2015 Restaurants and Hot Spots in Cape Town and Surrounds

Our round-up of the latest eateries, bars, shops, pubs and clubs to launch in the Mother City in 2015

The Mother City is a fast developing, ever evolving metropolis with trendy, fresh places opening up on almost every corner every month. To keep you clued up, we’ve rounded up some of the hottest latest additions to Cape Town, from quirky new restaurants and shops to chic new clubs, pubs and bars.

Don't forget to also check out our 2016 New Restaurants and Hot Spots Overview.

Byblos Trading Co

Founded by award-winning barista Mikhael Bou Rjeil, Byblos Trading Co adds a Mediterranean-cum-Middle Eastern twist to the age-old, hot cuppa that we have come to know and love. The Woodstock-based store treats patrons to unique beverages, like Turkish coffee and yerba mate (a South American tea), as well as firm java favourites, like flat whites, mochas and Americanos. In addition, folk are able to take a dose of Lebanese culture home – Lebanon is the owner’s home country – in the form of eats like baklava (a layered sweet pastry made with syrup, honey and nuts) and Damascus rusks as well as tea drinking instruments. All in all, the humble store, with its simple décor and calming blue and gold hues, is a great spot in the trendy Woodstock area to soak up a bit of exotic culture and the rich aromas of the golden brew.

Opening times: Monday – Friday: 8am – 4pm; Saturday: 9am – 2pm

The Palms | 145 Sir Lowry Road | Woodstock | Cape Town | +27 (0) 21 461 2612

Gastao’s Tapas and Craft Beer Restaurant

Located in the northern suburb of Tyger Valley, this restaurant is all about giving folk the chance to tuck into Portuguese-inspired fare, in an easy-going environment. The small yet satisfying menu, which will change from time to time, includes a selection of tapas (think pork belly, calamari, Portuguese-style sardines, soup and other bites) as well as mains like burgers, confit peri-peri chicken and more. Even kiddies have a mini menu dedicated to them and can choose to nibble on items like ribs and chips. On the drinks side, visitors can choose from an extensive range of craft beers, wines and spirits. A newly renovated venue will provide customers with a jovial atmosphere as they enjoy their delectable dishes.The venue itself is quite relaxed as it features a lakeside terrace, and it will soon play host to some exciting events. For more information, visit the Gastao's Facebook page.

Opening times: Tuesday – Saturday: 11am – late (kitchen closes at 9:30pm); Sunday: 11am – late (kitchen closes at 4pm)

1 Tyger Lake Building | Tyger Falls | Carl Cronje Drive | Tyger Valley | Cape Town | +27(0) 21 914 1728

Loaves on Long

Launched in April 2015 by chefs, Ciska Rossouw and Lyndal Wakeford, this new artisan eatery in Long Street combines a bakery, deli and restaurant under one roof, offering visitors a multidimensional food experience. Folk can indulge in gourmet sandwiches made with fresh, homemade bread, including ciabatta, rye and whole wheat. Moreover, patrons are able to enjoy a range of classic breakfast items with a twist, an assortment of lunch dishes and various sweet eats, like croissants, muffins and brownies, which can be paired with beverages like coffee, tea or fruit juice. The double-storey store is also home to a deli section that houses items like homemade jams, olives, cheeses, salami, bacon and mushrooms. Not only do Ciska and Lyndal whip things up in the kitchen, but they also aim to spread their passion for food by offering Capetonians the chance to learn a thing or two from them through interactive bread-making and cooking classes.

Opening times: Monday – Friday: 6:30am – 6pm; Saturday: 8am – 4pm

33 Long Street | City Centre | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 422 3353 | +27 (0)81 046 6664

Hazz Espresso Bar

Launched by a team that is passionate about coffee, this espresso bar is part of the Hazz brand, which already has a steady base in the Cape Winelands town of Stellenbosch. The Cape Town version, which opened its doors in April 2015, sits in Newlands and is all about treating folk to good quality coffee. The Hazz signature blend, which won a gold medal at the International Coffee Tasting Competition in 2012, has a distinct four-way flavour profile (with hints of African, Central & South American and Asian tastes) which can be experienced, regardless of the type of coffee you order. Patrons are also able to indulge in light eats like sandwiches, as well as sweet items like cupcakes, muffins and biscuits. The free WIFI on offer, the magazines and newspapers sprawled across the tables and comfortable leather couch, make for a conducive space to not only catch up on those work emails, but also to casually, relax and enjoy a hot or cold cuppa.

