25 Cosy Restaurants with Fireplaces in Cape Town

Fireplaces have long symbolised safety, warmth and hospitality – whether it be the fire pits our ancient ancestors gathered around to cook food and tell tales; the roaring fires of mediaeval great halls; or the heat-generating hearths in homes around the world. (They’re also rather nifty for staring into dramatically, before making a sensational announcement… )

With winter looming, the lure of cosy fireplaces is even more appealing. So we compiled a list of our favourite restaurants in Cape Town, where the fireplaces not only provide warmth, they also create a homely atmosphere.

City Bowl
Atlantic Seaboard
Southern Suburbs
Hout Bay + South Peninsula
Northern Suburbs

City Bowl

Asoka

Set under the eaves of a revamped Victorian-era house, Asoka is a vibrant bar and restaurant built around a 150-year-old, fairy-lit olive tree. One of Kloof Street’s popular haunts, it’s established itself as the place to go for tasty cocktails, and regular live music every Sunday night. Its eclectic decor also provides the perfect backdrop for an evening sharing punchy Asian-inspired plates, especially with chef Nicholas Oliphant at the helm in the kitchen.
Cosy cred A crackling central fireplace, soft fairy lights, glowing candles and warm lanterns create a warm and welcoming vibe.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 5.30pm – 2am; Sunday,  5.30pm – 12am
Contact 021 422 0909, info@asoka.za.com
Where to find it 68 Kloof Street, Gardens
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Aubergine

This Cape Town institution is the creation of legendary chef Harald Bresselschmidt, whose admirers include some of the Mother City’s top chefs. German-born Harald’s compelling dishes are rich in flavour, fusing Eastern and Western influences, his wine list is renowned as one of the city’s best, while the restaurant itself is surprisingly unpretentious for such an upscale establishment.
Cosy cred A comfortably sophisticated atmosphere and a large central fireplace.
Opening times Monday – Wednesday + Saturday, 6pm – 10pm
Thursday + Friday, 12pm – 2pm, 6pm – 10pm
Contact 021 465 0000
Where to find it 39 Barnet Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

Elgr

Sweden-born South African chef Jesper Nilsson and his team have created a modern restaurant experience that leans into laidback 21st-century tastes. The ever-changing and globally inspired shared-plates menu celebrates seasonality and simplicity, while the personable and polished service, moody minimalist interiors and a buzzing courtyard cocktail bar rounds off this charismatic culinary experience.
Cosy cred A double-sided fireplace near the open kitchen keeps things toasty, with a comfortable couch on one side and tables on the other.
Opening times Tuesday – Friday, 6pm – 11pm
Saturday, 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Contact 021 422 0384, reservations@elgr.co.za
Where to find it 75 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

Kloof Street House

Housed in a 20th-century Victorian house, this cool courtyard restaurant, set back from busy Kloof Street, is like stepping into the pages of The Great Gatsby. The twinkling fairy lights and velvet cushions that line the garden seating area, and the warmly lit, romantic interior, make this one of Kloof Street’s cosiest haunts for a special occasion, date night, brunch, or a no-excuses-needed meal with family and friends.
Cosy cred Not one, not two, but three fireplaces!
Opening times Monday, 12pm – 2am; Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 2am
Contact 021 423 4413, info@kloofstreethouse.co.za
Where to find it 30 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
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Upper Union

A stylish and sumptuous eatery and cocktail lounge, Upper Union is the More Family Collection’s first foray into the restaurant scene.The beautifully renovated heritage building comes with fireplaces, stained glass, emerald-green walls, and Silwood-trained chef Amori Burger’s global-inspired menu of large and small plates to share. Punchy flavours and potluck conviviality are perfect for warming up winter.
Cosy cred Victorian fireplaces and a contemporary woodburning stove keep things cosy.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 4pm, 6pm – 10pm
Contact 021 891 0360, reservations@upperunion.co.za
Where to find it Cape Cadogan Hotel, 3 Upper Union Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

Vadivelu

“Indian. With Attitude” is their slogan and it sums up the vibe at this bright and welcoming Kloof Street restaurant. Jason, Kevin and Tim (cousins and in-laws of a South African Indian family) reinvent the modern Indian idiom: sage and terracotta walls, jungle wallpaper featuring tigers and tropical birds, pistachio banquettes, and a mouthwatering menu of streetfood snacks and classic Southern Indian curries.
Cosy cred A fire burns in the Victorian fireplace to add to the warmth of the hospitality and sizzling decor. And there are space heaters on the verandah too.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 12pm – 10pm
Contact 021 300 5777, info@vadilvelu.co.za
Where to find it 151 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

