Selene Brophy

Tucked beneath The Pot Luck Club in Woodstock’s Old Biscuit Mill, you’ll find Salon - a space that began as an overflow area and is now an award-winning dining destination in its own right. There’s a considered rhythm to service here: a storytelling Explorer Menu unfolds course by course, from cheese shaved on a girolle to the theatre of a Crêpe Suzette-inspired duck plated table-side with a three-day citrus jus. A hush falls as plates arrive - not out of stiffness, but out of anticipation. “When Luke Dale Roberts opens a restaurant, people want to eat,” says Executive Chef Carla Schulze with a laugh. “People were ordering the canapés twice over. So we introduced a main course. And it eventually evolved into an 11-course tasting menu.” Carla's been there through the thick of the evolution, leading the pass to clinch Restaurant of the Year at the 2025 Luxe Restaurant Awards, where she was also awarded Culinary Innovation of the Year. In short, Salon's Explorer Menu is a globally inspired seasonal journey, visually mapping flavours across Italy, Morocco, France and the United Kingdom, while being anchored by local South African ingredients.  Karoo saffron lifts a Sicilian-inspired broth. Simon’s Town choka (octopus) is paired with miso and chilli. The reinvention of the humble ‘slangetjie’ is a quirky surprise, as each plate nudges you towards unexpected memories of homegrown flavours in the most wonderful way. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time

Cape Town’s West Coast is one of those places that sneaks up on you with its rugged beauty and its wild unpretentiousness. Come spring, the fynbos explodes into riotous bloom, and the coastline swaps grey skies for golden afternoons.  The 'Weskus' certainly has some big drawcard energy: charming fishing villages, unspoilt beaches, salt-of-the-earth food and just enough off-the-grid magic to feel like a picture-perfect escape you’d want to take again and again.  Together with my family, I've honed this West Coast meander down to a mini-break fine art over the years. Let's hit the road and soak up all the laid-back wonder.

 “Restaurants shouldn’t always have a concept. Sometimes, they should just have delicious food.”   That’s Bertus Basson - straight-talking, a proudly local Afrikaaner, and now officially on Cape Town turf with Ongetem as his first sit-down city restaurant. It’s not just a new chapter in his food empire - it’s a full-throttle, fire-cooked, hip-hop-soundtracked rally cry for locals who simply want to eat well, without the pretence (don't be surprised by the cowhide over your table). Located inside the new Hilton Canopy Hotel on Park Road in Gardens - Ongetem (Afrikaans for untamed) is gritty, playful, and living up to its name.  “There’s already enough fancy-smansy in Cape Town,” says Bertus. “We wanted to build something for South Africans — where you can grab a burger and a martini on a weeknight or bring your missus for date night.” He’s not exaggerating - it’s the kind of spot where you can rock up in boots or heels, stay for cocktails, or order a two-course including a cheese burger (R130) and soufflé (R140), and still afford rent. This is Basson's shot at building that ‘reasonable middle’ in Cape Town dining, the kind of place he believes locals should be happy to pop into at least twice a week. Selene BrophyOngetem in the Hilton Canopy in Cape Town. Fire and food that doesn’t F...(aff) around!  If you’ve eaten at any of Basson’s other restaurants - Eike, Spek & Bone, De Vrije Burger -  you’ll know he doesn’t repeat himself. “All of our restaurants are different. It

Exploring a world-class city for the weekend or during the holidays might conjure concerns about hefty price tags, but we're here to tell you that it is possible to have some family fun without blowing your budget.   There are numerous opportunities for exposing your little ones to all that Cape Town has to offer - from free meals and supervised play areas to scenic outdoor spaces and culturally rich stops. Here’s your ultimate guide to where kids eat free and what to do in Cape Town with free or almost-free access for children.  Follow Time Out Cape Town on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok!  RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best indoor activities for kids in Cape Town🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Cape Town📍 The best things to do in Cape Town 