Opening times: Monday – Friday: 7am – 5.15pm; Saturday – Sunday( Public holidays too): 8am – 2pm

7 Kildare Centre | Cnr Kildare & Main Street | Newlands | +27 (0) 21 671 2587

My Sugar

Officially opened to the public, in May 2015, this sweet-treat café in Sea Point is the brainchild of pastry chef and chocolatier, Kaylah Greenberg. Visitors are able to choose from a mouth-watering selection of quirky chocolate items like the Caramello-Buddha (a combination of miso-caramel with crushed peanuts in milk chocolate- and in the caricature of a Buddha), the My Honey Thyme (a thyme and honey infused ganache in a creamy white chocolate), and the more classic option like Turkish delight. Moreover, coffee fans will be pleased to know that the cosy and cute café has its own coffee  blend, the My Sugar, which can be enjoyed alongside confectionary eats like cruffins (croissants in muffin form) and other baked goods which change from time to time.

Opening times: Tuesday – Saturday: 9:30am – 6pm; Sunday: 10am - 6pm

77 Regent Road | Sea Point | Cape Town | +27 (0) 21 433 2335

Amazi Nail and Beauty Bar

Launched in December 2015, this Wynberg-based beauty bar is all about offering folk affordable and accessible beauty care. Patrons can choose from a range of services including manicures, pedicures, gelish (a UV nail gel that is applied using multiple layers and steps), nail art, nail sets (natural or French tips), acrylic nails, massages, foot filing and more. Located in a central location ( train station, taxi rank and bus stops are all within walking distance), this brand aims to prove that it is possible for businesses to provide an affordable service without skimping on quality. Amazi also plans to expand to other areas including Mitchell’s Plain, the city centre, and even Johannesburg. Note: Amazi Nail and Beauty Bar also sells its own range of products. Booking is recommended at this unique salon.

Opening Times: Monday – Friday: 9am – 5:30pm; Saturday: 9am – 5pm ; Sunday: 9am – 3pm

Shop 16 |  Level One | Maynard Mall | Wynberg | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 761 0749

Raya Kitchen by Kitima
This exquisite Thai-Asian restaurant, is award-winning restaurateur Kitima Sukonpongpao’s newest offering. The black, white, gold and grey coloured eatery offers delicious tapas-style eats (made to share) as well as some signature items from its sister restaurant Kitima in Hout Bay. That is, folk can indulge in noodles, soups, stir-fry’s, curries, vegetables, Asian specialties and more. In addition, the dishes have been made, to pair excellently, with the wine and bubbly on offer, giving a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Read more about this new Thai eatery in the heart of the CBD.

Opening Times: Monday – Saturday; 12pm - 2pm (Lunch); 5pm- 10pm (Dinner) The reservation line is open from 10am daily.

Mandela Rhodes Place | 32 Wale Street | City Centre | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 422 226

Strolla Restaurant and Bar

This new seaside eatery is seasoned restaurateur, Brendon Crews’, third establishment on Sea Point’s Platinum Mile. The 140-seater venue boasts a classic menu that features items like pizzas, burgers, steak, chicken, soups and more. One of the restaurant’s most impressive feats is its ability to cater for any kind of dining arrangements. There’s a sun deck for those wanting to sip on cocktails while soaking in views of the cool Atlantic, a kitted-out kids’ room to keep the little ones entertained while parents grab a bite to eat, and there’s even a section with plug points for patrons wanting to do a work lunch, or simply catch up on emails (there’s free Wi-Fi ). There’s also the outdoor Strolla Kiosk, which features specialty coffee from the folks at Bootleggers for a quick caffeine fix on the go. That, and the rest of the offering, makes it a one-stop shop for any kind of eating and drinking experience.

