Whether it’s Black Friday or not, the promise of a good bargain can tempt even the most dedicated mall-haters into venturing into a shopping centre. But that doesn’t mean you have to settle for a less-than-average chain restaurant meal. If you’re fighting your way through the crowds this holiday period, you’re going to need some sustenance, so here are our picks for the best restaurants in Cape Town malls.

Baconville (Willowbridge Mall)

Generally when Richard Bosman is behind something, you can rest easy knowing it’s going to be good. Which is exactly the case at Baconville, his dedicated bacon emporium at Willowbridge Mall. The menu is similar to that of Bacon on Bree and, as the name suggests, there’s bacon – and a whole lot of it – on everything. Our favourite has to be the Harvey Specter, with bacon, brie, tomato and pesto sandwiched between fresh slices of ciabatta.

 

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A post shared by Baconville Willowbridge (@baconvilleza) on Nov 7, 2018 at 9:16pm PST

Den Anker (V&A Waterfront) ? 

Admittedly, we’ll head down to Den Anker any time – not only when we’re forced to shop. The Belgian-style menu is large and enticing, but what you’re really here for are the mussels. Fresh mussels cooked with leeks, celery and white wine are served alongside a bowl of perfectly crisp frites and, of course, compulsory mayonnaise. Sit outside, smash a kilo of these with a traditional Belgian beer and you’ve got the perfect meal.

? Available for online bookings on the Eat Out app. 

 

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A post shared by Den Anker (@den_anker) on Nov 12, 2018 at 5:50am PST

Lou Lou’s Bar (Cape Quarter)

Take a necessary pause in the plush leather seating at Lou Lou’s to fill up on shared arancini or spicy chicken livers. Else tuck into a more substantial cauliflower risotto or cheesy baked parmigiana.

 

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A post shared by Lou Lou’s Bar (@lou_lous_bar) on Nov 14, 2018 at 1:42am PST

Ou Meul (Willowbridge and Somerset Mall)

Stopping for an Ou Meul pie is almost law on Western Cape road trips, but luckily they have stores closer to town to spare you the long drive. Get your post-shopping energy levels back up by tucking into one of the famous pies or even a burger or salad.

 

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A post shared by Ou Meul Bakkery (@oumeulbakkery) on Oct 11, 2018 at 1:08pm PDT

Si! Cantina-Sociale (Silo District) ? 

Si Cantina, with its extensive Latin-inspired menu, is the ideal spot to break away from the crowds for a refuel. Snack on a flatbread topped with cheese and garlic or chorizo and roasted peppers, or opt for a larger plate of peri-peri chicken.

? Available for online bookings on the Eat Out app. 

 

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A post shared by Si Cantina Sociale (@si_cantina_sociale) on Aug 20, 2018 at 5:11am PDT

Smuuthies (Howard Centre and Bayside Mall)

With all that shopping, you’re definitely getting your steps in, so why not maintain that good energy by filling up on something virtuous? Smuuthies in Bayside Mall has you covered with freshly made smoothies, wraps filled with delicious Thai chicken curry or roasted veggies, and interesting salads.

 

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A post shared by Smuuthies (@smuuthies) on Jul 8, 2018 at 3:47am PDT

Sweetbeet (Canal Walk)

This spot will also have you leaving with a smile, whether it’s because of the variety of amazing smoothies or the varied build-your-own salad bar featuring the freshest ingredients. Charge up your energy levels with a warm bowl – like the one starring chilli con carne, corn, cheddar, guacamole, nachos and crème fraîche – while charging your devices at one of the many plug points. Don’t leave without trying the coffee French toast.

The must-try coffee French toast. Photo by Lindsay September.

Vivante (Cavendish)

Cavendish, while perfect for shopping, might not be your first port of call when it comes to dining, but Vivante proves otherwise. This laid-back café serves simple breakfasts, sandwiches, fish and chips, and even sushi.

Willoughby & Co. (V&A Waterfront)

Willoughby’s, even with its mall environ, is one of the best sushi spots in the city. There’s a reason the queues are often wrapping around the escalators and nearing the doors. While they do tasty fish and chips and other seafood-y fare, the sushi really is the jewel in their crown. Whatever you do, order the rock shrimp maki – tuna maki topped with a deep-fried prawn and Japanese mayo – and the rainbow reloaded.

 

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A post shared by Pure Guest House (@pure_guesthouse) on Nov 8, 2018 at 11:11am PST

Did we miss your favourite mall restaurant? Let us know in the comments below and remember to review it using our free app.