Richard Holmes

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. He’s played sold-out solo shows in New York and Los Angeles, and shared the bill of BST Hyde Park with the likes of Gwen Stefani and Sam Ryder. He’s clocked up more than 40 million global streams, and has built a loyal fanbase across the globe. But Cape Town is still the city that global star Will Linley calls home. Raised in Cape Town as the youngest member of a musical family, this talented musician and songwriter grew up playing violin and viola before teaching himself piano and guitar. Inspired by pop singer-songwriters including Dean Lewis, Lewis Capaldi and Ed Sheeran, Linley’s breakthrough came via TikTok, starting an avalanche of interest that saw his music become radio fodder across South Africa and his debut EP kill all my feelings garner acclaim at home and abroad. An electric live artist, Linley has gone on to perform at P!NK’s Summer Carnival, BST Hyde Park, the Barn on the Farm Festival in Gloucester, and his debut London headline show at The Courtyard Theatre. He also played Lollapalooza 2024 in Chicago, while keeping fans happy with the release of his Magic EP, a collection of what he calls ‘sad-pop’ songs, blending raw, emotional lyrics over cheery, dancey beats. His music is the ideal soundtrack for any visit to the Mother City, so Time O

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. There are some things in life that you can always rely on. And no, I don’t mean death and taxes. A Toyota Corolla is one. The summer southeaster in Cape Town is definitely another. And in the world of wine, it’s Alto Rouge: a wine that has long been guaranteed to over-deliver on quality and complexity and impress with its affordable price point. It’s the kind of bottle you know you can take to a friend’s braai or dinner with your in-laws, and everyone will be happy. And in terms of value for money, Rouge has long been a showstopper. And by long, I mean long. In fact, 2024 marks the 100th vintage of Alto Rouge, a farm that has quietly and consistently produced some of the best red wines on the Helderberg.   The farm dates to 1919, when the farmer Hennie Malan bought a portion of the historic Groenrivier farm and established Alto. Joined by his son Manie Malan, a pioneering viticulturist and winemaker, they planted an array of red grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Cinsaut, Gamay Noir, and Pinot Noir. And Manie Malan was a man with a vision: of blending robust Cabernet Sauvignon with fruit-forward Shiraz and Cinsaut. It proved to be a smart move. He put

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. You know we love a list here at Time Out Cape Town. The 22 Best Hotels. The 45 Best Things to Do.  50 Best Restaurants. You get the idea. And since launching the Durbanville Hills’ Collectors Reserve in 2018, this award-winning Cape cellar has been giving us a run for our money with their pick of the seven most recognisable icons in Cape Town.   It all forms the heart of Durbanville Hills’ Collectors Reserve, their premium collection of single varietal wines. Single varietal? That just means it’s made from a single, specific type of grape – say, Shiraz, or Chenin Blanc – rather than a blend of different grapes. And from the grapes in the glass to the labels on the bottle, this is a collection of wines that leans heavily into a sense of place, with each of the seven single-varietal wines pegged to a Mother City landmark. There’s The Cape Mist Sauvignon Blanc, The Cape Garden Chenin Blanc, The Cableway Chardonnay, The Lighthouse Merlot, The Promenade Pinotage, The Castle of Good Hope Cabernet Sauvignon and The High Noon Shiraz. And on the label you’ll find eye-catching labels by Cape Town artist Theo Paul Vorster, whose hand-coloured linocuts bring each icon to life. Phot

From just about anywhere you stand in Cape Town, it is impossible to ignore Table Mountain. This ancient sandstone massif towers above the city, enchanting visitors with its famous summertime ‘tablecloth’ of clouds. And while many travellers do little more than ride the cableway to the summit, if you have sturdier legs and a taste for adventure you'll want to lace up your shoes and hit the trail. Whether it’s for just a few hours, or a full day out, these are the best hikes to tackle within Table Mountain National Park. 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 out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

