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 medieval 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 Cape Town set for a blustery winter, the lure of cosy fireplaces is heightened. 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.

What are your favourite restaurants with fireplaces? Let us know in the comments below.

In the city

The Stack

A chic brasserie and bar downstairs with a thoroughly modern members’ club upstairs, The Stack combines style with cosiness in the historic Leinster Hall in Gardens.
Cosy cred Feel the warmth of the fire in the chic but cosy brasserie and bar.
Opening times Monday – Friday, 8am – 11pm; Saturday, 10am – 11pm; Sunday, 11am – 9pm
Contact 021 286 0187, ask@thestack.co.za
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it Leinster Hall, 7 Weltevreden Street, Gardens

Societi Bistro

Discover Cape Town

Housed in what remains of a very old Victorian building, the restaurant’s character is exuded by her imperfect bones. All the details are reminiscent of years gone by, from the exposed brick walls, crumbling plaster, intricate cornicing and original wood floors.
Cosy cred What were once the living rooms of a family home are now divided into separate dining areas; cosy alcoves that make this restaurant a wonderful place to be on a cold and wet winter’s evening.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 12pm – 10pm
Contact 021 42 42 100, info@societi.co.za
Where to find it 50 Orange Street, Gardens

Asoka

One of Kloof Street’s popular haunts, Asoka has established itself as the place to go for tasty cocktails and laid-back dining. With a crackling central fireplace and regular live jazz, it’s sure to keep the cold at bay.
Cosy cred Soft fairy lights, glowing candles and warm lanterns, plus a delicious special on Mondays.
Opening times Monday, 6pm – 1am; Tuesday, 6pm – 2am; Wednesday – Saturday, 6pm – 2am; Sunday, 6pm – 12am
Contact 021 422 0909, info@asoka.za.com
Where to find it 68 Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town

Aubergine

Consistently rated as one of the finer restaurants in the Mother City, Aubergine provides guests with the ultimate dining experience: beautifully conceived, creative dishes in a sophisticated atmosphere.
Cosy cred There’s a large central fireplace and some unmissable warming winter specials!
Please note Aubergine Restaurant is closed from 1 to 25 June 2019.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 6pm – 10pm
Contact 021 465 0000
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it 39 Barnet Street, Gardens, Cape Town

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, or a no-excuses-needed meal with family and friends.
Cosy cred Not one, not two, but three fireplaces! And a wonderful winter lunch special, too.
Opening times Monday 5pm – 2am; Tuesday – Sunday, 12pm – 2am
Contact 021 423 4413, info@kloofstreethouse.co.za
Where to find it 39 Kloof Street, Gardens

The Moveable Feast

Dressed in second-hand finds from flea markets, junk shops and a defunct French restaurant in Paris, this Moulin Rouge-inspired space is a feast for the eyes.
Cosy cred Fireplaces, candles and delicious French food – how much more cosy does it get?
Opening times Bistro: Monday – Saturday, 6pm – 10pm
Contact 087 897 9749, eat@themoveablefeast.co.za
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it 13 Kloof Nek Road, Cape Town

Janse & Co

This supremely stylish eatery is an absolute must-visit for any gourmand looking for an exciting gourmet experience. The brainchild of chef Arno Janse van Rensburg and his wife and pastry chef, Liezel Odendaal, at Janse & Co ingredients take centre stage, dictating the flavours, textures and painterly palette of chef Arno’s out-of-the-box dishes.
Cosy cred Enjoy perfectly pared-down dishes and handpicked wines in the dark, Scandi-esque interiors, with a crackling fire – and wonderful winter special – to heat things up. The starlit courtyard is also fun on mild evenings.
Opening times Friday – Saturday, 12pm – 2pm; Tuesday – Saturday, 6pm – 9pm
Contact 021 422 0384
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it 75 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town

The Pintxos Bar at Sotano on Bree

The ground floor of this buzzy two-tiered venue serves pintxos (pronounced “peen-chos”), similar to tapas but bite-size and as finger-lickingly tasty, with origins in Basque Country and Navarre.
Cosy cred The lobby-style Pintxos Bar has a wonderful crackling fireplace.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 7.30am – 10pm (Restaurant)
Monday – Saturday, 4pm – 7pm (Pintxos Bar)
Contact 021 422 0567, bookings@sotano.co.za
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it 199 Bree Street, Cape Town

