Get-down-and-dirty dining at the Eastern Food Bazaar

Feast on good value street food at the Eastern Food Bazaar in Cape Town

There are a couple of things about street food that makes it irresistible. The authenticity, the open air and the fact that you can get your hands dirty. Communal diners smile conspirationally at each other, sharing that greatest pleasure of all with abandon: good food.

The Eastern Food Bazaar finally gives Cape Town that experience. Here people from all walks of life gather around for a bite in the narrow walkway that used to be the Wellington Fruit Growers market between Loop and Darling Street. It's heartening to see so many different people coming together in one place to enjoy the same thing.

There's a lot to choose from, starting from an extensive selection of authentic Indian cuisine, specifically made according to the traditions of different areas in India, to Turkish kebabs and falafel, even a bit of Chinese and pizza thrown in there for good measure. Some much loved snacks such as Indian pani puri and masala peanuts are also available as well as lassi yoghurt drinks and homemade Indian ice cream.

The aroma of spices will quickly lure you in the right direction if you are heading that way for the first time, as will the lively atmosphere and the sound of Bollywood beats. The walkway is decorated with ornate mogul paintings, wooden screens and carved doors from India, while chandeliers add to its character.

Yet the best thing about the Eastern Food Bazaar is the price range. Although the tables are not plastic it is possible to feast on generous portions of between R20 and R30 per person. Alcohol is not available or allowed on the premises and everything is strictly halal. The food is prepared freshly in front of you and the flavours are wholly satisfying.

You may just forget to count how many languages are spoken around you while you relish your meal. Then, once you're ready to present yourself to the world again and need to wash the last bit of sauce off your fingers there's a basin with taps for cleaning up the evidence. Until next time.

by Lize de Kock


Eastern Food Bazaar
The Wellington | 96 Long Market St. | City Bowl | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 461 2458

Opening hours: daily from 11h00 to 21h30

For more spicy delights be sure to read our 10 Top Indian Restaurants in Cape Town and Surrounds.

For your monthly update on what’s happening in and around Cape Town, be sure to subscribe to our popular newsletter and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.