Boma on Bree

This fiery hotspot on Bree Street’s buzziest stretch comes courtesy of the bar-wizardry team at The Firm, Reg Macdonald and his wife Pini (Village Idiot, Harringtons and more), with consultation in the early stages from cutting-edge chef Vusi Ndlovu and Absie Pantshwa from Edge Africa. Expect a cool boma-bar vibe inspired by desert landscapes and big skies from the Karoo to the Kalahari. Sizzling, all open-fire cooking is the theme, with stunning jaffels, legendary lamb ribs, askoek (bread cooked in the embers) and pampoen churros just some of the highlights.
Cosy cred The hot orange decor is already sizzling, but grab the bar-stool table by the open kitchen to soak up the fireside vibe as the chefs cook over glowing embers.
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 12pm – 2am
Sunday, 12pm – 6pm
Contact 021 109 0039, boma@thefirmct.co.za
Where to find it 107 Bree Street, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

The Planet Bar Mount Nelson

Fancy pink drinks at an iconic pink-hued hotel? Chic, laidback and unfailingly luxe, this bar at the Mount Nelson hotel is just as suitable for spontaneous after-work drinks (with a quick bite to eat) as it is for special occasions. In addition to a superb and comprehensive list of top-notch wines, spirits and cocktails (which come with an irresistible array of bar nibbles), the bar food menu is one of the best in town. Service, of course, is always warm and impeccable.
Cosy cred A roaring fire keeps things toasty as you lounge in one of the plush alcoves or sink back into the very comfortable armchairs.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 1am
Contact 021 483 1000, restaurantreservations.mnh@belmond.com
Where to find it 76 Orange Street, Gardens, Cape Town

Atlantic Seaboard

Azure at The Twelve Apostles

When it comes to dreamy locations in the Mother City, very few properties can compete with The Twelve Apostles’ sea-scraping setup! Luxurious decor, a five-course winter tasting menu and sumptuous, sustainably sourced seafood à la carte from chef Christo Pretorius are all you need for an opulent winter spoil.
Cosy cred Two wonderfully designed fireplaces and unhindered ocean views.
Opening times Daily, 7am – 10.30am, 12.30pm – 3.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Contact 021 437 9029, azure@12apostles.co.za
Where to find it Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

Bao Down

Claire Gunn, right image

Big things, they say, come in small packages – which is certainly the case for this Green Point gem. In a beautifully calm space, with soft-pink walls, vintage bird prints, antique mirrors, greenery and origami-esque lights, chef Graham Oldfield serves a concise Asian small-plate menu with bao buns as the hero (they even feature in dessert).
Cosy cred A roaring fire by the bar, cosy booths, and the sizzling vibe.
Opening times Monday – Friday, 6pm – 11pm
Saturday, 12pm – 3pm; 6pm – 11pm
Contact 066 022 1165, restaurantbaodown@gmail.com
Where to find it 1st Floor, Exhibition Building, 79 Main Road, Green Point, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

Salsify at The Roundhouse

Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean from the hillside above Camps Bay is one of Cape Town’s finest, owned by chef Ryan Cole. Salsify serves modern cooking, inspired by nature and driven by the seasons. Enhancing the overall experience is excellent service, two top-tier wine-pairing options (and a non-alcoholic pairing), and edgy-chic interiors that complement Ryan’s seasonally driven, locally conscious fine-dining menu.
Cosy cred Choose to dine in the Seasonal Room, an ever-changing space with warming fireplaces.
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 12.30pm – 3pm;  6pm – 9pm
Sunday, 12.30pm – 3pm
Contact 021 010 6444, reservations@salsify.co.za
Where to find it The Roundhouse, Roundhouse Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

The Greek Fisherman

You could almost be in the Greek village square among the Mamma Mia cast rather than in busy Sea Point as you wander past the fountain in this peaceful enclosed courtyard. (It’s the old La Mouette space given new life when The Greek Fisherman relocated here after 28 years at the V&A.) The warm welcome and classic Greek fare, from mezze and homemade pita breads, to seafood, moussaka and slow-cooked lamb, keep up the illusion of island holidays in a relaxed family-friendly style.
Cosy cred Each of the several small dining rooms has its own Victorian fireplace.
Opening times Daily, 12pm – 10pm
Contact 021 418 5411, info@greekfisherman.co.za
Where to find it 78 Regent Road, Sea Point, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

The Strangers Club

Just off Green Point’s Main Road, in a heritage farmstead dating from 1828, this hidden treasure whisks you away from the bustle. An ode to owner Emma Vith’s exploration and storytelling, it was inspired by a 1940s book about a place in La Paz where travellers met to share stories and trade goods. Guests can explore the maze of rooms indoors, while the leafy courtyard eatery is the perfect spot to recharge. The seasonal menu is simple but with a focus on quality, offering delicious breakfasts and easy-going lunch options.
Cosy cred There’s a crackling wood fire indoors… get there early to secure a table beside it and settle in.
Opening times Monday – Friday, 9am – 4pm
Saturday, 9am – 2pm
Contact 021 434 3540
Where to find it 1 Braemar Road, Green Point, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

