Creating a warm and welcoming ambience is essential to a restaurant’s atmosphere, and at SeaBreeze Fish & Shell, it’s all about offering a first-class dining experience in a serene, coastal-inspired setting. 

 

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Located on Bree Street, SeaBreeze presents a contemporary twist on the traditional seafood restaurant, transporting diners to a tranquil coastal escape in the heart of Cape Town’s thriving CBD. Housed within two adjoining heritage buildings, the restaurant’s striking aqua-blue exterior beckons diners inside. The design preserves historical architectural elements, such as large sash windows, exposed ceiling beams and a secret courtyard, all of which contribute to the venue’s charming character. 

Scottish owners Alex and Ruth Grahame set out to create a whimsical space that feels grown-up, sophisticated and unpretentious. This vision comes to life through a carefully selected ocean-inspired colour palette featuring fresh, sunny hues, natural textures and minimal fuss. 

 Inside, parquet-style flooring seamlessly connects the various dining areas, with intimate nooks and private spaces tucked away through small flights of stairs, glass doors and a sunken bar. 

 A focal point of the restaurant is its captivating mural from Graham & Brown in the UK, depicting a horizon of colourful clouds that reflect the never-ending skies over the Atlantic Ocean, adding to the sense of oceanic escape. This mural inspires a palette of light, airy pastels, and includes colours such as the pale pink of ‘Pieces of Eight’ and the muted grey-green tones of ‘Fynbos Leaf’. 

Furnishings were chosen with comfort, elegance and the venue’s coastal theme in mind. A bespoke teal velvet banquette with scalloped edges mirrors the arches of the architecture, while contrasting mustard-hued dining chairs and oak-coloured wooden tables contribute to the informal and elemental feel.  

Local suppliers and artists were instrumental in bringing the design to life, with pieces sourced from The Mill Fabrics based in Johannesburg and local emporium Block & Chisel. Additionally, the 12-seater private dining room features a bespoke light fitting, crafted from jacaranda pods, oyster shells and crystals, made by African Queen Studio. 

When discussing the restaurant aesthetic, Ruth explains: “It’s really a reflection of my personal taste. I love spaces that are beautiful yet comfortable, with lovely colours – I’m a big fan of good paint! Simplicity with unexpected, interesting touches is key, but everything has to be practical, never too ‘designy’ or trendy. For me, the design tells part of the story, and that story needs to resonate with a wide audience.” 

Inspired by the playful sophistication of filmmaker Wes Anderson and the innovative design of Piet Hein Eek, SeaBreeze blends whimsical elegance with natural textures. The restaurant’s design also draws influence from iconic venues like Ironside Fish & Oyster in San Diego and Wright Brothers in London, while embracing artistic influences ranging from Monet to Cape Town’s vibrant street-art scene. The building even boasts an impressive mural by international street artist CRBZ. 

 

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Ruth adds: “Whether you’re sitting at the Oyster Bar, in the main restaurant, perched on high stools at the terrace poser table, or relaxing in the SugarBird Wine Bar – a nod to our sister venues in the northeast of Scotland – each space offers the opportunity for people-watching and movement, creating a lively, welcoming atmosphere that complements the simple yet thoughtful design.” 

SeaBreeze Fish & Shell artfully combines coastal charm with modern sophistication, offering a design experience that is as delightful as the food and drinks it serves.

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