Sweltering summer days call for fresh air (and so does the pesky pandemic) – which means outside is the right side! If you’re looking for a socially distanced dining experience – be it in an innercity courtyard or on a vineyard-dotted hillside in the Winelands, these restaurants in and around Cape Town have the space and the setting (not forgetting the food) for a deliciously festive alfresco meal with family and friends.

Which are your favourite? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

Please note Current lockdown regulations might affect regular opening times. Please call ahead to ensure the restaurants are open before you set out.

Where would you like your outdoor meal?

In the Winelands
Courtyard setting
Atlantic Seaboard
Southern Suburbs + Deep South
Northern Suburbs

In the Winelands

The Table at De Meye

Like a scene straight out of A Year in Provence, The Table Restaurant on the beautiful De Meye wine farm is owned and passionately run by Leigh Williamson and Brendan Thorncroft who have created an honest-to-goodness experience under the trees. It’s the stuff of Winelands fantasies: long, sybaritic lunches in the country with people you love and the joys of delicious home-grown food and good stuff to drink; the kind of place you’ll return to time and again.
Opening times Wednesday – Sunday, 12pm – 5.30pm
Contact 072 696 0530, bookings@thetablerestaurant.co.za
Where to find it De Meye Wine Farm, Muldersvlei, Stellenbosch
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The Restaurant at Grande Provence

Sit under the ancient oaks in the modern sculpture garden of this esteemed estate and drink in the views of the vineyards, rugged mountains and the Berg River trickling past you. After lunch take an amble around the grounds, popping into the art gallery and shop for some inspiring browsing.
Opening times Restaurant: Tuesday – Sunday, 12pm – 5.30pm
Tuesday – Saturday, 4pm – 6pm
Deli service: Monday – Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Contact 021 876 8600, reservations@grandeprovence.co.za
Where to find it Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate, Main Road, Franschhoek
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The Kraal

Situated in a stone-walled courtyard, once the farm’s original cattle kraal, this restaurant’s rustic outdoor seating area is the perfect spot to enjoy deliciously wholesome, farm-fresh food with friends or family. The three-course set menu (available for weekend lunches only) changes regularly, but diners can expect a seasonally driven menu made using locally sourced, organic produce – some of which comes from the farm itself! If you’re looking for a fuss-free, festive lunch – among wild olive groves and fruit trees – with delicious estate vino (when the alcohol ban is lifted), you’ve come to the right Kraal.
Opening times Saturday & Sunday, 12pm – 2.30pm
Contact 079 641 1320, kraalrestaurant@joostenberg.co.za
Where to find it Joostenberg Wine Estate, Hoopenberg Road, Muldersvlei, Stellenbosch
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Arkeste

Situated on Chamonix Wine Farm in Franschhoek, chef Richard Carstens’ restaurant is a culmination of his more-than-30-years experience in some of the top kitchens in the land (most famously an eight-year stint at Tokara). Take a seat on the treehouse-esque deck and indulge in Richard’s ever-changing fine-dining experience.
Opening times Wednesday – Saturday, 12pm – 7pm
Sunday, 12pm – 3pm
Contact 021 876 8415, reservations@arkeste.com
Where to find it Chamonix Restaurant, 40 Uitkyk Street, Franschhoek
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Cosecha at Noble Hill

Authentic Latin flavours in the heart of Paarl? We were also sceptical at first, but believe us: the food is worth the trip. Surrounded by hectares of vineyards, Noble Hill is a secluded wine farm, with a relaxed restaurant that offers outdoor dining, valley views and a top-notch selection of homegrown wines (when lockdown laws permit). The flavoursome Mexican dishes – most of them spicy – make for an exciting meal any time of day.
Opening times Thursday – Sunday, 9am – 5pm
Contact 021 874 3844, info@cosecharestaurant.com
Where to find it Noble Hill Wine Estate, Klapmuts-Simondium Road, Simondium, Paarl
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Jewell’s Restaurant

Claire Gunn

Location is everything (after the food, obviously) at this gem of a destination, an easy 45-minute drive from Cape Town. Perched on a hill at the bustling Spice Route destination, the view-soaked verandah provides cool, shady respite from the blistering heat and ample socially distanced seating. Run by husband-and-wife team Neil and Tina Jewell, Jewell’s Restaurant serves lovingly prepared, fresh, local, seasonal food (their charcuterie board is iconic) with an exceptional wine list to match (when the alcohol ban is lifted).
Opening times Friday – Sunday, 11am – 5pm
Contact 021 204 4875, jewellspiceroute@gmail.com
Where to find it Spice Route Destination, Suid Agter Paarl Road, Suider Paarl
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Chefs Warehouse at Maison

