Selene Brophy

A love for the stars can be tough when you are constrained by a city’s light pollution, but it doesn’t completely have to put a damper on your celestial calendar. While nothing beats the absolute emptiness of the desert or untouched mountain tops, you can still plan to enjoy that special meteor shower, according to South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) expert Dr Daniel Cunnama. “Astronomy is one of the few sciences where everyone can participate just by looking up,” explains Cunnama, based at SAAO’s headquarters in Cape Town’s Observatory district. “You don’t need special training or equipment to feel awe, curiosity, or connection.” Cunnama is a computational astronomer whose work focuses on simulating how galaxies form and evolve using supercomputers and is passionate about sharing cutting-edge astronomy breakthroughs with the public as SAAO’s Science Engagement Astronomer. SAAO also manages the observatory in Northern Cape’s Sutherland, South Africa’s most popular stargazing hotspot.  SAAOSAAO’s Sutherland facility in the Karoo. “Growing up in South Africa, I was lucky to experience really dark skies, and once you see the Milky Way properly, it’s hard not to ask questions. Astronomy sits at a nice intersection of big ideas — time, space, origins — and hard science.”  But can an astronomer have a favourite celestial event? “I have a soft spot for meteor showers. They’re accessible, communal, and don’t require any equipment — just a warm jacket and some patience.  I

Right now, it feels like a great time to celebrate our cities. What cities do best is bring people together – everything we love about urban life, from the galleries and bars to the neighbourhood parks, exists thanks to the communities that make it all happen.  That’s why, every year, we raise a toast to the city with our definitive annual ranking, created on the back of a comprehensive survey of city-dwellers worldwide. Our survey asks not only what people love about their cities – the food scene and nightlife, the shops and museums, the parks and people – but also how it feels to live there. We asked you about happiness, affordability and quality of life, among a variety of other criteria. And, in order to dig deeper into the everyday lives of locals, this year we expanded our survey to cover aspects like love, romance and community feel. Time Out’s Best Cities with Intrepid Travel spotlights the destinations that offer the best of both worlds: an endlessly exciting catalogue of reasons to visit, as well as all the good stuff that makes a place feel like home. The 50 cities that made the list this year did so thanks to the insights of more than 24,000 people across 150 cities worldwide. To determine the final Best Cities ranking for 2026, we combined their thousands of responses with the votes of more than 100 Time Out city experts. Then we tapped up our network of local writers to tell us exactly what makes their city worth a visit right now. The result? A rundown of the m

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. Raised across Gugulethu, Langa and Pinelands, Siv Ngesi grew up moving between worlds that taught him very different lessons about community, resilience and belonging. His earliest memories are rooted in township life: playing in the street until the lights came on, hunting in the bush with friends, and sitting around a table with his grandfather eating sheep’s head. His move to Pinelands also marked a different chapter. “We were one of the first Black families allowed to live there,” he explains, describing a community of trees, neighbours moving from house to house, and meals shared at friends’ homes. “My parents couldn’t really afford it, but they made a huge sacrifice for us to be there. I’ll always be grateful for that.” That grounding in shared experience - and in people showing up for one another - runs like a golden thread through what Siv does, both on screen and off. Alongside his acting career, he’s the founder of the MENstruation Foundation, which distributes free sanitary pads across Southern Africa as part of a broader fight to end period poverty.   It’s work he links directly to Ubuntu. “The whole world needs more Ubuntu,” he says, pointing to a South African instinct to go beyond the call of duty. “We do things we shouldn’t be able to achie

Cape Town’s food scene is next-level. Officially ranked the 4th best food city in the world, the Mother City blends global flavours with local flair, dishing up everything from award-winning fine dining to hole-in-the-wall gems you’ll want to keep secret (but we won’t). With its rich mix of cultures, the city’s dining scene is a constant state of delicious evolution - think boundary-pushing chefs, bold new concepts and collaborations with plenty of option that’ll have you booking a table immediately. Hungry and ready to explore? We’ve rounded up the hottest new restaurants in and around Cape Town - because we are dedicated to keeping our finger on the pulse of Cape Town’s dining scene, uncovering the hottest new restaurants for you to enjoy!   

A city’s connectivity can make or break the experience for visitors and remote workers alike - with access to reliable Wi-Fi influencing everything from navigation and bookings to work productivity and safety. To see which destinations really make it easy to stay connected, international eSIM provider Holafly analysed cities worldwide using a wide range of factors. Instead of focusing only on internet speeds, the study also considered how easy it is to find free public Wi-Fi, how many hotels offer complimentary internet, mobile data costs and how widely mobile connections are used across the city's population. Kuala Lumpur emerged as the most connected city globally, thanks to its low mobile data costs and strong network penetration. Asia and Europe dominate the top connected cities. Milan, Lisbon, and Porto, in particular, are celebrated for their "affordable data and a dense Wi-Fi coverage". At the same time, Doha is noted for its "lightning-fast speeds despite higher data pricing". South Africa doesn't make a showing in the top global ranking. Still, Holafly’s country-level data shows that Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban perform competitively within the region, with Cape Town narrowly leading the connectivity charge locally.  Holafly Data: Most connected cities 2026 The Mother City has the highest overall connectivity score, driven by the largest concentration of free Wi-Fi hotspots, strong download speeds and a high number of hotels offering complimentary internet a