Opening Times: Monday - Sunday: 7am - 11pm (Kitchen closed between 11.30am-12.30

313 Beach Road | Sea Point | Cape Town | +27 (0) 21 430 7778

Maze World at Imhoff Farm
This new addition to the historic and charming Imhoff Farm, invites kids (and parents!) to break a sweat, have fun, and learn about the world of wildlife conservation at the same time. Built by former game ranger and conservation enthusiast, Ian Pletzer, the double-storey installation features riddles that participants need to solve to complete the maze. Along the way mazers also get to learn about conservation efforts in Southern African countries like Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. The maze is concluded with a fun and educational quiz. Since this unique feature sits at Imhoff Farm, which boasts an extensive list of exciting things to do, it makes it an ideal option for a lovely day out with the whole family.

Opening Times: Tuesday – Sunday: 9am – 4pm; Open Public Holidays

Imhoff Farm | Kommetjie Road | Kommetjie | info@mazeworld.co.za

Yumcious by Jenny Morris

This delightful new restaurant and café is owned by celebrity chef and TV personality, Jenny Morris. The eatery focuses on healthy, flavourful and wholesome eats, with a stand-out offering being the KiloTable. Changing on a daily basis, this table will be home to delicious and fresh eats that patrons can pick as little or as much of as they like, as it is costed on weight. In addition, the restaurant boasts a diverse menu that includes burgers, sandwiches, salads and more. Visitors with a sweet tooth can enjoy a selection of fresh cakes and muffins. Overall, this beautifully decorated eatery is an apt choice if you’re looking for great quality and even better taste – be it for a quick breakfast or a decadent lunch.

Opening Times: Monday – Saturday; 8am – 4:30pm

Cape Quarter Square | 27 Main Road | Green Point | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 418 8000

Flagship Brew

This family-owned brewery and taproom, located in the charming town of Riebeek-Kasteel, offers patrons and craft beer lovers, signature brews and a great location to simply relax and enjoy. The spot is the result of the Ingarfields family’s love for brewing delicious and experimental beverages that range from ales and IPAs to lagers and ice teas. Flagship Brew, in line with sharing the love for beer with visitors, is set up in such a way that folk can see the brew master in action. Beer tours are also available.

Opening Times: Wednesday – Saturday: 11am – 6pm; Sunday: 11am – 2pm

9 Church Street | Riebeek-Kasteel | Western Cape | 27 (0) 22 448 1122

Magents Clothing Concept Store

This long-standing brand (formed in 1992) has made a bold return, after halting operations to re-focus its, proudly South African, brand identity. Now, the unique label has opened a brand new concept shop in Canal Walk. The store houses quality apparel and accessories like t-shirts, sweatpants, hoodies, hats, caps, shoes, sunglasses and more. In addition, the team at Magents emphasise that what they offer goes beyond clothing as their gear often sports conscious messages and artwork, that contribute to an African aesthetic.

Opening Times: Monday – Sunday: 9am – 9pm

Shop No. 8 LL | Canal Walk | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 551 2533

91 Loop Boutique Hostel

This hostel, located in the city centre, is Cape Town’s newest accommodation spot. Guests who stay here get to enjoy the aesthetics of a boutique hotel at a fee, typically, associated with a hostel or backpackers. In addition, 91 Loop is packed with an array of activities that include comedy nights, movie nights, pub crawls, beer olympics and daily tours, organised by a top excursions company. There’s also the fact that the establishment is home to a restaurant, a deli and a courtyard where all kinds of fun happens. This spot is ideal for all urban dwellers, whether you are looking for accommodation or a great place to chill out.

Opening Times: Accommodation is open 24 hours a day. Walks-in are welcome.

The Honey Badger restaurant: Monday – Sunday: 7am – 2am ( Kitchen closes at 10pm)

Longmarket deli: Monday – Sunday: 7am – 3.30pm

91 Loop Street | City Centre | Cape Town | +27 (0) 21 286 1469

Outdoor Ice Rink at Blue Train Adventure Park
South Africa has just got its first-ever outdoor ice rink – all thanks to the folks at the Blue Train Adventure Park in Mouille Point. This installation makes it possible for participants to enjoy the pleasures of ice skating while soaking in the sun and feeling the cool Atlantic Ocean breeze.. The synthetic rink is made from a high-quality material, produced in Canada, and doesn’t require a power source, making it eco-friendly too! The Blue Train Park, which has been in existence for over 55 years, boasts many activities, including the popular mini Blue Train and interactive play structures. The spot is a place where parents can sit back and relax, in a setting that offers charming views of the seaboard while their kids have fun.