Claire Gunn

The Liam Tomlin-owned Chefs Warehouse at Maison is one of the best spots for relaxed fine dining in the Winelands. With two outdoor seating areas, on the patio and the lawns, guests have all the space in the world to enjoy chef Dave Schneider’s top-notch nosh.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 11.30am – 8pm
Contact 021 876 2116, cw.maison@gmail.com
Where to find it Maison Estate, R45, Franschhoek
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Kleine Zalze Restaurant

The re-invented Terroir, overseen by chefs Lucas Carstens and Nic van Wyk (who opened the restaurant with chef Michael Broughton in 2004), offers a menu of timeless classics served under the trees. Expect plats du jour of steak béarnaise, fresh line fish and moules marinières, as well as a tapas menu that lends itself to wine tastings (when the alcohol ban is lifted, of course).
Opening times Wednesday – Saturday, 11.30am – 5pm
Sunday, 11.30am – 3pm
Contact 021 880 8167, restaurant@kleinezalze.co.za
Where to find it Strand Road, De Zalze Golf Estate, Stellenbosch
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Longtable Restaurant at Haskell Vineyards

A stone’s throw from the vineyards, the setting at Longtable is one of the most impressive in Stellenbosch. The spacious outdoor seating yields uninterrupted vineyard and mountain views and a decidedly laidback atmosphere. Chef Cornelle Minie (previously head chef at Babel) boldly fuses various cuisines and flavours in her small plates, which, combined with the view and excellent service make this unassuming gem a must-visit.
Opening times Wednesday – Sunday, 9.30am – 6pm
Contact 021 881 3895, info@haskellvineyards.co.za
Where to find it Haskell Vineyards, Annandale Road, Lynedoch, Stellenbosch
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Orangerie at Le Lude

Located on Le Lude MCC Estate, Orangerie’s chic, all-white interiors – with the odd splash of colour – echo chef Nicolene Barrow’s intriguing menu: purist European technique tinged with personal flair. The French-inspired courtyard has a soothing and decidedly civilised atmosphere, perfect for a fresh, seasonal lunch in the country.
Opening times Tuesday – Sunday, 12pm – 4pm
Friday & Saturday, 10am – 7.30pm
Contact 021 100 3464, info@lelude.co.za
Where to find it Le Lude, Bowling Green Avenue (Lambrechts Road), Franschhoek
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Gåte at Quoin Rock

This much-talked-about restaurant at Quoin Rock Wine Estate offers magnificent views from its perch on the slopes of the Simonsberg Mountains. Head chef Jack Coetzee took over the reins of this contemporary and sophisticated 50-seater eatery in October 2020, with a shift in focus to a more local and sustainable approach.
Opening times Wednesday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm
Thursday – Saturday, 6pm – 9.30pm
Contact  021 888 4750, info@gaterestaurant.co.za
Where to find it Quoin Rock Wine Estate, Knorhoek Road, Knorhoek Valley, Stellenbosch
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Longridge Restaurant

High upon the Helderberg slopes lies Longridge Restaurant on the wine estate of the same name is somewhat of a hidden gem among the Stellenbosch collection. Charming country-style seating sets the scene for chef Maritz Jacobs’ range of locally flecked dishes, made using produce sourced from the estate’s own organic garden, and beef reared on their own farm.
Good to know Vegetarian and vegan options are available, too.
Opening times Thursday – Sunday, 12pm – 2.30pm
Monday – Saturday, 6pm – 8.30pm
Contact 021 855 4082, restaurant@longridge.co.za
Where to find it Helderbergpad (off the R44), Helderberg Rural, Stellenbosch
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Vadas Smokehouse & Bakery

This fabulous spot is famous for its hearty meat dishes and the best pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) this side of Lisbon! The casual outdoor areas take full advantage of the Spier’s spacious setting, which kids will adore, as they roam free in the magical gardens.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 9am – 5pm
Contact 021 809 1137, info@vadas.co.za
Where to find it Spier Wine Farm, Baden Powell Drive, Stellenbosch
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Roca Restaurant at Dieu Donné Vineyards