Rick’s Cafe Americain

This popular spot just off Kloof Street is housed in a 100-year-old Victorian building, and is filled with furnishings that hark back to a bygone era. There’s even a live jazz band to heat things up.
Cosy cred Rick’s has three fireplaces and ample cosy sofas, nooks and tables downstairs. Feeling brave? Have a drink on open-roof terrace.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 11am – 2am
Contact 021 424 1100, info@rickscafe.co.za
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it 2 Park Rd, Gardens, Cape Town

Café Paradiso

Flanked by plush green hedges just off upper Kloof Street, this popular Mediterannean-inspired eatery serves a variety of dishes that suit all tastes and occasions. Whether you pop in for a wholesome breakfast, laidback lunch, or romantic dinner, you’re sure to get what you came for.
Cosy cred Warm up next to the fires in the restaurant or in the bar.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 8am – 10pm
Sunday, 9am – 10pm
Contact 021 422 0403, cafeparadiso@madamezingara.com
Where to find it 110 Kloof Street, Tamboerskloof, Cape Town

Southern Suburbs

Chef’s Warehouse at Beau Constantia

Claire Gunn

Spectacular scenery, professional service, and top-class cuisine… Chef’s Warehouse at Beau Constantia certainly lives up to its impressive reputation. Like all the other restaurants in the Liam Tomlin-owned stable, the Beau Constantia branch focuses on tapas-style sharing plates, where communal eating enhances the dining experience.
Cosy cred Warmth is echoed in the wooden furniture and fixtures, with two crackling fireplaces taking the edge off the cold.
Opening times Lunch: Tuesday – Sunday, 12pm – 2.30pm
Dinner: Tuesday – Saturday, 5.30pm – 8pm
Contact 021 794 8632
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it Beau Constantia, 1043 Constantia Main Road, Glen Alpine, Constantia, Cape Town

Lapo’s Kitchen

In the historic lower level of the Josephine Mill in Newlands, chef Lapo Magni creates flavourful dishes that draw on the Tuscan cooking traditions of his mother. Beautiful food aside, dining here is all about experiencing an authentic Italian dining experience.
Cosy cred Candlelit tables and a roaring indoor fireplace keep things cosy.
Opening times Lapo’s Kitchen is a pop-up restaurant, meaning it has no set opening times, but rather scheduled dates on which guests can book a place at the table.
Cost From R690 per person for a five-course meal
Contact 076 199 9189, info@laposkitchen.com
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it 13 Boundary Road, Newlands, Cape Town

Foxcroft

This laidback fine-dining restaurant in Constantia is co-owned by Glen Foxcroft Williams’ and feted La Colombe chef Scot Kirton. As such, diners can expect superb food, exemplary service and sophisticated furnishings.
Cosy cred Choose a table right next to the central fireplace to ensure your derrière remains toasty throughout your meal.
Opening times Monday – Sunday
Lunch: 12pm – 3pm (last seating at 2pm)
Dinner: 6pm – 8.30pm
Contact 021 202 3304
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it Shop 8, High Constantia, Corner Groot Constantia and Constantia Main Roads, Constantia, Cape Town

Blockhouse Kitchen

Located at Constantia Uitsig, Blockhouse Kitchen is the newest kid on the block, having opened in May 2019. Here, chef Brad Ball conjures delicious, easy-to-eat comfort food in a modern, airy and an unpretentious space that comfortably seats over 200 guests. Chic yet child-friendly, the restaurant is ideal for casual meals from sunrise to well after sunset.
Cosy cred Hearty, wholesome dishes and a crackling fireplace, of course!
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 8am –11.30am, 12pm – 10.30pm
Sunday & Monday, 8am – 11.30am, 12pm – 5pm
Contact 021 794 3010, info@bhkitchen.co.za
Where to find it Spaanschemat River Road, Fir Grove, Cape Town

