The Western Cape Escapades

Location: Wester Cape Province, South Africa

Many people have always found it surprising that I had never been to the Western Cape considering my love for travelling and creating new experiences. My choice in delaying my visit to the province always revolved around the finances. Whenever I would try to come up with a budget for Cape Town (considering all the things that I would have wanted to do), I would always find a reason to rather go and stamp my passport instead with that same money.

Having said this, I eventually made the decision to take the plunge and blow my money to fully experience the amazing province.

This blog post will be divided into a five-part series which will include things to experience while you are there. These will include restaurants, activities, accommodation, wine farms and beaches to visit and try. At this point you have already gathered my love for food so it will not come as a surprise that our first post will be on the restaurants to try out! So, let’s get started!!!

P.S. This post will be slightly long, but I wanted to make certain that I include all the places which I thoroughly enjoyed.

Tip: A few of these restaurants requires one to make a booking in advance as well as possibly pay a reservation fee. Just a heads up

Gigi Rooftop Restaurant & Bar

The restaurant is set on a rooftop of Gorgeous George Cape Town design hotel thus provides pleasing views of the CBD. It has a delightful menu and the venue itself is picture perfect (be it for a boozy breakfast or drinks during sunset or evenings). The environment allows for a good evening out with mates, drinks and beautiful food.

Rating:

- Service

- Food

- Drinks

- Value for money

- Overall experience

The Bungalow Clifton

This restaurant brags its amazing views of greenery and the Clifton beach. The tent also allows for warm shelter for windy days. The venue gets quite full which I believe contributes to the lacklustre service that one receives. A reservation fee of R250 paid per person which is deducted from the overall bill. The menu boasts of fresh sea food (oysters, fish, sushi) and pretty drinks. The DJ will ensure that the environment remains lively.

Rating:

- Service

- Food

- Drinks

- Value for money

- Overall experience

The 41

Possibly a run to value for money while allowing views of palm trees and white beach sands of the Camps Bay ocean. Perfect spot to grab pre-drinks and a light meal (e.g., wings and nachos). They have an in-house DJ who helps in creating a Camps Bay vibe while you enjoy some time with your mates (Think the often-sold ideas of California). Two things which I found slightly underwhelming was the parking situation and food. Due to the large number of restaurants on the street, you will be subjected to parallel parking (which I guess is quite common in Cape Town, however it was full on the day that I went). Also, the flavours for the nachos and wings for example, are only ordinary, nothing to ride home about. After all, if I were coming to Cape Town for some nachos, I would expect something different than what I would find at home. One thing I will rave about when it comes to this spot is that I can almost guarantee that there WILL be specials on your drinks! This is a spot where you can definitely ‘’turn up (primarily on the half-priced cocktails and shots) without breaking the bank.

Rating:

- Service

- Food

- Drinks

- Value for money

- Overall experience

Birkenhead House

Birkenhead House is an intimate beach hotel situated in Hermanus and SCREAMS luxury! It allows for one to reflect and recharge while overlooking picturesque ocean views while enjoying opulent interior designs. The food has a strong Malay and Asian influence and provides home made bread, ice creams and sorbets to name but a few. This is a place where I feel like I will have to go back for a full experience (of the hotel, spa and the likes), however it is rather on the pricey side so I will have to budget for this one ☹

Rating:

- Service

- Food

- Drinks

- Value for money

- Overall experience

Fick’s Restaurant

This restaurant is an open venue and allows for a casual afternoon filled with drinks and bites to share. The views of the ocean and rocks allow for great scenery which is also accompanied by great service. My favourite part about this spot has to be the tidal pool which is open to guests, children and the locals for a swim. I highly recommend this spot when visiting Hermanus, you will not be disappointed!

Tip: Feel free to wear your swimsuit under your clothing in case you feel the need to give into the temptation of going for a swim while you have your drinks

Rating:

- Service

- Food

- Drinks

- Value for money

- Overall experience

Bobo’s Restaurant

Dinner at Bobo’s was a beautiful treat. Not only is the restaurant aesthetically pleasing but the food is amazing. I say this because everyone at the table ordered completely different meals but we all left with a massive smile on our faces. Some ordered steak, others ordered the vegetarian pasta meal while I obviously had the kingklip because of the “ocean vibes” haha. My friends and I enjoyed a gratitude dinner here (so no phones were allowed at our table to ensure that we all remained present during the evening). Although I don’t have pictures from the venue, trust me when I say that you will enjoy the environment, drinks and the food all at the same time. Did I mention that securing a table outside will also ensure that you have views of the ocean? ...., yaaaah hey

Rating:

- Service

- Food

- Drinks

- Value for money

- Overall experience

The Twelve Apostles – Azure Restaurant

To say that this is a MUST do would be an understatement. The drive along the coast on your way to the hotel is so serene! Upon arrival at the hotel, all Covid protocol is observed until you’re led to the first floor (the Azure restaurant). Although one can choose whether they want a hot or cold breakfast buffet, I recommend that you do both (especially if you have a few hours to spend while enjoying views of the ocean and mountains). The buffet has everything you can possibly imagine. Oysters, bubbles, fruit, full english breakfasts, smoothies, etc! Everything your little heart could desire, is fully and generously served.

Rating:

- Service

- Food

- Drinks

- Value for money

- Overall experience

I hope that this part of the blog allows you to plan well for the restaurants to visit on your next trip to the Western Cape. I hope that your mouth is watering until Part Two of our "Western Cape Escapades". Byeeee for now :-)