The year might still feel baby-fresh (if that’s the case, please share your secrets), but there’s no better time to lock in a couple of mini-breaks for the months ahead. Especially with April’s generous run of public holidays lining up like an open invitation to get out of town. And really, you’d be mad not to take it.  A short drive beyond Cape Town, unlocks a whole new pace of travel, with towns like Darling, Barrydale, Greyton and Paternoster offering a welcome change of scenery - and plenty to do once you get there.   It’s not just a hunch, either. According to the latest industry research from payments platform Yoco, small towns have been quietly winning over both local and international travellers. While Cape Town still processes the bulk of international transactions, smaller Western Cape towns are capturing a meaningful share of traveller spend, often driven by longer stays, more intentional spending and deeper engagement with local businesses. In fact, destinations like Stellenbosch, Stilbaai and Gansbaai are nudging visitors into full self-care holiday mode more effectively than the city centre itself. As Yoco notes: “The most dramatic festive effects appear at a town level, particularly in small coastal destinations. The towns with the largest November-to-December increases are concentrated almost entirely in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape.” The numbers tell the same story. Kenton-on-Sea in the Eastern Cape recorded a 437% increase in transaction value, while S

Time Out Market is ready to offer visitors and regulars a new flavour bomb experience as Zuney Burgers officially opens on Tuesday, 3 March. The award-winning burger brand has built up a cult following with its much-loved farm-to-table Wagyu burgers straight from the Eastern Cape - and now they're bringing it to the heart of the Market. For Zuney, farm-to-table starts with responsibly farmed Wagyu cattle and ends with burgers built using the whole animal. By turning surplus cuts into flavour-forward classics, they deliver on quality, sustainability and traceability in every bite.   “We’re not just serving burgers; we’re serving our farm. Every patty starts in Zuney Valley in the Eastern Cape, where our Wagyu is raised responsibly and with intention. That direct farm-to-plate approach is what makes Zuney different,” says co-founder Henning Klopper.  Visitors can expect a menu rooted in quality ingredients and bold flavour, including the Cheeseburger with Wagyu beef, American cheese, pickles, Wagyu-infused onions, house sauce and a light brioche bun; Wagyu Fries, hand-cut and twice cooked in Wagyu tallow; and the indulgent Wacon, featuring Wagyu beef and Wagyu bacon with classic toppings.  Time Out Market Cape Town Founded by Klopper and Devin Wells, Zuney Burger began as Zuney Wagyu, an online business supplying premium Wagyu beef, and its growth remains rooted in this sustainable sourcing approach. South African actor and entrepreneur Siv Ngesi has also boosted the brand's

Whether you’re margherita-loving purist or an all-the-toppings enthusiast, a fan of New York-style, Detroit-style, Neapolitan-style or your own whacky style, everybody’s their definition of a dream pizza. But cities all over the world have put their own spin on the dish, too, and that’s why we called on our international network of editors and writers to share the weirdest, tastiest and most lip-smacking pizzas where they live. So, feast your eyes on Time Out’s freshly-baked roundup of the best pizzas on the planet.  RECOMMENDED:🍝The best cities in the world for food🥪The best sandwiches in the world🥩The best steaks in the world This list was edited by Liv Kelly, Time Out’s travel writer. 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.

Striking the right balance is exactly what makes the Mother City so appealing as a destination, states Sechaba Gqeba.   Celebrating 15 years in broadcasting, Gqeba has become one of South Africa’s most recognisable voices - on radio, television and some of the country’s biggest stages.   Though not Cape Town–born, she has made the city her own, drawn to its food and wine culture, thoughtful design, and spaces that feed both creativity and calm. Here’s how she experiences Cape Town right now.   What’s inspiring you in Cape Town at the moment? As someone who's very invested and has a keen interest in the food and wine scene, I'm inspired by how elevated the culinary space in Cape Town is. It puts South Africa on the global map. We’re seeing an exciting new generation of young chefs coming to the fore, pushing boundaries and telling fresh stories through food.   The wine scene has always been splendid, but what many people don’t realise is just how competitive South African wines are on a global scale.   As someone who considers herself a foodie and gravitates towards those kinds of experiences, it’s been incredible to watch the city evolve.   What’s a common misconception about Cape Town? That it’s unaffordable, property is expensive, yes, but maintaining a lifestyle here doesn’t have to be. There are so many experiences that cost very little, and you can live really well without constantly spending big. How would you describe Cape Town style compared to Joburg?  Having lived

If there’s one thing to love about Cape Town’s coffee culture, it’s the sheer diversity of experiences on offer. Fancy a post-surf flat white? There’s a beachside barista ready and waiting. Want to delve into the geekery of roasting regimes and pour-over versus espresso? A passionate connoisseur will happily debate the finer points. And if you want to extend a simple cup into a lazy lunch? Well, you’ll find plenty of laid-back cafés across the city dishing up inspired menus of fresh, seasonal fare.   And while there are a handful of global brands promising to deliver your caffeine fix, do us one favour: go local. Spend your money with small businesses. Seek out people passionate about the perfect pour. Because in South Africa’s ‘Mother City’, the coffee culture is simply too vibrant to settle for a bad cuppa.  RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in Cape Town😋 The best restaurants 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 sushi in Cape Town🛏 The best Airbnbs in Cape Town Planning your next trip? Check out our latest travel guides, written by local experts.