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

 Winter in Cape Town doesn’t mean staying indoors, although nobody’s judging you if that’s your thing.   I admit, I often side-eye those small active groups on crisp Cape Town mornings, defying what the body naturally wants to do, amazed.   Testing your fitness limits might not come naturally, and it’s probably not a good idea to register for the upcoming HYROX straight off the bat - although I know a few folks who are totally up for the challenge, with less than a month to go.  Top Tips for Winter Warriors: Layer smartly – start warm, strip as you go. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, just because it’s cold. Sign up early – indoor events and popular trail runs fill up fast. Find a crew – training with others will help keep you accountable until spring. But whether you're a trail fiend, cyclist or tri-nerd, these events will keep you motivated all winter long. And if all else fails, these local Cape Town hikes are just as effective in keeping moving. 

Winter is in full swing in Cape Town - with snow-filled reports becoming more frequent.  A few weeks ago, parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal experienced considerable snowfall in the past few days and could easily be mistaken for a wintery European countryside right now.  And the latest forecast shows snow fall could hit 10cm or more across the province. Snow in Cape Town? And while Cape Town’s winter is mild by Northern Hemisphere standards, flurries of snow along the surrounding mountains have become something to look forward to despite the chilliness. Even Table Mountain has been known to surprise Capetonians with a rare dusting of snow - usually after an icy cold front and only if you're up early enough to catch it before it melts.  Recorded snowfall on the mountain dates back to the early 1900s, and when it does happen, it’s a truly magical (and fleeting) winter moment.  However, for those who live for these brrracing winter weather moments, there are a few spots that offer you a good chance of chasing snowflakes without having to leave the Western Cape. Pack your boots, grab a flask, and let’s go snow hunting.   RECOMMENDED: ☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Cape Town 📍 The best day hikes in Cape Town 🥣 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town 🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town  

Forget sweaty Santa hats and limp summer salads. Christmas in July lets us do the holidays the “right” way. Who doesn't love a crackling fire, mulled wine, rich roasts, and all festive kitsch that just hits better in wool socks? And while half the city seems to have fled to Europe in search of overpriced Aperol and questionable summer tans, we get to lean into all the cosiness, local-style.  And these days, Christmas in July can be a full-on vibe: a chance to gather, indulge, and get festive at the exact time of year when we need a little sparkle. Whether you're here for themed markets, silly jumpers or traditional feast options, it's time for a bit of festive magic this winter.  Have a Christmas in July event to share? Get in touch via hello@timeoutsouthafrica.com or tag us on socials: Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.    RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best indoor activities for kids in Cape Town🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Cape Town📍 The best things to do in Cape Town  

Don't Miss: Get your Coffee Rave on with Suga at the Time Out Market Cape Town on Wednesday, 25 June from 6 am to 9 am. For Suga, the essence of Cape Town is found not only in its views, flavours and nightlife - but in the voices that fill its streets.  “Want a master class in Cape Culture for only R10?” asks Suga.“Catch a taxi in the CBD and just listen to the music and commentary.”   That same sense of rhythm, storytelling and connection pulses through The Suga Rush, her daily show on Heart FM. “Cape Town raised me, radio shaped me, and I’m here to give that energy right back.”  Whether she’s sharing a memory, spinning a track, or spotlighting the city’s creatives, Suga’s mic is a mirror for the soul of the Mother City.  In this warm, wisdom-filled catch-up she opens up about career highlights, her go-to spots for recharging and why the city’s creative energy is unlike anywhere else.   View this post on Instagram A post shared by Suga (@sugafunk) Time Out Cape Town:  What’s one unforgettable on-air moment that still gives you goosebumps? Suga: Interviewing Rita Marley was huge for me—talk about music royalty. I’ve had the privilege of some incredible conversations over the years—Janet Jackson called in once (yes, the Janet), and one that still gives me chills: Charlize Theron right after her Oscar win.  Fun fact? I used to collect magazines as a teen and had one with her on the cover before she went abroad to become the star we kn