Southern Suburbs

A Touch of Madness

Situated on the well-trodden Nuttall Road in Observatory, this wonderfully eclectic restaurant and bar is where locals have been going for over three decades to get their dose of tasty street food and wacky drinks, along with live jazz and open mic jam sessions.
Cosy cred Be sure to book when joining for dinner, as the fireside tables are a hot commodity (pun intended).
Opening times Tuesday – Thursday, 12pm – 11pm
Friday + Saturday, 10am – 12am (kitchen closes 10pm)
Sunday + Monday, 12pm – 10pm
Contact 021 447 4650, info@atouchofmadness.co.za
Where to find it 12 Nuttall Road, Observatory, Cape Town
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Tryn at Steenberg

In the heart of the idyllic Constantia Winelands, complete with Cape Dutch architecture and old oak trees, Tryn at Steenberg offers the trifecta of dining out: elegant cuisine, majestic views and tasteful contemporary interiors. Kerry Kilpin’s deft hand with Asian and Middle Eastern flavours and her trademark sauces bring new zest to classically prepared dishes on the à la carte menu.
Cosy cred Warm gold banquettes and a roaring fire.
Opening times Daily, 8am – 11am; 12pm – 3pm; 6pm – 10pm
Contact 021 713 7178, info@tryn.co.za
Where to find it Steenberg Estate, Steenberg Road, Constantia Valley, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

Beyond

Taking pride of place on Buitenverwachting wine farm, beyond is a sophisticated (yet unpretentious) dining destination where everything – from the slow-food approach and use of seasonal produce to the service, views and wine – is out of the top drawer. Chef Peter Tempelhoff (chef-patron of innercity fine-dining restaurant Fyn), and head chef Sebastian Stehr take the à la carte route here, celebrating the ingredients in the old-school traditions of classic French cuisine. Large floor-to-ceiling windows frame the vineyards, reminding diners of nature’s bounty.
Cosy cred The grand marble fireplace with roaring fire channels winter vibes to match the flavours on the plate.
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 12pm – 2pm; 6pm – 8.30pm
Sunday, 12pm – 2.30pm
Contact 021 794 0306, info@beyondrestaurant.co.za
Where to find it Buitenverwachting, 37 Klein Constantia Road, Constantia, Cape Town
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Foxcroft

Part of the La Colombe group of restaurants, with chef-proprietor Glen Foxcroft Williams at the helm, Foxcroft has a laidback, urban chic vibe and is located in the charming High Constantia Centre. The food, served over multiple courses of smaller plates, is impeccable – without being overly complicated – not surprising given Glen’s La Colombe background!
Cosy cred Choose a table right next to the central fireplace to ensure your derrière remains toasty throughout your meal.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 8.30pm
Contact 021 202 3304
Where to find it Shop 8, High Constantia, Corner Groot Constantia and Constantia Main Roads, Constantia, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

Klein Constantia

Come for a taste of the estate’s famed Vin de Constance and stay for a country bistro lunch on the terrace under the jacaranda tree (in summer) or in the elegant dining room in winter. The short two- and three-course seasonal menus focus on local ingredients in classic bistro style (everything is homemade from the bread to the ice cream) and they’ve recently launched a Vin de Constance ice cream that is a must-try!
Cosy cred A brand-new fireplace has just been installed for cosy fireside lunches.
Good to know No children under 12
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm
Contact 021 794 5188, bistro@kleinconstantia.com
Where to find it Klein Constantia Estate, Klein Constantia Road, Constantia, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

Grub & Vine Norval

The airy glass-walled restaurant at Norval Foundation overlooks striking sculpture gardens, rolling mountains and a beautiful outdoor deck, a sophisticated new sibling to Matt Manning’s Grub & Vine on Bree Street. The menu of refined but hearty bistro fare (partnered with a superb wine offering) is ideal winter fare, whether you go for the 6-course winter tasting menu, eat à la carte, or feast on the relaxed 3-course Sunday lunch.
Cosy cred A clutch of cosily blazing firepots have been added to the restaurant for winter.
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 9pm
Sunday 12pm – 2.30pm
Contact 021 216 0021, hello@grubandvine.co.za
Where to find it The Norval Foundation, 4 Steenberg Road, Tokai, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

