Selene Brophy

There’s a beautiful, languid ease to strolling through Franschhoek. You can easily spend the day on foot, sauntering down Huguenot Street, moving between galleries, restaurants and craft shops - with dedicated stops along the way, including the Huguenot Fine Chocalate at one end down to the striking Huguenot Monument at the other, which pays homage to the French settlers who shaped the Cape’s food and wine heritage in the late 17th century.   It may be a small Winelands town, but you’ll struggle to find anywhere in South Africa with more award-winning restaurants, wine estates and curated experiences per square kilometre. Set against the vineyard-lined slopes of the Franschhoek Mountains and Groot Drakenstein Mountains, just over an hour from Cape Town, the valley offers a seamless blend of heritage, design, artistic creativity and serious food culture. That accessibility is part of the appeal. Whether you’re a local or visiting the Mother City for the first time, Franschhoek makes for an easy, indulgent mini-break. Throughout the year, the town buzzes with food and wine festivals, art and book fairs - now joined by the highly anticipated debut of the Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek, set to create an even stronger global draw. During a recent weekend escape to La Residence  - part of The Royal Portfolio, which also includes The Silo Hotel - it became clear how effortlessly Franschhoek delivers the best of both worlds when it comes to a world-class tourist destination: c

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

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 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

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

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 looking for a light, entertaining night out, Pretty Woman: The Musical is a sure bet. But you'd better move, as the production opened to sold-out performances for its opening week of its Cape Town run.   The smash-hit stage adaptation of the beloved 1990 rom-com - running at the Artscape Opera House until 19 April before heading to Johannesburg's Monte Casino - draws plenty of enthusiasm from the crowd. And it’s easy to see why.   This is comfort theatre at its most polished: familiar, fun and super nostalgic. The production leans into what audiences love most! Snappy one-liners lifted straight from the original film, big romantic moments and a Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance score that’s easy on the ears. You’ll find yourself swaying along more than once.   There’s a strong sense of '90s nostalgia throughout - from ring-dial telephones to Beverly Hills excess - all wrapped in glossy set design. The slick lighting and seamless scene changes are on point to keep you engaged with the storyline, even when you already know exactly how it ends. Performances that carry the charm Christopher Jaftha brings effortless charisma to Edward Lewis, delivering a performance that balances suave confidence with just enough vulnerability as he weaves between the detached bachelor and crooning lines of Something About Her. Opposite him, Leah Mari shines as Vivian Ward, bringing the required depth to her role while still snappily infusing it with relatable, real street-smart quips.   Tog

It’s been a while since I’ve been welcomed into a hotel quite the way that La Residence, in Franschhoek, does it. There's the Royal Portfolio wave, where all the staff assemble to greet you. Stepping through the main entrance, there is an immediate, almost imperceptible decompression of the senses as you are handed a posy of freshly picked roses from the garden.   The vast sweep of winelands that greets you front and centre could not be more fitting for the expression, a sight for sore eyes. And while I’m not one for the destination dupes trend (because who doesn’t crave the original?), this view could easily be mistaken for the Napa Valley or the vineyards of Tuscany. A perfectly chilled glass of La Residence’s house-made rosé arrives just in time to cut through the Cape heat, while the quietly confident staff begin to reveal the layers of the property to you. Royal Porfolio founder Liz Biden’s deft, unmistakable touch is everywhere - with considered ensembles at every turn from the entrance, to the dining room out through to the patio and pool areas - all curated to be entirely transportive. Why stay at La Residence? Franschhoek is the embodiment of old-world charm, food, wine and Cape heritage - and you’d be hard-pressed to find a stay that encapsulates all of it quite like La Residence. What sets The Royal Portfolio apart is how deeply each property is rooted in its surroundings. Here, that translates into a refined balance of total privacy, paired with effortless acces

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

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

If you have upcoming travel plans - particularly over the peak Northern Hemisphere summer period between June and August - you’d be wise to approach overseas travel with a little extra caution right now.   From rising fuel costs and restricted airspaces to constrained flight capacity and operational bottlenecks, global aviation is currently facing multiple disruption factors. WTTC estimates that 526,000 passengers are not travelling daily due to reduced flights in the Middle East, impacting connectivity between key regions such as Asia, Europe, and Africa. For South African travellers, the knock-on effects are already becoming visible: soaring ticket prices, longer routes and limited seat availability.  And according to aviation and travel experts, the situation may still worsen before it stabilises.  The eye of the disruption storm The current disruption began on 28 February, when escalating conflict in the Middle East forced the closure of key airspace corridors. The impact was immediate: three of South Africa’s most important long-haul connectors – Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways – were forced to suspend or reroute flights. Thousands of travellers were stranded in major transit hubs, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha, unsure how or when they would get home. Nearly a month later, flights are slowly returning, but the system remains fragile. Airlines are now relying on temporary “dedicated flight corridors” – controlled air routes coordinated by aviation author

