Welcome to the vibrant tapestry of hidden gems in Cape Town, where the city’s soul comes to life in tucked-away treasures. These places don’t always make it into the guidebooks but are adored by those in the know. From delectable eateries to unexpected adventures, Cape Town’s hidden gems have it all. Here are our top 10 picks for exploring the secret side of the Mother City.
The Best Hidden Gems in Cape Town
1. Persian Peacock: A Taste of Iran in Cape Town
First up, have you heard of Persian Peacock? It’s this really cool restaurant in Cape Town that transports you to Iran. You climb up a couple flights of outdoor stairs, and then boom! You’re in this cosy little spot decorated with fancy textiles and brass lamps. You’ll also get a fantastic view of the mountains. The owners, Ali and Fatima, have combined all these old and new Persian and Iranian food traditions to create this unforgettable meal. They’ve got everything from mezze platters to kebabs that are seriously juicy, and don’t even get me started on the tah-chin – it’s a dome of saffron rice with lamb that’s been slow-cooked, and it’s just amazing. You’ve got to check out Persian Peacock if you want a dining experience you’ll never forget.
Service Options: Dine-in, Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery
Google Rating: 4.8
Location: 176 Upper Buitenkant Street, Vredehoek, Cape Town
Opening Times: Tuesday to Friday from 5 pm to 10 pm and Saturday from 1 pm to 10 pm
Menu: Persian Peacock Menu
Contact: 060 579 9486
Also read: 13 must-try restaurants in Cape Town
2. Tapi Tapi: Sweet Surprises in Observatory
Next up on our list of hidden gems in Cape Town is Tapi Tapi. It’s a chill ice cream place in Observatory that you have to check out. They’ve got some crazy flavours that change all the time, which makes it even more fun to go there. The owner, Tapiwa Guzha, is a foodie with a background in microbiology who takes inspiration from African ingredients and his grandma’s cooking. You must try the deep-fried dough with kei apple jam or the caramelised plantain and ginger flavours – they’re fantastic!
Service Options: Dine-in, Takeaway, Delivery
Google Rating: 4.9
Location: 76 Lower Main Road, Observatory, Cape Town
Opening Times: Tuesday to Sunday from 12 pm to 6 pm
Menu: Tapi Tapi Cafe Menu
Contact: 076 914 5614
Also read: Watch: 10 of the best artisanal ice cream spots in Cape Town
3. Urban Playground: Where Street Food Meets Cool Vibes
Have you heard of Urban Playground? This fantastic culinary joint is run by Debs and Chef Peter Ayub, who own Sense of Taste Chef School and Sous Chef Byron Thebus. They’re all about creating gourmet street food that’s sustainable ethical, and supports the local community. And let me tell you, their kitchen is a real hub of creativity – they’re constantly cooking up unforgettable meals. Oh, and they also run a community feeding program and use eco-friendly packaging. So, if you’re looking for delicious food with a conscience, Urban Playground is the place to be.
Service Options: Dine-in, Kerbside pickup, No delivery
Google Rating: 4.7
Location: 1A Coronation Court, Corner Coronation and Van Wyk Streets, Maitland, Cape Town
Opening Times: Tuesday to Saturday from 12 pm to 10 pm (last order is at 8.30 pm, and the kitchen closes at 9.30 pm)
Menu: Urban Playground Menu
Contact: 082 337 6240
4. How Bao Now: The Bao Bun Revolution
Next on our guide to hidden gems in Cape Town is How Bao Now. This fantastic spot tucked away in the Old Biscuit Mill serves up some of the best Taiwanese-inspired Bao Buns you’ll ever taste. The founders, Matt van den Berg and Carla Schulze, used to be Test Kitchen chefs, and now they’ve created this cosy little eatery that’s just bursting with flavour. They make all their buns by hand and fill them with succulent delights like pork belly and even BBQ-pulled jackfruit (surprisingly vegan!). Plus, they have creative daily specials that keep the menu exciting, so every visit is a new adventure in taste. So don’t miss out on this hidden culinary treasure.
Service Options: Dine-in, Kerbside pickup, No delivery
Google Rating: 4.7
Location: The Old Biscuit Mill, 373-375 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town
Opening Times: Wednesday to Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm and dinner from 6 pm to 8.30 pm
Contact: 021 447 8194
Reservations: Dineplan.com
5. Reverie Social Table: A Hidden Dining Haven
Hey, have you ever checked out Reverie Social Table in Observatory? It’s a super cool spot for a one-of-a-kind dining experience. The chef, Julia Hattingh, whips up a fantastic five-course meal with perfectly paired wines. But the best part? It’s not just a restaurant – it’s a place where strangers can become friends over great conversations and connections. It’s a dining adventure you won’t forget!
