Your Perfect Cape Town Function Venue

Function venues with a difference, plus plenty of traditional options, for your next event

Last updated: 11 March 2021

If you’ve ever been tasked with organising a birthday bash, bachelor/ette party, wedding, baby shower, anniversary, family reunion, board meeting, conference, workshop or a bar/bat mitzvah, you’ll know that finding the perfect venue can strike fear in the heart of even the most enthusiastic party planner. Panic not – we’ve got the definitive line-up of places that’ll ease the pain and take your event to the next level.  

UNBEATABLE WHALE-WATCHING AT BURGUNDY

Contemporary bistro Burgundy Restaurant is in a prime spot for whale-watching. Set high above the historic old harbour, the restaurant’s panoramic views stretch across Walker Bay. This means that diners will be able to see whales breaching from their table on the open veranda. The restaurant is known for its high culinary standard and the menu is extensive, from the hearty beer-battered hake and chips, to its famous seafood pasta or and specialty abalone dish. There are so many reasons Burgundy Restaurant has one of the best locations an eatery can have.
Capacity: 320 as a full house but 160 during Covid-19
Nice to know: Surrounded by a host of local artwork, a craft market and a whale museum.

SEA VIEWS AND ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE KIDS

This is a venue where everyone will feel relaxed and comfortable. There’s a choice of three seating areas there: inside the restaurant, which at night is lit with candles; the courtyard, where wooden tables under umbrellas are set out around an ancient milkwood tree; and the breezy outside ‘porch’ areas to the front and sides, which has generously spaced low tables and comfy chairs. Dutchies is an easygoing, beachside restaurant, situated a stone’s throw from Grotto Beach in Hermanus. Host a memorable function at Dutchies in Hermanus. 
Capacity: 135
Nice to know: Dutchies is able to cater for most specific requests such as music, outdoor tenting, special menus etc. 


Grotto Street, Grotto Beach, Hermanus | ,info@dutchies.co.za | +27(0)28 314 1392 | Dutchies website

THIS NEW GIN DISTILLERY IN WOODSTOCK MAKES AN DISTINCT VENUE

Distillers & Union in Woodstock is the perfect place for a birthday party, an anniversary celebration or just a good jol with friends. You’ll get to play host in a working distillery that’s home to brands such as 5 Pence, Dragon Brewing Co and Ora. Plus, the distillery is in the heart of trendy Woodstock and just 140m away from the Old Biscuit Mill. Next time you’re in the area pop by for a cocktail or two and see how spectacular Distillers & Union really is for yourself.
Capacity: 50 people.
Nice to know: Distillers & Union also host gin-making and gin tastings from Thursdays to Saturdays.


415 Albert Rd, Woodstock | info@distillersunion.co.za | 076 726 3093 | distillersunion.co.za

ROOFTOP GLITZ AND GLAM

If you’re looking for a place to throw a classy shindig, then how about a rooftop venue overlooking Cape Town’s city centre? There are panoramic views of Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and the city skyline, a large balcony, floor-to-ceiling windows all around, a contemporary built-in bar and an impressive retractable skylight roof at Rooftop on Bree.
Capacity: 120 people
Nice to know: You’ll have the option to hire a production manager, who will take charge of all your production needs.


170 Bree Street | Cape Town CBD | +27 (0)78 879 0562 | bookings@rooftoponbree.com

IT’S ALL ABOUT WINE (AND UNIQUE CUISINE)

The Wine Glass is a spacious venue, stylish but also easy-going, a place where friends can meet for lunch, a fun celebration or sundowners on the sun-drenched deck. The decor is contemporary, with bursts of turquoise, white chairs, sleek grey couches and the Instagrammable wine wall of fame. This trendy Hermanus wine-tasting venue and restaurant has close to 100 wines on offer, either to savour by glass, or in a tasting flight (group of wines) of six. Once you find the one you love, you can take a bottle or two home. Plus, you can also order unique dishes such as the firecracker duck or antelope spring rolls at The Wine Glass.
Capacity: 100-140
Nice to know: Test your palate or broaden your knowledge with a blind or horizontal tasting.


2 Harbour Rd, Hermanus | +27 (0)82 082 0007 | info@thewineglass.guru

CHOOSE BETWEEN A TASTING ROOM OR A PANORAMIC DECK

This winery between Paarl and Stellenbosch is an excellent environment for corporate functions and seminars. It has inspiring views, tranquillity, and offers unique team-building activities. Functions can be held in either the spacious tasting room or on one of the two panoramic decks, at the villa, which also has a braai area, or in the beautiful, landscaped gardens at Marianne Wine Estate.
Capacity: 150 people
Nice to know: There is accommodation for up to 43 people for longer conferences. 