Soccer fans, are you ready!? Cue TKZee's Shibobo, Bafana Bafana are in town, and we're ready for some serious geez! And to help manage the flow of fans in the area, the City is rolling out a free MyCiTi shuttle service for the FIFA international friendly taking place tomorrow, Tuesday, 31 March at the DHL Stadium. The match, scheduled to kick off at 7:30pm, forms part of Bafana Bafana’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.  With a capacity crowd of approximately 55,000 spectators expected, fans watching the game at the stadium will need to plan properly to avoid running late due to traffic and parking woes.  UCYMI: Bafana Bafana’s 2026 World Cup Journey: What South Africans need to know  "The MyCiTi shuttle, along with the PRASA train service, which will be running from all routes into the city, will help alleviate congestion on the roads," the City said in a statement confirming the free shuttle services.  "This game is scheduled for midweek when traffic is at its peak in the city bowl and the Green Point Precinct. We would like to encourage spectators to make use of public transport services to ensure the efficient movement to and from the stadium precinct. Hop on a train early or get on a free MyCiTi shuttle, which will get you to the game swiftly on its dedicated lane to the stadium,"  said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.    "Alternatively, spectators can park in the CBD and join thousands on the Fan Walk to start this matchday ex

The inaugural Montreux Jazz Festival had the Cape Winelands town of Franschhoek buzzing with a steady ebb of festival-goers enjoying a weekend of some of the best Jazz acts on this global stage, with its Arches stage completely sold out on the Saturday. Highlights of the festival included Robert Glasper, Bokani Dyer and DJ Kenzhero, plus industry-led masterclasses and poster signings by acclaimed artist Sam Nhlengethwa. A last-minute medical emergency meant the unfortunate cancellation of performances by Salif Keita, who was unable to travel to South Africa.   View this post on Instagram A post shared by Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek (@mjffranschhoek) ALSO SEE: The best things to do in Franschhoek The festival wrapped up with a free-flowing celebration of live music, vinyl sets, and community connection on the Sunday, across  Franschhoek’s Montreux Mile along its main Huguenot Street. Selene Brophy   Pop-up performances and choral moments entertained visitors from late morning, with artists including Sima Mashazi and Nick Turner, Albert Frost, Nomadic Orchestra, The Rivertones and Major Voices Choir, alongside DJ sets from Fred Spider and Protectionspel. Rather than a grand finale, the festival closed with a more relaxed rhythm, with spontaneous dance areas, intimate listening sessions, and a village-wide soundtrack that invites attendees to savour the event without rushing.     Selene Brophy A Village alive with music   In true Montreux style, thi

Chef Luke Dale Roberts has announced the upcoming closure of his acclaimed tasting-menu restaurant SALON as he prepares to launch an ambitious new culinary destination at Tswalu Kalahari Reserve. The new restaurant, scheduled to open in late 2026, will form part of Tswalu’s luxury hospitality offering and marks one of Roberts’ most significant projects since the debut of The Test Kitchen.   As part of this transition, SALON will close in its current form at the end of March 2026. It will, however, remain part of the Luke Dale Roberts group and will be used as a private dining and events venue for exclusive lunches, dinners and special occasions. Since opening in 2023, SALON has earned widespread recognition, including Best New Restaurant in Africa at the World Culinary Awards, Best Restaurant at the 2025 Luxe Restaurant Awards, three plates from the JHP Gourmet Guide Awards, and three stars at the 2026 Eat Out Restaurant Awards.   Roberts explained that while SALON’s nine-course tasting menu has been highly celebrated, Cape Town’s growing number of tasting-menu restaurants has shifted dining preferences, and the reality is that only so many people want to dine in that format regularly.  “I believe diners will always value skillfully prepared food and thoughtful cooking, but increasingly they want the freedom to choose not only what they eat, but also how many courses they feel like enjoying,” added Roberts. Tswalu's new dining destination   Roberts will work alongside long-