Capetonians love a cold plunge. Whether it’s a morning dip at Dalebrook, a Wim Hof-style session in a backyard pool, or a bracing Atlantic splash that doubles as bragging rights, we’ve made icy immersion our unofficial sport. But this June, there’s more than just endorphins and Insta-glory on the line.   The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) is calling on all cold-water warriors to take the plunge for a purpose this winter solstice - Saturday, 21 June. Whether you dive into a tidal pool, dunk in a dam, or take the ice bucket route, your frosty feat will help raise vital funds for the heroes who keep our coastlines safe come rain, shine, or full-blown southeaster.  These are the steps to plan your wintery support gathering:  Set a Date: Choose a date, a place and a time for your plunge. Create a Campaign: Visit GivenGain, search for the NSRI ‘Winter Solstice swim 2025’ page or click here Select ‘Start Fundraising,’ and follow the easy steps.  Share the Message: Encourage friends, family, and colleagues to get involved or make a donation. We’ve rounded up some of the most scenic, splash-worthy tidal pools around Cape Town to help you find your perfect plunge spot. Sure it's icy out there but remember, it's all for raising awareness around beach safety (and a great selfie).  

The South African passport is back in the game — climbing two spots to 48th in the latest Henley Passport Index, with visa-free (or visa-on-arrival) access to 103 destinations. It’s a modest win. But in a world where passport power signals global standing, economic muscle and strategic diplomacy, it’s not just about where we can go, it’s also about how open we are in return. The Passport Indexis based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) – seen as the largest, most accurate travel information database, together with Henley & Partners’ research team. Here are the Top 10 Most Powerful Passports in 2025 Visa-free access by passport holders, according to the latest Henley Passport Index: Singapore – 193 destinations Japan, South Korea – 190 Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain – 189 Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Sweden – 188 Greece, New Zealand, Switzerland – 187 United Kingdom – 186 Australia, Czechia, Hungary, Malta, Poland – 185 Canada, Estonia, UAE – 184 Croatia, Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia – 183 Iceland, Lithuania, United States – 182   Key passport ranking facts for 2025: South Africans can now travel visa-free to 103 destinations, up from 104 in May, and moving the passport up two places in the global ranking. We’re now tied with countries like Georgia and Azerbaijan — but still lagging behind top African nations like Seychelles (26th) and Mauritius (30th). At the top of the 2025 Henley Passpo

South Africa has once again earned its place among the world’s top travel destinations, ranking 4th in the Telegraph Travel Awards 2025, as voted by more than 20,000 readers of the UK-based publication.  This follows Cape Town being recognised as the world's best city on Earth in the cities category of the awards!  The 2025 awards for the best country saw New Zealand reclaim the top spot, followed by Japan and India, with South Africa holding strong in the top five, ahead of destinations such as Greece, Australia, and the Maldives.   This year's fourth position maintains South Africa’s decade-long streak in the top ten, affirming its place as a world-class destination. Praised for its breathtaking diversity — from Big Five safaris and dramatic road-trip coastlines to award-winning wine regions and vibrant cities — South Africa continued to be celebrated for offering a full continent’s worth of adventure in a single country.  ICYMI: Who’s loving Cape Town right now? The UK is leading the comeback While New Zealand drew votes for its cinematic scenery and adrenaline-fuelled experiences, The Telegraph credited South Africa for its unforgettable wildlife, rich cultures, warm hospitality, and astonishing natural beauty — all at an exceptional value for travellers, thanks to the rand's favourable exchange rate.  This isn’t South Africa’s first brush with travel glory. In fact, it topped the list just two years ago in 2023, and its continued presence in the global spotlight

