Even though the festive season is over in the traditional sense, new year in the Mother City still holds a jovial, buoyant spirit – where getting together with friends, enjoying late sunsets on the beach or breakfasting/brunching/lunching at your favourite restaurant is pretty par for the course. And even though we’re all probably a bit broke after December, it’s hard not to be out and about – especially when you have guests in town.

image: John O Nolan via Unsplash

Wondering how to entertain newcomers to Cape Town and want to offer them a bit of iconic Kaapstad culture? Here’s a list of spots we recommend you take them.

Have lunch on the beach at The Strandloper
Technically this spot isn’t in Cape Town, but the almost 2-hour hour drive is truly worth it. Over-dressing isn’t possible – because the restaurant is literally on the beach, think boardshorts, flip flops, hats and sunnies. You’ll be in for a 10-course meal of mussels, braaied snoek, kreef, roosterkoek and so much more! It’s as rustic as it gets and you’ll love the convivial homey atmosphere so much that you won’t want to leave. Top tip: Take sunscreen.

 

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Do drinks at a rooftop bar
Epic views, killer cocktails and a swimming pool make the RED Roof at the top of Radisson Red Hotel a hot place to be seen this summer. There’s an energetic, youthful vibe to it, plus a food truck serving hunger busters like pizzas, burgers, ribs and more. Top tip: Take a jacket just in case the wind picks up.

 

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Nab a jaw-droppingly impressive table at Two Oceans Restaurant
Situated at Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, arguably one of Cape Town’s most iconic landmarks, the Two Oceans Restaurant is aptly named for its location. So if that sea view is what you’re after, you can’t get better.
Top tip: There’s a mandatory entrance fee charged to enter the park (whether you’re dining at the restaurant or not).

 

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Drive through Constantia’s world-famous wine route and stop in at Constantia Glen for a tasting and a cheese platter
Being just a short 20-minute drive from the Cape Town city centre, the Constantia wine route is a great go-to for travellers short on time. It’s the oldest wine region in the southern hemisphere, so expect to visit wine farms rich in history interspersed with those that offer a more modern feel. The tasting experience at Constantia Glen features the option of ordering a hearty cheese or charcuterie platter, making for a perfect accompaniment to the farm’s award-winning wines. They also serve signature flammkuchen (thinly rolled flatbread), salads, soups and desserts. Top tip: Stay for sunset – it’s one of the few farms that stays open until 9pm throughout the week.

 

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Enjoy the freshest (and cheapest!) fish and chips at the Kalk Bay harbour
Looking for a real local gem that’s fuss-free and budget-friendly? You can’t forgo the harbourside seafood spot in the quaint town of Kalk Bay. Portions are large and the food comes quickly, so it’s perfect for those in a rush. It may be difficult to find a seat, but just stand your ground.  Top tip: Have cash with you, as they don’t accept card payments.

 

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Immerse your guests in South African cuisine in Khayelitsha
Based on the concept of eKasi four-roomed homes that were the dwellings of the black communities in areas close to the cities, 4Roomed eKasi Culture is an experience that shines a spotlight on the concept of ubuntu, which was birthed through the close-knit sense of community in these small homes. Owner and chef Abigail Mbalo-Mokoena says you can expect South African cuisine with a township influence. You’ll taste things like mleqwa (runaway chicken) or mqa (pap with butternut and truffle oil). The food is laid out in the centre of the table for guests to help themselves. Top tip: There is a R100 deposit per person if the party consists of 6 people or more.

 

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Pop open a bottle of local MCC at the top of Table Mountain
You can’t come to Cape Town without taking a cable car ride up to the top of Table Mountain. And as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, it’s not surprising that the mountain is visited by thousands of people every year. It’s unmissable (unless you’re afraid of heights!), especially for the Instagrammable views of the city and Robben Island. Top tip: You can go up for free on your birthday – you just need to have a valid South African ID document with you.

 

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Make a reservation at the Eat Out Mercedes-Benz restaurant of the year (do this well in advance)
Cape Town is home to La Colombe, the hilltop restaurant that recently scooped the top spot at the 2019 Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Restaurant Awards. Expect a stylish, light and airy space with views of the vineyards below. The food is carefully crafted by executive chef James Gaag and his passionate team. “Dishes are playfully presented, giving the meal real excitement,” commented one of the Eat Out judges. Top tip: Glean as much information and wine knowledge as you can from the award-winning sommelier Joseph Dhafana.

 

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Visit Zeitz Mocca and end off with a thirst quencher at the top of the Silo Hotel
The contemporary art museum located at the V&A Waterfront is a feat of architectural mastery. It’s hard not to be impressed by the magnitude of the structure. At the top of the building, you’ll find some of the most unique and jaw-dropping views of the city and harbour. The best part? There’s a bar so you can sip sundowners while taking the perfect #siloselfie. Top Tip: You need to book a table to gain access to the rooftop. However, there is another venue called The Willaston Bar in the hotel that doesn’t require a reservation.

 

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Relax with some live music and pizza at The Lawns restaurant
Taking things easy? You’ll love the casual atmosphere at this location that’s just a short 10-minute Uber drive from the city centre. It’s the perfect spot where the whole family can chill out on the rolling lawns while enjoying a snack after a long day and taking in the views of Camps Bay and the iconic Twelve Apostles. Top tip: Take an Uber because finding a parking can be tricky in peak season

 

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