Cape Town, renowned for its stunning scenery and vibrant cultural history, has a food scene that’s equally vibrant. From the smoky braais to the spicy curries, the city’s best street food in Cape Town is a reflection of its diverse roots and the warmth of its people. Walking through Cape Town’s streets is a feast for the senses, and its street food is an invitation to taste the soul of the city.
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Old Biscuit Mill: Trendy Meets Traditional
Nestled in Woodstock, the Old Biscuit Mill is a hotspot for food lovers. The Neighbourgoods Market, held every Saturday, is where locals and tourists alike flock for an eclectic mix of flavours. Try the Gatsby, Cape Town’s iconic sandwich loaded with chips, meat, and a spicy peri-peri sauce. The Gourmet Boerie stall elevates the humble South African sausage roll, offering toppings like caramelised onions and creamy cheese, making it one of the best street food in Cape Town.
The V&A Waterfront: Sea Breeze and Savoury Treats
At the V&A Waterfront, you’ll find a vibrant street food culture complemented by the backdrop of Table Mountain. The Waterfront Food Market is a treasure trove of delicacies. Enjoy freshly shucked oysters at Knysna Oyster Company or grab a hearty bunny chow, a hollowed-out bread loaf filled with spicy curry, from Mariam’s Kitchen. The setting, with seagulls overhead and boats bobbing in the harbour, adds a unique charm to every bite, offering some of the best street food in Cape Town.
Did You Know? The Origin of the Gatsby
The Gatsby, Cape Town’s quintessential street food, was born in the 1970s as an affordable, shareable meal for workers. Today, it’s a symbol of the city’s ingenuity and love for bold, hearty flavours, solidifying its place among the best street food in Cape Town.
Hout Bay Market: Coastal Flavours
The Bay Harbour Market in Hout Bay is an essential stop for lovers of street food. The calamari from Salty Sea Dog is perfectly
Crisped to perfection and paired with a tangy tartar sauce, while the wood-fired pizzas at Earthfire Pizza are topped with locally sourced ingredients. For dessert, The Sweetest Thing’s milk tart pancakes are a delightful nod to South African tradition, making this market home to some of the best street food in Cape Town.
Khayelitsha: Township Eats
For a truly authentic experience, venture into Khayelitsha. Local vendors serve dishes like “smiley,” a slow-cooked sheep’s head that’s as much about the experience as the taste. Another favourite is “vetkoek,” deep-fried dough filled with savoury mince or apricot jam for a sweet twist, offering visitors the chance to savour the best street food in Cape Town.
Conclusion: Savour the Soul of Cape Town
Cape Town’s street food is a celebration of its heritage and community. Each dish, from the spicy bunny chow at the Waterfront to the comforting vetkoek in Khayelitsha, tells a story of resilience and creativity. So, let the city’s flavours guide you, and set out on a gastronomic journey brimming with the best street food in Cape Town, as diverse and dynamic as the city itself.