Valley Road, off  R44 | Stellenbosch | +27 (0)21 875 5040 | info@mariannewinefarm.co.za

THIS VENUE SET IN NATURE IS PERFECT FOR FUNCTIONS

Bona Dea Private Estate is set high on the mountain slopes surrounding the gorgeous Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. It’s a unique, luxurious wedding and function venue just 90 minutes from Cape Town International Airport. Close to the small town of Hermanus, which is famous for its excellent whale-watching, the estate has excellent facilities, including an elegant ballroom, for conferences, seminars, executive board-meetings and gala dinners. Even team-building sessions are offered at Bona Dea Private Estate.
Capacity: Up to 200 people.
Nice to know: There’s a large ceremonial tree-filled terrace adorned with 20 000 fairy lights.


Camphill Road, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley | Hermanus | +27 (0)28 050 0370 | eventsmanager@bonadea.co.za

IDEAL WEDDING RECEPTION VENUE

This Rawsonville holiday resort, an hour’s drive from Cape Town, has eight conference centres in various sizes and layout and can accommodate up to 800 people in total. The jewel of the resort is the stunning Slanghoek Conference Centre, which seats up to 100 and has its own restaurant and bar. With panoramic views of the Breedekloof Valley, it’s ideal for a wedding reception, and the centre is walking distance from the Slanghoek Villas at Goudini Spa.
Capacity: 100–800 people
Nice to Know: There are five heated pools. Also the bridal couple gets a free stay in the Slanghoek Villas.


Wyzersdrift Road, Rawsonville | +27 (0)23 349 8100 | goudini@atkv.org.za

 PICTURE-PERFECT ESCAPE IN APPLE COUNTRY

“Weddings here are just different, so relaxed, no stress – it must be the fresh air or just this place,” says one happy Cherry Glamper. This ultra-cosy glampsite, In Elgin, with a lounge, family table, fireplace, braai, covered viewdeck with adjoining lapa and firepit is ideal for functions (you don’t pay venue hire, just the accommodation) and big birthday parties. It’s just an hour from the city. Go Cherry Glamping with your team for a low-tech team getaway.
Capacity: Seating for 80, accommodation for 100. (but more can be arranged upon request)
Nice to know: Also try low-tech Wednesdays at Cherry Glamping’s team-building getaways.


Groenrug Estate, N2, Grabouw | +27 (0)82 788 9837, info@cherryglamping.co.za

BE IN THE MIDDLE OF ART AND CULTURE

ONOMO hotel, housed in one of the oldest buildings in the city (and a declared heritage site), towers over bustling Greenmarket Square. They offer several venue hire options, depending on whether you need the hotel to provide the staff, food, entertainment for your cocktail function, birthday or baby shower. ONOMO Hotel Cape Town has a Friday lunch taco special and everyday dinner specials.
Capacity: Up to 150 people
Nice to know: The large terrace, which is lit up by fairy lights at night, can be covered by a marquee or Bedouin tent.


10 Greenmarket Square, City Centre | +27 (0)21 423 2050

IDYLLIC COUNTRY ESCAPE

The perfect location for a destination wedding, girls getaway, family reunions or simply to come and do absolutely nothing. They offer great packages from a romantic couples breakaway to a girls gin getaway that is a great bachelorette option. The package includes goodie bags, spa treatments, yoga classes overlooking the green pastures and delicious food from the restaurant at the Rotterdam Boutique Hotel.
Capacity: Accommodates 60+, sleeps 40
Nice to know: The Restaurant patio has uninterrupted views of the Langeberg Mountains and the perfect place to watch a golden sunset while having a glass of wine.

Olivedale Road, Buffeljags River, Swellendam | +27 (0)76 738 4664, info@therotterdam.co.za
 

A SOCIAL DINING EXPERIENCE

If you’re looking for a private, intimate space to host up to 20 guests where food and wine is the main focus, then the Green Room at Grub & Vine is the private dining experience you’ve been waiting for. Chef Matt Manning, the owner and chef-patron of Grub & Vine, is well-known for creating unique social dining experiences (for example, One Ingredient, Manning’s five-course cooking and dining experience that centres around one key ingredient.) Let his team of chefs and sommeliers cook for you and your guests at your private event at Grub & Vine.
Capacity: 20
Nice to know: The bistro has a sommelier. 


103 Bree Street, Cape Town City Centre | +27 (0)76 256 8654

URBAN AFRICAN BEACH RESTAURANT WITH KILLER VIEWS

Vibrant colours, a live DJ, an exotic local menu, refreshing cocktails and a view over Big Bay, Table Mountain and Robben Island – surely a combination for a successful event? This is one of our favourite hidden gems and perhaps the best place to get the full Cape Town experience. Find out why moyo at Eden on The Bay is perhaps the most Capetonian beach restaurant.
Capacity: Up to 400. 
Nice to know: You can dangle your feet in the shallow pool below your table.