Opening Times: Tuesday – Thursday: 12pm - 6pm; Friday - Sunday: 9.30am – 6.30pm (Open on Mondays during school holidays. Also open on public holidays)

Beach Road (close to Green Point Lighthouse) | +27 (0) 84 314 9200

Dapper Coffee Co. and Club9

Situated in the heart of the CBD, on the corner of Bree and Strand Street, Dapper Coffee Co. and Club9 co-exist to form a trendy new hotspot, inviting guests for a Dapper Special Blend cuppa joe and a light lunch, as well as to observe and admire the luxury sports cars, on its large showroom floor. The brainchild and passion project of classic car collector and specialist, Dirk Molsen, the space mostly features classic Porsches, as well as vintage Austin-Healeys, Ferraris, Alfa Romeos and Morris Minors. On the other side, Dapper Coffee Co. sits slightly elevated above the showroom floor and is run by Dirk’s wife and son, Lauren and Alex Molsen. The café offers an array of seasonal breakfast and lunch items, as well as coffees, juices and milkshakes. What’s more, located inside the shop is the Dutchman’s Car Care Clinic. The leading car detailer shop offers specialised car detailing services (cleaning, restoring and finishing) for all modern vehicles types.

Opening Times: Monday - Friday: 7am - 5pm; Saturday: 8am - 2pm

Corner Bree and Strand Street | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 823 2444

Ceres Steam Train

The Ceres Rail Company officially started its engines, in November 2015, with the ultimate aim of linking the Ceres Valley to Cape Town. Owned by Derick du Toit and his business partner Simon Beckett, this railway business gives locals and tourists the awesome opportunity to experience the scenic Cape Winelands from the vantage point of a historic refurbished and restored steam train. Currently the trains run on Saturdays from Cape Town to Ceres and back. They  depart from outside the Royal Cape Yacht Club at 7.30am. The Train travels through Wellington, Nuwekloof Pass, Wolseley, Michell’s Pass and then reaches Ceres Golf Estate at about 12pm.

At Ceres Golf Estate, passengers disembark and can have a buffet style lunch at Ceres Golf Club. Passengers returning to Cape Town, board the train again, for departure back to Cape Town, at around 1.45pm to leave at 2pm. Taking the same trip back, the expected time of arrival is 6.30pm.The train holds up to 80 passengers per trip. Tea, coffee, muffins, cupcakes and other snacks are available for sale (cash only) in the Dining Car, where you can comfortably sit and enjoy it.

Ceres Rail Company | Ceres Golf Estate | Ceres

Sundoo South Indian Tapas and Bar in Sea Point
Sundoo South Indian Tapas and Bar, owned by renowned restaurateur and chef, Seelan Sundoo, is a small and compact eatery that offers customers a casual yet “vibey” setting. Expect great tasting, South Indian cuisine, with a Durban-inspired twist. What’s more, the focus is on using only the freshest and healthiest ingredients possible. Sundoo’s menu includes many traditional South Indian dishes, all with a Seelan-twist, including home-baked biryanis, various clay oven meals and curries. Not to mention, everything at Sundoo is made in-house from grinding and mixing their spices to hand making their samosas, pickles and chutneys.  NOTE: Sundoo has a no-booking policy. Patrons are encouraged to come early (around 6:30pm) to secure their tables.