Cape Town’s Restaurant Week is back, running from 27 March through to 3 May, and once again opening up some of the city’s most in-demand restaurants at accessible, fixed-price menus. While the name suggests a short-lived promotion, the event over the past few years has quietly evolved into a multi-week dining window - offering better odds - to secure sought-after bookings. It means it's a little less frenetic and gives you the chance to approach your best dining experiences more deliberately. We've checked out what's on offer with suggestions below both in terms of value for money and the type of experience you'll be able to enjoy.  Newcomers, book early! There will always be that FOMO when things are this delectable, so make the most of the new restaurants on the restaurant week block. Maru - 3-Course Korean Steakhouse sharing experience from R445.  Little Fox - A curated selection of eight seasonal sharing plates designed for two from R700. ICYMI: Best new restaurants in Cape Town Maru. Choose standout 2026 Eat Out winners Cape Town dominated the recent Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards. These are the reservations that deliver value and are rarely available to book at a discount.  PIER – 7-course tasting dinner, sure to be one of the hardest reservations in the V&A Waterfront to secure, from R1195. Terrarium – A sustainability-driven 8-course menu with serious creative edge, from R700. Mertia - A signature 4-course or 8-course menu showcasing bold flavours curated

A helicopter assisting with a wildfire above Hout Bay crashed on Wednesday in Table Mountain National Park. The pilot is reportedly safe, according to a statement issued by SANParks. "Earlier this evening, a helicopter operating at the fire site on the slopes of Hout Bay in Table Mountain National Park, was involved in an incident, prompting an emergency medical response and the activation of Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR). Investigations are underway to ascertain the details behind this incident. To that extent, SANParks is not able to offer additional comment on the matter at this stage." Emergency teams, including Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR), SANParks, Kishugu Aviation, Netcare24, the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services and Law Enforcement, are on site supporting operations. SANParks will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates. The helicopter was battling a fire that began on Tuesday and had spread across the slopes between Hout Bay and Constantia Nek, with flames reaching the top of Vlakkenberg mountain by Wednesday. In a separate urgent update, SANParks confirmed that all hiking trails in the affected area, including routes from Constantia Nek and surrounding access points, have been closed with immediate effect. Members of the public are urged to stay clear to allow firefighting operations to continue safely. SANParks Further updates are expected as both the fire and the helicopter crash investigation continue.  Sign up to Time Out

Cape Town has once again cemented its status as South Africa’s culinary capital, taking the lion’s share of honours at the 2026 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards.   If you've been wanting to experience the city-based restaurant FYN, securing a table at chef-patron Peter Tempelhoff's establishment is going to be harder than before, after it adds yet another accolade to its growing list of culinary excellence wins.  Crowned Restaurant of the Year for its refined fusion of Japanese technique and South African identity, the awards' judges described FYN as “a world-class dining experience defined by precision, creativity and balance.”  FYN’s selection for the UNESCO sustainability pilot earlier this year further reflects the strength of its team, backed by Tempelhoff (also behind Sushiya and Ramenhead at Time Out Market Cape Town ), chef Ashley Moss, and service and beverage director Jennifer Hugé.    View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Cape Town (@timeout.capetown) Durban's growing appeal   Another of the evening’s most anticipated honours included Chef of the Year, which was awarded to Johannes Richter of The LivingRoom at Summerhill Guest Estate in Durban. Marking his second consecutive win, it firmly places Durban's restaurant scene on the radar of foodies across South Africa.   ICYMI: Durban Chef Scoops 2nd consecutive Eat Out top chef win View this post on Instagram A post shared by Johannes Richter (@chefjohannes) St

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has launched the R300m project on Tuesday, with the Strandfontein Pavilion's refurbishment project now part of a multi-year capital injection aimed at transforming this day resort from its original state, first developed in the 1980s. Fun fact: Did you know the Strandfontein Pavilion is home to the Southern Hemisphere’s largest tidal pool?  The upgrade project will add a host of new amenities for day visitors to enjoy - but the final design phase of the project will only be concluded at the end of April. Total refurbishment and upgrading of the precinct New commercial and restaurant spaces A brand new NSRI base and boat launch ramp Indoor event and concert space for weddings, birthdays and conferences Outdoor concert space in an open-air amphitheatre Transformation of the pavilion into a hive of activity for use throughout the year Improved access to the beach for the disabled Better safety and security    City of Cape TownA render of the vision for the completed upgrade of Strandfontein Pavilion. "It’s a joy to break ground today on this flagship project. We promised we would rebuild the Strandfontein Pavilion, and now this is being fulfilled, "Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis stated as the construction broke ground.  "It is an emotional day seeing this come to fruition. This project was among my priorities on taking office, inspired by visiting Mitchells Plain residents who reminisced about their childhood spent enjoying the Strandfo

