23 great wine bars and restaurants in Cape Town 2026

Tannin

Phone: +27 108 256 086

Address: Ralph Station House, 86 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town

Right in the thick of Bree Street’s buzz, Tannin is the kind of spot that makes wine people grin. Dreamed up by British duo Dominic and Lisa Wood, it’s equal parts sophisticated and down-to-earth – the kind of place you wander into for “just one glass” and leave hours later with a new favourite producer. The list is a beast (in the best way): 400-plus bottles and around 40 by the glass, with South African stars front and centre and a few global gems tucked in for context. You’ll spot everything from Swartland naturals to Stellenbosch icons, all clearly curated by people who live and breathe w...

Chapman’s Peak Hotel

Phone: 021 790 1036

Address: 2 Chapmans Peak Drive, Scott Estate, Cape Town

Chapman’s Peak Hotel is a Cape Town institution, known for its relaxed seaside dining and legendary seafood. The menu is simple but expertly executed, with fresh, high-quality ingredients taking centre stage. The star of the show is undoubtedly the calamari – tender, perfectly grilled and served in generous portions, it has earned a reputation as one of the best in the city. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the breezy terrace or enjoying a leisurely meal inside, the focus is on unfussy, flavourful dishes that pair effortlessly with a great bottle of wine. The wine list at Chapman’s Peak H...

Vine & Dandy

Phone: 076 241 6802

Address: Unit O19, Longkloof precinct, 7 Park Road, Gardens, Cape Town

Tucked away in Cape Town’s Gardens district, Vine and Dandy offers a delightful blend of daytime relaxation and evening sophistication. By day, this charming spot operates as a coffee shop, serving freshly brewed Cedar Coffee alongside a selection of pastries and toasties. The atmosphere is cosy and inviting, making it an ideal place for meetings, catching up with friends, or simply enjoying a quiet moment. Dog lovers will appreciate the pet-friendly policy, with comfortable pup sack beds available for furry companions. As the day transitions into evening, Vine and Dandy transforms into a v...

Ouezeri

Phone: 061 533 9071

Address: 58 Wale Street, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town

Ouzeri, located at 58 Wale Street in Cape Town’s city centre, is a contemporary restaurant offering a modern take on traditional regional recipes from Cyprus and Greece. The establishment began as a series of pop-up events by chef-owner Nic Charalambous, who sought to spotlight Cypriot cuisine and present a fresh perspective on Greek food in South Africa. Drawing inspiration from his travels and family recipes, Charalambous has crafted a menu that balances authenticity with modern culinary techniques. The restaurant’s seasonal menu is sourced from top local producers and complemented by a car...

Cassette

Address: 206 Main Road, Sea Point, Cape Town

Cassette is a small wine bar in the heart of Sea Point, where wine meets throwback tunes. Run by Erica Taylor, the ever-changing wine list mixes small-batch boutique producers with a few timeless classics. The vibe is designed to be relaxed yet buzzing – the kind of place where you can geek out over wine if you want to, but just as easily sit back and enjoy the music and the moment. [Editor's note: Erica Taylor is Star Wine List's Cape Town and Stellenbosch Ambassador.]

The Blue Room

Performers at The Blur Room wine bar and jazz club - a Star Wine List Red Star in Cape Town, South Africa.

Phone: 021 216 0035

Address: 103 Bree Street, Cape Town

The Blue Room on Bree Street is where Cape Town’s loves – live music, fine wine, and craft cocktails – come together in one sultry, jazz-infused space. Part of Grub & Vine, this moody, dimly-lit lounge channels the golden era of jazz while keeping things fresh with a line up of top local and international artists. With live performances every night from Monday to Saturday, the music spans classic jazz, blues, and contemporary fusion, creating an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and electric. More than just a music venue, The Blue Room delivers on the drinks front, with a well-curated win...

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Belthazar

Phone: +27 21 421 3753

Address: Shop 154, Breakwater Boulevard, Cape Town

Situated in the vibrant V&A Waterfront, Belthazar is a culinary landmark renowned for its exceptional offerings. The restaurant showcases a diverse menu featuring prime cuts of grass-fed and grain-fed beef, expertly aged to perfection, alongside an array of fresh seafood selections. Notably, Belthazar boasts an extensive wine program, with experienced sommeliers serving up to 250 of the Cape’s finest wines by the glass, all meticulously stored in a state-of-the-art Vinoteque to ensure optimal quality. The ambiance at Belthazar is both chic and inviting, providing guests with stunning views o...