Opening Times: Monday - Friday: 12.30pm -  6pm; Saturday - Sunday: 12.30pm -  late

77 Regent Road | Sea Point | Cape Town | 021 433 0542

Outrage of Modesty
If you’re on the hunt for an unusual cocktail experience then Outrage of Modesty, in Cape Town’s City Centre, is just the place. Managed by skilled and quirky head bartender, Luke Whearty, OoM boasts a unique menu. Patrons can indulge in cocktails featuring ingredients from nature like fennel pollen, buchu, wild berries and more. Whoever walks through the door has the chance to go on a flavour journey like no other. The décor has hints of a simplistic Japanese aesthetic, mixed with a punk-like edge. Although the venue hosts an intimate 24 guests, OoM is set to make a big impression on the Cape Town cocktail scene. Note that light eats are also on offer.

Opening Times: Tuesday – Saturday: 6pm – late

88 Shortmarket Street | City Centre | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 422 2902

Rands Lifestyle Space
Launched officially in August 2015, this lavish new spot in Khayelitsha is where folks can eat tasty traditional food, mingle with likeminded people in style, and dance until the sun comes up. The menu at Rands features eats like chicken, spinach, chakalaka, pap, lamb chops, sausage and lots more. Rands is open seven days a week and takes partygoers on a journey; from Monday through to Thursday the spot lends itself to cool, relaxing music, while from Thursday to Sunday the volume is cranked up and the definition of ‘good time’ is taken to a whole new level. The large venue ( maximum of 1500 people) has already played host to some big names in the South African music industry.

Shop 6 | Khaya Bazaar | Makabeni Road | +27 (0) 71 742 4322

AtFrits Five-Star Dog Hotel
Introducing Cape Town’s, first ever, five-star dog hotel! Officially unleashed in December 2015, the canine parlour boasts premium rooms, concierge services, a spa, daycare and much more. The three main room offerings are the Platinum Suite, which features premium bedding and linen, as well as a flat screen television that plays DogTV content; the Deluxe Suite, which features rooms like the ‘Hollywood Room’, ‘Jurassic Bark’ and ‘K9 Nkandla’; and the Doggy Dormitory, which is dorm-style accommodation. What’s more, all rooms are fitted with a webcam app, so owners can check up on their pets. There’s also the option to treat pooches to day tours. All dogs (big or small, young or frail) are welcome.

121 Castle Street | City Centre | Cape Town | +27 (0) 21 422 2175

MyVinos Wine App
Have you ever dreamed of having your own wine cellar? Well, dream no more because MyVinos, a revolutionary new Cape Town app, gives connoisseurs access to a bespoke selection of reds and whites – all in the palm of their hand. The iOS app (soon to come to Android) was created after co-founder and sommelier, Xavier Didier, and his team noticed it was difficult to find variety on the wine lists of the city’s restaurants. But now, with a few swipes and clicks, wine lovers and restaurateurs can have some of South Africa’s best wines, via the Taj Reserve cellar, delivered to their doorstep. The one-of-a-kind app also keeps in tune with trends and partners with various wine estates to ensure that the selection on offer stays fresh, interesting and is of a high quality.

Opening Times: Wine is delivered between 12pm and 10pm, seven days a week (provided you have Vinos credits).

111 St George’s Mall | Taj Reserve | Cape Town | +27 (0) 78 786 0307

Velvet Cake Co
While the brand name goes as far back as 2010, the Velvet Cake Company’s city centre arrival can be counted as new. The sweet tooth haven, has opened shop on Loop Street and works tirelessly to ensure that only the freshest and most innovative cakes leave their kitchen. Think creations like the red velvet cake with toasted meringue, milk tart cupcakes and their signature, naked rainbow cake. The spot also offers coffee for all those city caffeine addicts and also boast a special occasions service where cake orders for any special event is taken. They are especially well-known for their catering of cupcakes. Parties and events alike, absolutely rave about using Velvet Cake Co. as a delicious snack at social gatherings.

Opening Times: Monday – Friday: 9am – 5pm; Saturday: 9am – 2pm

16 Loop Street | City Centre | Cape Town | +27 (0) 21 286 1082

Frozen Yo Ice Cream Truck
Thanks to owners Nicholas and Samantha Ahrends, Cape Town has received its first official, frozen yoghurt food truck. Launched in August 2015, the four-wheeler stocks Italian froyo, that is gluten-free and low in calories, and uses real yoghurt with live cultures and probiotics. In short, it is incredibly healthy (and therefore a more guilt-free choice than its ice cream and gelato counterparts). Choose from four main flavours – vanilla, watermelon, English toffee and Oreo (these will change from time to time) – and add to that a choice of 12 toppings (think Astros, fudge, muesli, banana and more) that can be decadently glazed onto the base flavours. This is the ultimate summer treat, as it is sweet and guilt free!

