The Cape Town restaurant scene is exploding for some reason, and Bree Street seems to be the epicenter of that explosion with about 10 new restaurants opening in the last few months alone.
As always there are restaurants closing down too. For example we have sadly lost Takumi, one of our favourite sushi spots. Emily’s on Kloof Street quietly opened and then closed again. Chandani on Roodebloem Road has closed after a good run…
But for every restaurant that has closed, several more have opened. We all love to visit new restaurants, but with so many new spots how do you choose which to visit first? So we’ve selected 5 of the new restaurants in the CBD that we think you should visit ASAP.
1. Bouchon (Hout Street) This cosy little wine bar is collaboration between the owners of La Boheme and Engruna in Sea Point and Dorrance wines. So expect a selection of tasty tapas and a well curated wine list. Be aware they have limited operating hours: Mon – Fri, 4pm – 11pm.
2. Raya Kitchen (Church Street) Kitima in Hout Bay has long been recognised as one of the top Asian restaurants in Cape Town and they have kindly brought the deliciousness into town. They have opened Raya Kitchen in the Mandela Rhodes building, so now you can safely order that second bottle of wine!
3. Jason Bakery on Loop – (Loop Street) Famous for his bacon croissants and bread that will melt even a Banter’s resolve, Jason has expanded from Bree Street and opened a new spot on Loop Street, opposite The Village Idiot. Many of the Jason Bakery favourites will be available there, including their fantastic coffee, but you can expect Loop Street to soon be open for dinner some nights of the week.
4. Locanda at Villa 47 – (Bree Street) You’ll need to book if you want to visit Locanda, it’s been busy from day one. Described on their website as a relaxed Italian bistro, Locanda is serving up some delicious and unique dishes. Think octopus carpaccio and kudu tagliata. Villa 47 is owned by food importers, Rialto Foods, so it’s no surprise the cheese and charcutrie platters are amazing.
5. Smak Deli (Bree Street) Open for breakfast and lunch only, Smak caters for those who have the time to sit down and enjoy their food as well was those who just want to grab a quality chow on the run. For breakfast try the croque monsieur or bacon butty. If you’re trying to be healthy then have the granola or egg white omelette. For lunch the Angus and Wagyu beef burger with Boerenkaas seems irresistible, or the chicken breast and cous cous for a lighter option.
Our top tip is their lemon, rosemary and olive oil cake with cream cheese icing. It’s to die for!
There are plenty other places to try. Honey Badger has opened on Loop St, Mulberry and Prince on Pepper Street (read our review here) and on Bree St there is Little Saint, Arcade, Dapper, Sexy Food, Folk Coffee Anthropology and and and!
Which is your favourite new CBD eatery? Let us know in the comments below.
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