The 17 Best Restaurants in Newlands + Claremont

With Newlands Forest on the mountain slope, a long avenue through its heart, fresh mountain streams, and Kirstenbosch Gardens at its boundaries, Newlands is one of Cape Town’s greenest suburbs (its higher-than-average winter rainfall all part of Table Mountain’s bounty).

Quiet village streets and school playing fields coalesce to a buzz of restaurants and cafés at two main hubs: Kildare Road at Dean Street. These community hubs for those lucky enough to live within walking distance, and magnets for locals from all over the southern suburbs.

The neighbouring suburb of Claremont also deserves a mention for its handful of trusty favourites. Here’s our pick of the best restaurants in Newlands and Claremont.

Newlands
Claremont

Newlands

Culture Wine Bar

Matt Manning had been eyeing this spot on Kildare Road for years, and finally secured it for a second Culture Wine Bar, much to the delight of southern suburb locals. “The inspiration comes from all those small European wine bars Rox and I have stumbled across on our travels. Places where you stop for a glass and end up staying for dinner.” He and his wife, Roxanne, have created a neighbourhood wine bar echoing that vibe – with outdoor tables, great wine, tasty food (think pintxos, hot and cold tapas, local cheeses and Richard Bosman charcuterie), familiar faces and a sense of community. It’s a place where a quick bite with a glass of wine easily turns into dinner and late-night conversation.
Good to know No bookings. There are weekend brunches with mimosas too.
Opening times Monday – Thursday , 12pm – 11pm
Friday – Saturday , 11am – 11pm
Sunday , 11am – 10pm
Contact 077 438 8854 (WhatsApp)
Where to find it Kildare Centre, Kildare Road, Newlands, Cape Town

Patina Steak

Patina is hidden away inside the Newlands Quarter, and before you even take your first bite, there are clues galore that this is no average steakhouse. The alluring wine-by-the-carafe list; the varied starter menu (carpaccio, steak tartare, oven-roast cauliflower, roast marrow bones with onion rings, even snails); the slick interiors; and, of course, the perfectly prepared steaks (tender juicy Chateaubriand, succulent ribeye, melt-in-the-mouth fillet, T-bone with marrow bones) have made this a popular local go-to. Other good choices include the wagyu burger and the baby kingklip. And make sure to order the sweet potato fries as the side dish with your steak… they’re crispy perfection.
Good to know Across a little open-air courtyard you’ll find the Botany Bar for pre- or post-dinner drinks.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 12pm – 10pm
Contact 021 203 5246, [email protected]
Where to find it Newlands Quarter, 37 Dean Street, Newlands, Cape Town
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Mamma Roma Ristorante

Situated inside the Dean Street Arcade with ample underground parking, Mamma Roma specialises in authentic northern Italian cuisine and is usually packed with regulars who keep coming back for the consistently good food, homely old-school atmosphere and efficient service – not to mention the generous portion sizes. Hands-on owners Romano and Christina Gorrini have been playing to packed houses in Newlands since 1998 (and before that in Stellenbosch), with a menu of old favourites such as risotto porcini, linguine pescatore, melanzane alla parmigiana – and a chalkboard menu of specials that features the seasonal hits. Look here for asparagus and artichokes in season, roast veal and fresh fish dishes.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 9pm
Contact 021 685 2051, [email protected]
Where to find it Dean Street Arcade, Dean Street, Newlands, Cape Town

Pizza Shed

A new home for Pizza Shed in the southern suburbs (following the closure of the Obs branch), this upstairs spot on the corner of Main Road and Dean Street was already pumping when we visited soon after it opened. The unassuming staircase on Main Road leads up into a large, light (and quite noisy) space with a wide covered verandah looking out over the trees on the Dean Street side (and you can watch the pizza-oven action in the open kitchen at the top of the stairs). James Williams and Tando Bavuma’s signature Canotto style of pizza (featuring an even puffier crust than the regular Neapolitan) is as consistently delicious as ever, keeping it “authentic” and also “offering all the toppings”. Great news for flavour fiends, as you get the option of adding top-notch ingredients onto your pizza – from Grana Padano to fior di latte cheeses, San Marzano tomatoes, classic pepperoni and Nduja (spicy pork sausage). The pizza dough itself is 72-hours proved (it makes a big difference to the end result), cooked in a wood-fired oven, and then flung into grateful hands.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 9pm
Contact 060 953 4467
Where to find it 244 Main Road, Newlands, Cape Town
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Fishmonger

