Food, glorious food! It’s often the main thing that gets us out of house. Whether we’re popping down the road or catching a flight to a faraway destination, our sense of taste will compel us to try something new.
It just so happens that Cape Town boasts a variety of fabulous places that offer plates and packages full of gustatory wonders. From a 21-course menu to hampers of healthy goodies, the Mother City’s got you covered. Here are three foodie stops loved by locals and tourists alike.
1 The Test Kitchen
Who can say no to a restaurant rated both the best in South Africa and one of the 50 best in the world? Opened in 2010, The Test Kitchen at Woodstock’s Old Biscuit Mill has quickly become the pride and joy of Cape Town’s culinary scene. Recently renovated, The Test Kitchen’s innovative and diverse eating experience is now spread across two sections and incorporates 21 courses. First, there’s the ‘Dark Room’ where cocktails and the first seven courses are served. The remainder of the feast can be enjoyed in ‘The Dark Room’, a formal dining area where each course is paired with a specific wine. The Test Kitchen’s menu accommodates for pescatarians and vegetarians too, but note that its overwhelming popularity means booking in advance is essential.
OF NOTE
When Tuesdays to Saturday 6:30 pm
Where The Old Biscuit Mill, 375 Albert Road, Woodstock
Contact +27 21 447 2337, [email protected], thetestkitchen.co.za
Cost According to menu
2 Wembley Roadhouse
Based in Athlone, The Wembley Group of Companies comprises several food outlets, including a Meat Market, Fruit and Vegetable Markette, Confectioners and even an Eye Clinic that offers free services to the underprivileged. But the real gem is its Roadhouse, which offers a variety of dishes ranging from meat, seafood and chicken grills; wraps and sandwiches; curries and casseroles; pasta and deep-dish pizza; and burgers, including the famous Wembley Whopper. All dishes are halaal, and some meals are vegetarian.
OF NOTE
When Monday to Thursday 11 am – 12:30 am, Friday and Saturdays 11 am – 1 am, Sunday 12 pm – 12 am
Where 25 Denchworth Road and Belgravia Road, Athlone
Contact +27 21 697 1435/+27 21 697 1442, wembley.co.za
Cost According to menu
3 Wellington Fruit Growers
Established in 1904, Wellington Fruit Growers has become one of the Cape’s most beloved sellers and suppliers of fruity and nutty goods. Formerly based in Darling Street, they can now be found in Wetton. While they sell numerous foodstuffs, the company prides themselves on their assortment of dried fruit, nuts and sugary treats such as lollies and mebos (if you don’t know what that last one is, then you’re missing out big time). All products are strictly halaal and kosher, and Wellington also supply and export goods to Gauteng, Durban, the Eastern Cape, Namibia and the UK, making the Mother City so much prouder.
OF NOTE
When Monday to Friday 8 am – 5 pm, Saturdays 8:30 am – 3 pm, Sundays 9 am to 1 pm beginning in December
Where Unit C3, 141 Wetton Road, Wetton
Contact +27 21 704 1800, [email protected], wwellingtonfruitgrowers.co.za
Cost According to price list
Photography courtesy The Test Kitchen, Mohammed Hoosain/SD Studios, Wellington Fruit Growers