Opening Hours: The truck has no strict times and is weather dependent. It can be found in front of Doodles at Blouberg beach (and is also available for hire)

Blouberg Beach | Big Bay | +27 (0) 21 556 4782 | nick@frozenyo.co.za

Lungi’s B&B in Khayelitsha
After a ravaging fire burned this one-of-a-kind B&B down, towards the end of 2014, Lungi’s is now back, bigger and better than before. The new B&B features two large colourful en-suite bedrooms for guests, a conjoined dining room and lounge, a kitchen as well as two more bedrooms for Lungi’s family – giving it an incredibly homely feel. In addition, guests are able to indulge in traditional Xhosa delicacies like samp, dumplings and chakalaka, cooked by Lungi herself. Those wanting to make the most of their stay in Khayelitsha, can take part in tours that give a glimpse of life in one of the country’s largest townships – making a stay at this ‘shack-chic’ B&B a one-of-a-kind experience.

Sivivane Crescent | Khayelitsha | +27 (0)71 005 8817

Malay Coffee Company

What started out as a gift from husband to wife, is now a fully-fledged café on Loop Street, that is set to treat workers in and around the CBD to home-made eats and coffee. Folk can choose from a range of Halaal-friendly dishes like rice and curry, salomies, akhni (a dish similar to biryani) and lasagne, as well as on-the-go meals such as smoked chicken and tuna sandwiches, samoosas, Malay-style koeksisters, muffins, cake and more. Owner, Muneeba Allie, brings a personal touch with deliveries to those who work within a reasonable distance/nearby.

Opening Times: Monday – Friday: 7am – 6pm (closed on Friday between 12:30pm and 1:45pm

214 Loop Street | City Centre | Cape Town | +27 (0) 60 390 0057

Lucky Bao Asian Restaurant
This unusual eating experience, conceptualised by chef, Cheyne Morrisby, offers folk in Hout Bay and beyond, the chance to feast on Asian street-style eats like bao, a traditional Chinese steamed bun with fillings such as grilled pork belly or soft-shell crab; yakitori, a Japanese skewered chicken dish that comes in a variety of flavourful coatings; as well as Eastern-style milkshakes and sides. On top of that, the unique eight-seater restaurant offers the intimate ‘Lucky Six’ experience, where diners can book out the whole place, munch through a five-course meal (served with complimentary wines) and watch the chef whip up each meal in front of their eyes – making for quite an unforgettable night.

Opening Times: Monday – Saturday: 12pm – 3pm (Lunch); Monday – Saturday: 5pm – 10pm (Dinner)

1 Pam Arlene Place | Main Road | Hout Bay | +27 (0) 79 067 4919

Reverie Social Table

Conceptualised by talented chef ,Julia Hattingh, this one-of-a-kind dining experience invites patrons to enjoy a five-course meal (paired with wine) in a warm and welcoming setting. Seating only 18 guests, the eatery focuses on the aspect of social and communal eating around one long table. In addition, the restaurant dispenses with the standard à la carte menu, inviting guests on an unexpected and delightful culinary journey, that is only revealed as each meal makes its way to the table. Julia has some fine food credentials under her belt, having cooked up a storm at establishments such as the Franschhoek Kitchen at Holden Manz Wine Estate and Le Quartier Francais.

Feel free to just stroll in for a delicious lunch, without booking – an extremely casual atmosphere with anything but casual dishes. Every day, there is a choice between four or five dishes with one new dish, every day! Call to book for a dinner spot because of the high demand, for the exquisite meals that are prepared.  If you are looking for a venue to host your party or event, look no further than right here! You can call and use this venue for all your social calendar desires. Overall, the experience is set to be a dreamy and magical affair, comprising good food, wine and a great time.