If 2025 taught us anything, it’s just how quickly time moves. One moment we were clinging to gratitude and getting through, and the next the year had slipped by in a blur of work, celebrations and half-kept resolutions.  That said, I’m already deep in what I love most - taking stock of the big news we covered in the last couple of months, what’s been shifting and how we might want to travel, eat, explore and connect more meaningfully in the year ahead.  When I look back at what stayed with me most, it wasn’t any specific thing. Most certainly, there were many travel moments, connections made over meals shared, or exploring outdoors with people I love that made all the difference.    And digging into our recent Time Out South Africa’s Joy Revolution, I'm seeing the same patterns reflected. The analysis of what we, as South Africans, have experienced over the last couple of years points to a collective shift from survival to thriving, with connection, community, and real-world experiences emerging as the most powerful sources of joy. Marriott Bonvoy’s latest research echoes this, showing South Africans planning more holidays in 2026, embracing passion-led travel, outdoor adventures, curated experiences, and what the industry has dubbed “lux-scaping”- those intentional moments of indulgence that bookend or elevate a trip.   This year is not really going to be about ticking boxes. It’s going to encompass who you spend time with and exactly how these moments, whether travelling to

If you’re drawn to places with a genuine sense of isolation, it doesn't get better than Saint Helena Island, a British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic, included in Time Out's list of recommended places to travel in 2026. The island isn't your classic fantasy of endless sandy beaches and turquoise lagoons, though. You'll find something far more compelling here, including its aquatic adventure activities in 20+°C waters.   Diving the SS Papanui, a passenger shipwreck from 1911 that sits offshore, is one of several experiences that will define your adventurous week on Saint Helena. Humpback whales migrate past the island, with peak viewing between July and September. Whale sharks, on the other hand, often appear earlier in the year, typically around March and April. Even outside peak seasons, the waters teem with life. When I visited in May, superpods of dolphins made our boat trip feel surreal.   Life on St Helena unfolds at its own pace. With fewer than 5,000 residents, the island feels community-centric rather than insular. Shaped by centuries of maritime history, exile and self-reliance, there’s a sense of connection among locals. Whether you're passing someone on the street or along the island’s narrow roads, a greeting is automatic, and always with a warm wave. Beyond town, a compact network of trails leads through dry pastureland, cloud forests and endemic-rich ecosystems that feel far larger than the island’s modest footprint suggests, with dramatic changes in l

At the foothills of the Silvermines mountains, on the edge of the Constantia Valley, you'll find Steenberg Farm. For me, it's a scenic drive from the flat, sandy West Coast and its postcard-perfect Table Mountain views for days, towards this lush ridges of the Southern Suburbs. The shifting seasons from Summer towards Autumn subtly adding some drama. Cape Town's landscapes are extraordinary, and it isn't lost on you during this 30-minute drive, If you're based in the city, it's even quicker. Arriving in the estate’s parking area, we were greeted by a fleet of open-top spider race cars – the sort of machines clearly designed for taking sunny weekend road trips between the Constantia Valley wine estates.    Despite being the tail end of February, Cape Town’s weather had other ideas during our visit. Cloudbursts rolled across the city, not entirely surprising given that nearby Newlands is considered one of the wettest areas in Africa. Inside the elegant Steenberg tasting room, we settled in for a Sense of Sauvignon tasting, while the soft rain rippled across the modern, cube-centric water feature just outside. The combination of glass architecture, reflective pools and misty mountains creates a strikingly atmospheric introduction to the estate. The Backstory Tucked inside the historic Steenberg Farm is Bistro Sixteen82 - so named after the farm's founding year. It's one of the oldest wine farms in South Africa - well, let's face it, the Cape's wine farms are all historically o

Two-handers demand stamina, precision and a confident creative trust. When the two-hander in question was written by Zakes Mda, the stakes rise considerably.   And the Girls in Their Sunday Dresses, currently running at the Baxter until 7 March, meets that challenge. The play is deeply attuned to the lived reality of womanhood. Set against the backdrop of post-liberation Lesotho, the narrative centres on the slow grind of government food-aid queues. This strange historical window remains relatable today across a politically challenged country and world. Furthermore, it is laced with the irony of Lesotho’s position at the time Mda wrote the play: an independent nation encircled by apartheid South Africa, catapulting the inequities of the day into the spotlight with its debut at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 1988.   The play follows two women - a sharp-tongued Lady and a weary, quick-witted Woman - performed with precision by Awethu Hleli and Tamzin Daniels. They are sister-women whose lives collide as they wait in line. As the queue inches forward, their stories unravel through satire and softness, exposing corruption, inequality and the daily bureaucratic humiliations that shape their world. Staying for the post-show Q&A with the cast, director Mdunyiswa Kweyama, and Mda himself proved as evocative as the production. The discussion echoed what unfolds on stage: cattiness mixed with unguarded empathy.     During the Q&A, Mda recalled being invited by US Johns Hopkins Unive

If you think pizza is “just a base with stuff on top”, Pizza Connection owner Enrico Di Giambattista will politely roast you with his method, and win you over with flavour. It's all about precision: 48-hour fermentation split across two preferments, additive-free flour, and a ruthless approach to ingredients: local if it’s genuinely excellent; imported if it’s not available here at the standard he wants. The result is pizza that lands light, fragrant and properly moreish. What’s on the menu? Start with the Margherita, as it's the best option for tasting the dough's flavours, along with juicy tomato and mozzarella.   The Capetonian, as the name suggests, is a nod to what the regulars here order - proving that classics like San Marzano Tomato, Fior Di Latte, Pancetta, Red Onion, Avocado, and EVO oil make all the difference. The Napoli-style base is baked hot and fast to produce a crust that’s flavourful, airy and blistered. And they'll happily do an even crunchier Roma-style base, if you prefer.   There are loads of interesting options on the menu of this rather unshowy spot - including slow-cooked Oxtail "alla Vaccinara" (a bit too saucy for me) or the Le Baciate (a folded pillow-like roma filled with parma ham and fresh burrata).Here, balanced simplicity, a generous portion size and reasonable prices sees these local favourites more than holds its own.   If you’re doing a first visit, go Napoli for the full theatre of the crust, and it's a good idea to add a Baciate to share