‘Overtourism’. It’s more than a buzzword – in the world’s most popular destinations, it’s a problem that affects almost every aspect of local life, from the environment to the cost of renting, transport and eating out. And when a place is overwhelmed by people, it’s not only locals’ quality of life that suffers; the quality of your trip does, too. But it’s not all bad. Destinations are coming up with ways to redistribute tourism from densely crowded hotspots to lesser-visited regions. Travellers are seeking cooler climes and embracing slow travel, allowing space to discover somewhere new. And they’re still riding the ‘destination dupes’ trend, where overrun holiday destinations are swapped out for less crowded, less expensive, but just-as-good alternatives. On our newly updated list of the world’s most underrated travel destinations, you won’t find your Bangkoks or your Balis, your Amalfis or your Amsterdams. What you will find is the hidden side of Yosemite, the French Riviera’s overlooked twin, a place where penguins outnumber people, and plenty more travel inspo where that came from.Why trust us? Because we’ve been to them all. Every spot on this list was picked by one of our expert editors and globetrotting travel writers, recommended because they offer great (or quiet) alternatives to the classics – and in many cases, because they’re places that actually want tourism. In other words, travelling to any of these 33 criminally overlooked destinations is a win-win situation.

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

Whether it’s award-winning Chenin Blanc, elegant Shiraz (and syrah) or world-class sparkling Cap Classique, South Africa has plenty to boast about when it comes to wine. But only one grape can truly be called its own, and it’s been going strong for a century! The history of Pinotage properly begins in 1925, when Professor Abraham Izak Perold crossed noble Pinot Noir with hardy Cinsault – also known as Hermitage – to create what would become South Africa’s signature red variety. The name itself is a portmanteau: ‘Pino-‘ from Pinot Noir, and ‘-tage’ from Hermitage and was an inspired experiment, combining the elegance of Burgundy’s star grape with the resilience of a Rhône workhorse. The result? A cultivar that has become synonymous with South African red wine. But the road of Pinotage hasn’t always been smooth. The variety was once dismissed by international critics for its overt banana notes, and a bouquet that ran from merely smoky to ‘burnt clutch’. For decades, the jury was out on Pinotage as a quality wine. Happily, the story today is different. A new generation of winemakers has refined how Pinotage is made, coaxing out a new character altogether. It’s a grape that’s infinitely versatile, from juicy fruit-forward bottles for everyday drinking and elegant rosés to age-worthy wines full of complexity. If you want to taste South Africa in a glass, Pinotage is a good place to start. And from heritage estates to boutique cellars, these are the best farms and tasting rooms to

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

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. Turn back the clock a decade or so, and winemaker Jessica Saurwein was “very much a vagabond,” she says with a laugh. Buying in grapes and working in rented cellar space, Saurwein Wines was, although she’s a qualified winemaker, a side hustle to her day job in wine sales and marketing. It was a juggling act, getting up before dawn to get to her cellar, then rushing back for a day at the desk. Her debut wine, ‘Nom Pinot Noir’, made from grapes grown in the famed Elandskloof valley, was a modest three barrels.   But it was also a turning point. Poured in a blind tasting alongside a 2000 vintage of the iconic Domaine de la Romanée-Conti La Tâche, Nom emerged with the higher score. “I think my wine got 92 points, and that was very encouraging,” recalls Saurwein. “I thought, okay, well, I can grow this a little bit. Obviously, I’m onto something here.” Growth was incremental by design: five barrels the next year, and then whatever she could afford after that. “Every little bit of my money went into my wine project!” For the first three years, she focused on one wine alone.  “And then once I got that right, and I was a little bit more confident, I added on the Riesling from El

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

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

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

A sixth-generation family estate just outside Cape Town, Diemersdal produces cool-climate wines in the heart of the Durbanville winelands. Its charming tasting room offers curated flights and flexible options. Tasting options Standard and premium flights, plus build-your-own options. What else can I do? Visit during seasonal farm events or enjoy a casual meal at the Diemersdal Eatery.