Opening Times: Monday - Saturday: 11:30am – 3pm (lunch only). Dinner starts at 7pm for 7:30pm

226 A Lower Main Road | Observatory | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 447 3219 or +27 (0)79 060 6971

The Warthog Pub and Restaurant
Sports fans and lovers of good times are in for a treat as The Warthog Pub and Restaurant hits the spot. Launched in September 2015, the Newlands-based eatery, is an upbeat but down-to-earth place to catch a game on big-screen TV’s, devour burgers and other pub-grub and have a great time in a pumping atmosphere. The menu boasts crowd-pleasing eats like burgers, chicken breasts, BBQ pork ribs, chilli poppers and more. In addition, the drinks selection includes more than 47 local and international beers that cover a broad range of tastes. And since the eatery is a mere stone’s throw away from the Newlands Stadium, it’s a convenient venue to indulge in, an after-game drink.

Opening Times: Wednesday - Friday: 12pm - 10pm; Satuday: 8am - 11pm; Sunday: 12pm - 10pm

165 Main Road (close to the Newlands Stadium) | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 685 9779

The Cookie Yard

Bags of Bites, a company that specialises in making wholesome and sweet homemade eats, has opened The Cookie Yard, a new coffee shop in the buzzing Southern suburb of Observatory, to give Capetonians a more intimate experience of its passion for baking. At the store, patrons are able to choose from a wide array of biscuits (think chocolate chip cookies and shortbreads), cakes, rusks and more. Those with specific dietary requirements don’t have to worry about a thing as gluten-free, wheat-free and vegan variations are available. Moreover, the café also sells sandwiches (available on ciabatta,rye bread or on a bagel), cold and hot beverages (including everything from smoothies and juices to coffees and teas) and light breakfast items, like muesli and oats. The laidback ambience and cosy interior make for an incredibly inviting venue; visitors can choose to relax on wooden stools and chairs that are peppered with colourful cushions or can station themselves at the shop’s long wooden centre table, which is fitted with plug points, making it a desirable place to catch up on emails (free Wi-fi is available).

Opening times: Monday – Thursday: 7am – 4pm; Friday: 7am- 3pm

4 Tasman Road (opposite AFDA) | Observatory | Cape Town | +27 (0) 60 654 1348

Fatbike Beach Cycle Tours

Founded by avid mountain biker Dave Caravias, in mid-2015, this innovative tour company invites visitors to explore the beaches in the pretty Gansbaai area, in a way they’ve likely never did before: on two (fat) wheels. The laidback excursions see adventurers cycle along the coastline on wide-tyred bicycles that are specifically designed to move effortlessly over sand. Currently, there are two different routes available, one of which takes riders from the coastal village of De Kelders, all the way along a 20-km stretch of pristine beach, to the seaside town of Hermanus. While spinning along, bikers will be able to take in the gorgeous scenery of the shoreline and if they’re lucky, will spot seals, African oystercatchers, and in season, the odd southern right whale. Tours are reasonably priced and last about three to four hours in total.

Operating times: Tours run daily on request. Morning outings begin at 9:30am and afternoon excursions head off at around 2pm.

63 Ingang Street | De Kelders | Gansbaai |+27 (0) 824664519

Rush Trampoline Park

Launched in August 2015, this one-of-a-kind trampoline park has a solid mission to provide Capetonians with a safe indoor space to have an enormous amount of fun. Lined with wall-to-wall trampolines, the 21,000sq.ft facility also boasts other additions, like a dodgeball court, a gigantic foam pit (it’s said to be the largest in the world), a basketball slam dunk area and even a ‘chill zone’ where non-jumpers and parents can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee and free Wi-fi. In addition, Rush offers activities like fitness classes,dodgeball tournaments, kids’ birthday party packages and team building sessions. All in all, the venue is a one-stop house of fun, for all ages!

