After much anticipation, Marble Cape Town has officially opened its doors in the iconic V&A Waterfront, marking a rare expansion of the popular Johannesburg-based restaurant into the Mother City, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Chef David Higgs has brought his renowned live-fire cooking concept to Cape Town, offering both locals and visitors a unique dining experience by the sea.
Marble, famous for its hearty cuts of meat, seafood, and vibrant open-fire grilling, has gained a loyal following in Johannesburg, particularly at its Rosebank location. The new Cape Town branch stays true to the brand’s winning formula, combining high-quality food, exceptional service, and an unforgettable atmosphere. With stunning views of the waterfront, the space offers a front-row seat to the live-fire cooking action in the show kitchen, complete with the state-of-the-art Grillworks.
Located in the refurbished Castle Union House, Marble Cape Town spans an impressive 800 square meters, seating up to 220 guests. The vast space allows diners to take in panoramic views of the harbour while enjoying the restaurant’s fiery ambiance.
Head Chef Matt van Niekerk, who leads the Cape Town kitchen, brings a fresh approach to the Marble concept by incorporating local flavours and ingredients. Dishes like snoek pâté paired with magwenya (a local fried bread), and a tartare of lamb and beef with waterblommetjies (Cape wildflowers) give a distinct twist to the menu. For main courses, expect favourites like the wood-fired Chalmar ribeye, as well as new additions such as mussel paella and line fish with roasted fish bone sauce.
The emphasis on live-fire cooking, although not new, remains a signature feature of Marble, creating a communal atmosphere where guests can connect over the warmth of the grill. ‘Fire brings people together,’ says van Niekerk, ‘and that’s what excites us about Marble Cape Town.’
Vegetarian options are also elevated by the grill, with dishes like roasted pumpkin with candied walnuts and burnt honey dressing offering a flavourful alternative to meat. Higgs shares his admiration for how vegetables transform over fire, gaining a depth of flavour that’s impossible to achieve with other cooking methods.
Marble’s impressive wine selection continues in Cape Town, with an expertly curated list of local and international wines chosen by Group Wine Director Wikus Human and Head Sommelier Jan-Hendrik Venter. Additionally, a creative cocktail menu promises to enhance your dining experience.
The restaurant’s design, led by Marble Group’s Interior Director Irene Kyriacou, blends art and aesthetic elegance, aiming to highlight the beauty of the surroundings without overshadowing them.
With its prime location and exceptional offerings, Marble Cape Town is expected to be a hot spot this summer, so make sure to reserve your table in advance to avoid disappointment.
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Picture: Instagram