Situated at the very top of Uitkyk Street overlooking the Franschhoek Valley, this double-volume restaurant offers diners a Mediterranean-inspired à la carte menu, best enjoyed on the sun-kissed terrace, or on the enclosed top deck. With sweeping views as far as the eye can see and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder Roca is a popular wedding destination, too.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 8pm
Contact 021 876 3384 or 021 876 2345, info@rocarestaurant.co.za
Where to find it Dieu Donné Wine Estate, 28 Uitkyk Street, Franschhoek
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Diemersdal Restaurant

In the heart of Durbanville wine country, you’ll find Diemersdal Estate, brought to life by the Louw family (six generations deep). On summer days, the outdoor seating area is the best place to lunch, with its warm, country atmosphere and panoramic vistas of hill-top farmlands. Captained by local chef Martin de Kock, the farm eatery serves a delightful array of dishes incorporating local, eastern and western flavours.
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 12pm – 3pm
Contact 021 976 1810, restaurant@diemersdal.co.za
Where to find it Diemersdal Wine Farm, Koeberg Road, Durbanville, Cape Town
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Postcard Café

Aptly named, this laidback restaurant is found in one of the most naturally beautiful settings in the Jonkershoek Valley – at Stark-Condé Wines. Here, you’ll find a selection of simple yet well-prepared lunch dishes created by head chef Munitaka Kimura and his passionate team – and stunning views of the mountains, water and valley from every angle.
Opening times  Wednesday – Sunday, 9am – 4pm
Contact 021 861 7703, postcardcafe@stark-conde.co.za
Where to find it Stark-Conde Wines, Jonkershoek Valley, Stellenbosch
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Delaire Graff Restaurant

Shaded by ancient oaks, the spacious wooden terrace at Delaire Graff Restaurant boasts sweeping views of vineyards and olive groves. Sculptures by famed South African artist Dylan Lewis create drama against a background of greenery, and the beautifully presented simple dishes are equally impressive.
Opening times Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday, 12pm – 2.30pm; 5pm – 8pm
Contact 021 885 8160, info@delaire.co.za
Where to find it Delaire Graff Estate, Helshoogte Road, Stellenbosch
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The Stellies Taproom

Ideal for casual get-togethers with other families and their kids, this picnic-style eatery at Klein Joostenberg is a wide-open space where you can enjoy a relaxed meal and still keep your distance. Order and pay at the counter and then sit and enjoy a light meal on the lawns.
Opening times Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Contact 021 8844 014, taproom@stelliesbeer.com
Where to find it Klein Joostenberg, R304 Muldersvlei, Stellenbosch

The Deck at Hidden Valley

A casual alternative to Bertus Basson’s Overture, The Deck at Hidden Valley has one of the finest settings in the Stellenbosch Winelands. The open-air counter seating surrounds a tranquil pond, with Alpine-esque views up the valley to the mountain – a breathtaking outlook to be sure. The limited three-item menu (burger, pizza and ice cream) is of little consequence – you’re here for the views (and Bertus’s famous burgers).
Opening times Wednesday – Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Contact 021 880 2721, info@dineatoverture.co.za
Where to find it Hidden Valley Wine Farm, Annandale Road, Stellenbosch

Haute Cabrière

The recently refurbished interiors and terrace seating at Haute Cabrière offer unbridled valley views of the Franschhoek Valley. Enjoy a walk around the manicured grounds before settling down at the restaurant for tapas or a French-inspired dish from the à la carte menu.
Opening times Restaurant: Wednesday – Saturday, 12pm – 5pm
Sunday, 12pm – 3pm
Bakery & Deli: Wednesday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Sunday, 10am – 3pm
Contact 021 876 8500, info@cabriere.co.za
Where to find it Lambrechts Road, Franschhoek
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Courtyard setting

Genki Sushi Bar & Japanese Tapas

This cheerful eatery in a treed courtyard just off Stellenbosch’s buzzy Church Street does delicious sushi and Japanese tapas. No wonder feted chef Gregory Czarnecki and Majeka House’s Lucas Carstens both rate it as a must-visit! Take a seat under the oaks for a piazza vibe without the crowds.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 11.30am – 3pm; 4pm – 9.30pm
Contact 021 887 5699, info@genki.co.za
Where to find it Corner Bird and Church Streets, Stellenbosch

