South Africa is home to some of the most scenic dining destinations in the world, where culinary excellence meets stunning ocean, lagoon, and harbour views. If you’re in Cape Town, Knysna, or along the Garden Route, there’s something magical about dining by the water, the soft breeze, glimmering reflections, and that unmistakable feeling of calm.
If you’re looking for where to enjoy your next coastal meal, here are the top 10 waterfront restaurants in South Africa that promise delicious food and unforgettable views.
Waterfront Restaurants in South Africa
1. Harbour House Restaurant
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Located at the heart of Cape Town’s iconic V&A Waterfront, Harbour House offers floor-to-ceiling glass walls overlooking the harbour and the ocean beyond. The menu focuses on fresh seafood, think mussels, prawns, and sushi.
Tip: Request a window seat for the best panorama.
Address: V&A Waterfront, Kalk Bay & Camps Bay, Cape Town, Western Cape.
2. Sevruga Restaurant
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Sevruga blends fine dining and sophistication in one of the best waterfront locations in Cape Town. Expect premium sushi, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list.
Tip: Make reservations around 6:30 p.m. to catch the sunset glow.
Address: V & A Waterfront, Cape Town, Western Cape 8001
3. Quay Four
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A Cape Town classic, Quay Four combines a lively tavern on the ground floor with a more refined restaurant upstairs. Both offer excellent views of the marina and Table Mountain.
Tip: The terrace is perfect for late-afternoon drinks.
Address: Quay 4, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, Western Cape 8001
4. Firefish Restaurant
Firefish brings a contemporary flair to waterfront dining with its sleek design and modern seafood menu. Enjoy sashimi, grilled prawns, and other ocean delicacies while watching the boats drift by.
Tip: Perfect for lunch with a view or an elegant dinner date.
Address: Shop 154, Victoria Wharf, Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
5. Grand Africa Café & Beach
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For a true beach-front experience, Grand Africa Café & Beach offers dining with your feet in the sand and sweeping views of the Atlantic. The menu includes Mediterranean-inspired dishes and creative cocktails.
Tip: Go early to secure a front-row seat for sunset.
Address: Granger Bay
6. Tang Restaurant
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Tang brings Asian luxury dining to Cape Town with a focus on Japanese and Cantonese cuisine. Its terrace seating area offers captivating harbour and Table Mountain views.
Tip: Ideal for upscale dinners or business lunches.
Address: Shop 153, V&A Waterfront, 19 Breakwater Blvd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Grandwest, Cape Town 8001
7. Den Anker
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A Belgian-inspired restaurant overlooking the harbour, Den Anker serves hearty comfort dishes, seafood, and excellent Belgian beers. The view of Table Mountain from the terrace is unforgettable.
Tip: Visit during the afternoon for a casual beer by the water.
Address: Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
8. Butterfly Blu
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Perched above Brenton-on-Sea, Butterfly Blu offers breathtaking ocean views and a relaxed coastal setting. The menu features pizzas, seafood platters, and hearty South African favourites.
Tip: Time your visit for sunset, the view is unmatched.
Address:Brenton-on-Sea, Knysna
9. The Drydock Food Co.
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Nestled at the Knysna Quays, The Drydock Food Co. combines great food with marina views and a laid-back atmosphere. Their oysters and seafood pastas are local favourites.
Tip: Try their fresh oysters paired with a glass of local wine.
Address: Waterfront Shop, 1 Waterfront Dr, Knysna Central, Knysna, 6570, South Africa
10. Café Caprice
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A Cape Town institution, Café Caprice sits right on the beach in Camps Bay. Known for its lively atmosphere, cocktails, and international dishes, it’s a must-visit for sundowners.
Tip: Get there before sunset, the view is spectacular.
Address: 37 Victoria Rd, Camps Bay, Cape Town
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfront Restaurants in South Africa
1. What are the best waterfront restaurants in South Africa?
Some of the best waterfront restaurants include Harbour House, Sevruga, Firefish, Tang, and Grand Africa Café & Beach in Cape Town, as well as Butterfly Blu and The Drydock Food Co. in Knysna. Each offers exceptional cuisine paired with beautiful harbour or ocean views.
2. Which city has the most waterfront restaurants in South Africa?
Cape Town has the highest concentration of waterfront restaurants, especially around the V&A Waterfront and Camps Bay. These areas are popular for their scenic ocean views, luxury settings, and diverse dining options.
3. Are there any waterfront restaurants outside Cape Town?
Yes. Beyond Cape Town, you’ll find stunning waterfront dining options in Knysna, Durban, and Plettenberg Bay. In Knysna, for example, Butterfly Blu and The Drydock Food Co. offer ocean and lagoon views that rival the city’s best spots.
4. What kind of food do waterfront restaurants in South Africa serve?
Most waterfront restaurants specialize in seafood, featuring fresh catches like prawns, mussels, oysters, and calamari. However, you’ll also find international cuisines such as Mediterranean, Asian fusion, and modern South African dishes depending on the venue.
5. Do waterfront restaurants in South Africa serve local South African cuisine?
Yes, several restaurants incorporate local flavours and ingredients into their menus. Expect to find dishes inspired by South African coastal cooking, such as seafood platters, grilled fish, and biltong-inspired starters.
Final Thoughts
Dining by the water in South Africa is more than just a meal, it’s an experience that connects great food with breathtaking views. From elegant seafood restaurants at the V&A Waterfront to relaxed ocean-side gems along the Garden Route, these spots capture the beauty and flavour of South Africa’s coastline.
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