfish bao infused with Cape Malay flavours and a coconut and curry furikake, or wagyu sando-bao with a chilli crunch mayo, tonkatsu and pickled cucumber.   HOW BAO NOW MENU Baos Wagyu Sando (2 in a portion) R170 (Panko bao, wagyu, tonkatsu sauce, chilli-crisp kewpie) Flaming Chicken R105 (Fried thigh, XO, peanut crumb, Szechuan dressing) Fried Fish R100 (Hake, pickled red onion, Thai red curry dressing, nuac cham) Kimchi Pork R105 (Sous-vide pork belly, kimchi, miso mayo, Asian dressing) Banana Blossom (Vegetarian) R100 (Pickled red onion, Asian dressing, XO, herbs Kiddies Chicken Bao R65   Bao Special Cape Malay Crayfish R200 (Curry aioli, coconut furikake, vadouvan XO, lime)   Bites Crack Peanuts R45 Andry Edamame

YARD began as a cult classic in the inner-city, as famous for its idiosyncratic service as the delicious fare. And now Eugene Smith brings his inimitable approach to pizza to Time Out Market Cape Town. Atop their signature hand-stretched dough you’ll find four classic YARD flavours flying out of the ovens. Whether your poison is New York pepperoni, barbecue chicken, spicy Italian salami or the heady mix of blue cheese and caramelised onions, expect the generous pizzas from YARD to come standard with a side order of their (in)famously cheeky service. YARD MENU Select your: Dough Style N = Neopolitan R = Romano NY = New York (45cm) C = Californian Please note: Neapolitan & Romano-base pizzas come with Fior de late cheese. New Yorker and California-style bases come with grated mozzarella cheese Sauce White Alfredo Italian Tomato Pesto Signatures Juicy Chick N245/R275/C225/NY465 (Choose Sauce, Pizza Warehouse BBQ Sauce, Mozzarella, Slow Roasted shredded Chicken, Feta and Peppadews) Sweet Baby Blue (Vegetarian) N190/R230/C180/NY375 (Choose sauce, Mozzarella, Blue cheese crumbled, Caramelised onions and fresh wild rocket) Italian Favourites Autumno (Vegetarian) N180/R185/C175/NY314 (Choose Sauce, Mozzarella, Italian herbs, Mushrooms, red onions, Baby Spinach finished with a crack of black pepper) Artigiano N210/R220/C205/NY400 (Choose sauce, Mozzarella, Artichokes, Roasted red peppers & Pepperoni) Capricciosa N180/R190/C175/NY340 (Choose sauce, Mozzarella, Salami, Kalamat

South Africa was a late-bloomer when it comes to picking up on the artisan coffee trend, but in 2006 that began to change. That was thanks to the founders of Origin Roasting, who slowly introduced a curious Cape Town to the concept of hand-roasted beans, single-origin coffee and the fact that, no, milk didn’t need to be super-heated. Origin kick-started a juggernaut, and today the city is brimming with adventurous micro-roasters, hipster baristas and seriously good coffee. Honestly, if you’re drinking a bad cup in Cape Town you have only yourself to blame. But if you don’t know where to start in the search for a good brew, make it Nøsh Café. Created by Origin co-founder Joel Singer, Nøsh Café offers a unique coffee experience, brewing up three of the city’s finest artisan roasters – Origin, Truth and Tribe – in a single location. At Nøsh Café Singer brings his signature passion to the Time Out Market Cape Town, showcasing the Mother City’s vibrant coffee culture in all its guises.  And to accompany that cortado? Alongside the coffee, at Nøsh Café you’ll find a menu of all-day breakfasts and an eclectic collection of light meals and baked goods that take global inspiration and serve it up with a friendly neighbourhood feel. NØSH CAFÉ MENU Breakfast Bialy Breakfast Bun R115 (Bialy, aromatic beef patty, fried egg, house-made tomato jam, fresh tomato, hot sauces for the brave (jalapeño or habanero) Shakshuka - Merguez|halloumi R135 (Two free-range poached eggs, fragrant tomato s