There are some bold flavours, and even bolder claims, coming from the newly relaunched Urchin at the Hyatt Regency Cape Town. Under Chef Marcus Gericke, the space and its menu have been reimagined into a Western Cape showcase, a Tour de Force. This is a tasting menu with a point of view, and Gericke isn’t shy about it.  "This menu is not a fusion with other countries' food cultures, it's all about South African flavours, specifically the food of the Cape," Gericke states. “Show me where this is being done, I'd like them to come for me,” he challenges. And he's bringing receipts - after undertaking a 1,627km road trip across the province in three short days (complete with a tempered chocolate map) to source the ingredients and conceptualise the 9-course Journey tasting menu.  The vibe Located on the elevated dining floor level at the CBD hotel, just off Buitengracht Street, this former conferencing space is now the intimate, polished dining room of Urchin. Wrapped in large-scale portraits of the epic Journey that Gericke took less than a month before launching the new tasting menu in November.  Images of Kalk Bay Harbour, the dusty Karoo hinterlands and the beautiful calm of the Garden Route, along with some of the unique characters like the fish sellers, add to the visual story of this tasting experience.    Gericke sees supporting local small businesses, like Kalk Bay's Aunty Ashmita, instead of going through a third chain provider for their daily catch, as part of the J

Opá! is the new Greek street food dining concept at its most soulful. Chef Callan Austin, one of South Africa’s most dynamic young chefs and co-founder of Stellenbosch fine-dining destination DUSK, brings a decade of culinary mastery to this, his first solo venture. Notably, under his leadership, DUSK earned Eat Out’s 3-Star rating, Best New Restaurant, and recognition from the JHP Gourmet Guide, while 2024 saw Austin named Chef of the Year at the LUXE Awards and celebrated on a global stage at The Best Chef Awards.  The latest addition to the Time Out Market Cape Town brings all things Mediterranean to life with bold, abundant, fresh flavours. “When I started in the industry, I was drawn to fine dining for all its creativity and precision. Over time, though, I realise I wanted to create food that’s more immediate, approachable, and just genuinely delicious. We're focusing on dishes that people really want to eat. Cooking simple, honest food reminded me why I fell in love with cooking in the first place," says Austin.    "I’m really excited for people to experience the energy of the Opá kitchen, the bold yet simple dishes we’re serving, and the warmth and generosity of Greek street food, coupled with the local community spirit of dining market so effortlessly creates.”   Austin is joined by Opá's Head Chef and Operations Manager, Daniel Martin, whose culinary experience includes some of Cape Town’s top fine dining restaurants, including Salsify, FYN, and Gåte at Quoin Rock.  

Dinner at Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia feels like a special occasion.  Whether it's a date night or an actual celebration, Constantia Valley’s elegance, mixed with executive chef and co-owner Ivor Jones’s playful and sometimes irreverent food philosophy, makes for the perfect setting. The launch of a new five-course set menu marks a shift in rhythm for the restaurant that's more structured but no less surprising.  In fact, this menu feels considered in every aspect for Jones, building layers of flavour across the evening while still leaving space for detours, personal choice and the odd left-field pairing. It's clear why the dining room is abuzz throughout the service, as Jones and his team make it all about enjoying the food at your own pace. It helps, of course, that the setting is as dramatic as ever.  Perched high on the slopes of Constantia Nek, Beau’s glass-walled dining room is a front-row seat to one of the Cape’s most beautiful valleys, while the open kitchen pulls you straight into service.   As the evening unfolds, the sparkling city lights below are quite something, naturally enhancing the restaurant's appeal.  What’s on the menu? The new pairing menu offers quite the selection. The freshest West Coast Saldanha oysters with a kick of nam jim (a signature Asian move for Jones) are worth the supplement, and I could have happily feasted on that all evening.  The braaied linefish, with champagne cream, is absolute perfection. Adding prawn and scallop sui mai (trad

A musical as iconic as Chicago demands precision - from choreography to comic timing, to the band and the lighting - and the latest South African production delivers it in spades.   Now in its fourth production on local shores, it blends vaudevillian sass, jazz-soaked satire, and biting commentary on celebrity culture that feels as relevant today as it did when it first hit Broadway in 1975. Currently on at Cape Town’s Artscape Theatre, this all-local staging of Broadway’s longest-running American musical lets you know you are in for a ride from the moment the first brass notes ring out from the 11-piece live band. Every shimmy, shake, and jazz hand lands, matched by the snappy interplay of Roxie Hart (Kiruna-Lind Devar), Velma Kelly (Samantha Peo), and the ever-watchful Mama Morton (Tankiso Mamabolo). From the solos to the duets, they bring all the spicy rivalry and reluctant camaraderie the show is well-loved for.   Numbers like Cell Block Tango, All That Jazz, and Class had the audience tapping along, reminding us why this musical remains a long-standing favourite.   View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chicago The Musical (@chicagomusical) Jonathan Roxmouth oozes charisma as smooth-talking lawyer Billy Flynn, particularly in All I Care About and Razzle Dazzle, scenes that had the opening night audience roaring with delight.   The American accents are razor-sharp, the choreography (by resident director and choreographer Darren Greeff) retaining