Hout Bay + South Peninsula

Chapman’s Peak Hotel

There’s a liberal seasoning of nostalgia to this iconic hotel restaurant with its epic views over Hout Bay. The delicious fried calamari are what everyone keeps going back for, drizzled with garlic and lemon butter. Or go for piri piri prawns, kingklip, Portuguese grilled sardines, or the prawn and calamari combo served in the pan. It is perfect for a family day out, with seating outside on the terrace, or in the cosy interior.
Cosy cred In winter, a crackling fire indoors sets the scene.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 9pm
Contact 021 790 1036, reservations@chapmanspeakhotel.co.za
Where to find it Chapmans Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Town
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Harbour House Kalk Bay

Perched high above the bustling fishing pier like a ship run aground, Harbour House is known for its seafood (fresh, delicious, not cheap), but you’re here for the luxury of lifting a glass to the ultimate knock-out view… False Bay in all its glory. Seafood is, naturally, the primary focus: sushi, grilled crayfish, scallops, tuna tartare and oysters, as well as the popular seafood platter for a little taste of everything.
Cosy cred Enjoy your meal by the fire, as the waves crash against the giant glass windows.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm
Contact 021 788 4133, kalkbay@harbourhouse.co.za
Where to find it Kalk Bay Harbour, Kalk Bay, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

The Foodbarn Café and Tapas

Chef Franck Dangereux masterfully combines the flavours of his native France with culinary influences from across the globe, but it’s the laidback country charm that sets The Foodbarn apart. Pop by for breakfast or coffee and snacks, go for the Bistronomy lunch offering, or while away the evenings over tapas (from 5pm), with exciting tastes and textures in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Cosy cred Gorgeous warm colours in the country-chic decor and a chunky central gas fireplace keep the warmth levels high. There’s a shelf of second-hand books to browse too.
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 8am – 9.30pm
Sunday + Monday, 8am – 4pm
Contact 021 789 1390, info@thefoodbarn.co.za 
Location The Foodbarn, Noordhoek Farm Village, Village Lane, Noordhoek
Book through DinePlan

Northern Suburbs

Chocolat Bistro

The restaurant’s homely interior and lavish Provençal-style decor creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere in which to enjoy a range of comforting breakfast options, pizzas, winter-warming lunches and dinners, and a whole raft of luscious cakes and desserts.
Cosy cred The dining room fireplace provides respite from the cold, and there are space heaters in the outdoor courtyard too.
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 7am – 10pm
Sunday, 8am – 3pm
Monday, 7am – 5pm
Contact 021 975 2426, bookings@chocolatbistro.co.za
Where to find it 46 Oxford Street, Durbanville, Cape Town
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Die Damhuis

This popular Melkbosstrand sea-facing restaurant opened its doors in 2009, but the building has been around since 1785 (a fish barn and boathouse), and has since been declared a national monument. A family-friendly hit with locals, Damhuis has several different dining spaces indoors and out, taking you all the way through the day from breakfast to dinner.
Cosy cred A fireplace warms up the restaurant’s romantic Voorhuijs section, while the Fisherman’s Tent section has gas heaters to set the scene.
Opening times Tuesday – Thursday, 12pm – 11pm
Friday + Saturday, 9am – 11pm (kitchen closes 9pm)
Sunday, 9am – 5pm (kitchen closes 3pm)
Contact 021 553 0093, info@diedamhuis.co.za
Where to find it 32 Beach Road, Melkbosstrand, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

On The Rocks

This shore-hugging eatery has become somewhat of a Blouberg landmark, having upheld its popular reputation for scenic views and delicious food by the sea for over 56 years. Indulge in eggs benedict for breakfast, settle in for a leisurely lunch, or go for date-night classics such as slow-cooked lamb shank, pork belly or Cape Malay curry, and cheesecake or crème brulée for dessert.
Cosy cred Book a table by the roaring glass-enclosed fireplace, and enjoy views of wild seas while the warmth washes over you.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 9am – 10pm
Contact 021 554 1988, ontherocks@seascapecollection.co.za
Where to find it 45 Stadler Road, Bloubergstrand, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

The Tangram Restaurant at Durbanville Hills

Stunning views from the double-volume, glass-walled Tangram restaurant at Durbanville Hills take in Table Mountain and the sweep of the bay. It’s a dramatic contemporary setting for a menu that chef Tamzyn Ehlers describes as “unpretentious yet sophisticated”, featuring elegant dishes of  local ingredients with global influences, paired with Durbanville Hills’ Collectors Reserve wines.
Cosy cred Ask for a table by the fireplace and soak up the warmth while enjoying fiery winter sunset views.
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 6pm – 10pm
Monday – Sunday, 8.30am – 11am; 12pm – 3pm
Contact 021 558 1300, info@durbanvillehills.co.za
Where to find it Durbanville Hills, Tygerberg Valley Road, Cape Farms, Durbanville, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

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

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