Kloof Street House

Housed in a 20th-century Victorian house, this cool courtyard restaurant feels like a scene straight out of The Great Gatsby. Hidden behind thick shrubs, the fairy light-strung courtyard with its velvet cushions and rattan chairs is an outdoor haven in the innercity – and one of Kloof Street’s most romantic haunts.
Good to know Toss in a live-jazz set on Sunday afternoons, plus electro-jazz fusion on Saturdays, and you have the makings of an unforgettable summer in the city.
Opening times Monday, 12pm – 8pm
Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 8pm
Contact 021 423 4413, info@kloofstreethouse.co.za
Where to find it Kloof Street House, 39 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
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Atlantic Seaboard

The Bungalow

A front-row seat to an Atlantic sunset awaits at The Bungalow, an upmarket Mediterranean-style restaurant occupying a spangly stretch on the Clifton coastline. Soak up the summery scene on the deck, before settling in for a bite, and enjoying the arresting outlook of the Twelve Apostles and Lion’s Head.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 8pm
Contact 021 438 2018, info@thebungalow.co.za
Where to find it Glen Country Club, 3 Victoria Road, Clifton, Cape Town
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Grand Africa Café & Beach

Whether you decide to sit on the palm-shaded deck, on the famous lip-shaped couch, or at one of the tables dotted around the sand, you’re sure to get more than a whiff of Grand Africa Café & Beach’s endless-summer vibes, thanks to its seaside setting. A lazy (virgin) sundowner is the best way to take full advantage of the beach… Or split a double-sized pizza between friends for an easy dinner.
Please note Booking in advance is required for an allocated seating time.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 11am – 1pm; 1pm – 3pm; 4pm – 6pm
Contact 021 425 0551, beach@grandafrica.com
Where to find it Grand Africa Café & Beach, Granger Bay Road (off Beach Road), Granger Bay, Cape Town
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Baptiste Rooftop

Boasting what are arguably the best ocean and mountain views in the entire city, this sun-soaked rooftop bar – at the Marly Boutique Hotel & Spa in Camps Bay – is an absolute must (when the irksome southeaster is at bay). There are chairs and tables aplenty, or you can lounge by the pool, where you can make yourself comfortable, as you work your way through the utterly delicious menu while soaking up the 360-degree panoramas.
Please note A minimum spend of R500 per person is required for use of the pool and loungers, subject to availability, to be settled on arrival.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 11am – 8pm (weather-permitting)
Contact 021 437 1287, manager@baptisterooftop.co.za
Where to find it 201 The Promenade, Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town
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The Lawns at the Roundhouse

Hidden in the glens of Table Mountain, The Lawns at the Roundhouse boasts sweeping views of Camps Bay and the dazzling Atlantic Ocean. More casual than its neighbour Salsify, the food is fresh and easy to eat, and the umbrella-shaded picnic benches span three levels and there’s also an Oak Terrace (for private affairs).
Opening times Thursday – Saturday, 9am – 8pm
Contact 021 438 4347, info@thelawnsct.co.za
Where to find it The Roundhouse, Round House Road (off Kloof Road), The Glen, Camps Bay, Cape Town
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Tobago’s Restaurant, Bar & Terrace

Wonderfully laidback with world-class views, Tobago’s at Radisson Blu Waterfront is the perfect spot for a summer breakfast or light lunch. The spacious terrace, which gives the impression of being at sea, can accommodate large numbers in a socially distanced environment – and it’s conveniently close to the city!
Please note Booking ahead is recommended due to capacity regulations.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 6.30am – 8pm
Contact 021 441 3000, capetown.foodandbeverage@radissonblu.com
Where to find it Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Beach Road, Granger Bay, Cape Town
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Southern Suburbs + Deep South

Starlings Café

@Kimpossible_SA

Hidden behind a hedge on Belvedere Road in Claremont, Starlings Café is housed in a Victorian house, complete with high ceilings, wooden floors and a romantic garden. This warm and hospitable café is known for its excellent eggs benny, enjoyed among the trees, with mountain views and good coffee.
Opening times 079 473 3554, starlingscafe@gmail.com
Contact Monday – Saturday, 7am – 4pm
Where to find it 94 Belvedere Road, Claremont, Cape Town
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The Gardener’s Cottage