Service Options: Dine-in, No takeaway, No delivery
Google Rating: 4.9
Location: 226A Lower Main Road, Observatory, Cape Town
Opening Times: Monday to Saturday from 6.30 pm to 11 pm (reservation only)
Contact: 079 06 06971
Reservations: Dineplan.com
6. Bodega Ramen: Where Ramen Dreams Come True
Are you a ramen fanatic? Then you have to check out Bodega Ramen on Wales Street, above Honest Chocolate Café and the Gin Bar. It’s one of the best hidden gems in Cape Town when it comes to mouth-watering, flavour-packed ramen bowls. They’ve got all sorts of options, from miso charsu pork belly with pickles and ajitama egg to creative veggie choices. Plus, the chill atmosphere and welcoming staff make it the perfect spot to indulge in your ramen fix.
Service Options: Dine-in, No delivery
Google Rating: 4.7
Location: 64A Wale Street, CBD, Cape Town
Opening Times: Tuesday to Saturday from 6 pm to 10 pm
Contact: 078 241 3285
Reservations: Dineplan.com
7. Seven Colours Eatery: Where South African Flavours Shine
You should try Seven Colours Eatery if you’re ever around the V&A Waterfront. They’ve got some fantastic classic South African dishes like Umleqwa and Tshisanyama. It’s a hidden gem with a chill vibe that makes it easy to just kick back and enjoy your meal. Definitely worth trying if you want to explore the country’s culinary heritage.
Service Options: Dine-in, Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery
Google Rating: 4.9
Location: Unit 3, Battery Park, Canal District, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront
Opening Times: Daily from 9 am to 6 pm
Contact: 087 265 8762
Also read: Great breakfast restaurants and cafés in Cape Town
8. The Collective Hout Bay: Food, Art, and Good Vibes
We’re approaching the end of our list of hidden gems in Cape Town. Now take a look at The Collective Hout Bay – they have a fantastic selection of hand-crafted gifts from over 180 local artists! You can find everything from ceramics and art to deli products and clothes. Plus, they’ve got The Café Collective, which serves up some perfect organic coffee, Montreal-style bagels, pastries, cakes, and daily specials – not to mention the harvest table salads! And the best part? You can enjoy this in a beautiful, historic courtyard surrounded by Milkwood trees. And if you’ve got little ones, they’ll even have fun in the mud kitchen! Plenty of free parking is available out front, or you can park at Mainstream Mall and pop over the small bridge over the stream towards The Boatshed.
Service Options: In-store shopping, In-store pick-up
Google Rating: 4.5
Location: 35 Main Road, Scott Estate, Cape Town
Opening Times: Monday to Sunday from 9 am to 10 pm
Menu: The Collective Hout Bay Menu
Contact: 083 897 7906
9. Wayfare Deli & Coffee: Your Coffee Oasis
Hey, have you been to Wayfare Deli & Coffee in Claremont? It’s like a coffee heaven and a healthy food paradise all in one! This hidden gem has fantastic artisanal coffee, delicious pastries, and light breakfast options. It’s a cosy spot to chill and enjoy your caffeine kick. Whether you’re working or hanging out with friends, this place is perfect for a coffee break!
Service Options: Dine-in, Takeaway
Google Rating: 4.7
Location: 8 Grove Avenue, Claremont, Cape Town
Opening Times: Monday to Friday from 7 am to 4 pm and Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm
Contact: 083 226 0978
10. Furny’s Fine Wines & Taste Room: Sip and Savour
Furny’s Fine Wines & Taste Room on Chapman’s Peak is a wine lover’s dream. This boutique wine estate offers delightful wine tastings in a scenic setting. Try over 50 wines by the glass while soaking in vineyard views. It’s a fantastic spot for wine enthusiasts. Also, enjoy live music on Sundays from 4 pm to 6.30 pm.
Service Options: Dine-in, Takeaway, Delivery
Google Rating: 4.8
Location: 67 Beach Road, Chapmans Peak, Cape Town
Opening Times: Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 10 pm
Menu: Furny’s Menu
Wine List: Furny’s Wine List
So, check out these hidden gems in Cape Town the next time you’re in the Mother City. You can find all sorts of unique flavours here, from Iranian cuisine to crazy ice cream concoctions to global street food and more. Trust me, these hidden gems are worth discovering – they offer a unique and eclectic taste of Cape Town’s food scene that you won’t want to miss.
Also read: Elevate your home decor with KitKat and Subway tiles: Introducing the Keradom Home Range
Picture: Instagram / jacqui.kat