Durban is firmly in the culinary spotlight following the 2026 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards, after Johannes Richter of The LivingRoom at Summerhill Guest Estate was named Chef of the Year.   Marking his second consecutive win, Richter’s recognition is one of the evening’s most anticipated honours, and it signals Durban’s growing influence as a serious dining destination for food lovers across South Africa.   View this post on Instagram A post shared by Johannes Richter (@chefjohannes) "His exceptional talent and leadership continue to inspire the industry," said Abigail Donnelly, Eat Out’s Culinary Director, who further stated, “The Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards are a celebration of the incredible talent, passion and dedication that make South Africa’s food scene so extraordinary. It’s about more than just the food – it’s about the people, the stories and the community that bring it all to life. "This year, we are thrilled to see the number of starred restaurants grow to 66, reflecting the continued evolution and excellence of our culinary landscape. Congratulations to all the winners on their remarkable achievements.”  Durban Eat out winners Durban and greater eThekwini delivered a strong showing across various categories: Chef of the Year: Johannes Richter (The LivingRoom at Summerhill Guest Estate, Pinetown) Three stars: The LivingRoom at Summerhill Guest Estate (Pinetown) Two stars: Meraki by Charlie Lakin (Hillcrest) One star:

South Africa has officially entered the Spider-Verse chat, after a nostalgic rendition of the Spider-Man theme song, Rabobi caught the attention of Tom Holland. In a shout-out to our celebrated youth choir, Holland calls their rendition the best tribute, "Hello to the Ndlovu Youth Choir. Thank you so much for your fantastic video. I think it’s the best one. But I really appreciate it. Thank you for supporting the launch of the Spider-Man: Brand New Day trailer. Fantastic. Thank you so much.”  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ndlovu Youth Choir (@choirafrica) Ndlovu Youth Choir shared the post on Instagram featuring Holland's shout-out, with the choir performing the theme song in the beautiful natural surroundings of Limpopo. The video has amassed over 200k views and has landed as the trailer for the new Spider-Man film, makes serious global waves.  The trailer, released on Friday, grossed over 718 million views in the first 24 hours, setting a new record for the most-watched trailer and unseating "Deadpool and Wolverine" as the previous record holders.   Sony's teaser is clearly paying off. In Cape Town, that buzz is already translating into anticipation on the big screen, and a little local hype thrown in for good measure.   Cinemas across the city - from mainstream favourites like Ster-Kinekor and Nu Metro to indie gems like The Labia Theatre - are gearing up for what’s likely to be one of the year’s biggest box office moments, c

Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) has officially clinched the title of Africa's top airport in the 2026 Skytrax World's Top 100 Airport awards. The Mother City airport also claimed the title of the cleanest airport in Africa. At the same time, its staff were awarded the accolade of Best Airport Staff in Africa, reinforcing the airport's reputation for service excellence and world-class passenger experience.  Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) dominated the top categories in African aviation, securing multiple top honours at the 2026 Skytrax World Airport Awards held in London on 18 March.  Africa's Top 5 airports 2026: Cape Town International Airport (South Africa)  O.R. Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg (South Africa)  Marrakech Menara Airport (Morocco)  King Shaka International Airport, Durban (South Africa) Mohammed V International Airport, Casablanca (Morocco)  O.R. Tambo International Airport ranked second, while the InterContinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport hotel ranked among the Top 5 Airport Hotels in Africa. Durban's King Shaka International Airport secured fourth place among Africa’s best airports, as well as the second-best regional airport in Africa, and a top 10 global ranking in the 5–10 million passenger category.   READ: Cape Town International sets all-time passenger record high Singapore's Changi Airport was named the Airport of the Year. The airport has claimed this title 13 times in the history of the annual awards, which began in 1

The appetite from ultra-high-net-worth travellers continues to evolve. Where travellers were once willing to spend a cool million on a week-long Mediterranean charter, there has been a recalibration toward more intentional, experience-led journeys for extended periods.  At the V&A Waterfront, a R230 million superyacht marina development, as part of a broader Granger Bay precinct expansion, is positioning the city as a serious contender in this global ocean economy. Scheduled for completion in October 2026, the Quay 7 Superyacht Marina reflects growing confidence in long-term demand for high-value, low-volume travel. Superyacht visits to Cape Town have continued to rise steadily, with dozens of vessels arriving each season and many staying for extended periods - sometimes up to a year.   V&A Waterfront CEO Graham Wood says, “Superyacht visits have grown steadily since 2009, and we welcomed 35 vessels in the 2024/25 season alone. Many stay for extended periods – six months, sometimes a year – because Cape Town offers a unique mix: world-class tourism, reliable marine services, and access to adventure cruising routes that simply don’t exist in traditional yachting hubs.” This shift toward longer stays signals that ultra-wealthy travellers are no longer chasing quick, high-cost escapes, but rather immersive, lifestyle-driven experiences.   Built for a new kind of demand  The marina's design is strategically engineered for the next generation of superyachts. It will feature eight