The Wild Fig Restaurant

This cosy restaurant is located in an 18th-century farmhouse on the outskirts of Observatory, and serves a selection of pub-style lunches, as well as flavourful Mediterranean and Asian dishes.
Cosy cred A toasty fireplace in the main dining area keeps those pesky winter chills at bay.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 12pm – 10.30pm
Please note Lighter pub-style lunches are served between 3.30pm – 5pm.
Contact 021 448 0507, info@thewildfig.co.za
Where to find it Liesbeek Avenue, Valkenberg Estate, Mowbray, Cape Town

La Parada Constantia Nek

In September 2016, the iconic Constantia Nek Restaurant (the oldest restaurant in Cape Town) was reborn as La Parada, and has been serving diners a delicious array of Spanish-style tapas and enviable views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains since then. The renovation was carefully handled, ensuring that the upgrades did not detract from the beauty and timelessness of this grand old dame.
Cosy cred The interiors are reminiscent of a tapas bar on Barcelona’s Las Ramblas, with a crackling fireplace adding to the ambience.
Opening times Monday, 12pm – 10pm
Thursday – Sunday, 9am – 12am
Contact 021 795 0620, constantianek@laparada.co.za
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it 1 Hout Bay Rd, Hout Bay, Cape Town

Jonkershuis

Situated on the Historic Groot Constantia Wine Estate, Jonkershuis is ripe with breathtaking views of the False Bay coastline and sweeping vineyards. Entering the estate, it’s hard not to be drawn towards this characterful eatery that offers a wonderful selection of farm-fresh cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Cosy cred Inside, old-Cape grandeur permeates, with a flicker of fireside intimacy, while the outdoor courtyard is warmed with large gas heaters.
Opening times Sunday – Thursday, 9am – 5pm
Friday – Saturday, 9am – 9pm (breakfast served until 11.30am)
Contact 021 794 6255, info@jonkershuisconstantia.co.za
Where to find it Groot Constantia, Groot Constantia Road, Constantia

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.
Cosy cred Be sure to book when joining for dinner, as the fireside tables are a hot commodity (pun intended).
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 8.30am – 2am
Sunday, 11am – 11pm
Contact 021 447 4650, info@atouchofmadness.co.za
Where to find it 12 Nuttall Road, Observatory, 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!
Good to know The recently introduced Winter Tasting Menu explores the Cape via an utterly delicious five-course wine-paired culinary journey. Created by chef Christo Pretorius, it costs R825 or R1 300 with the wine-pairing.
Cosy cred Two wonderfully designed fireplaces with unhindered ocean views.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 7am – 10.30am, 12.30pm – 3.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Contact 021 437 9029, azure@12apostles.co.za
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town

The Bungalow

Boasting killer panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean, this is one of the best sundowner spots on the peninsula, and the perfect place to enjoy a tasty seafood meal.
Cosy cred When the temperature drops (and the wind picks up), the waitstaff are quick to offer warm blankets, pull down the awnings, turn on the heaters and bring out your next hot dish. Find out about their wonderful winter special.
Opening times Wednesday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm (winter)
Please note Between 1 July and 30 September, the restaurant is sometimes closed Mondays and Tuesdays, so you may want to call ahead to confirm.
Contact 021 438 2018, info@thebungalow.co.za
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it The Glen Country Club, 3 Victoria Road, Clifton, Cape Town

El Burro

This lively first-floor Mexican restaurant is as much loved for its wonderfully eclectic decor and colourful staff outfits, as well as its delicious food. There’s nothing quite like a spicy chilli relleno and a frozen margarita to warm things up.
Cosy cred Pick a table next to the quirky fireplace.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 12pm – 11.30pm
Contact 021 433 2364, greenpoint@elburro.co.za
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it 81 Main Road, Greenpoint, Cape Town

Salsify at The Roundhouse

Francis Gersbach

Part of the Luke-Dale Roberts string of top-drawer restaurants, Salsify serves sterling cuisine in an edgy, sophisticated space, with killer views of the jutting Twelve Apostles mountains and the ever-changing ocean. It’s headed by chef Ryan Cole who worked at the Michelin-starred The Square restaurant in London, as well as at The Test Kitchen.
Cosy cred Choose to dine in the “inner circle”, an intimate dining room with leather-clad walls and warming fireplaces.
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 12.30pm – 9pm
Contact 021 010 6444, reservations@salsify.co.za
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it The Roundhouse, Roundhouse Road, Camps Bay

