South Africa has an abundance of superb restaurants that cater from budget to 5-star tastes, but sometimes a fancy hotel restaurant just doesn’t cut it. Those exploring the Western Cape are in for more than just a fancy dinner around the coast, with options like braaivleis served up right on the beach, meals served by the country’s most wanted, or perhaps some unusual African entertainment while you fill your bellies. Whatever it is you’re after, the Western Cape has plenty of unusual restaurants that are well worth opening your wallet for.
Evita se Perron Theatre, Darling
For a truly unusual night out, try Evita se Perron in Darling. Located in the old Darling Station, customers can sit back and be entertained with live performances by one of South Africa’s most famous satirists, Pieter Dirk Uys. And the show isn’t the only attraction in this sleepy town. The kitchen serves legendary braai en slaai, roast lamb, and bobotie which you can’t leave without trying. Finish off with Evita’s famous koeksisters or malva pudding.
Contact +27 (0)22 492 2851.
Pollsmoor Mess, Cape Town
Pollsmoor Mess, located in Pollsmoor Maximum Security Prison, is an actual prison restaurant. And I don’t mean prison themed; this restaurant is located in a working prison where the waiters serve both food and time. It forms part of the prison’s rehabilitation program where inmates are taught occupational skills they can use once they are released. And no, you don’t have to worry about being served by a murderer as only petty thieves are allowed this freedom. While many people are drawn to the restaurant by its sheer novelty, there are plenty of return customers who enjoy the inexpensive food. While you can’t hand any cash to the waiters, you can place tips in a sealed box afterwards; which they can use at the commissary to buy soap, shaving cream, and cigarettes.
Booking is essential. Contact +27 (0)21 700 1270. If you like this unusual restaurant idea, you can also try the Drakenstein A La Carte prison restaurant in Paarl!
Two Oceans Restaurant, Cape Point
South Africa is one of the very few places in the world where you can enjoy a meal in what is argued to be the spot where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. The Two Oceans Restaurant in Cape Point offers a superb view over the False Bay coastline. Having recently undergone a R3 million refurbishment, the restaurant more than affirms its importance as a tourist destination. If you visit during June – November, you may even spot whales from the balcony!
Contact +27 (0)21 780 9200.
Amazink Live! Kayamandi
Amazink Live! is a township shebeen in Kayamandi, Stellenbosch, that has teamed up with The Barnyard Theatre Production Company to bring you a proudly South African musical production. You can look forward to a 3-course meal as you’re entertained by an authentic and cultural musical. Food is prepared by award winning chef, Bertus Basson, and offers true South African flavours. The restaurant reopens on 19 October 2013.
Contact +27 (0)72 993 9173.
Bientang’s Cave, Hermanus
“For delicious seafood in a cave, down by the sea in the company of whales” is a quote that captures Bientang’s Cave in a nutshell. The award-winning restaurant is carved into the depths of a century old cave that overlooks the famous Walker Bay. Depending on the time of year, you may spot whales frolicking in the waves from the comfort of your table. Offering an unusual eating location and the most divine view, you really couldn’t ask for anything better.
Contact +27 (0)28 312 3454.
GOLD Restaurant, Cape Town
Those after a traditional African feast will find GOLD Restaurant more than accommodating. Enjoy traditional Cape Malay meals – “from Cape Town to Timbuktu”. Start the evening off with an interactive Djembe drumming session, followed by a hand washing ceremony, before sitting down in an area of your choice, surrounded by unusual African decor. A set 14-course menu will be served to you by one of the traditionally dressed waiters who will explain what each dish is and where it comes from. During dinner, you’ll be entertained by Mali Puppets as singers and dancers dance around your table. The food is quite pricey, but as you’re also paying for the night’s entertainment, it’s worth the extra spend. Read our full review.
Contact +27 (0) 21 421 4653
Die Strandloper Restaurant, Langebaan
If you’re looking for a relaxed eat-on-the-beach venue, Die Strandloper is one of the best you’ll get. Located in an authentic fishing village, this open-air restaurant is set directly on the beach and offers a chance to sink your feet into the soft sand as you enjoy fresh seafood cooked straight off an open braai. Booking is essential.
Contact +27 (0)22 772 2490.
What other unusual restaurants do you recommend in the Western Cape? Let us know in the comments below!