Foresters Arms, better known to Capetonians as Forries, is one of the city’s oldest pubs and a landmark in the leafy suburb of Newlands. First established in the 1800s, it’s been serving pints and plates for generations, making it as much a local tradition as Newlands Rugby Stadium just down the road. Whether you’re a lifelong local, a student from UCT, or a visiting sports fan, Forries is the kind of place you only need to visit once to understand why it’s legendary.  Key details Address: 52 Newlands Avenue, Newlands, Cape Town Opening hours: Daily, 11am – late Ticket prices: Free entry (special events may vary) Nearest public transport: Newlands train station (10 min walk) Accessibility: Step-free entrance; staff are on hand to assist  What’s on the menu? Classic pub grub with a South African twist is the order of the day. Wood-fired pizzas are always a crowd-pleaser, while their burgers, steaks and ribs remain menu staples. Sharing platters make it easy to snack while watching the game, and Sunday roasts are a longstanding tradition, drawing families who want a hearty meal in a relaxed setting. Forries also has a solid drinks selection - from draught beers to cocktails and wine - making it a versatile spot for different tastes. Is there outdoor seating? This is one of Forries’ best features. The large, leafy beer garden is shaded in summer and warmed with outdoor heaters in winter, making it a year-round drawcard. On sunny afternoons, tables fill quickly with students,

  Rascals in Claremont is a vibrant neighborhood pub that seamlessly blends a relaxed atmosphere with a passion for live sports. Known for its welcoming vibe, hearty pub fare, and a solid lineup of drinks, it's a go-to spot for both locals and visitors. Whether you're here to catch the latest game or enjoy a casual meal, Rascals offers a space where camaraderie and comfort food meet. Key Details Address: 2 Meyer Street, Claremont, Cape Town, 7708 Opening hours: Monday: 1pm – 12am; Tuesday – Sunday: 10am – 12am Ticket prices: Free entry Nearest public transport: Claremont Station (approximately 10–15 minute walk) Accessibility: Step-free entrance; outdoor seating accessible; staff available to assist What’s on the Menu Rascals offers a menu of pub classics and comfort food, including burgers, pizzas, salads, and sharing platters. Their menu rotates seasonally to incorporate fresh ingredients, and vegetarian options are also available. Pair your meal with local craft beers, cocktails, or their curated wine selection. Is there live music? Yes. Live bands and DJs perform regularly, particularly on weekends, adding energy and entertainment to the casual pub vibe. Is it family-friendly? Not ideal for small children. The layout, outdoor seating, and approachable menu does make Rascals suitable for families visiting Claremont. Kids are welcome during daytime hours, and the relaxed setting ensures a comfortable experience. How do you get there? Rascals is easily accessible by car, w

Mitchell’s Scottish Ale House is a Waterfront institution, combining hearty pub food, pints and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where locals and travellers mingle over fish and chips, live music and long draughts. Key Details Address: East Pier Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Opening hours: Daily, 11am – late Ticket prices: Free entry Nearest public transport: MyCiTi bus stop – Waterfront Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entrance and restrooms What’s on the Menu Expect comforting pub classics: burgers, bangers and mash, pizzas and pies. Fresh seafood dishes nod to Cape Town’s location, and there are sharing platters for groups. On tap? Local and international beers, ciders, and a solid whisky selection. Is there live music? Yes. Evenings and weekends see regular live music or DJs, giving the pub a festive, social energy that complements its hearty food and drink. Is it family-friendly? Yes. Families are welcome, with kid-friendly meals and a relaxed Waterfront setting that’s easy to pair with sightseeing. How do you get there? Mitchell’s sits right in the V&A Waterfront, within easy walking distance of the shopping mall, harbour and tourist attractions. Paid parking is available onsite, and the MyCiTi bus stops nearby. Why go? For a bustling pub experience at the Waterfront, Mitchell’s nails it - good beer, generous portions and a sociable vibe that makes it a reliable choice year-round.

Time Out Market Cape Town brings the best of the city under one roof, showcasing a curated line-up of the city’s top chefs, restaurateurs, and mixologists. From innovative fine dining to street-style eats, it’s a one-stop culinary hub in the heart of the Waterfront. The lively communal setting, open daily, makes it as much about socialising as it is about eating and drinking. Did you know: Every in-app purchase unlocks stamps, vouchers and surprise perks, from free drinks to exclusive dishes, so the more you visit, the more you enjoy. Key Details Address: Old Power Station Building, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Opening hours: Daily, 11 am – late Ticket prices: Free entry (event specific ticket price may apply) Nearest public transport: MyCiTi bus stop – Waterfront Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, with lifts, ramps, and accessible restrooms What’s on the Menu Expect a rotating line-up of Cape Town’s culinary stars. Stalls include elevated local dishes, global flavours, fresh seafood, artisanal pizza, plant-based fare, and decadent desserts. The bar program brings award-winning cocktails, fine wines, and craft beers to the table. Is there live music? Yes, the Market regularly hosts live DJs and music sessions, especially on weekends, giving the venue a buzzing, celebratory feel. Is it family-friendly? Absolutely. Families are welcome, with spacious communal seating and a diverse range of food options that cater to kids and adults alike. How do you get the