Bilboa

Known as the ultimate summer sundowner spot, Bilboa actually doubles as a cosy restaurant when the winter months roll in. Stunning views and the upbeat vibe of the Camps Bay strip make it a wonderful; place to enjoy flavourful Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Cosy cred Ask for a table next to the heater, grab a blanket, and then order something off the winter specials menu.
Opening times Monday – Friday, 12pm – 10.30pm; Saturday, Sunday & public holidays: 11am – 10.30pm
Contact 021 286 5155, info@bilboa.co.za
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it Shop 120, First Floor, The Promenade, Victoria Road, Camps Bay

The 41

Its location opposite the beach on Camps Bay’s high-energy strip makes this seem like a summer spot, but The 41’s glass-panelled fireplace keeps things warm during winter, too.
Cosy cred Sit by the fireplace, order a cocktail, and gaze out over the stormy sea while enjoying The 41’s winter specials menu.
Opening times Mondays, 12pm – 11pm; Tuesdays – Sundays, 9am – 11pm
Contact 021 437 0558, info@the41.co.za
Where to find it Ground floor, 41 Victoria Road, Camps Bay

Deep South

Massimo’s

Owned by Italian-born Massimo Orione and his British wife Tracy, this Hout Bay hangout is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and, of course, delicious home-cooked Italian food.
Cosy cred Situated among the shops at Oakhurst Farm Park, the restaurant offers a cosy setting warmed by an indoor fireplace and fiery pizza oven.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 9pm
Contact 021 790 5648, info@massimos.co.za
Where to find it Oakhurst Farm Park, Main Road, Hout Bay, Cape Town

Cheyne’s

If you’re looking for mouthwatering modern Asian cuisine, then look no further. Chef-owner Cheyne Morrisby treats visitors to a yum cha dining experience, where you get to choose from four delectable dishes off the Pacific Rim-inspired menu, divided into Sea, Land, Earth and Happy Endings. Yum cha is designed as a sharing experience, but can also be eaten as a four-course option.
Cosy cred Tapas by the fire? Sounds like the perfect winter warmer to us.
Opening times Monday – Wednesday, 6pm – 10pm
Thursday – Saturday, 12pm – 3pm; 6pm – 10pm
Contact 079 067 4919, cheynemorrisby@gmail.com
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it 1 Pam Arlene Place, Main Road, Hout Bay, Cape Town

Harbour House Kalk Bay

Collaborative Design

Boasting spectacular 360-degree views of the mountain, sea and Hangklip mountain on the horizon, Harbour House Kalk Bay serves a delicious selection of seafood dishes, making it the perfect spot for any occasion.
Cosy cred Enjoy your meal by the fire, as the waves crash against the giant glass windows.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 11pm
Contact 021 788 4136, kalkbay@harbourhouse.co.za
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it Kalk Bay Harbour, Kalk Bay, Cape Town

Chapman’s Peak Hotel

This established landmark on the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive has a covered outdoor patio that’s perfect for long, lazy Sunday lunches with sweeping views of the bay, harbour and the Hout Bay Sentinel. The fried calamari is a favourite among locals and visitors, but there are loads of other fish and seafood dishes to choose from.
Cosy cred In winter, a crackling fire indoors sets the scene.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 12pm – 9.30pm
Sunday, 12pm – 9pm
Contact 021 790 1036, reservations@chapmanspeakhotel.co.za
Where to find it Chapmans Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Town

Northern Suburbs

Damhuis

The restaurant opened its doors in 2009, but the home of this popular establishment has been around for much longer, and has since been declared a national monument. Rich in heritage and history, the landmark also offers a noteworthy dining experience.
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 – Sunday, 9am – 9:30pm
Contact 021 553 0093, info@diedamhuis.co.za
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it 32 Beach Road, Melkbosstrand

On The Rocks

Wining and Dining

This shore-hugging eatery has become somewhat of a Blouberg landmark, having upheld its stellar reputation for scenic views and delicious food by the sea for over 56 years. The extensive menu includes items such as eggs benedict for breakfast, ostrich carpaccio as a starter, seafood curry and lamb shoulder for mains, and cheesecake and panna cotta for dessert, among many more offerings.
Cosy cred Cosy up to the Venetian fireplace, and allow the atmosphere to wash over you.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 9am – 10pm
Please note On The Rocks is closed for renovations until 1 July 2019.
Contact 021 554 1988, ontherocks@seascapecollection.co.za
Where to find it 45 Stadler Road, Bloubergstrand, Cape Town

