When it comes to vegan and vegetarian dining, the Mother City is a full of places to grab a healthy plant-based bite to eat. But what about romantic dining spots that are open later than 6pm? It can be really difficult to find a good spot to celebrate a special occasion and still cater to your plant-based dietary needs after working hours. We’ve uncovered a few vegan and vegetarian romantic and gourmet evening dining options in Cape Town.
1. Aubergine
Aubergine Restaurant is housed in the historic 1830 former home of the first Chief Justice of the Cape, Sir John Wylde, in the Gardens area. The gorgeous refurbished home has a soft, sophisticated and contemporary look and feel. This dreamy spot flaunts a separate vegan and vegetarian menu with highlights like, the Aubergine and Chickpea Fry, Moong Bean Dahl and the Vegetable Spring rolls.
Website: www.aubergine.co.za
Contact: 021 465 0000
Address: 39 Barnet St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001
2. Anatoli
Anatoli is the place to go for modern day Turkish cuisine and an amorous atmosphere. Enjoy classic Turkish fare in the form of a carefully assembled mezzo menu. Vegetarian and vegan options on the menu include, Zeytinyagli Yaprak Dolmasi (vine leaves stuffed with rice, pine nuts, black currants and spices), Humus and Patlican Izgara (grilled aubergine).
Website: anatoli.co.za
Contact: 021 419 2501
Address: 24 Napier St, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001
3. Bombay Brasserie
Enjoy refined Indian cuisine in a polished and elegant setting at the Taj Hotel, frequently called the best Indian fine dining experience in Cape Town. Highlights of the menu are, cumin tempered potato with green olives, sautéed spinach with golden fried garlic and black lentils; and kidney beans simmered overnight.
Website: www.taj-cape-town
Contact: 021 819 2000
Address: Taj Cape Town, 1 Wale St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000
4. Galbi Restaurant
Enjoy the unique experience of a Korean fusion braai in Cape Town’s vibey inner city just off long street. Perfect for winter, Gabli offers visitors their own fire to cook food, right in the middle of your own table. This experience is both warming and fun. Braai options for vegetarians and vegans are mushroom shots, braai broodtjies and corn on the cob, with main traditional Korean meals such as Bibimbap (clay pot cooked white rice, spinach, carrots, bean sprout and baby marrow with optional fried egg that can be removed for vegans) and Doenjjang Jjigae (savoury soup with Korean soy bean paste, baby marrows, potatoes, mushrooms and tofu served with rice).
Website: www.galbi.co.za
Contact: +27 21 424 3030
Address: 9 (19) Bloem Street, Alley Entrance, Cape Town, CBD 8001
5. Reverie
A quirky and unique restaurant experience based on social dinning, where there is one long table with all seating. The decor is eclectic with dim lighting and warm finishes. Exclusive 5 course meals are made for each occasion and especially prepared to suit the table’s needs, including those who are are vegan or vegetarian. All dishes on the menu for the evening will depend on your tastes, a perfect option for an unforgettable evening.
Website: www.reverie.capetown
Contact: 079 060 6971
Address: 226A Lower Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925
6. Cavalli Wine Estate
The first Green-star rated restaurant in South Africa, Cavalli’s cuisine manifesto is hinged on local sustainable ingredients of the highest quality. Resting over a serene dam with the Helderberg mountain range as it’s backdrop, Cavalli has a truly memorable setting. Vegan highlights on the menu are, the Sweet Potato and Pine Nut Ravioli and the Cauliflower Steak. Chef Michael Deg has created magnificent vegan dishes, every element and dish is prepared elegantly and is a taste sensation.
Website: cavallistud.com
Contact: 021 855 3218
Address: Stellenbosch
Azure Restaurant
Azure Restaurant at the 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa, offers not only breathing taking sea views but also decadent vegan dishes. Our favorites on the menu include, Marinated Chickpea and Malay Spiced Butternut Squash.There is also a fabulous vegan high tea option, in case you would like to host a special occasion.
Website: www.12apostleshotel.com
Contact: 021 437 9029
Address: Victoria Street, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8005
FoxCraft
Based in the green Constantia Winelands, Foxcroft puts deliciousness first and their warm and welcoming setting is impossible to resist. Every ingredient is treated as though it is a rare and respected commodity. Vegan treats on the menu include Sunchoke Mille Feuille and Mushroom Cannelloni. It is a tapas style menu and something delicious and vegan through each course.
Website: www.foxcroft.co.za
Contact: 021 202 3304
Address: Shop 8, High Constantia Centre, Groot Constantia Road, Constantia, Cape Town, 7806
Pictures: Pixabay, Facebook, restaurant websites