Renowned for world-class Pinotage and Bordeaux-style blends, Kanonkop offers tastings in a modern facility enriched with heritage. Established by the Sauer family, this estate blends tradition with artistry. Tasting options Standard and premium flights featuring flagship wines; platters available. Private tastings on arrangement. What else can I do? Browse art and historical displays in the tasting space. Collect rare releases from their cellar shop.

This Simonsberg estate is celebrated for its hospitality, sustainability, and creative wine-and food experiences. Tasting options Reserve (R95), Premium, and Wine & Fynbos Cupcake pairing (daily). What else can I do? Enjoy cheese platters or seasonal culinary events. Browse the garden restaurant menu for lunch or casual meals. Stay overnight in charming vineyard cottages available on-site.

One of South Africa’s oldest wine estates, dating back to 1685, Groot Constantia blends rich history with wine tasting, heritage attractions, and a choice of dining experiences. Tasting options Standard tasting (5 wines + glass), Chocolate & Wine pairing; premium tastings occasionally available. What else can I do? Follow the Visitor’s Route through historic Manor, cellars, and museum. Lunch at Jonkershuis or Simon’s.

One of the oldest estates in the Stellenbosch winelands, established in 1692, Lanzerac blends winemaking with luxury hospitality in the gorgeous Jonkershoek Valley. Visitors can enjoy a modern tasting room, guided cellar tours, and a choice of restaurants. The estate also features a five-star hotel and full-service spa, perfect for guests seeking a genuinely immersive and comfortable Winelands experience. Tasting options Jonkershoek Tasting, Heritage Tasting, Wine & Chocolate pairing; daily guided cellar tours. What else can I do? Dine at Manor Kitchen, Taphuis or Craven Lounge. Unwind in the Lanzerac Spa. Stay the night in one of the elegant rooms or suites at the Lanzerac Hotel.

A family-run estate in Bottelary Hills since 1946, Kaapzicht is famous for Chenin Blanc and its Steytler Reserve range. The relaxed tasting room overlooks vineyards and hosts tastings with optional cheese or charcuterie platters. Tasting options Family Range (R100), Terroir Range (R160), Steytler Reserve (R350). What else can I do? Enjoy a platter while sipping on the serene terrace. Purchase wines, including limited vintages, at the cellar door. No on-site accommodation, but Stellenbosch offers a variety of charming options a short drive away.

Founded in 1988 by Pinotage pioneer Beyers Truter, Beyerskloof highlights the versatility of Pinotage through expressive tastings. The estate features a tasting room and Red Leaf Bistro for relaxed wine pairing. Tasting options Classic (R70), Superior (R100), Grand (R160) What else can I do? Dine at Red Leaf Bistro with vineyard views. Shop for a wide selection of Pinotage styles at the cellar door. While there’s no on-site lodging, nearby Stellenbosch has plenty of options to stay longer.

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

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

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

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

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

"Just make it delicious." That is the simple philosophy of chef Alex Windebank, and when he and wife Eloise (who runs front of house, with Alex in the kitchen) open Farro in a Victorian terrace in Gardens this October, there is sure to be no shortage of ‘delicious’ on offer. Farro started life in Johannesburg and fast became an institution for foodies in the know. With a menu of modern European cooking – all flavour, a dash of elegance, little frippery – there was rarely an empty seat at their cosy Illovo eatery. Then came Covid, and yet another owner-run restaurant fell victim to lockdown. After a side step into corporate, and a brief but popular pop-up in Cape Town, in 2022 the pair – at the urging of winemaker Peter-Allan Finlayson – rebooted on Gabriëlskloof. It was an instant hit, and no end of hungry city-slickers made the trek out to the Overberg to eat there. But, no longer! As of 8 October 2025, Farro is back in Cape Town, with a cosy new locale in Gardens and a five-course chef’s menu on the cards. “With this next step of Farro, we wanted to rekindle the intimacy of our original restaurant. When we walked into this tiny, rickety, old terraced house in Gardens, we instantly fell in love with its potential,” explains Eloise. “Farro is such a personal restaurant, and this really is the culmination of the last eight years of work. This feels like us showing the heart of Farro and welcoming people into our home. Artworks have been collected from close customers and a