A new neighbourhood seafood spot looking out onto Dean Street, Fishmonger is the Cape Town iteration of a Joburg favourite, much-loved for perfectly cooked fish served in generous portions with warm hospitality. Intimate and elegant, the space is welcoming with plants, cookbooks, comfortable banquettes, cushioned chairs and warm lighting. A varied menu kicks off with small plates such as succulent chilli-salt squid, smoked-snoek samosas, grilled sardines and lobster bisque. Locally caught fish is the backbone of the main menu: on our visit kabaljou fillets, a whole red roman, East Coast sole and baby kingklip all featured, or go for the seabass with harissa risotto, a Mozambique-style coconut prawn curry, calamari, salmon teriyaki and hake thermidor. There are steaks, pregos, peri-peri chicken and a leek risotto for the fish-averse, and a varied wine list. Finish off with the pistachio semifreddo (generous enough to share), a crème brûlée or chocolate fondant. A comfortable spot to settle in for an evening of relaxed conversation and good food.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm
Contact 078 098 3187
Where to find it 37 Dean Street, Newlands, Cape Town
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The Vineyard Garden Lounge + Patio

Surrounded by ancient trees, tortoise-patrolled lawns and winding pathways, with a dramatic mountain backdrop, The Vineyard’s inimitable garden setting is a favourite among Cape Town locals and out-of-town visitors for leisurely alfresco dining. The Garden Lounge and Patio sees you all the way through the day from buffet breakfast, light lunches and umami burgers, to afternoon teas (Friday to Sunday), cocktail-hour sundowners, and delicious dinners. There’s a dedicated kids’ menu of salads, sandwiches, burgers and sweet treats all day. If the weather makes alfresco dining less appealing, the cosy lounge and restaurant area indoors is equally atmospheric (although you’ll miss the gentle giant tortoise parade).
Good to know Morii Restaurant next door, also with a terrace looking out over the gardens, offers an Italian-inspired menu that includes Neapolitan pizzas, pastas, small plates and Negronis.
Opening times 7am – 10.30am; 12pm – 4.30pm; 5.30pm – 10pm
Contact 021 657 4500, [email protected]
Where to find it Colinton Road (off Protea Road), Newlands, Cape Town
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The Gardener’s Cottage

A local treasure for three decades, the Barty family’s picturesque restaurant under the trees at the Montebello Design Centre offers a tranquil reprieve from the traffic and noise of the city. Ask any Newlands local and they’ll tell you that breakfast or lunch (and dinner in summer) here is a special treat. On sunny days, sit outdoors on the wide terrace under the historic camphor trees and enjoy their legendary chicken pie with a fresh herb sauce, or cosy up inside the cottage in winter weather with their equally delish chicken curry, served with poppadums and sambals. They bake their own range of sourdough, rye and farmers breads for sandwiches and breakfast toasts, and their baked cheesecake, pastries and carrot cake attract the coffee crowd.
Good to know Don’t leave Montebello without browsing the many craft shops and wonderful garden nursery – a must for green-finger enthusiasts.
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 8am – 9pm (summer)
Tuesday – Saturday, 8am – 4.30pm (winter)
Sunday, 8.30am – 4.30pm
Contact 021 689 3158, [email protected]
Where to find it Montebello Design Centre, 31 Newlands Avenue, Newlands, Cape Town
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Café du Cap

A fixture on Newlands locals’ map for breakfast, easy lunches, tapas, or bubbly and frites, Café du Cap has moved across the road from their old spot, expanding into larger premises in the Cardiff Castle block. The new space continues their famous harvest lunch table, which runs every weekday until the bounteous dishes of roast meats, fishcakes, baby potatoes, roast vegetables and salads have been devoured. There’ll be pizzas, cocktails and tapas to go with a glass of Veuve Cliquot, plus a deli section and a boutique selling silk kaftans. And, of course, café tables on the pavement ideal for a dog-walking pause with a coffee and croque monsieur.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 7.30am – 9pm
Sunday, 8am – 3pm
Contact 021 054 8578
Where to find it 51 Kildare Road, Newlands, Cape Town