Eden On The Bay Mall | Otto Du Plessis Dr, Big Bay/Blouberg | blouberg@moyo.com, +27 (0)21 286 0662

NEW: AC HOTEL CAPE TOWN WATERFRONT

The hotel, located on the quiet Dockrail Road next to the harbour, has four state-of-the-art meeting rooms and a boardroom with a total of over 250m2 of event space. All the meeting rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the harbour. Their event spaces include cutting-edge audiovisual technology and high-speed internet access. Enjoy snacks while on a creative coffee break in the AC Lounge or experience a bespoke private dinner in the AC Kitchen. There are 188 guest rooms and suites at the AC Hotel Cape Town Waterfront.
Capacity: Enquire online
Nice to know: At the gin & tonic trolley you get to choose between three different infused tonics and your preferred gin.

Dockrail Road, Foreshore, Cape Town | +27 (0)21 137 1100

UNDER THE SEA: UNIQUE FUNCTIONS IN THE CITY

This underwater wonderland at the V&A Waterfront is an out-of-the-ordinary option for events. For large conferences and expos, there’s the two-level AVENUE at the Two Oceans Aquarium. For a smaller event, choose one of four spaces, three of which look out onto kelp forests, ragged-tooth sharks, stingrays, turtles and small exhibits of spider crabs, jellyfish, anemones and more. Venues can be adjusted to suit specific needs when hosting events and functions at the Two Oceans Aquarium.
Capacity: 10–1500 depending on the room you choose and the function type.
Nice to know: Your booking includes access to the aquarium (for day functions).

Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town | +27 (0)21 418 3823 | functions@aquarium.co.za

AWE-INSPIRING WINELANDS FOR CONFERENCES

Lanzerac Wine Estate offers a hotel, spa, four restaurants and wedding, function and conference facilities. Located in the Jonkershoek Valley on the outskirts of Stellenbosch, the estate boasts mountain and vineyard views and gardens shaded by towering oak trees. From the main Cellar Hall venue to five individually decorated boardrooms, Lanzerac offers state-of-the-art facilities, services and banqueting for sophisticated corporate conferences, management meetings, teambuilding and more. 
Capacity: 2 to 24 guests between the five boardrooms; up to 150 guests banqueting-style in the Cellar Hall and up to 250 guests on the lawns.
Nice to know: The private dining venue was built in the mid-1700s and offers a grand setting with chandeliers and fireplaces, and can host up to 40 guests for a conference, dinner or party.


1 Lanzerac Road, Stellenbosch, Western Cape | banqueting@lanzerac.co.za, +27(0)21 887 1132

PARIS IN THE WINELANDS

An explosion of green on Franschhoek’s Wemmershoek Road. Every kind of wedding “environment” you can dream up. Massive grounds for outdoor events, a versatile indoor banquet hall or intimate cellar venue. Discover La Paris Estate, with a bistro, deli and on-site bakery for your next function in Franschhoek.
Capacity: 90–450 people
Nice to know: All of this just 12 minutes outside of Paarl and Franschhoek.

R301, Wemmershoek Road, Franschhoek | +27 (21) 8670171 | events@laparis.co.za

PARTY THE NIGHT AWAY AT THIS BEAUTIFUL STELLENBOSCH VINEYARD

Haskell Vineyards is the idyllic setting for an intimate function. The picnic area is ideal for an informal function like a family picnic or a baby shower, while the Longtable Restaurant can seat guests and a dance floor can be set up outside. It is an excellent location for beautiful views and to dance the night away under the stars. There are also two houses that are perfectly suited for the bride and groom to get ready in or spend the wedding night. Read about their 2019 Platter's award and find out about Haskell's 2019 sundowners and picnics. 
Best for: Intimate weddings and functions
Capacity: The Longtable Restaurant is also the perfect venue for a small wedding, as it seats up to 75 people, and 120 maximum if you incorporate the outside area as well.


Haskell Vineyards | Annandale Road (off the R44) | Somerset West |  +27 (0)21 881 3746

BE A PART OF THE ACTION ON LONG STREET

A familiar favourite on top of bustling Long Street, Lola's is available every evening for private functions. The décor is warm and lush with plants, and its contemporary bistro fare includes steamed, perfectly plump mussels, beautifully-cooked fish and the famous Karan steak sandwich. It's the perfect venue for small to medium groups looking for their own private space, where one can watch the night on Long Street unfold at Lola's.
Capacity: 20–50 (minimum booking of 15 is required)
Nice to know: Also available for engagement parties and film and photoshoots

228 Long Street | Cape Town | +27( 0)21 423 088 5228 | hello@lolas.co.za

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FIND SPECIAL IDEAS AND VENUES FOR A BIRTHDAY PARTY

Looking for ideas specifically for 21st, 30th and 50th bashes? Consult our guide to special birthday party venues in Cape Town.

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