Woodstock Brewery is a relaxed, industrial-chic craft beer destination in the heart of Cape Town’s Woodstock district. Known for its small-batch beers, hearty pub food, and laid-back vibe, it’s a favourite among locals and visitors looking for a casual spot to unwind. With indoor seating, an outdoor beer garden, and regular events, Woodstock Brewery balances craft authenticity with social energy. Key Details Address: 252 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town Opening hours: Daily, 12pm – 10pm (check website for weekend events) Ticket prices: Free entry Nearest public transport: Woodstock Station (10–15 min walk) Accessibility: Step-free entrance; outdoor garden accessible; staff available to assist What’s on the Menu Woodstock Brewery’s menu pairs craft beers with hearty, shareable plates. Expect wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers, sausages, and seasonal specials. Vegetarian options are available, and their tasting flights allow visitors to sample the full range of in-house brews. Is there live music? Yes - live music and DJ sets take place regularly, particularly on weekends and for special events, giving the venue a lively, social atmosphere. Is it family-friendly? Yes. While the brewery is primarily known for its beer, the spacious layout, casual menu, and daytime hours make it suitable for families visiting the area. How do you get there? Woodstock Brewery is easily accessible by car, with limited on-site parking and nearby street parking. It’s a 10–15 minute walk from Wood

If a photo of Muizenberg beach is on your bucket list – and let's be honest, those candy-striped huts have graced thousands of Instagram feeds - you have a limited time to capture them as they've existed for nearly a century.  As part of the major Muizenberg beachfront redevelopment, the City of Cape Town has confirmed that the four beach huts on the western side of the beachfront will be dismantled and removed as early as next week. The four huts on the eastern side will follow by mid-year.   The huts – as synonymous with this stretch of False Bay as the surf and the Table Mountain National Park's Muizenberg Peak behind them – need to go because the upgraded promenade will be built roughly two metres further inland. That setback is a direct response to climate change and rising sea levels during storm surges along the coastline.    A colourful backstory The huts' lineage runs deeper than their cheerful paint jobs suggest. They're the direct descendants of the Victorian "bathing machine" - wooden changing rooms on wheels that were dragged into the sea by horse so that bathers, mainly women, could change in strict privacy before entering the water.   When laws requiring gender-segregated beaches were abolished in 1901, the machines lost their purpose. As a result, their wheels were removed, and they were simply parked on the sand, becoming the stationary beach huts we know today. Muizenberg's versions, built by the City Council from the 1930s onwards, became a characterful fi

Today's mercury hovering in the early 30s was just the start, as tomorrow's temperatures are expected to tip towards 41°C and higher. The South African Weather Service has warned that these heatwave conditions will be felt over parts of the Northern Cape and Western Cape until Friday, 13 March.   "The western and south-western parts of South Africa can expect very hot to extremely hot temperatures to return during the coming week (9-13 March 2026), resulting in heat wave conditions. This follows a brief period of cooler weather. Heat wave conditions are characterised by prolonged periods (at least three consecutive days or more) of temperatures exceeding the average of the hottest month by 5°C or more."       South African Weather Service     "The heat wave conditions are anticipated due to the presence of a strong, slow-moving high-pressure system in the upper levels of the atmosphere. The air in upper-air high-pressure systems sinks and warms as it descends, leading to higher temperatures at the surface. The system will be accompanied by offshore wind flow along the western coastline of South Africa."  The SAWS will continue to monitor this system closely and will issue updates as new information becomes available.   Recommended tips to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses: • Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. • Limit outdoor activities, especially during the hottest hours (12h00-15h00). • Wear loose, light-coloured clothing. • Stay in the shade or in well-vent

If your March calendar is already filling up with foodie specials and seasonal events, here’s one worth circling in green. From 9 to 15 March 2026, National Gardens Week returns, offering locals free access to the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) botanical and zoological gardens nationwide.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Cape Town (@timeout.capetown) It’s the perfect excuse to slow down, step outside and reconnect with the natural world while celebrating South Africa’s extraordinary biodiversity. The week highlights the country’s status as the third most biodiverse nation in the world, home to more than 95,000 known species.   Most SANBI gardens will offer free entry throughout the week, while Kirstenbosch, Walter Sisulu and Pretoria National Botanical Gardens, along with the National Zoological Garden, will offer free access from 9 to 13 March. On the weekend of 14 and 15 March, the zoo will charge a reduced entry fee of just R26. See the full list here. The 2026 theme, ‘Your free passport to nature, celebrate, restore, and protect all life, ’ will see guided walks, conservation-focused talks and family-friendly experiences that highlight how these gardens support biodiversity conservation. Cape Town already offers the joy of free Wednesdays at Zeitz MOCAA, Iziko museum free days and a host of other freebies for your birthday month - with National Gardens Week simply adding another good reason to step outside a