Within days of Ramenhead opening in Cape Town in 2022 there were queues out the door, as hungry locals lined up for the best noodles in the city. That’s not surprising, as Peter Tempelhoff, Ashley Moss and Jennifer Hugé – the culinary creatives behind Ramenhead, and award-winning FYN restaurant – scoured Tokyo and Osaka for time-honoured ramen recipes, returning with the first (and only) Yamato noodle machine in Africa. The trio brings that same passion and focus to Time Out Market Cape Town, with Ramenhead’s seaside outpost offering a compact list of Asian plates and slurpable ramen bowls.   RAMENHEAD MENU   Tori Chintan R240 (Light broth of chicken with soya sauce) Tori Katsu Curry R250 (Rich creamy style chicken curry ramen) Kids Ponyo ramen R140 (Half-portion of chicken tori chintan) Sesame & Mushroom R240 (Double dashi style vegan)   Ramen add-ons Ajitamago egg R20 Extra noodles R30 Gluten-free noodles +R30 Nekomanma R40 (Bowl of Ishikawa rice for leftover soup)   Rice bowl Chashu Don R210 (Spring onion, BBQ-glazed pork burnt ends, sesame)   Snacks Karaage R145 (Tokyo-style friend chicken, miso mayonnaise) Pork gyoza R130 (Potstickers with green chili ponzu) Cabbage gyoza R120 (Potstickers with spicy ponzu peanut sauce)   Dessert Purin R95 (With seasonal fruit and fragrant shisho syrup)  

It’s a burger bar, but not as you know it – and that’s thanks to the creativity of prolific restaurateur, chef and TV personality Bertus Basson. With a brace of popular restaurants across the Cape, Basson is passionate about celebrating homegrown South African flavours and culinary traditions. At De Vrije Burger you can count on having your hands full with his next-level burgers made with free-range beef and homemade buns.    DE VRIJE BURGER MENU Burgers: De Vrije Burger R125/R155 with tjips (180g Free Range Beef, Double Cheese, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Pickles) De Jonge Burger R115/R145 with tjips (180g Free Range Beef, Double Cheese) Die Bennie Griessel R125/R155 with tjips (180g Free Range Beef, Double Cheese, mustard pickle) De Vrije Vegetarian R115/R145 with tjips (Bo-Kaap-inspired falafel burger, double cheese, all the trimmings) A complimentary De Vrije Roomys with every burger purchased.   Add on: Smoked chilli sauce: R12.50 Melrose and Biltong: R35 Bacon - 3 rashers: R30   Extras: Hand-cut Tjips: R45 Have it: BBQ spice dusted: +R7.50 Cheezy: +R25 Peri-Peri: +R17.50 Onion Rings: +R45 Basson and Son soft drinks: R40  

John Van Zyl is a chef who likes to fly under the radar. Don’t expect TV shows, branded cookware or product endorsement deals. Rather, he just quietly goes about his business serving up some of the best food South Africa has to offer. Until recently you had to drive for an hour from Cape Town to taste Van Zyl’s cooking, and the winelands setting in the Elgin Valley is certainly a wonderful way to take a deep dive into the small plates he’s cooking up at The Melting Pot. And while his Elgin restaurant remains worth the trip for its concise menu of globally-inspired small plates, at Time Out Market Cape Town he brings a whole new take on the Melting Pot experience. Here, Van Zyl turns his focus to the Cape’s bountiful seafood while drawing plenty of inspiration from his own travels abroad. That could mean tuna sashimi with fermented black bean dressing, coconut and mint, through to beer-battered hake sliders with smoked potato purée and (of course) a best-in-class tartar sauce. In a city famous for its seafood, Van Zyl sets the bar high with his concise menu of superb small plates.  THE MELTING POT SEAFOOD MENU Linefish Sashimi R140 (Fermented black bean dressing, coconut, mint) Peruvian Mixed Seafood ceviche R145 (Butternut purée, tortilla chips) Beetroot-cured Salmon R140 (Mint & dill yoghurt dressing, dill pickled cucumber) Chargrilled Octopus R135 (Cauliflower purée, bacon shrimp XO dressing) Fried Fish Tacos R120 (Smoked potato aioli, tartar sauce, house pickles, shredded

Driving through the skyscraper canyons of Sandton today, it’s hard to imagine this corner of the city, today Africa’s richest square mile, as a dusty outpost of wagon trails and farmsteads on the road north out of downtown Johannesburg. Turn back the clock a century, and for travellers on that road in need of refreshment, they would likely pull in at the first – and then the only – building in the area: the Good Hope Tea Room, an outspan for wagon drivers run by former British army officer Gerard Le Grand. Times were good, and business boomed: rondawels were added for overnight guests, and by the time the Balalaika Hotel officially opened in 1949, it had become the heart and soul of the area.  Fast forward 75 years, and the hotel – now officially the Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton – is still going strong; a remarkable feat in a city where, as they say, the only constant is change. Now, as then, the Balalaika is something of an oasis for travellers. Though surrounded by soaring office towers and the gleaming façades of financial behemoths, the Balalaika remains charmingly low-key. It’s easy to drive right past the entrance if you don’t know to look out for the brass bull out front, a playful nod to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange around the corner. Bull? Bull run, get it? Right. And yet, despite the homely façade, the hotel extends across a vast area of Sandton, offering 330 rooms clustered in courtyards around leafy gardens and swimming pools, providi

