10 top African restaurants in Cape Town

African food’s got game

South African food is often described as 'rainbow' cuisine, influenced by Dutch, English, Cape Malay and Indian settlers. Cape Town's restaurants are abundant with traditional bobotie, milk tart, spicy sosaties, curries, pap, game and boerewors. But it's not just about eating the food. Music, dancing, culture and unique South African hospitality are sure to make your dining experience memorable.

1 - Africa Café
Celebrate Africa's diversity and its rich tapestry of tastes and aromas at this three-floored African Café that specialises in communal feasting. Expect cuisine from the likes of Ethiopia, Malawi, Botswana, Tanzania, Egypt and Zambia and more.
108 Shortmarket Street | City Centre | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 422 0221

2 - Mzoli's
No trip to Cape Town is complete without a pilgrimage to Gugulethu's church of meat. Fill a bowl with the freshest of meat and head over to hot, hot braais where your lunch will be cooked with skill. Next, crack open a bottle of Captain Morgan's rum and dance the day away to kwaito beats. Read more about Mzoli's.
NY115 | Shop 3 | Gugulethu | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 638 1355

3 - Moyo
Here you can tuck into Kenyan specialities as well as other African staples. The air is infused with the scent of coriander and rose petals, and that along with servers dressed in colourful costumes and the dramatic acts preformed for your entertainment will transport you on a cultural journey.
Shop 50 | Eden on the Bay Shopping Centre | Corner of Otto du Plessis & Sir David Baird Drive | Blouberg Strand | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 554 9671

4 - Marco's African Place
In this vibrant orange building, you'll not only encounter authentic décor, but live music and dancing too. The menu specialises in game, such as, springbok, kudu and ostrich accompanied by pap and other staples. There’s also an extensive list of local wines. Read more about Marco's African Place here.
15 Rose Lane | Bo'Kaap | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 423 5412

5 - Gold Restaurant
Though recently relocated from its city centre location to a spot just adjacent to Green Point's super club, Trinity, this golden restaurant still treats visitors to an authentic 14-course African menu. The dishes range from Cape Malay-inspired to those with Timbuktu origin. Entertainment includes dancing Mali puppets and Djemba drumming lessons.
15 Bennett Street | Green Point | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 421 4653

6 - Addis in Cape
Talented chefs and a one-of-a-kind coffee ceremony give Addis an Ethiopian feel. A pancake-like sour dough base lines an intricately woven basket and is filled with aromatic stews and sauces to share.
41 Church Street | City Centre | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 424 5722

7 - Marimba Restaurant
Indulge all of the senses with décor that celebrates the African origin of the marimba. Congolese, Mozambican and South African live music play backdrop to communal dishes which include; wild game, seafood and decadent desserts.
Corner Coen Steytler Ave & Heerengracht Blvd | Cape Town International Convention Centre | Foreshore | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 418 3366

8 - Mama Africa
This iconic Long Street restaurant plays host to a colourful display of wooden carvings, paintings and furniture. Look out for the live marimba bands on weekends. On the menu there’s a little something for everyone. Tuck into game, seafood, curry, steak and even vegetarian options. Read more about Mama Africa.
178 Long Street | City Centre |  Cape Town | +27 (0)21 424 8634

9 - Cognito
In a contemporary and relaxed atmosphere, guests are encouraged to linger over their food. Expect exotically spiced dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The cuisine is inspired by North and East Africa.
137 Dorp Street | Stellenbosch | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 882 8696

10 - Amazink
Amazink is situated in the idyllic Stellenbosch Mountains. Owner Loyiso Mbambo has added contemporary flair to the traditional Xhosa cooking style he learnt from his aunt. The restaurant is a favourite among Khayamandi residents and visitors alike.
118A Masithandane Street | Stellenbosch | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 889 7536

By Lisa Nevitt

Be sure to read What's the deal with...South Africa's indigenous food, our overview of restaurants with live African music and visit our African restaurants section.

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