Basilico

A cypress tree at the door conjures Tuscan hillsides at this popular Italian restaurant in the middle of Newlands Village, while the views from the covered upstairs terrace are of Table Mountain and the trees of the leafy suburb (these tables and the table for two looking out over the corner balcony are the most coveted spots in the house). It’s a relaxed spot for convivial gatherings over thin-crust pizzas with generous toppings, heaped lunchtime bowls of pasta and hearty meat dishes. Beyond the more traditional pizza toppings, the gourmet section gets creative (slow-roast lamb, feta and mint; springbok carpaccio, avo and rocket; bacon, blue cheese and pear), so there is plenty to set your tastebuds aglow.
Good to know Gluten-free pizza bases (and pasta) are available.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm
Contact 021 683 5989, [email protected], [email protected]
Where to find it 32 Kildare Road, Newlands, Cape Town

Sundoo

A cosy southern suburbs outpost of chef Seelan Sundoo’s Sea Point eatery, Sundoo Newlands opens onto Main Street with pavement seating outside the wide windows and a handful of tables indoors. The short menu is a concise version of the Sea Point one, mainly South Indian (old recipes handed down from generations), but there are biryanis and tandoori dishes, too. Start with crispy samosas, pani puri, or try the Nepalese dumplings (steamed and fried). There are mini bunny chows and roti too. For mains, the masala chops with saffron chutney from the clay oven are a long-time favourite; or save decision fatigue by sharing a trio of the curry greatest hits: butter chicken, Humma’s lamb and Anjuna prawn, with rice and sambal, mopping up the rich sauces with a flaky paratha.
Good to know A short lunch menu includes a tempting set menu with samosas and chicken curry.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10.30pm
Contact 021 672 0327, [email protected]
Where to find it Dean Street Arcade, Main Street, Newlands, Cape Town
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Barristers

Old-school and proud of it, Barristers has been a local meeting place for 46 years. The ambience remains pub-meets-grill bar, with a traditional English wooden bar, a mock-Tudor timber-framed theme in the dining rooms, 19 beers on tap, an extensive wine list (with more than 50 wines by the glass), and a varied menu that balances steakhouse classics and hearty pub grub. On rugby days (cricket and football too), the big screens come out, fans congregate on the outdoor deck and courtyard, and spill onto the street to chat, drink and celebrate. On Sunday evenings, live musicians provide a festive atmosphere, attracting varsity students and anyone who’s in the market for a fun vibe and a hearty meal.
Opening times Daily, 11am – 11pm
Contact 021 671 7907, [email protected]
Where to find it Cardiff Castle, Corner Kildare Road and Main Street, Newlands, Cape Town
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Sushi Box

If you’re looking for delicious iterations of sushi made with spices, drizzly bits and Japanese mayo, you’ve come to the right place. The famed sushi spot is tucked away in the corner of the Cardiff Castle Building on bustling Kildare Road, and so popular was this original branch that the family-owned restaurant has grown to include seven more locations. With an outdoor deck under a covered reed pergola and hanging plants, screened off from the parking area by a water feature, more greenery and trellis, it feels peacefully hidden away from the village bustle, and the friendly staff add a welcoming atmosphere. The sushi is sparkling fresh, fusion rather than old-school authentic, and creatively bursting with amazing tastes and textures.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 11.30am – 8.30pm
Contact 072 147 7880, [email protected]
Where to find it Shop 8, Cardiff Castle Centre, Kildare Road, Newlands, Cape Town

Claremont

Salushi

You’ll feel right at home in this modern Claremont eatery with its warm wood floors and soft greenery all around. Situated across from Cavendish Square, Salushi is popular with office workers, ladies who lunch and students who crave delicious sushi and Asian-style light meals.
The sushi is freshly prepared (which means it might take a little longer to get your food, but the wait is worth it). Our favourites are the Bon Bon Gifts (salmon fashion sandwiches topped with mayonnaise and caviar) and Takky Tempura (seared salmon California rolls, topped with tempura prawns, spring onion and drizzled with citrus mayonnaise).
Good to know If you’re here for after-work or pre-movie cocktails, try the piña colada!
Please note Salushi is closed for its annual break until 29 September 2026.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 12pm – 4pm; 6pm – 10pm
Sunday, 12pm – 4pm; 5pm – 9pm
Contact 065 038 2106, [email protected]
Where to find it 6 Cavendish Street, Claremont, Cape Town
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A Tavola