Wine lovers, are you ready to don your red, white, and blue? The Franschhoek Bastille Festival returns this winter, bringing French flair, fine wine, and festive vibes to the Cape Winelands on Saturday, 12th and Sunday, 13th July 2025. This is the 33rd edition of the much-loved winter festival, and this year it will be held in a brand-new location in the heart of the village. While the 2024 festival (which was delayed by stormy weather) took place on the Franschhoek High School rugby field, in 2025 festival-goers will head to the Hospice parking area, featuring a refreshed layout brimming with the region's fine wines and tasty bites set to a soundtrack of live entertainment. The two-day Bastille Festival features all the classics you've come to know and love: a wine and cheese experience with tastings from top local estates, artisanal food stalls, and the ever-popular best-dressed competition. Tickets cost R390 per person per day and include a souvenir wine glass and 10 tasting tokens.  New for the 2025 festival is a series of wine experiences called Uncorked Exclusive : a more curated wine-tasting experience showcasing premium pours in an intimate setting for serious wine enthusiasts. These tastings cost extra (R120 per person) and feature the likes of Pasarene, Holden Manz, Babylonstoren, and more. Some, such as La Motte, are already sold out! Outside the main marquee, the village is set to buzz with Bastille energy. Church Street will transform into a pedestrian-friendly f

So first, the good news: the 13th edition of the Slave Route Challenge takes over the streets of Cape Town this Sunday (1 June 2025) with over 8000 runners tackling the 21km, 10km, and 5km routes that pay tribute to Cape Town’s colourful, complex history. The bad news? Those 8000 runners are going to cause just a tiny bit of mayhem with CBD traffic, so if you had plans to hit Greenmarket Square, the Company’s Garden or even the Waterfront, you’re going to want to plan your route carefully. Locals can look forward to significant traffic disruptions across the CBD and surrounding neighbourhoods, with a number of key routes fully or partially closed from the early hours of the morning through to midday. The biggest closures include: Darling Street (between Plein and Buitenkant Streets): Full closure from 4am to 11.30am Sir Lowry Road (westbound): Between Tennant and Buitenkant Streets Hanover Street: Between Tennant and Sir Lowry, and again between Christiaan and Tennant Lower Buitenkant Street: Between Strand and Darling Hatfield Street: Between Roeland and Orange Additional lane closures and restricted access will impact major thoroughfares including: Roeland, Orange, Wale, Long, Loop and Somerset Roads Beach Road, Granger Bay Boulevard, Prestwich, Riebeek, and Adderley Streets Several MyCiTi bus routes will also be diverted or temporarily suspended. Affected routes include: 101, 102, 103, 109, 111, and 118 Key stop closures include Adderley, Lower Plein, District Six, an

Aside from a chic new hotel, elegant country picnics, world-class wines, and a manicured estate that begs to be explored… if you needed another reason to visit Spier Wine Farm outside Stellenbosch, we’ve got one for you.  Now open in the historic Old Wine Cellar of this rejuvenated Stellenbosch estate, Grounded Practice is a brand-new exhibition by Tamlin Blake, Chief Curator of the Spier Arts Trust, who has brought together 63 works by 42 South African artists. More than just a beautiful collection of ceramics, it’s intended as a timely reflection on balance, belonging and our bond with the earth. Leaving the theme open-ended, Blake allowed the work of the collected artists to emerge organically. “What came through, almost overwhelmingly, was a sense of instability – personally, politically, environmentally,” explains Blake. “Many artists were using their practice to find their footing again, to reestablish a sense of balance and belonging. That’s where the title ‘Grounded Practice’ comes from.” At the heart of the exhibition is clay, a central aspect of the estate’s own terroir, and one of the world’s oldest art materials. “Clay is a potent and enduring material in human civilisation,” says Blake. “It’s often seen as a metaphor for creativity, malleability, and human potential. But once it’s fired and becomes ceramic, it also represents permanence and resilience.” On display are works that range from bold and conceptual to playful and tactile, with something for art collect