Opening times: Monday – Thursday: 10am – 9pm; Friday – Saturday: 9am – 10pm; Sunday: 9am – 8pm

109 Main Road | Stadium on Main | 3rd Floor | Claremont | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 683 3841

De Warenmarkt
Launched in July 2015 by creative Capetonian group, Am I Collective, this new Stellenbosch-based market is on a mission to treat the Cape Winelands town and surrounds to an authentic and delicious fare. The food emporium sits in a charming 18th-century building and features over 10 stalls, that include the likes of Ryan Boon, whose focus is grass-fed speciality meats; Mano’s Bakery, which serves up delicious wood-fired artisan bread; java brand Deluxe Coffeeworks, which is well known for its steaming brew; Around Cheese, which crafts artisan dairy delights; and The Juice Revolution, a stall that is passionate about serving cold-pressed nectar. Not to mention, those keen on a sip and swirl session, can enjoy full-flavoured reds and whites in the wine tasting venue and bar, and craft beer fans can swig a draught of ale in the same section of the market. Indoor and outdoor seating is available for those wanting to feast on prepared eats (there’s a pop-up kitchen as well), chat with friends and enjoy the relaxed yet buzzing atmosphere.

You’re going to want to spend a day here, in the beautiful atmosphere, as you will experience a flood of different groups of people throughout the day. You will experience the early-risers from 7am, sitting with a warm cuppa-coco, at Coffeeworks. Breakfast is served from 8am until 11am, along with The Juice Revolution, providing the freshest squeezes out. Mano’s Bakery is open from 8am-11 where you can get freshly baked pastries and bread… everyone loves bread! Although the kitchen is officially closed from 11am-12 pm, you can still order crepes and waffles – possibly the best idea for a breakfast dessert or a pre-lunch snack. Finally, from 12pm, the restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and the bar is open for some afternoon drinks, especially catering for those looking to get social with some friends and good food. You can order your meals at the restaurant and move to bar if you so wish. The bar is open until 2am, which is great news for all you night owls, looking for a night to relax with some friends.

Opening times: Monday – Saturday: 7am – 2am

Corner Ryneveld Street and Plein Street | Stellenbosch | Cape Winelands | +27 (0) 21 883 2274

El Burro Taqueria

Launched in July 2015, Taqueria is a colourful, quaint new Mexican eatery on Kloof Street, that is owned by the well-known El Burro crew. This new haunt differs from the main Green Point restaurant, in that its focus is on a lighter, quicker, more scaled-down offering: there are no formal printed menus (all menu items are listed on the wall above the counter) and tacos are served as singular plates, allowing visitors to taste a variety of options as they go, rather than having to commit to one heavy meal. El Burro regulars will be pleased to know that the famed classics can be found at Taqueria, while newbies will feel safe in that they won’t be overwhelmed with options. Patrons can expect items such as esquites (warm Mexican street corn salad), chicarrones (a fried pork belly dish), ceviche (fresh raw fish cured in lime juice), quesadillas (steak, veggie and chorizo options) and more. Drinks like cocktails (mostly infused with the delicious likes of tequila), cold drinks and even Mexican-style hot chocolate, can all be enjoyed in this cosy venue, which treats folk to spectacular views of the mighty Lion’s Head mountain.

Opening times: Monday – Saturday: 12pm – 11:30pm

12 Kloof Nek Road | Corner of Kloof Nek and New Church Street | Tamboerskloof | +27 (0) 21 422 3554 

& Bikes Café

Launched in July 2015, by cycle operating company, Bikes ‘n Wines, this one-of-a-kind café combines a boutique element alongside a strong passion for all things cycling, to give visitors the chance to snack on light eats, sip on a steaming cup of coffee, purchase bicycle gear and even book an exciting biking expedition in the winelands – all in one spot. The clothing element of the store houses beautiful and locally designed apparel like t-shirts, cycle-themed jewellery, bike bells, saddles, helmets, art, custom-made bikes, all of which are produced by people who are passionate about the athletic and leisurely discipline. It is also here that the pastime is seen as a way of life, and as a result, avid riders can pop in if they need advice or inspiration to tackle their next race, as the shop is headed and managed by Quintin Smith and Tarryn Povey, who are both extremely zealous cyclists who want to share that passion with the rest of the Mother City.

Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 7:30am – 5pm; Saturday: 8 am – 1pm (tours run from Monday – Sunday).

33 Loop Street | City Centre | Cape Town | +27 (0) 21 823 8790
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