The dust has barely settled on the world-class hosting of the Cape Town Cycle tour this past weekend, but sporting and adventure enthusiasts are no doubt looking for their next challenge. Well, there's one with a really good cause happening in less than three months' time. The Cableway Charity Challenge, one of Cape Town's most iconic charity climbs, returns to Table Mountain on Saturday, 9 May 2026. Hosted by the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company, the endurance fundraising event challenges participants to climb Platteklip Gorge as many times as possible between sunrise and sunset. Runners, walkers and casual hikers are all invited to take part, with every ascent helping to raise funds. This year, the charity is aiming to surpass its R1.2 million fundraising goal. Support for local organisations with the funds raised this year will include Wilderness Search and Rescue, Volunteer Wildfire Services, SANParks Honorary Rangers, and youth development initiatives such as Ubuntu Football Academy.  How the challenge works The concept is simple but demanding: participants aim to complete as many laps up Platteklip Gorge as they can in a single day. Each summit contributes to fundraising efforts for a group of nominated beneficiaries working across conservation, rescue services and community upliftment. Participants can enter in three categories: Individual Challenge: Open to single participants who raise a minimum of R3,000. Corporate Challenge: Teams of five from corporate org

Update 6am, Monday 9 March: Emirates continues to operate a reduced flight schedule, as Dubai's airspace remains partially open. Over the past weekend, Emirates restored nearly 60% of its global route network, operating an estimated 106 daily return flights to 83 destinations. The limited schedule includes flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg. Emirates advised that customers transiting in Dubai will only be accepted if their connecting flight is operating. Travellers should only proceed to the airport if they have a confirmed booking. The airline will continue to publish the latest updates on Emirates.com as they become available.   Qatari airspace remains closed  Qatar Airways will operate a select number of flights to assist passengers impacted by the closure of Qatari airspace.  "Qatar Airways scheduled flight operations remain temporarily suspended. Flights will resume operations once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority announces the safe full reopening of Qatari airspace by the relevant authorities."  Qatar Airways intends to operate the following flight schedule in the coming days to support affected passengers - via approved, limited operating corridors.  Flights departing from Doha (DOH): 10-Mar: Cairo (CAI), London Heathrow (LHR), Jeddah (JED), Manila (MNL), Kochi (COK), Muscat (MCT), Istanbul (IST), Mumbai (BOM), Delhi (DEL), Nairobi (NBO),  Islamabad (ISB), Madrid (MAD), Frankfurt (FRA), Colombo (CMB), Milan (MXP). Flights arriving at Doha (DOH): 10-Mar: Seoul (

Zuney Burgers Smash Opening brought Wagyu, celebs and First Thursdays energy to Time Out Market Cape Town, affirming that Cape Town's burger scene is cooking. The ever-popular Zuney Burgers officially opened at Time Out Market Cape Town yesterday. Forces behind the burger brand, Henning Klopper and Siv Ngesi, joined the Market's team to bring a lively evening that celebrated the smash!  What's on at Time Out Market Cape Town Market: Don't miss these upcoming events this March!  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Cape Town (@timeout.capetown) 1. The Wagyu Burger tops our list!     We make it our business to curate and share the best foodie experience in this city. And seeing that come to life at the Time Out Market is such a treat, especially with a home-grown burger experience like Zuney. Yes, they pack a definite local-is-lekker and responsible punch! City expert Richard Holmes called it one of his best burgers in Cape Town! Now that's saying something. “Because of the extra marbling in the Wagyu mince, and the fact that Zuney is a smash burger done on a searing-hot flat-top, the caramelisation - the Maillard reaction, if you really want to get technical - on the patty is amazing," says Richard. "There’s a crisp, fatty, juiciness to the meat that’s just so well balanced by their house pickles and sauce. It’s definitely one of my best burgers in Cape Town. When I first tasted Zuney at their Kloof Street branch about two

One of Cape Town’s most treasured cultural institutions, The Labia Theatre, has slipped down the global ranking of the world’s greatest cinemas - landing at 74 on the new 100 Greatest Cinemas list, compiled by Time Out. That is a notable drop from 2025, when the historic Gardens cinema ranked 12th among the world’s most beautiful movie houses. The fall in position is hard to ignore, but the Labia’s place on the list at all reinforces its standing as one of the planet’s enduring independent cinemas. Opened in 1949, the venue began life as a ballroom attached to the Italian Embassy before transforming into the arthouse cinema that Cape Town knows today. Its royal-blue façade, neon tube signage and old-school ticket counters remain a nostalgic nod to old-world cinema charm in the city. Over the years, the cinema has built a following by championing arthouse classics, cult favourites and niche festivals. That spirit continues today. The theatre remains a central venue for the annual South African Horrorfest. This event has helped establish Cape Town as a home for genre cinema, particularly horror and experimental film.    “We love seeing interesting and unique movies that you won't get to see under normal circumstances, and hopefully the audience appreciates that as well,” festival organiser and co-founder Paul Blom shared in an interview with Time Out. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Labia Theatre (@thelabia) The Labia has long been recogni

Soli Philander, the beloved comedian, actor, presenter and storyteller  - whose voice and humour became synonymous with the spirit of Cape Town - has died. He passed away on Wednesday, 4 March, at the age of 65, after a battle with cancer. Commenting on Philander's passing, Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie said, "South Africa mourns the passing of Soli Philander, a beloved storyteller and cultural voice. His humour, rooted in the Cape Flats, united and uplifted SA. Heartfelt condolences to his family and all who loved him. Rus sag, Soli." Born and raised in Elsies River on the Cape Flats, Philander built a career that spanned theatre, television, film and radio. For decades, he entertained audiences across the country, becoming widely known through television programmes such as Liriekeraai and the South African edition of Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?, where his quick wit and natural warmth made him a household name. And who can forget his mischievous character, Timothy Traddle, all part of SA childhood nostalgia.   Many would agree that some of Philander’s greatest influence was felt on the theatre stages of the Baxter, for example, and comedy circuits of Cape Town, where he helped shape a uniquely local storytelling tradition.   Drawing deeply from the language, humour and everyday experiences of the Cape Flats, his performances reflected the lives of ordinary people, proving that local stories from Cape communities could resonate far beyond thei