Lee Barty’s 28-year-old restaurant at Montebello Design Centre offers a tranquil reprieve from the noise of the city. Ask any Newlands local: a meal here is a special treat. Sit outdoors under the historic camphor trees and enjoy their legendary chicken pie with tarragon and creamy herb sauce, or the equally delicious chicken curry. Don’t leave without browsing the designer craft shops and wonderful nursery – a must for green-finger enthusiasts.
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 8am – 4.30pm
Sunday, 8.30am – 4.30pm
Contact 021 689 3158, gardenerscottage@telkomsa.net
Where to find it Montebello Design Centre, 31 Newlands Avenue, Newlands, Cape Town
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Jonkershuis

Entering Groot Constantia Wine Estate, it’s hard not to be drawn towards this charming eatery, which offers outdoor seating beneath vast ancient oaks, with breathtaking views of sweeping vineyards and the False Bay coastline. This is child-friendly with a capital C: a duck pond, trees, hilled lawns and a dedicated breakfast menu.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 8am – 7pm
Saturday, 8am – 5pm
Contact 021 794 6255, info@jhuis.co.za
Where to find it Groot Constantia, Groot Constantia Road, Constantia, Cape Town
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La Belle Bistro & Bakery

Loved for its terrace seating under the oaks, La Belle Bistro & Bakery at The Alphen Hotel in Constantia offers a range of satisfying dishes and freshly baked goods in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting. Soak up the surroundings while you enjoy a scrumptious breakfast or a light lunch.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 7am – 8pm
Contact 021 795 6313, labelle@alphen.co.za
Where to find it The Alphen Hotel, Alphen Drive, Constantia, Cape Town
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Foxcroft

Claire Gunn

Part of the La Colombe group of restaurants, Foxcroft’s casual fine-dining experience is always a treat. Inside, a stylish contemporary interior awaits, but the outdoor seating in the High Constantia courtyard is where you want to be during summer months. The food, served over multiple courses of smaller plates, is impeccable – without being overly complicated – not surprising with Glen Foxcroft Williams and Scot Kirton as proprietors.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 8am – 10.30am; 12pm – 2pm; 5pm – 6.15pm
Contact 021 202 3304, reservations@foxcroft.co.za
Where to find it Foxcroft Restaurant, Shop 8, High Constantia, Corner of Groot Constantia and Constantia Main Roads, Constantia, Cape Town
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BarStaurant

This new eatery at the Glencairn Hotel is owned by the Tintswalo hospitality group. Intended as a relaxed spot where families with children can enjoy a quality meal, the restaurant offers lovely views of False Bay, a versatile menu of pizza, sushi, all-day breakfast and a special kids’ section, and various outdoor and indoor seating areas.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 8.30am – 6.30pm
Contact 021 773 0220, clint@barstaurant.co.za
Where to find it 14 Glen Road, Glencairn, Cape Town
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The Blockhouse Kitchen at Constantia Uitsig

This modern, airy space offers a chic yet child-friendly dining experience, with a spacious verandah that looks onto a wonderful enclosed playground. Delicious, easy-to-eat comfort food is the order of the day.
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 9am – 7pm
Sunday & Monday, 9am – 5pm
Contact 021 794 3010, reservations@bhkitchen.co.za
Where to find it Spaanschemat River Road, Fir Grove, Cape Town
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Northern Suburbs

On the Rocks Restaurant

A perfectly positioned restaurant, On the Rocks in Bloubergstrand packs a double punch when it comes to views: Table Mountain and the sea. If you’re looking for a new perspective of our world-famous mountain, without the chaos of the city, their open-air deck provides just that (and maybe some sea spray, too). It doesn’t hurt that they serve some of the tastiest seafood around…
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 8am – 8pm
Contact 021 554 1988, ontherocks@seascapecollection.co.za
Where to find it On The Rocks, 45 Stadler Road, Bloubergstrand, Cape Town
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Chocolat Bistro

This French-inspired eatery in the heart of Durbanville offers relaxed dining, with a decadent selection of breakfasts, pizzas and a variety of classic mains. Part romantic and part family-friendly, Chocolat caters for its variety of guests in the plush indoor section or on the sun-soaked patio.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 8am – 8pm
Contact 021 975 2426, info@chocolatbistro.co.za
Where to find it 46 Oxford Street, Durbanville, Cape Town
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