The FlySafair pilots' strike has entered its second day, with the airline continuing to operate a reduced schedule.  An estimated 30% of its flights have been cut, with FlySafair spokesperson Kirby Gordon confirming flight operations were fine at the moment.  Both FlySafair and trade union Solidarity are due to meet with the CCMA on Wednesday to resolve the strike, which was set to be in effect until 5 August, or until a resolution is reached.  Here’s what to do if you’re flying soon: Double-check your flight details via the Manage Booking tool on Flysafair.co.za If your flight has been moved and the new time doesn’t work for you, you can change it free of charge Keep an eye on your email and SMS inbox for updates from the airline    READ: How to survive flight cancellation chaos   Monday 21 July: 20 flights cancelled as negotiations continue FlySafair customers are being advised that the airline has had to cancel certain flights on Monday, due to ongoing industrial action with its pilots. As many as 20 flights have been cancelled, at short notice, with flight disruptions reported at major SA airports, Cape Town International and OR Tambo International. The flights were assigned to pilots who had "confirmed their availability to fly" but then, late on Sunday evening, reported that they "would not fly."  "All other flights are operating as planned, and affected customers have been contacted directly using details provided at the time of booking," says Kirby Gordon, Kirby Go

Veteran tourism entrepreneur Mohamed Baba has officially launched Aurum Africa, an employee-owned premium touring company. With a founding team of 40, including 25 staff shareholders, Aurum Africa offers curated, guided experiences and journey logistics across Southern Africa. The venture aims to redefine transformation in the tourism sector through "equity sharing local empowerment." Speaking at the launch event held at the Cape Grace Hotel, Baba said Aurum Africa was born from a desire to move beyond "lip service to real, lived transformation."   "True transformation isn't about compliance scorecards or token gestures. I’m determined that Aurum Africa will stand as proof that true empowerment is possible when you trust your people with real ownership, not just promises," he said.   At the launch, Baba, who spent three decades shaping local tour experiences in the industry, also confirmed that he is no longer involved in Illios Travel, the company he founded over 25 years ago.  Having exited the business in 2021, Baba said Illios remains an integral part of his legacy. However, Aurum Africa now represents a new chapter built on "shared ownership, a fresh vision, and a deeper commitment to transformation in the tourism sector." “Our guests deserve experiences shaped by people who are truly invested – not just employees, but owners,” he said.    Aurum AfricaNew employee-owned premium touring company. Shareholder Shadley Basadien, who spoke about “The Aurum Journey” at the l

Every year on July 18, people across the globe dedicate 67 minutes to service in honour of the 67 years Nelson Mandela spent fighting for justice and human rights. What began as a birthday tribute in 2008 has become a global movement, officially recognised by the United Nations and first celebrated in 2010. This year’s theme saw a call for solidarity from the Nelson Mandela Foundation. Here’s how Cape Town answered that call.  The spirit of Mandela Day is alive at Kamva Labantu, where a steady stream of supporters from corporate teams beading Relate Bracelets to generous donors and walk-in volunteers came together to make a difference. Ikamva Labantu’s Senior Clubs offer vital support to older adults, including healthcare, nutrition, legal aid, and home-based care for the bedridden. In partnership with Relate Bracelets since 2011, the clubs also give elders the chance to supplement their pensions by crafting cause-related bracelets.   Time Out Cape TownMama Shiela Joka of the Vuyani Ikamva Club is grateful for the extra "ching-ching" her beading work puts in her pocket.     KFM's Tracey Lange joined in on the day, raising awareness of the daily struggles faced by these elderly Capetonians. Ishrene Davids, Director of Ikamva Labantu stated, “They fought for freedom but remain vulnerable to abuse and neglect. It’s time we honour their ongoing contribution and work towards real, lasting change.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Relate Br

No one wants to hear the word “strike” when they’re about to travel - but if you're flying with FlySafair in the coming days, you may want to take note: A strike certificate has been issued after negotiations with the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA), and pilot union Solidarity could issue a formal notice of intention to strike from Friday morning. If that happens, industrial action could start as soon as Monday, or within 72 hours of the notice given.  Is your flight affected? FlySafair says it has already proactively adjusted its flight schedules and expects no immediate disruptions. Customers who’ve been affected by rescheduled flights have already been contacted. If you haven’t heard from the airline, your flight is most likely operating as planned. Here’s what to do if you’re flying soon: Double-check your flight details via the Manage Booking tool on Flysafair.co.za If your flight has been moved and the new time doesn’t work for you, you can change it free of charge Keep an eye on your email and SMS inbox for updates from the airline What’s this strike about? The disagreement involves wage and working condition negotiations between FlySafair and its pilot group, represented by the Solidarity union. Solidarity members have reportedly rejected a 5.7% wage increase and additional compensation adjustments.  The airline says it’s committed to constructive engagement and respects the rights of its employees to participate in the process.  “It