MI Cape Town, who walked away with the SA20 title in February this year, have unveiled a 19-man squad for the fourth season of the Betway SA20 series. Mixing global star power with Mother-City grit, MI Cape Town bagged a few steals in this week’s player auction. But first, the bad news. After three seasons in the Mother City, star Proteas batsman Dewald Brevis will be heading up the N1 to Pretoria Capitals. While we’ll miss his big hits, perhaps the price tag was just too much this time around… he sold for a record-smashing R16.5 million, breaking the record for the most expensive buy in SA20 history! “I'm always reluctant to talk about the numbers, but it is exciting to see the investment back into South African cricket,” Betway SA20 League Commissioner Graeme Smith said after the auction. “This is an investment that was never there. The franchises have come and they've invested properly. You see they're getting behind the South African players. But, the core team that powered last season’s victory remains unchanged: the likes of Rashid Khan, Trent Boult, Ryan Rickelton, George Linde, and Corbin Bosch all return to MI Cape Town, with Kagiso Rabada back as the wildcard.  Auction night showcased a mix of pedigree and local expertise: Rassie van der Dussen (R5.2m) and Reeza Hendricks strengthen the batting; Dwaine Pretorius provides all-round power; Tabraiz Shamsi joins Rashid for a left-arm wrist-spin combination; while keeper Tom Moores, Jason Smith, Jacques Snyman, Karim J

It’s not only fine wine and delicious dining that make it worth a trip to the Franschhoek Valley. On the cusp of spring and summer, this November sees the return of the Franschhoek Open Gardens Festival. Hosted in private homes and grand estates from 7-9 November 2025, locals and visitors can look forward to a three-day celebration of green thumbs and blooming landscapes. This year, the Festival invites locals and visitors to explore 10 unique gardens across the valley, ranging from much-loved village plots to sweeping farm estates framed by mountain views. Think Bagatelle de la Cotte, La Cotte Farm Garden, Farm Lorraine, Koko House, Villa Blanca and The Cow Shed, each one a living canvas shaped by its devoted caretakers. It's not just about the flowers either. You can also look forward to enjoying tea on the lawns served with homemade scones (remember, jam first, then the cream), and flutes of local Cap Classique sparkling wine to sip between strolls. You can take a little greenery home with you too, as you’ll find plants for sale and floral-inspired goods crafted by local makers. A programme of talks and garden chats adds extra inspiration and opportunities for (ahem) growing your skills, as garden designers and horticultural minds – including local expert Leon Kluge (8 November at 11am and 2pm) –  share their insights. All proceeds from the weekend go directly to Fleur de Lis Home for the Aged and Franschhoek Emergency Services. Need to Know: Franschhoek Open Gardens 2025

It’s hard to believe it’s been more than a decade since Luke Dale Roberts reinvented Cape Town’s culinary landscape with the launch of The Pot Luck Club.   Back in 2012, when he first introduced the city to the concept of small plates – not tapas, not a starter, a flavour punch somewhere in between – curious locals soon fell in love. Ever since, the city has been awash in small-plate dining, from the equally marvellous menu at Chefs Warehouse to the new approach from kitchens like Tambourine. But for many savvy diners, Pot Luck is the OG, perched atop the Biscuit Mill to serve up superb city views along with unforgettable small plates of Asian-inspired cuisine. And while all eyes are usually on the plates or the views, this summer you’ll also be lingering over the slick new look and feel of the space. Photograph: The Pot Luck Club The new aesthetic comes from the colab between Dale Roberts and interior designer Maurice Paliaga, who says the refresh is “less about reinvention and more about embellishment. We wanted to give the restaurant a touch more luxury, while maintaining everything people love about Pot Luck. Some elements were beginning to look a little tired, so this was about refreshing, strengthening and elevating the space.” “It felt like the right time to give the restaurant a lift. We’ve been going strong since 2012, and with summer ahead, it was important for me to give the restaurant some love and attention,” adds Dale Roberts. “For me, The Pot Luck Club has

