Savor the Flavors: Best Waterfront Restaurants in Cape Town You Must Try!

Cape Town's V&A Waterfront is a culinary hotspot, offering a diverse array of dining experiences. From elegant seafood restaurants to casual harbourside diners, there's something to satisfy every palate. This guide highlights the best restaurants at the Waterfront, ensuring a memorable culinary journey.

Overview of the Waterfront in Cape Town

Introduction to the Waterfront

The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town, often called the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, stands as one of the most frequented locations, drawing both locals and tourists. This iconic destination boasts a unique blend of attractions, making it a must-visit spot. The V&A Waterfront is a hotspot for both locals and tourists.

Why Visit the Waterfront?

The V&A Waterfront offers stunning views of Table Mountain and the ocean, glamorous hotels, cosmopolitan shops, and some of the best restaurants in Cape Town, making it a premier destination. It's no wonder the V&A Waterfront is such a hotspot for both locals and tourists. You'll find a variety of cuisines to explore.

Dining with a View

If you're seeking delectable restaurants that offer breathtaking views, the V&A Waterfront is the ideal destination! With its bustling working harbour and a marina backed by iconic Table Mountain views, the V&A Waterfront has an irresistible buzz year-round. Diners can enjoy their meals with delightful views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Top Restaurants at the Waterfront

Den Anker: A Taste of South Africa

Den Anker, a quayside gem at the V&A Waterfront, offers a Belgian restaurant experience with views of Table Mountain. This is one of the best restaurants in Cape Town’s waterfront where you can taste South African cuisine. The relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for Belgian beers and great food.

Marble: Flavors of the Flames

Located atop the restored Union Castle building, Marble restaurant offers wrap-around rooftop views of Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront’s working harbour, and the Atlantic Ocean. This glamorous spot continues the signature Marble fire-cooking style – with a touch of coastal Cape Town flavour, bringing an elegant steakhouse experience to the waterfront.

Quay Four: Casual Dining with Flair

Quay Four is a harbourside seafood restaurant known for its relaxed atmosphere and flair. With its prime location on Victoria Wharf, it's the perfect spot to enjoy fresh seafood while soaking in the vibrant harbour atmosphere, with great views of Table Mountain. There are two parts to Quay Four.

Menu Highlights at Waterfront Restaurants

Seafood Delights

At the the Waterfront in Cape Town, several restaurants excel in seafood cuisine. To experience this culinary excellence, consider the following options:

Willoughby & Co, the go-to Japanese fusion restaurant in Cape Town.
Sevruga restaurant, perfectly positioned on the harbour with delightful views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it the perfect place to watch the sunset while you dine. One favorite is their signature 4x4 dish, which includes creamy rock-prawn maki and Rainbow Reloaded rolls.

These restaurants at the waterfront offer a wide array of seafood options, making them the best restaurants at the V&A for seafood lovers.

Signature Steaks

For those seeking perfectly grilled steaks, several options exist in the V&A Waterfront. Marble restaurant is a must-visit for its fire-cooking style, which adds a unique flavour and creates an elegant steakhouse experience with beautiful harbour and Table Mountain views. Other options include:

Marble restaurant: Here, diners can enjoy different cuts of steak alongside a carefully selected wine menu.
Den Anker: A popular Belgian restaurant, it offers high-quality South African steak cuts.

Vegetarian Options

Restaurants at the Waterfront also cater to vegetarian diners with a variety of delicious options. There’s a great variety of vegan and vegetarian options too. They also have a variety of vegetarian and vegan- friendly options, including beetroot burgers and vegan poké bowls. These restaurants ensure that all guests can find something to enjoy, highlighting the diverse cuisine available at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. Even some of the best restaurants at the waterfront offer various vegetarian options.

Dining Experiences: Lunch and Dinner Menus

Lunch Menu Highlights

The lunch menu at many restaurants at the Waterfront focuses on lighter, fresher options. They serve wholesome breakfast, lunch and dinner options, the cuisine takes on a Mediterranean feel with tapas-style dishes. You can also book for lunch at the rooftop bar (the highest point in the Waterfront), which offers a relaxed bar-snack menu of burgers, poke bowls, salads and sandwiches. Many offer quick, tasty meals perfect for a midday break.

Dinner Menu Features

The dinner menu at the V&A Waterfront restaurants often features richer, more elaborate dishes. They serve wholesome breakfast, lunch and dinner options, the cuisine takes on a Mediterranean feel with tapas-style dishes. Many restaurants offer multi-course meals with wine pairing, providing a full culinary experience. These dinner options showcase the best of South African flavour with dishes that highlight fresh, local ingredients.

Chef's Special Recommendations

Many of the best restaurants at the V&A Waterfront offer chef's special recommendations that highlight their culinary expertise. The Waterside, a more casual approach to fine dining with chef Roxy Mudie. These dishes often feature seasonal ingredients and innovative cooking techniques, providing a unique dining experience. Diners can explore the chef's creations to discover new flavour and enjoy the very best of South African cuisine in Cape Town.

