Cape Town is known for being home to some of the best restaurants in the entire country, but it is also known for its delectable array of food markets. Food, wine, craft beer, and locally-roasted coffee are to Cape Town food markets what sun, sea, sand, and style are to Capetonians.
These delightful outdoor and indoor events are considered indisputable add-ons to a holiday in South Africa‘s dreamy Mother City. From as far as the seaside hamlet of Noordhoek to the heart of the City Bowl itself, we’ve compiled a handy list of our five favourite food markets. If you’ve come to this far point of the continent and not visited one – have you really visited at all?
Oranjezicht City Farm Market
This weekly market takes place every Saturday, come rain or shine, in Granger Bay (conveniently close to the V&A Waterfront). Bringing together a collection of community farmers and artisan food producers, market-goers can buy fresh from the earth vegetables and other organic, free-range produce while enjoying a refreshing sea breeze from the ocean next door. Bonus: dogs are welcome, too.
When? Every Saturday 09:00 – 14:00
The City Bowl Market
This market is found in the bustling heart of the city bowl and located in a historic building along Hope Street. Visitors can sample a wide range of food, craft beer, and organic wine, and select trinkets and fashion statements from the clothing and jewellery traders that share this space. Despite its city location, there’s plenty of seating – either in this grand old building itself, or in its courtyard underneath the welcome shade of overhanging trees. Tip: Keep an eye out for some of our friendly Rhino Africa employees – they’re regulars!
When? Every Thursday 16:00 – 20:00
The Neighbourgoods Market
After a decade spent entertaining, feeding, and welcoming locals and foreigners alike, this award-winning market has truly cemented itself as an immovable part of Cape Town life. Fine-food purveyors, butchers, merchants, bakers, and all sorts of proudly local distributors come together at Woodstock’s The Old Biscuit Mill to overwhelm visitors with an intoxicating selection. Bonus: The Neighbourgoods Market can be found in Johannesburg, too!
When? Every Saturday 09:00 – 14:00
Chilled Market @ The Range
If nightclubs and cramped restaurants aren’t quite your thing or if you simply want to enjoy some fresh mountain air, you can greet the weekend properly at The Range in Tokai. Overshadowed by a mountain and surrounded by the lush greenery found all across the picturesque Constantia Valley, market-goers can enjoy a Friday night dinner with a difference. Indulge in a variety of scrumptious dining options amidst pine trees and vineyards.
When? Every Friday 16:30 – 21:30
Cape Point Vineyards Community Market
Local really is lekker at the Cape Point Vineyards Community Market. A variety of food vendors and food trucks serve an array of tempting tidbits to please pizza-lovers, vegans, and children alike. Its terrific location surrounded by vineyards, overlooking a dam nearby, and the distant Noordhoek beach on the horizon provides the perfect spot for a sundowner and snack.
When? Every Thursday 16:30 – 20:30