Chapter 9: Views
Part of Cape Town’s outrageous allure lies in the varied topography you’re exposed to. If skyscrapers or street canals don’t tickle your fancy, the world-class seascapes and mountain views probably will.
Azure
Aptly named after its colouring, Azure brings to mind an ocean palace. But this award-winning, fine dining hotel restaurant offers a diverse French-influenced menu, and an opulent, romantic setting.
Why go?
The breathtaking location is its strongest selling point. It stands along a scenic coastal road that connects the fashionable suburbs of Camps Bay and Llandudno. Providing unadulterated sea views as far as the eye can see.
Details
a: 12 Apostles Hotel, Victoria Road, Camps Bay
t: +27 21 437 9029
w: www.12apostleshotel.com/food-and-drink/azure-restaurant
h: Monday—Sunday: 7h00–10h30, 12h30–15h30, 18h00–22h00
Photograph: Azure
Bilboa
A fusion of Spanish and Mediterranean-inspired delicacies, Bilboa prides itself on fresh seafood and sustainable fish.
Why go?
Slap bang in the middle of the action on Camps Bay’s sunset strip, with a first-floor location that gives you spectacular sea views—and takes you out of the buzz downstairs.
Details
a: Shop 120, First Floor, The Promenade, Victoria Road, Camps Bay
t: +27 21 286 5155
w: bilboa.co.za
h: Monday—Sunday:12h00–21h00
Photograph: Bilboa
Bistro Sixteen82
Named after the year in which Steenberg Wine Estate was established, Bistro Sixteen82 first opened its doors in 2009, and has been Cape Town’s tapas and bistro-style darling ever since.
Why go?
Bistro fare that’s seasonal, flavourful and bursts with freshness.
Details
a: Steenberg Rd, Tokai
t: +27 21 713 2211
w: www.steenbergfarm.com
h: Monday—Sunday: Breakfast: 09h00–11h00, Lunch: 12h00-15h00, Tapas: 17h00-21h00
Photograph: Bistro Sixteen82
Bungalow
Bungalow has something to appeal to almost everyone’s tastes. Add on a pretty comprehensive wine list, and you have a great spot for an evening of relaxed indulgence.
Why go?
With great views of the Atlantic Ocean, Bungalow is a peaceful and isolated option away from the humdrum of main restaurant strips.
Details
a: Glen Country Club, 3 Victoria Road, Clifton
t: +27 21 438 2018
w: www.thebungalow.co.za
h: Monday—Sunday:12h00–21h00
Photograph: Bungalow
Grand Africa Café and Beach
Whether you come for the panoramic views, the delicious food, retro ambience or some feet-in-the-sand indulgence, The Grand perfectly encompasses why Cape Town summers deserve to be spent outdoors.
Why go?
A combination of paradise meets luxurious lifestyle, picturesque ocean views and a 5-star menu to die for.
Details
a: 1 Haul Rd, Granger Bay Blvd, Cape Town
t: +27 21 425 0551
w: grandafrica.com
h: Friday to Sunday: 12h00-21h00
Photograph: Grand Africa Café and Beach
Pot Luck Club
The sister restaurant to Test Kitchen is a more commercial Luke Dale-Roberts option. Sitting in a glass-and-steel box at the top of an old silo, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. But the star attraction is undoubtedly the food.
Why go?
The focus is on five flavour profiles (salty, sour, bitter, sweet, and umami), and plate-sharing is encouraged, so you get to savour them all.
Details
a: The Silo, The Old Biscuit Mill, Woodstock
t: +27 21 447 0804
w: thepotluckclub.co.za/home
h: Monday—Saturday: 12h30–14h00, 18h00–22h00, Sundays: 11h00–12h30
Photograph: Pot Luck Club
Shimmy - Closed Temporarily
There are few summer spots in Cape Town that are as magnificent as Shimmy Beach Club and its phenomenal oceanfront setting. Choose from the delicious a la carte or Pool Deck menu offering fresh, Mediterranean-style dishes.
Why go?
The restaurant, under the hand of chef and restaurateur Seelan Sundoo, spills out onto a man-made beach for a diverse eating experience.
Details
a: 12 S Arm Rd, V&A Waterfront
t: +27 21 200 7778
w: www.shimmybeachclub.com
h: CLOSED TEMPORARILY
Photograph: Shimmy
Chapter 9/14
Featured image credit: Azure