  The Stables Restaurant at the historic Vergelegen Wine Estate will remain closed until further notice, following a fire at the restaurant on Tuesday afternoon. While the cause of the fire is still unknown and assessments are ongoing, Vergelegen has confirmed that Stables will be closed to patrons until further notice.  Other experiences on the estate remain open to visitors, including the Rose Terrace. While the cause of the fire remains unknown and assessments are ongoing, Vergelegen has confirmed that other areas of the estate remain open to visitors, including the Rose Terrace. Guests with enquiries or existing bookings are encouraged to contact Vergelegen’s customer services team on +27 21 847 2111 or customerservices@vergelegen.co.za.   View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vergelegen Wine Estate (@vergelegen_wine_estate)   Vergelegen is one of South Africa’s oldest wine estates, established in the early 1700s. The estate also holds a place in modern South African history as Nelson Mandela often used it for important diplomatic meetings and to host visiting heads of state and dignitaries.   Further updates will be provided once additional verified information becomes available.   Head over to our social media channels to follow Time Out Cape Town on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. And don't forget to sign up to Time Out's free newsletter for expert recommendations on new things to do, see, eat and drink in the Mother City.       

If you've been training for the Cape Cycle Tour, all your efforts are about to culminate in the coming days! For those of us not so adept on a bicycle, well, there's going to be quite a bit (read: MUCH MORE) traffic to contend with as Cycle Tour Week officially gets underway on Thursday, 5 March, with rider registration and the three-day Cycle Tour Expo at the DHL Stadium. The Expo is expected to attract around 35,000 visitors, with about 30,000 cyclists taking to the streets for the 48th edition of the Cape Town Cycle Tour on Sunday, 8 March 2026.   Fun Fact: Did you know this is the world's largest timed cycle race, with an estimated 10,000 of the approximately 30,000 cyclists expected to travel from outside the Mother City to take part in the 2026 Cape Town Cycle Tour? In 2025, 10,091 travelling cyclists represented over 60 countries. "This is a powerful reminder that the Cape Town Cycle Tour is not just a race, but a global drawcard," said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith. The city has deployed Safety and Security personnel from Traffic Services, Metro Police, Law Enforcement and Disaster Risk Management along the route to ensure that participants have a smooth and safe journey around the peninsula, added Smith. Cape Town Cycle Tour Expo Essentials Dates: Thursday 5 March to Saturday 7 March 2026 Venue: DHL Stadium, Green Point Purpose: Rider registration and official Cycle Tour Expo Exhibitors: 80+ brands featuring cycling gear, appare

The Luxe Restaurant Awards have landed, revealing white-tablecloth heavyweights, buzzy newcomers and must-try, lesser-known neighbourhood spots. Leading the charge is Mertia in Stellenbosch, crowned Restaurant of the Year, while Chef of the Year went to Carla Schulze, whose deeply considered, sauce-driven approach at Salon has won admiration across the local food world for cooking with heart as much as precision. Not forgetting the delectable How Bao Now offering, co-founded by Carla, also available at the Time Out Cape Town Market and new Oranjezicht City Farmers Market alike. Read our sit-down interview with Carla here.   View this post on Instagram A post shared by Luxe Awards (@luxe.awards) See the full list of winners for 2026:  Restaurant of the Year: MertiaChef of the Year: Carla SchulzeNew Restaurant of the Year: AmuraPioneer Award: Marble HospitalityCulinary Innovation Award: Callan Austin – DuskCulinary Rising Star Award: Nic Charalambous – OuzeriHidden Gem Award: MelfortPastry Chef of the Year: Arno RalphService Excellence Award: HōsekiStyle Award: AmuraSustainability Award: Fermier  Restaurant Group of the Year: Olives & PlatesAfrican Restaurant of the Year: QunuBakery of the Year: Lion’s BreadBistro of the Year: Le Bistrot de JANBurger Joint of the Year: Le PickleCafe of the Year: Café SofiCasual Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year: CoyConcept Restaurant of the Year: The Wiggle RoomContemporary Restaurant of the Year: EmbarcFine Dining Res

Update: Thursday, 26 February: Cape Town International Airport  has fully restored operations following a fire in the Northern Service Yard on Tuesday, 24 February 2026.   The airport issued an Operational Status update, confirming: • Check-in & Customs: All domestic and international check-in systems, along with Border Management Authority and Customs services, are fully automated and functional. • Arrivals: International arrivals will continue to use an alternate "Meeters & Greeters" route on the ground floor of the International Inner Lane. At the same time, a final safety assessment of the terminal is being completed.   • Baggage Handling: Baggage processing is currently being managed manually. Our maintenance teams are working 24/7 to restore automated service to this area. Traveller Advice: Passengers are advised to arrive early and check their flight status directly with their airline. For real-time updates, please download the ACSA mobile app.  Update: 6.45am, Wednesday 25 February: Recovery efforts following a fire at Cape Town International Airport on Tuesday, are continuing with the airport confirming the usual Meeters & Greeters corridor has been closed."A temporary Meeters & Greeters area has been established at the International Inner Lane (Ground Floor). Visitors collecting international passengers are requested to: Exit the terminal via the “Books & Things” exit and proceed to the International Inner Lane." The airport outlined the route to follow via the re