Unique Dining Atmospheres

Waterside Dining Experiences

The latest offering from the esteemed La Colombe restaurant group, The Waterside, brings a new dining dimension to the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. The menu and ambiance of The Waterside, deeply inspired by the ocean, provide a unique seafood restaurant experience. The Waterside presents a fusion of elegant dishes and harbour views. This waterside cuisine is the ideal spot to dine in luxury, offering a unique and memorable culinary flavour.

Working Harbour Ambiance

The V&A Waterfront in Cape Town exudes an irresistible buzz throughout the year, thanks to its vibrant working harbour and a marina that boasts views of the iconic Table Mountain. Restaurants at the Waterfront benefit from this unique ambiance, providing diners with an engaging backdrop while they dine. This harbourside setting adds to the overall flavour, creating a dynamic and memorable dining experience in Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront.

Outdoor Terraces and Views

Securing a spot on an outdoor terrace at one of the restaurants at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town is a must when the weather is pleasant. These terraces offer stunning views of Table Mountain and the working harbour, allowing diners to soak up the sun while they dine. With such spectacular views, a simple burger or salad becomes a memorable meal. These restaurants with views of Table Mountain are the best restaurants at the V&A.

Conclusion: Dine at the Waterfront

Final Thoughts on Dining in Cape Town

Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront is brimming with spectacular restaurants, each offering exciting concepts, unique interiors, and delectable food. The V&A Waterfront in Cape Town is a premier dining destination, showcasing the best of South African cuisine and international flavours. Choosing to dine at the waterfront guarantees a memorable culinary experience with dishes that highlight fresh, local ingredients.

How to Choose the Best Restaurant

This guide has narrowed down the list of the best restaurants at the V&A Waterfront, ensuring you leave feeling satisfied. Factors such as cuisine type, views, ambiance, and menu options should be considered. Whether you're craving seafood, steak, or vegetarian dishes, the best restaurants at the V&A in Cape Town offer something for everyone. Don't forget to check for wine pairing options to enhance your dining experience.

Plan Your Visit

Now that you have a curated list of the best restaurants at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, it's time to plan your visit. Consider making a booking to secure your spot at these popular dining destinations, especially during peak seasons. Make sure to enjoy your exploration of Cape Town and it's attractions, from the mussels at a seafood restaurant to the Belgian beers at Den Anker. Experience the culinary delights that await you at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best seafood restaurant at V&A Waterfront Cape Town?

The best seafood restaurant at V&A Waterfront Cape Town is widely considered to be Den Anker, where diners can enjoy fresh catches like hake and tuna, prepared with a South African flair. The restaurant offers a stylish outdoor deck that provides stunning views of the harbour.

What dishes can I find on the lunch menu at Quay Four?

Quay Four's lunch menu features a variety of delectable dishes, including prawn cocktails, steak au poivre, and inventive vegetarian options. The vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings make it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

What is the dining experience like at Marble restaurant?

Marble restaurant offers a unique dining experience focused on wood-fired cooking. With a menu that includes dishes like pork belly and risotto, Chef David Higgs ensures a top-notch culinary adventure that showcases the best of South African ingredients.

Are there any themed restaurants at V&A Waterfront?

Yes, there are several themed restaurants at V&A Waterfront, including a brewery that pairs craft beers with bitterballen and frites. These venues provide a fun and unique atmosphere, perfect for a casual dining experience.

What are the vegetarian options available at the V&A Waterfront restaurants?

Many restaurants at the V&A Waterfront offer inventive vegetarian options. Dishes may include vegetable curries, hearty salads, and gourmet waffles that cater to various dietary preferences while still delivering on flavour.

Can I enjoy a meal with a view of the working harbour?

Absolutely! Many restaurants, such as Quay Four and Den Anker, offer outdoor seating that overlooks the working harbour, providing a picturesque backdrop while you enjoy a meal of fresh seafood or grilled meats.

What type of cuisine can I expect from a frequented Belgian restaurant at V&A Waterfront?

A frequented Belgian restaurant at V&A Waterfront typically features a menu rich in flavours, including traditional dishes like mussels, frites, and the famous bitterballen. The inviting atmosphere makes it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family.

What is the best dish to try at a South African restaurant in V&A Waterfront?

When dining at a South African restaurant in V&A Waterfront, you should definitely try the steak au poivre or the Cape Malay curry, both of which are known for their robust flavours and quality ingredients, making for a memorable meal.

What are the signature cocktails available at V&A Waterfront restaurants?

V&A Waterfront restaurants offer a range of signature cocktails that complement the culinary experience. You can find refreshing options that include locally inspired ingredients, perfect for sipping while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere or relaxing on an outdoor terrace.

Best Restaurants at the Waterfront in Cape Town