Summer in the Mother City means the sun sets later, leaving you with more time to enjoy a cocktail or two when the workday comes to an end. Here are some of the best spots to head to for a cool drink after a long day.

Bobo’s Brasserie (Mouille Point)

This bistro is idyllically situated on the beach road in Mouille Point. Whether you’re going for bites and drinks while watching the sun set over the horizon or staying for something more substantial, Bobo’s menu is bound to offer something the whole table will enjoy. The wine list offers various varietals, while a wide range of cocktails (including non-alcoholic options) brings the summer vibe.

 

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Bossa Goodtimes Bar & Restaurant (Strand)

Bossa is fast making a name for itself all around Cape Town, but this branch has arguably the best view and impeccable service. Situated right on the beachfront in Strand, the views encompass the ocean for as far as the eye can see. When it’s high tide, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins frolicking in the ocean as well as whales during the season.

Rockpool Restaurant (Three Anchor Bay)

Share some tapas (the crispy Cajun calamari comes recommended) or a pizza while sipping on a glass of something cool and watching the rays of the sun light up the beachside palm trees. The frozen cocktails are heaven sent in the heart of summer and they offer non-alcoholic cocktails too. The vibe is buzzing, especially when there’s live sport on the telly.

 

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Strolla Restaurant & Bar (Sea Point)

Enjoy glorious views from the deck while tucking into a light meal and cocktails. The menu is made for sharing with pizza, small plates of seafood and sushi all making an appearance. Or opt for their bar bites, which include nachos, tacos and ribs, or the Strolla platter (a flavour sensation of vegetarian snacks). The food is complemented by a reasonable list of beers, cocktails and wines. And for those moms and pops who can’t find a babysitter for the evening, Strolla is kid-friendly, with a special kids’ menu that includes a build-your-own-pizza option.

Himitsu (Camps Bay)

This Japanese-inspired restaurant offers unusual cocktails featuring ingredients such as togarashi, roasted cardamom and holy basil. If cocktails and spirits aren’t your thing, the wine list will also a delight with some interesting finds. Pair them with snacks such as oysters, tempura shrimp and edamame, or make your own four-course menu for R380 per person. In summer, enjoy your food and drinks out on the grass overlooking the bay.

 

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De Brasserie (Strand)

Bistro-style snacks can be enjoyed with Almenkerk wines and cocktails while you watch the residents of Strand take their evening strolls along the beachfront. It truly is an idyllic picture, best enjoyed with fresh oysters, bitterballen and cheese croquettes. Or opt for a cold meat platter or the bistro platter of tempura prawns, pate, satay and calamari.

Chinchilla Rooftop Café & Bar (Camps Bay)

You’ll feel like you’re at a tropical haven at this rooftop bar. The cocktails aren’t cheap, but then this is Camps Bay and Chinchilla offers some of the best views of one of the hottest beaches in Cape Town. Light bites include oysters and prawn cocktail, the perfect accompaniments to your sundowners, or order one of the Chinchilla platters to share if you’re planning to stay for more than just one drink.

 

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The Thirsty Oyster (Gordons Bay)

Arrive early to grab a spot on the balcony overlooking the boats bobbing in the harbour. The menu is typical tavern fare and seafood-driven, however, the food is fresh, the beer is cold and the ambience is great, so you definitely can’t go wrong with this one.

Blowfish Restaurant (Table View)

For views of one of the most iconic mountains in the world, Bloubergstrand can’t be beaten. And Blowfish offers possibly the most majestic views on this coast. It’s also the perfect spot for a glass of ice-cold wine paired with sushi. Look out for their half-price sushi specials on Wednesdays and Sundays (and be sure to book in advance) or go for the daily oysters-and-bubbly special, which includes six oysters and two glasses of sparkling wine.

 

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Jerry’s Burger Bar (Table View)

Book ahead for a spot on the wooden deck for the best views of the windsurfers against the backdrop of Table Mountain. The tacos, nachos, corn dogs and bombs are always good and best enjoyed washed down by cocktails and beers. If you need something more substantial, you can’t go wrong with a Jerry’s burger – the patties are perfectly cooked and the toppings are varied and delicious.

 

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The Hart (Melkbosstrand)

Further up the coast, you’ll find this all-day eatery on the beachfront. Enjoy a glass of wine, craft beer or cocktail with a cheese or cheese-and-meat platter while watching the waves peacefully lap against the shore. If you prefer pizza, head to their sister restaurant next door, I Love Melkies, which also offers sea views.