After a few quiet years, international visitors are returning in big numbers, and some nationalities more than others.  According to newly released data by Stats SA, the United Kingdom is South Africa’s fastest-growing major tourism market in 2025, with arrivals jumping more than 8% year-on-year.   Between January and May alone, over 182,000 UK travellers touched down in Mzansi - many of them heading straight for Cape Town’s mountain-meets-ocean magic. READ: Cape Town International crowned #1 airport in the world  This marks a 90% recovery to pre-pandemic levels for UK visitors, far above the national average and hints at a significant rebound for one of our most important international markets. Why the UK’s falling back in love with Cape Town From the streets of Shoreditch to the cool beaches and cafes of Clifton, our Capetonian summer is trending again. That sharp rise in UK visitor numbers shows not only revived interest but also a deeper reconnection. Our favourable currency and increased connectivity, with direct flights from Heathrow and Gatwick through Virgin Atlantic and Norse Atlantic have helped.  And just this week, Cape Town was voted the Best City on Earth  for the seventh time by The Telegraph readers, as 20,000 mostly UK voters backed the Mother City over Seville and Sydney. We're not complaining that the UK isn't just visiting, but rather somewhat obsessed. Time Out readers had the same idea earlier this year, voting Cape Town #1 in the Time Out 2025 list of

Flysafair passengers are being advised that FlySafair pilots are planning to go on strike over the weekend, with the airline stating it will activate contingency plans as it continues to engage with its pilots. The airline confirmed that negotiations with its pilot union, Solidarity, have deadlocked, opening the door for protected strike action. As of today, 16 July 2025, the airline acknowledges that Solidarity has been issued a strike certificate, meaning pilots may legally begin industrial action with 72 hours’ notice. Despite the looming threat of disruption, FlySafair says flights will continue as planned for now. “We are fully prepared to manage the situation responsibly, with contingency plans in place to ensure minimal disruption,” said Kirby Gordon, the airline’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Customers can continue to book and travel with confidence.” FlySafair has reiterated its commitment to passenger safety and regulatory compliance while respecting the rights of both striking and non-striking crew members. Gordon emphasised that the airline remains open to “constructive resolution” an that current operations remain fully compliant with all aviation safety regulations. *This is a developing story — we’ll update you with any changes to schedules or travel advisories as they unfold.    ICYMI: Cape Town International crowned #1 in the world

Spring has arrived a little early in the Cape floral kingdom - and that’s great news for anyone plotting a worthwhile weekend break. Thanks to a healthy dose of rain since March and a rare mix of warm and cool weather through winter, Namaqua National Park is already seeing pops of colour across its legendary landscapes.   The West Coast flower season typically occurs annually between August and September. However, the peak bloom period is between the third week of August and the second week of September.  But as the current patterns show, the exact timing can vary depending on weather conditions.  While the bloom is still in its early stages, sections of the 4x4 eco-route, including Wildeperdehoek and Kookfontein, are already bursting with wildflowers. The iconic Skilpad area is just starting to stir, and if conditions hold (read: soft rain, no harsh winds), we’re in for a longer, more vibrant flower season stretching into August and even late September. West Coast Way With Heritage Day falling on a Sunday this year, Monday 28 September becomes an ideal public holiday and that means a three-day weekend ripe for hitting the road. Not sure where to start? Check out our West Coast road trip guide for a pick of pit stops, picnic spots and wildflower wonderlands — from Darling’s daisy displays to Lambert’s Bay’s coastal calm. Time Out Tip: Pack layers, fill the tank, and hit the N7 early. Aim to be in flower fields mid-morning for peak bloom views and before the full-blown after

 Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) has officially clinched the world’s best airport title in the newly released AirHelp Score 2025. The airport has outperformed 249 other global hubs with an exceptional overall score of 8.57, including an on-time performance rating of 8.6 and a customer experience score of 8.7. According to Airports Company South Africa (Acsa), the airport handled a total of 10.49 million two-way passengers in 2024, a 7% increase compared to 2023. However, this figure is still lower than record numbers between 2018 and 2019, when passenger numbers averaged close to 11 million. Domestic traffic grew by 6%, while air cargo volumes saw a notable 27% growth in the first 10 months of last year.  READ: Africa's best airlines ranked: SAA 67th in Skytrax Top 100 As AirHelp’s emphasis on real‑time data and passenger-sourced sentiment grows, CTIA’s #1 global ranking spotlights South Africa’s emerging status as a world-class aviation hub. The AirHelp Score gauges performance across:• On-time punctuality (60%)• Customer sentiment (20%)• Quality of food and shops (20%) Notably, this assessment spans 1 June 2024 to 31 May 2025, and incorporates feedback from 13,500 travellers across 58 countries.  For Cape Town, it’s more than a win, and adds to the city’s reputation as a vibrant, visitor‑ready destination.  ICYMI: FlySafair launches new Cape Town route to Hoedspruit Turkish Airlines and Airlink partner to unlock easier travel from Cape Town  SA's new domestic fli

As South Africans, we know the default association most people make with us globally is either rugby or Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela.  Now more than ever, Tata Madiba continues to rest in power, with his legacy celebrated through calls to action each year on Mandela Day.   Every year on July 18, people around the world dedicate 67 minutes to service in honour of the 67 years that South Africa's first democratically elected president spent fighting for justice, freedom, and human rights.  The idea is simple: small acts, when multiplied, can make a big difference.  Mandela Day, inspired during Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday in 2008, was officially declared by the United Nations in 2009 and first celebrated globally in 2010.  “This year’s theme is both a challenge and a call for solidarity. We are inviting the world to respond with action, to tackle poverty, fight inequity, and build a society grounded in dignity, justice, and shared humanity,” said Nelson Mandela Foundation CEO Dr. Mbongiseni Buthelezi.   Cape Town never holds back when it comes to community spirit, and Mandela Day is no exception.  Whether you’re packing food parcels, joining a city-wide clean-up, or crafting toys for kids in need, here’s how you can get involved this year—with options for all ages, interests, and time commitments.  National Events Mandela Day Walk & Run 2025 (with Virtual Mandela Day Walk & Run option) Lace-up for the annual Mandela Day Walk & Run taking place on Saturday, 19 July 2025, with 5km

The City of Cape Town's upgrades to Muizenberg’s beachfront infrastructure are well underway - with the old seawall being carefully dismantled.  Its original sandstone blocks are to be preserved for reuse in the new design unfolding in one of False Bay's most popular beachfronts.  As part of the City's ambitious R413 million investment into coastal infrastructure projects, the multi-phase upgrade of the Muizenberg beachfront - a much-loved destination for surfers, families and tourists alike began earlier in February. It is set for completion by the end of 2026 and aims to address ageing infrastructure while improving accessibility, safety and the overall visitor experience.  Beachfront revamps are also underway in Strand, Small Bay, Monwabisi, Table View, Miller’s Point, Soetwater, Kogel Bay, Macassar, Zandwolf, Mouille Point and Granger Bay. SEE: Sea Point Promenade upgrade wraps up   As the Muizenberg project unfolds, the newly upgraded parking area near the Civic Centre is set to reopen on 1 August 2025. "The project is moving along well, despite the rainy weather. I know our surfing community will be very excited to hear this," says the City’s Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment, Alderman Eddie Andrews. "Next is the removal of sections of the existing seawall at Surfer’s Corner. These original sandstone rocks that make up the wall will be stored and later assessed for incorporation into the new design, as they are key to the