Chocolat Bistro

The restaurant’s homely interior and Provençal-style decor creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere in which to enjoy a range of comforting breakfast options, sandwiches and desserts There’s complimentary wi-fi, so order a cup of coffee and get some work done while you wait for your meal.
Cosy cred The fireplace provides respite from the cold, as does the selection of excellent South African wines!
Opening times Mondays – Fridays, 7am – 10pm; Saturdays, 8am – 10pm
Contact 021 975 2426, info@chocolatbistro.co.za
Where to find it 46 Oxford Street, Durbanville

Durbanville Hills

Winelands

As its name suggests, Durbanville Hills is situated atop a hill in the Durbanville Wine Valley, with sweeping views of Table Mountain and Table Bay on grand display through double-volume glass walls. In the kitchen head chef Louisa Greeff creates a simple, yet sophisticated, menu each season.
Cosy cred Feel the warmth of the fireplace while enjoying a glass of the estate’s merlot.
Opening times Tuesday – Sunday, 8.30am – 11am; 12pm – 3pm; 6pm – 10pm
Contact 021 558 1300, info@durbanvillehills.co.za
Good to know Durbanville Hills is hosting a series of immersive wine-paired dinners, each themed around a specific country. Taking place once a month until end-August 2019, each dinner allows you to enjoy Durbanville Hills’ range of unique terroirs with a specially prepared three-course menu reflecting the particular nation’s culinary traditions. Sure to keep you warm on a cold winter’s night.
Book through DinePlan
Where to find it Tygerberg Valley Road, Cape Farms, Cape Town

The Indian Chapter

AFK Travel

Former TV and radio personality, Prim Reddy stepped out of the public limelight and into the kitchen when she took over a failing restaurant and turned it into one of the best Indian destinations in Cape Town. Chapter 1 opened in 2013, shortly followed by adjacent Chapter 2 in the Carnaby Centre in Table View, with murmurings of more Chapters to come. Chapter 2’s interiors are understated with striking pieces scattered throughout the restaurant. Chapter 1 is more formal (if you’re looking to book for a special occasion).
Cosy cred Aside from the inherent heat of Indian food, the restaurant has a fireplace Chapter 2 has a fireplace (which is sadly closed on Sundays and Mondays).
Opening times Daily, 9am – 11pm
Contact 021 557 5524
Where to find it Carnaby Centre, 9 Marine Circle, Table View

And, if you find yourself in the Winelands…

… these wonderful wine farms will keep you warm with their glowing fireplaces.

• Le Coin, Franschhoek, 074 126 0022
• Le Petite Ferme, Franschhoek, 021 876 3016
• Chefs Warehouse Maison, Franschhoek, 021 876 2116
• The Werf, Franschhoek, 021 870 4206
• La Motte, Franschhoek, 021 876 8800
• Country Kitchen Mont Rochelle, Franscchoek, 021 876 2770
• Le Bon Vivant, Franschhoek, 021 876 2717
• Grande Provence, Franshhoek, 021 876 8600
• La Paris Bistro, Franschhoek, 021 867 0171
• Jardine, Stellenbosch, 021 886 5020
• Gate, Stellenbosch, 021 888 4750
• Hazendal, Stellenbosch, 021 205 5620
• Terroir, Stellenbosch, 021 880 8167
• Lanzerac Taphuis, Stellenbosch, 021 887 1132
• Dornier Bodega, Stellenbosch, 021 880 0557
• Waterford, Stellenbosch, 021 880 5300
• Overture, Stellenbosch, 021 880 2721
• Faber, Paarl, 021 202 1219
• Noop, Paarl, 021 863 3925
• Glen Carlou, Paarl, 021 875 5528
• Waterkloof, Somerset West, 021 858 1491
• Green Vine Silvermist, Constantia, 021 794 7601

Research by Matthew Flax, Kent Cloete, Francesca Gransden, Nikki Benatar, and Michelle de Bruin

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