The results are in, and after the numbers have been crunched on thousands of global votes, Time Out has confirmed what we Capetonians have known all along: that colourful, cosmopolitan Cape Town is also one of the best places in the world to combine urban adventure with easy access to the great outdoors. In the latest global survey of the best cities in the world for access to nature and green spaces, more than 18 500 urban natives cast their vote for what made their city great for getting outdoors. Those that made the top 20 list had the highest share of ‘good’ or ‘amazing’ ratings for their green space and access to nature. Coming out tops was Medellín, Colombia’s second city, where 92 percent of locals raved about the green space and access to nature. Perhaps that’s no surprise, as the ‘city of eternal spring’ boasts ‘green corridors’ and a network of riverside parks. Coming in second was Boston, which also ranked second for walkability in a recent Time Out survey. Bostonians love the city’s green spaces and access to nature, with incredible parks open to both locals and tourists. This includes the iconic Boston Common, the most visited green space in the city and the oldest park in the US! Third place went to Sydney, which boasts more than 100 beaches and easy access to the Blue Mountains National Park.   And Cape Town? Well, we clocked in at 9th position in the poll, a slot shared with Abu Dhabi and Chicago. Now Abu Dhabi may seem like a strange bedfellow for a green

It was, perhaps, inevitable that this day would come. But the news this week that Ster-Kinekor will close its cinemas in the Claremont shopping centre, Cavendish Square, marks the end of an era. From high school dates to family outings, the cineplex at Cavendish Square has long been part of the fabric of the city’s southern suburbs. Once famous for its plush seats, a choice of Cinema Nouveau downstairs and more commercially-minded ‘flicks’ up top, and the luxurious seating of the Cine Prestige, it seems Ster Kinekor did pretty much everything they could to keep us coming back to the silver screen.  And it didn’t work. Not even the prospect of 3D screens could pry us off the couch and into the cinema again. In the face of rising costs, Covid, and all-pervasive streaming services, the writing has been on the wall for some time and it was perhaps only a matter of when, not if, the price (ever-increasing) of selling movie tickets and popcorn could cover hefty rents in Cavendish Square. It turns out the ‘when’ is Monday, 2 June: this will be the last day of trade for Ster-Kinekor at Cavendish Square, and the screens will go dark. The lights will go up, the popcorn swept from the floor, and movie-goers will file out into the light one last time. I’ll miss the after-credits chats about whether the movie was any good. I’ll miss the lingering taste of sour cream and chives (always, the sour cream and chives) popcorn salt. I won’t miss the outrageous cost of said popcorn, or the people

South Africans evidently have a thing for Calum Scott. Following a sold-out debut in 2018 and return tours in 2022 and 2023, Breakout Events has confirmed that the UK singer-songwriter will return to South Africa in January 2026 for a three-city tour as part of his global Avenoir Tour. Cape Town fans, mark your calendars: the multi-platinum artist is set to deliver another emotionally charged performance in the Mother City, as he lights up the stage at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens on 14 January 2026. “I remember my first time in South Africa, being blown away by the demand for tickets to my show – it made me feel so special! Every time that I have been back, I have felt the same love and excitement. Touring is my favourite part of my job, but touring in places like South Africa is just a dream come true,” says Scott. The Avenoir Tour is Scott’s biggest yet, with shows lined up across 24 cities in the United Kingdom and Europe before he heads south of the equator for shows in Cape Town, Durban (16 January) and Pretoria (17 January). Expect to soak up the live energy of Scott’s fan favourites including ‘You Are The Reason’ and ‘Dancing On My Own’, as well as tracks from his upcoming album Avenoir, which is due to drop this September. Tickets for all three South African dates go on sale at 9am on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 via breakoutevents.co.za and Webtickets. Stay in the loop with all the best live events in Cape Town.

It may be chilly outside, but Cape Town's kitchens are hot, hot, hot in June as local restaurateur Peter Tempelhoff teams up with Michelin-starred chefs from Asia and Europe. To mark World Oceans Day, observed on 8 June each year, Tempelhoff will step into the kitchen alongside chef Shinichiro Takagi of the two-Michelin-star Zeniya in Kanazawa, Japan, and Chef Jef Schuur of Bij Jef (one Michelin star) in the Netherlands. Together, they will create a pair of unforgettable culinary events.  First up is a sushi masterclass hosted at Sushiya in the Time Out Market Cape Town. Taking place on Thursday, 12 June, diners can expect to get hands-on at an exclusive sushi masterclass. Chef Ryan Reyes of Sushiya will collaborate with Tempelhoff and Takagi for an interactive session where you will get to roll your own sushi and savour a six-piece omakase platter paired with imported Fukumitsuya Junmai Sake. The masterclass starts at 6.30pm, and the ticket price of R450 includes the sushi workshop, omakase platter and sake. And if you miss out on a ticket to the masterclass? Don't worry: there will be an omakase special created by the trio on sale at Sushiya all day. Bookings are available now via Howler.  For something a little more refined, look no further than the unforgettable 'Connected by Currents' dinner coming to FYN Restaurant on Saturday, June 14. This once-off 12-course tasting experience is inspired by World Oceans Day, and brings together chefs Tempelhoff, Takagi, Schuur and FY