A Southern Suburbs Italian institution ever since it opened in 2008, A Tavola continues to deliver traditional Italian flavour to packed houses. A casual ambience looking through glass walls onto Library Square in Claremont is enlivened by hearty aromas wafting into the dining area from the open-plan kitchen. Fresh, seasonal produce is the order of the day – in true Italian style, the owners are committed to using organic herbs and vegetables, pasture-reared beef, sustainable fish and handmade pasta. “I have lunch at A Tavola on my way home from work. Emma and Dave Haupt, the owners, are passionate about wine and just serve good, honest Italian food,” says chef Luke Dale Roberts. He recommends the linguine gamberoni (pasta with queen prawns), the veal with mushrooms, and the octopus carpaccio. Other favourites include tagliolini ai funghi e tartufo (fresh pasta with mushrooms and truffle), and tagliata di manzo (sliced rib-eye with roast Roma tomatoes and broccoli). Explore the winelist, which goes beyond local to include Italian classics such as Chianti, Barolo, Brunello di Montalcino and Amarone della Valpolicella.
Opening times Monday – Friday, 12pm – 3pm; 5.30pm – 10pm
Saturday, 6pm – 10pm
Contact 021 671 1763
Where to find it Library Square (opposite Kingsbury Hospital), Wilderness Road, Claremont, Cape Town

Mykonos Restaurant

A light and airy 120-seater venue in the heart of Claremont, with brightly painted chairs, bougainvillea overhead and large potted plants scattered around, Mykonos Restaurant takes you to the island of its name with a traditional taverna vibe. The owners treat guests like family, with genuine Greek hospitality, serving traditional village dishes their yia-yias used to make. Think utterly delicious calamari, finger-licking mezze, seafood platters, tender and tasty flame-grilled lamb chops, fresh supreme salad and Kleftiko slow roast lamb shank that falls off the bone.
Good to know Look out for the monthly Greek evenings where Greek dancing and plate smashing amp up the energy and there’s a three-course set menu. There’s a play corner where kids can roll out dough and keep busy.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 12pm – 10pm
Sunday, 12pm – 9pm
Contact 087 152 5323, [email protected]
Where to find it 7 Vineyard Road, Claremont, Cape Town
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Veld & Vine Bistro at Claremont Boutique Hotel

A beautifully peaceful, comfortable and elegant space looking out onto courtyard gardens and a mountain backdrop, Veld & Vine is something of a hidden gem tucked away in a boutique hotel (part of the Sabi Sabi family). Locals are starting to head here for leisurely breakfasts, brunches and long lunches over simple bistro fare that is in tune with the seasons. Head chef Leonita Dawson leans into the farm-to-fork philosophy that she grew up with in Namibia. Fresh roosterkoek, Knysna oysters, roast cauliflower and almond salad, mussel pots, flame-grilled steaks from LA Farms, grilled kinglip with tom yum sauce and pickled fennel, and butter chicken curries are just a few dishes on the varied menu.
Good to know Children of 15 and older are welcome.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 6.30am – 10pm
Contact 021 797 9777, [email protected]
Where to find it 5 Phyllis Road, Claremont, Cape Town
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Starlings Café

If you didn’t know it was there you’d drive right past… that’s part of the hidden-gem appeal of this long-standing Claremont favourite. In a Victorian home hidden behind a hedge on Belvedere Road, Starlings is a warm and hospitable café with high ceilings and wooden floors, but it’s the enclosed garden at the back (with slivers of mountain views) that calls on sunny mornings, whether for breakfast, coffee and cake or a leisurely lunch. Everything is fresh and homemade, from breakfasts of eggs every which way, to lunchtime sandwiches and wraps, aubergine bake, Thai curries and salads. The decor is reminiscent of the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party – teapots hanging from trees, vintage books turned into light stands, an assortment of quirky, and antique ornaments scattered throughout. The fireplaces are lit in winter and you’ll find all sorts of nooks and well-spaced tables (both inside and out) to sink into for a work session or conversation.
Good to know It’s walk-ins only here, so you may have to wait for a table at busy times, but service is efficient and it’s a beautiful laidback space to hang out in.
Opening times Monday – Friday, 7am – 3pm
Saturday, 7am – 3pm (breakfast all day)
Contact 072 051 0491, [email protected]
Where to find it 94 Belvedere Road, Claremont, Cape Town

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