Saxophones appear through the haze, a songstress leans on a piano, and the walking bassline gets your feet tapping. Yes, it’s time again for the Cape Town International Jazz Festival. Music-lovers travel from far and wide for one of South Africa’s major events, which takes place this year from 30 to 31 March 2012 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

Having a dinner with friends is a great way to kick off the evening’s celebrations, especially for visitors to the city. We’ve rounded up some of the city bowl’s best restaurants where you can have an early dinner and still get to the show on time.

& Union  
Bizerca Bistro  
Bukhara  
Caveau 
Diva 
Fork 
French Toast  
Gold Restaurant  
Haiku  
Il Cappero  
Keenwa
Marimba  
Roberto’s
Royale Eatery and Royale Kitchen

By Kelly Pluke

Photograph by Kristine Ellison