For pretty much any visitor to Cape Town, a ride on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is near the top of their list of unforgettable things to do in Cape Town . But for locals? Eish, it can be pricey. But, with tourist numbers thinning out as winter arrives, the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway has launched its 'Local is Lekker Month-End Special', offering (much!) cheaper access to this Cape Town icon.  Just when you get to the Salticrax time of the month, the Cableway special runs from 26 May – 1 June, and again 23 – 29 June 2025, with massive discounts on offer!  On those dates, locals will pay only R250 per adult for a return ticket (usually R430) and R100 per child ticket (usually R215). As with all great deals, there are obviously some terms and conditions: South African ID is required. Tickets are only available online (click on Specials and then Local is Lekker) There are limited tickets available, so hurry to the front of the queue No same-day sales allowed: tickets must be bought before the day of your visit Tickets are available now, via Webtickets! And once you're up top, we've got some great suggestions for hiking trails in Cape Town . Are you taking advantage of The Best Birthday Freebies in Cape Town?

Air France has announced that it will ramp up its service to the Mother City for the upcoming summer season by offering daily flights from Paris to the Mother City, bringing an extra dash of French flair to South African skies. While highlighting the news that Cape Town was voted Best City in the World by Time Out this year, Wilson Tauro, Air France-KLM Country Manager for Southern Africa, confirmed that Air France, together with its sister airline KLM, will offer 18 flights a week to Cape Town this summer! During the most recent summer season, Air France offered three flights per week to Cape Town and even extended the service until the end of April to accommodate the popular Easter holidays.  The new schedule will mean more flexibility for South Africans heading to Europe and beyond. Air France will operate a sleek Airbus A350 on the route, with contemporary cabins and a wide range of in-flight entertainment on board. And did we mention that champagne is served in all classes... yes, even at the back of the plane! Winter may only be just arriving in Cape Town, but perhaps it's time to start planning your summer travels? Fly straight to Mauritius on these  new SAA routes from Cape Town!

Design lovers, creatives and curious minds, mark your calendars: Decorex Cape Town returns to the Cape Town International Convention Center from 5-8 June 2025. As Cape Town's leading celebration of design, décor and creativity, expect an unmissable lineup of installations, talks and immersive spaces that delve into how we live, work and play; now and in the future. The theme of this year's show is 'The Future of Living' with Executive Creative Directors Alan Hayward and Garreth van Niekerk offering an inspiring deep dive into the global design conversations shaping the look of tomorrow. Those take place across a range of installations: Capitec handmadeAFRICA + Design MRKT Already a hit at NIROX Sculpture Park, handmadeAFRICA comes to Decorex with over 40 design brands in a dynamic new format. Adjacent to the showcase is the new Design MRKT, where you can shop standout pieces – from sculptural furniture to bold ceramics – and take a piece of the future home with you.  The Sonos House of the Future by Planetworld This high-tech sanctuary of cinematic sound and design is an interactive demo zone where you'll find the future of home entertainment with the latest SONOS speakers, headphones and audio innovations ready to be explored, tested and admired.  Living with Blum Kitchen goals come to life through collaborations with Unique Kitchens, Studio Visual and RF Designs. Think next-level cabinetry, clever storage, and bold aesthetics — all built around Blum's precision hardware. T

South African Airways plans to spread its wings with a clutch of new flights, including two exciting new routes out of Cape Town. Travel News by TNW is reporting that SAA’s Chief Commercial Officer Tebogo Tsimane confirmed the new routes at the recent Travel Indaba held in Durban. The most exciting route on the horizon is a direct seasonal flight between Cape Town and Mauritius, set to launch in November 2025. Just in time for a summer escape, this new route offers a smoother way to reach the Indian Ocean island, without the usual Johannesburg layover. Air Mauritius already offers a direct service from Cape Town, and increased competition will hopefully see fares fall. Also, the scheduling of the Mauritius flight is a nightmare start to an island holiday: an 11:35pm departure from Cape Town, a night with little sleep, and an early morning – 6:40am – arrival at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport. Let’s hope the SAA schedule is a little less brutal!  Also on the cards is a direct Cape Town to Durban service, although no launch date has been confirmed yet. This route has been missing from SAA’s schedule for years, and its return will make cross-country hops easier for both business and leisure travellers. Again, you could use FlySafair (their R11 sale was a massive hit!) or Airlink (check out their Gaborone flights too) right now, but more competition will mean more options, and hopefully cheaper flights. Cape Town isn't the only city receiving attention. Other up