Date Night Dinners in Cape Town

Cape Town

There's nothing quite like getting a little dressed up and going out for dinner to spend quality time with your S/O, whether that's a boyfriend or a best friend. Here are my favourite finds for elevated date night dinners.

August 2023
User Avatar Alexis
Harmonious Yenta

Ariel Modern ($$)

Sea Point

Description

A tastefully decorated and elevated experience that offers exceptional Italian with a modern twist. Enjoy a cocktail before indulging in some Arancini. I'd recommend a dish but they're all great so see what tickles your fancy!

Tips on Safety
Advanced Booking Advised
Go by Car
Uber/Taxi's Available
Pay Attention to Surroundings

Additional Safety Information
Sea Point is one of those areas where it helps to be street savvy. It's busy at night with all the hustle and bustle from people eating out at the numerous restaurants, but my advice would be to not flash your valuables and just be vigilant.

More in Sea Point

Regent Road

Description

  • Una Mas ($$) - for Mexican and great cocktails
  • Three Wise Monkeys ($) - sensational ramen
  • Mojo Market ($) - for live music and a variety of food vendors to choose from
  • Moro Gelato ($) - end the night at this GORGEOUS gelato shop with it's gold 'pozzetti' counters and exceptional handmade, seasonal flavours

Tips on Safety
Advanced Booking Advised
BIPOC Friendly
LGBTQIA+ Friendly
Uber/Taxi's Available
Account for Traffic

Additional Safety Information
Parking is always a bit of a nightmare along this stretch at dinner time (Regent Road), so either Uber, park in one of the nearby underground shopping centres (paid parking) or leave enough time before your booking.

Bao Down ($$)

Green Point

Description

One of my ultimate spots. The portions are on the smaller side, which makes it an ideal place to order a few plates and share. I find this is a great way to connect with one another. I love the beautiful decor and romantic lighting that sets the scene for a great date night.

Tips on Safety
Advanced Booking Advised
BIPOC Friendly
Go by Car
LGBTQIA+ Friendly
Safe at Night
Uber/Taxi's Available
ATM's Nearby

Additional Safety Information
During sunset to peak dinner times, I'd say this stretch is safe for walking. Be vigilant as it quietens down.

Gelato Mania ($)

Green Point

Description

Be sure to end the night with a scoop of Dark Chocolate Raspberry from Gelato Mania. Not only is this flavour incredible, it's actually vegan and only sweetened with Stevia, which is really just a bonus. I love this family-run business and their commitment to quality ingredients.

Tips on Safety
Safe at Night
ATM's Nearby
Safe for Walking


Il Leone Mastrantonio ($$)

De Waterkant

Description

A Cape Town institution consistently serving up incredible Italian food and wine. This traditional, yet elevated, restaurant really makes you feel special and the service sets the scene for a memorable night.

Tips on Safety
Advanced Booking Advised
BIPOC Friendly
LGBTQIA+ Friendly
Uber/Taxi's Available
Pay Attention to Surroundings


In the City Centre

City Centre

Description

  • Start with drinks at The Secret Gin Bar on Wale or Tjing Tjing Rooftop Bar and then pick what you're in the mood for:
  • Ouzeri ($$) - Elevated Greek food
  • Gigi Rooftop at the Gorgeous George ($$) - high-quality produce in a stunning setting
  • Scala Pasta ($$) - refined Italian with great service
  • Vixi's Social House ($$) - More relaxed setting with good food and a vibe

Tips on Safety
Advanced Booking Advised
Go by Car
Uber/Taxi's Available
Pay Attention to Surroundings


Kloof Street House ($$$)

Gardens

Description

A well-known restaurant that's great for a special evening out. Set in an old Victorian House, KSH is eclectic and charming offering up a unique experience with an elevated menu, attention to detail and quality service. Book a table outside in the fairy lit garden.

Tips on Safety
Advanced Booking Advised
Go by Car
Uber/Taxi's Available
Don't Carry Valuables
Safe for Walking

Additional Safety Information
Not far from KSH is The Labia Theatre, an independent movie theatre that serves wine and other beverages. It's the perfect dinner and a movie combo. You can walk between the two, but if it's dark please be vigilant - stick to the common route > travel up Kloof St, onto Rheede St and then onto Orange St (or vice versa).

Marias Greek Cafe ($$)

Gardens

Description

I love this cosy spot for their warm atmosphere and really great food. Greek food makes for a perfect sharing meal. You won't be disappointed. You can also choose to sit outside in the fairy-lit courtyard.

Tips on Safety
Advanced Booking Advised
Go by Car
Safe at Night
Uber/Taxi's Available


Bacini's on Kloof ($$)

Upper Kloof

Description

Love this terraced spot for a more casual date night dinner. Expect pizza, pasta and other traditional Italian favourites.

Tips on Safety
Advanced Booking Advised
BIPOC Friendly
LGBTQIA+ Friendly
Uber/Taxi's Available

Additional Safety Information
All of Kloof Street can have limited parking, it's easier to Uber.