As Spring arrives in Cape Town with blue skies and mountains of blommetjies, there’s great news for Cape Town’s hikers, cyclists and weekend wanderers: South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that Silvermine Gate 1 – and most of the trails in the Silvermine area – are once again open to the public. Silvermine Gate 1 is on the northern side of Ou Kaapse Weg, where the ticket office is located, and includes the popular Silvermine Dam, the Elephant’s Eye trail, and the gentle Silvermine Riverwalk. The reopening follows the reopening of Silvermine Gate 2 – on the Kalk Bay side of Ou Kaapse Weg – and parts of Tokai back in July. The closures were put in place after a fire in April 2025 ripped across 2800 hectares of fynbos in the Silvermine and Tokai sections of Table Mountain National Park, torching cars in the parking lot and decimating infrastructure (not to mention the fynbos). Since then SANParks and local community partners have put massive effort into rehabilitation and safety work. That’s all paid off, and from today (1 September 2025) some of the most popular trails have reopened. What is open in Silvermine? Along with trails above Silvermine Dam, the Elephant’s Eye trail, and the Silvermine Riverwalk, popular parts of Upper Tokai have also reopened. This includes Levels 4 and 5 (mountain bikers, IYKYK!), which had remained closed due to slippery and unstable terrain after winter rains. However, not every route is ready: the Donkey Trail linking Silvermine t

The much-loved Voorkamerfest returns to Darling on 18 and 19 October 2025, transforming this quiet little Swartland town into South Africa's most colorful cultural hub for the weekend. This year, the Voorkamerfest is hosted in partnership with Darling Brew, and their lekker taproom will form the heart of the festival.  For those who haven't been before, the Voorkamerfest is a little different to your typical theater festival: here you hop on a minibus, following one of seven colour-coded routes, and end up in three different living rooms where performers are waiting to surprise you with a whirlwind of theatre, music, dance and satire. What will you see? Well, that's a surprise! Performances are intimate, unexpected and completely unique to each journey, but this year's line-up includes more than 60 artists across 21 shows. That includes legendary satirist Pieter-Dirk Uys, who unpacks his (in)famous cast of characters, while physical theater artist Lance Florence and storytelling duo Marian Hooman and Zolie Markey push the creative boundaries. Music runs the gamut from harpist Jess King-Holford to steelpan vibes from Ensemble Tropicale, smooth jazz with DMA and a knockout set from the Memeza Trio. Classical fans are spoiled here too, with operatic trio Opera Tunity and the Strelitzia Ensemble on the program. For dance, the Waterfront Theater School brings a bit of spectacle, while hip-hop pioneers Black Noise keep things real. And of course, Darling's own solo guitarist, Glyn

The Standard Bank Chenin Blanc Top Ten Challenge 2025 wrapped up last week, and the results confirm what Cape Town wine lovers already know: Chenin Blanc is the white wine star of the South African cellar. After six rounds of blind tastings, the judges picked their winners – all from the 2024 vintage – with Stellenbosch once more flexing its muscles. Four of the 10 winners come from the region, including three from Stellenrust, the most consistent winner in the competition's history. Throw in wines from Franschhoek, Paarl, the Swartland and Breedekloof and the awards offer an excellent snapshot of just how widely (and brilliantly) South Africa makes Chenin. Here are the winners of the 2025 Standard Bank Chenin Blanc Top Ten Challenge... in alphabetical order: Alvi's Drift Private Cellar's 221 Chenin Blanc 2024 Chamonix Wine Farm's Old Vine Steen 2024 Du Toitskloof Winery's Pierre Du Mont 2024 Joostenberg Wines' Die Agteros Chenin Blanc 2024 Ken Forrester Wines' The FMC 2024 Roodekrantz Wines' Die Kliphuis 2024 Stellenrust's Stellenbosch Manor Barrel fermented Chenin Blanc 2024 Stellenrust's Stellenbosch Manor Chenin Blanc 2024 Stellenrust's B28 Chenin Blanc 2024 Stettyn ​​Family Vineyards' Shackleton Old Vines Chenin Blanc 2024 But, not all award-winners are created equal. Having that shiny label on the bottle helps to drive sales, and perhaps gives an indication of the quality inside, but for most of us, price counts for more than silverware. So here's something to conside

