14 September 2018 | Libby Peacock
The Mother City is not only acclaimed for its wondrous natural beauty, first-class attractions and exhilarating activities, it’s also foodie heaven – with a number of international awards under its belt for the exceptional choice and quality of cuisine on offer. It’s just as well, then, that with City Sightseeing’s red bus tours you can make the most of the sights AND hop off to enjoy lunch at any number of restaurants, cafés, markets and parks when the hunger pangs strike. Here are some options to get you started:
If you’re in the mood for sharing, sampling and bonhomie, settle in at La Parada, a quick hop from a number of South Africa’s most illustrious wine estates. The delectable tapas here include sesame-seared tuna, flash-fried prawns, crispy pork belly, and fried and grilled calamari. There are also main dishes for sharing, and a range of fabulous sides and bar snacks. Toast the glorious Constantia winelands with some of the best local méthode Cap classique sparkling wines, or bubblies from further afield.
Find La Parada near stop 21, at Constantia Nek; tel: +27 (0)21 795 0620.
With its extraordinarily beautiful bay, slightly bohemian spirit, resident seals and strong fishing community, Hout Bay is on the bucket list of most local and overseas visitors. Hop off the red bus at the old harbour to grab a table at the spacious Wharfside Grill, designed to depict the seaside suburb’s maritime history. (There are private dining “cabins” for groups, too.) Naturally, seafood is the order of the day – but carnivores, vegetarians and sushi seekers are also catered for – and there’s a special kiddies’ menu.
Find the Wharfside Grill near stop 24, Mariner’s Wharf, Harbour Road, Hout Bay; tel: +27 (0)21 790 1100.
Overlooking the beach and Atlantic Ocean stretching all the way to the horizon, Bilboa is one of the many eateries on the glamorous Camps Bay strip. Hop off the red bus to join the beautiful people soaking up the atmosphere, and make an event of your lunch here. On the menu is a wide range of fish, shellfish and meat dishes, as well as more modestly priced “bowls and green things”. There’s an extensive list of wines and cocktails, as well as grappas, whiskeys, cognacs and more to finish off your meal. This is a place to visit if you want to linger.
Find Bilboa near stop 8, at shop 120, the Promenade, Camps Bay; tel: +27 (0)21 286 5155.
For more people watching, but with a cool, urban vibe, head to the indoor seven-day-a-week Mojo Market on Regent Road, Sea Point. Browse the fresh goods, clothing and jewellery on offer, and pick your preferred cuisine (from succulent shawarmas to cooked-on-the spot Chinese dumplings), with an indulgent sweet treat to follow. Great coffee is a given. Then grab a seat (find one with sea views upstairs) and watch the action – or, on weekends, take in a free lunchtime music performance.
Find Mojo Market near stop 10, at 30 Regent Road, Sea Point; www.mojomarket.co.za; email: manager@mojomarket.co.za.
The minute you stroll through the gate into Green Point Urban Park, relaxation sets in as you find yourself in one of Cape Town’s most peaceful natural settings. Explore the biodiversity showcase garden with thousands of indigenous plants, the outdoor labyrinth and the inviting lawns, all framed by views of nearby Signal Hill. The family-friendly Tea in the Park café (open seven days a week, weather permitting) is the perfect spot to enjoy a wrap, sandwich, salad or something sweet, far from the madding crowd.
Find Tea in the Park near stop 12, 1 Fritz Sonnenberg Road, Green Point; tel: +27 (0)60 997 6153 or +27 (0)861 888 784.
All roads lead to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront with its picturesque views and myriad attractions. Celebrate the mountain, sea and sky with a superb seafood meal overlooking the harbour at stylish Harbour House. (There are meat dishes and sushi, too.) Watch the passing parade of holidaymakers and vessels while contemplating your next leisurely move. If you’d like to repeat the experience, with a twist, there’s a Harbour House at stop 21 on Constantia Nek, too.
Find Harbour House near stop 1, Quay 4, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront; tel: +27 (0)21 418 4744 or +27 (0)21 418 4748.
Craving a satisfying meal amid authentic city-centre vibes? Cape Town is known for its cool, creative edge, so hop off at the City Sightseeing ticket office in Long Street and head to nearby Tiger’s Milk for a succulent burger (there are chicken and vegan options, too). Other options are pizza, Tex-Mex, beer-battered fish and fries, and more. Expect a fair amount of bustle and local flavour.
Find Tiger’s Milk near stop 5, at 44 Long Street, Cape Town; tel: +27 (0)21 422 3556
Hop on the open top red bus and enjoy the sights of Cape Town – from Table Mountain to the V&A Waterfront, from Camps Bay to Kirstenbosch. The Classic package gives you one full day on the bus covering all hop-on, hop-off tours.
