Food & Drink

The Ultimate Guide to Cape Town Braai and Street Food

An essential culinary map for food lovers exploring Cape Town, featuring iconic braai spots, vibrant street food markets, and traditional South African delicacies that define the city's rich gastronomic culture.

ID: 50499
Items: 20
Total Votes: 0
Forks: 0
Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you, supporting our work without affecting our ratings.
Want to feature your product on this list?
Sponsorship

Get targeted exposure with custom position pinning and highlighted placement.

Contact Us
1
0

Bo-Kaap Biltong and Droëwors

Visit

Located in the historic Bo-Kaap neighborhood, this artisanal shop offers handcrafted biltong and dried sausage made using traditional Cape Malay curing methods. Visitors can sample various spices and meats before purchasing gifts.

2
0

V&A Waterfront Food Markets

Visit

A bustling hub at the harbor offering a diverse array of street food vendors, from fresh seafood to gourmet burgers. It is an ideal spot for families seeking casual dining with stunning Table Mountain views.

3
0

Neighbourgoods Market

Visit

Held every Saturday at the Old Biscuit Mill, this market is Cape Town's premier spot for artisanal street food, including Ethiopianinjera, Vietnamese banh mi, and local craft beers. It represents the city's vibrant multicultural food scene.

4
0

Mzansi Braai

Visit

A dedicated braai venue that showcases authentic South African grilling techniques using indigenous hardwoods. It serves traditional meats like lamb chops and boerewors, paired with classic sides like chakalaka and pap.

5
0

Cape Malay Bobotie

A sweet and savory minced meat dish spiced with curry and topped with an egg-based crust, representing the heart of Cape Malay cuisine. Many small eateries in the Bo-Kaap and City Bowl serve the most authentic versions.

6
0

Durban's Indian-inspired Street Food

Visit

Though Durban is distinct, Cape Town offers exceptional Indian-influenced street food like bunny chow and dumpling. These spicy, hearty dishes reflect the deep Indian South African heritage found in local townships and markets.

7
0

Cape Town Fish Markets

Visit

This innovative warehouse space hosts rotating markets featuring fresh, sustainable seafood and global street food stalls. It combines a working fish market with a vibrant culinary precinct, perfect for adventurous diners.

8
0

Braai Day at Boulders Beach

Visit

While primarily known for penguins, nearby beaches offer designated braai facilities for tourists. Bringing your own boerewors and meat to grill with an ocean view is a quintessential South African summer experience.

9
0

Gatsby Sandwich

A massive Cape Town staple sandwich filled with chips, polony, tuna, and salads, originally sold at taxi ranks. It is a must-try cheap and hearty street food option found at informal vendors across the city.

10
0

Koffiekrans Coffee and Braai

Visit

A hidden gem in the Woodstock area, Koffiekrans serves excellent coffee alongside small plates and weekend braai platters. It offers a modern, industrial-chic take on traditional South African comfort food.

11
0

Aqua and Cots

Visit

While a high-end restaurant, their weekend brunch often features braai-inspired dishes reimagined for a gourmet audience. It provides a sophisticated introduction to South African flavors in a scenic V&A Waterfront setting.

12
0

Malva Pudding at Traditional Tearooms

No braai meal is complete without Malva pudding, a sticky sweet dessert made with apricot jam and cream. Traditional tearooms in Stellenbosch and Cape Town serve this dessert alongside rooibos tea.

13
0

Street Food Tours in Bo-Kaap

Visit

Guided tours that explore the colorful streets while tasting traditional treats like koeksisters and vetkoek. These tours provide historical context and direct access to family-run kitchens not visible to casual tourists.

14
0

Robben Island Visitor Center Cafe

Visit

Located on the historic island, the cafe offers basic but symbolic meals including braai platters. Dining here connects the culinary experience with the profound history of South Africa's struggle for freedom.

15
0

Ouma's Kitchen

Visit

A chain that specializes in homestyle South African cooking, including braai meats and classic sides. It offers a consistent taste of 'Grootma's' kitchen, appealing to those craving nostalgic, hearty meals.

16
0

Cape Malay Cooking Classes

Visit

Several local culinary schools offer hands-on classes where participants learn to make braai marinades and Cape Malay curries. It is an interactive way to understand the fusion of African, Indonesian, and Dutch flavors.

17
0

Soweto Braai Tours

Excursions into the townships where visitors can experience authentic braais in community settings. These tours support local economies and provide a genuine glimpse into the social importance of grilling in Black South African culture.

18
0

Fresh Apricot Jam at Oranjezicht City Farm Market

Visit

A weekend market in the City Bowl featuring local producers making jams, chutneys, and braai sauces. It is an excellent place to source gourmet ingredients for your own home braai adventures.

19
0

Braai Spice Blends

Visit

Local shops sell specialized spice mixes for venison, lamb, and beef, essential for authentic Cape Town braais. Buying these blends allows tourists to recreate the exact flavor profiles of the region at home.

20
0

Chakalaka and Pap Stalls

Widely available at informal food joints, this spicy vegetable stew served with maize porridge is a vegetarian-friendly braai side dish. It provides a spicy, textured complement to grilled meats and reflects township culinary innovation.