One of the Cape's most famous wine estates is getting a fiery new addition. As spring rolls into the Winelands, Boschendal will open the doors to Arum Restaurant, a produce-led, flame-focused concept from the acclaimed FYN Group, headed up by chef-founder Peter Tempelhoff, culinary director Ashley Moss, and sommelier-service director Jennifer Hugé. "When I think of the valley, I think of lilies," says Tempelhoff, pointing to the arum lily that inspired the restaurant's name. "For me, Arum is about honouring the land, the farm, and the history of the place — both of Boschendal and Franschhoek — through the mediums of fire and flavour." Photograph: Claire Gunn The restaurant will take up residence in Boschendal's historic Werf building – once the wine cellar of the 1812 manor house – and promises to celebrate a farm-to-fire ethos. "Boschendal is one of South Africa's greatest agricultural gems," adds Tempelhoff. "Arum is our way of telling its story — through the produce it grows, the history, and, of course, the wine." Time Out Cape Town asked Tempelhoff for some exclusive insights into the process of creating Arum… Photograph: Felix Studios   Had you been looking for a venue to create a new restaurant, or was it an opportunity that presented itself? A bit of both. I'm always playing with ideas, that part comes easily. The challenge is finding the right alignment of venue, concept, and local resources. Boschendal brought all of those elements together. As a heritage wine e

Good news for locals heading Stateside (check your socials first!) or American travelers planning a summer vacation in the Mother City... from 29 October, United Airlines will be trimming its Johannesburg schedule and handing the spoils to Cape Town. The airline has announced that it will cut its Joburg service from a daily service to six flights a week, freeing up a slot to boost the Mother City's connections to the US. That means there will soon be four weekly flights from Cape Town to Newark Liberty International Airport (in New Jersey, just across the Hudson River from New York City) as well as three direct flights a week to Washington DC. It's all part of a summer surge of extra seats into Cape Town. Qatar Airways has added two more Doha flights – creating almost a twice-daily service – and Norse Atlantic Airways returns in late October with Gatwick flights ramping up for the peak season. Air France is also back with daily Paris flights from mid-December, while South African Airways is getting in on the act with new nonstop flights to Mauritius from December 9. Sunshine, city breaks or snowy New York... Cape Town's runway is looking busier than ever this summer. And, there will be shorter queues at immigration! Find out why…

Cricket fans across Cape Town have something to smile about this week, with Newlands Cricket Ground confirmed as the stage for the Betway SA20 Season 4 Final. The announcement comes with a festive season schedule packed with playoffs in Durban, Centurion and Johannesburg, kicking off on 26 December 2025. For the first time in the league's history, Durban will host a playoff match, with Kingsmead welcoming Qualifier 1 on Wednesday, 21 January. Fans on the East coast will get the rare chance to see the top two teams go head-to-head for a spot in the final. The action then shifts north, with Centurion hosting the Eliminator on Thursday, January 22, before the Wanderers in Johannesburg decide the second finalist with Qualifier 2 on Friday, January 23. "Betway SA20 Season 4 is shaping up to be an incredibly exciting summer of cricket, kicking off on Boxing Day and running through the holiday period," says League Commissioner Graeme Smith. "Last year Newlands sold out all five matches at the venue and with the Final taking place on a Sunday, it sets up an incredible afternoon with great weather, entertainment and a lively atmosphere to crown our Season 4 Champions." The Betway SA20 has built a reputation for selling out its finals in record time, with capacity crowds for each of the past three seasons. Tickets for the Final and Playoffs go on sale to the public on October 10, but fans can already register for pre-sale access to secure the best seats. Pre-sale registrations close at

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

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