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Cooper Wine Bar

Phone: +27 081 703 2214

Address: 315 Main Road, Sea Point, Cape Town

Cooper Wine Bar on Main Road in Sea Point is a standout destination for wine lovers looking to explore a well-curated selection of South African wines. The space strikes a balance between relaxed and sophisticated, making it a great spot for both casual drinks and more in-depth wine appreciation. The wine list showcases boutique producers and hidden gems alongside established favourites, offering something for every palate. Knowledgeable staff members are on hand to provide thoughtful recommendations, enhancing the experience with their insights into each bottle’s story. The food menu, while...

Arthur’s Mini Super

Phone: +27 087 702 7470

Address: 15 Arthurs Road, Sea Point, Cape Town

Arthur’s Mini Super is the kind of place that makes you feel like a regular from the moment you walk in. By day, it’s a laid-back Sea Point deli slinging some of the best toasties in town; by night, it transforms into a casual but seriously cool wine bar with a focus on natural, low-intervention wines. Run by Stephanie Anastasopoulos and Will Hobson, Arthur’s keeps things simple but spot-on – great food, great wine, and a no-fuss atmosphere that feels effortlessly welcoming. The wine selection is ever-changing, always interesting, and leans towards small-production gems. Whether you’re grabb...

Aubergine

Phone: +27 21 465 0000

Address: 39 Barnet Street, Gardens, Cape Town

Special Jury Prize International Open 2026

Aubergine has long been a fixture in Cape Town’s fine dining scene, known for its quiet elegance and commitment to classic, European-inspired cuisine with a South African touch. Chef Harald Bresselschmidt brings a meticulous approach to his dishes, favouring high-quality, locally sourced ingredients with a particular focus on game meats and seafood. The setting – housed in an historic 19th-century building – adds to the restaurant’s charm, making it a reliable choice for those who appreciate a more traditional dining experience. While the menu leans towards the refined and understated, it so...

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Culture Wine Bar

Phone: +27 212160035

Address: 103 Bree Street, Cape Town

By the Glass List of the Year International Open 2026

Culture Wine Bar, on Cape Town’s vibrant Bree Street, has firmly established itself as a premier destination for wine enthusiasts. Under the ownership of UK-born chef Matt Manning, the bar offers an impressive selection of over 50 wines by the glass, providing guests with a diverse tasting journey that spans both local and international varietals. The ambiance is further elevated by weekly live music sessions, creating a lively yet intimate atmosphere that complements the expansive wine offerings. The bar’s dedication to excellence has been recognised on prestigious platforms, garnering signi...

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ëlgr

Interior or elgr restaurant in Cape Town, South Africa - a Star Wine List Red Star wine destination.

Phone: +27 21 422 0384

Address: 75 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town

ëlgr on Kloof Street has made a name for itself not just for its modern, relaxed approach to dining but for its unwavering commitment to sustainability – particularly in its wine program. This dedication has earned it multiple accolades from the Star Wine List of the Year South Africa awards, including Sustainable Wine List in both 2022 and 2023, as well as Best Short List and Best By the Glass List consecutively. In 2023, ëlgr took its recognition to an international level, winning the Sustainable Wine award in the Star Wine List of the Year International Final, solidifying its place as a lea...

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Ellerman House

Phone: +27 21 430 3200

Address: Bantry Bay, Cape Town

Ellerman House, perched above the Atlantic in Bantry Bay, is synonymous with understated luxury, seamlessly blending South African heritage with world-class hospitality. Beyond its breathtaking views and carefully curated art collection, the hotel’s wine program is a standout feature, overseen by sommelier Manuel Cabello. With a deep passion for South African wines, Cabello curates an exceptional selection that highlights both iconic estates and small, cutting-edge producers. His expertise shines in the hotel’s ‘Wine Gallery,’ a strikingly-designed space housing over 9,000 bottles, where gues...

FYN Restaurant

Phone: +27 21 286 2733

Address: 5th Floor, Speakers Corner, 37 Parliament Street, Cape Town

FYN Restaurant, perched above Church Square with striking city views, is where South African flavours meet Japanese precision in a thrilling fine-dining experience. Chef Peter Tempelhoff and Executive Chef Ashley Moss craft a dynamic, kaiseki-inspired menu that highlights the purity of local ingredients – think Karoo lamb, sustainably sourced seafood and indigenous botanicals, all presented with intricate, minimalist elegance. The open kitchen and sleek, industrial design create a dining space that feels both intimate and theatrical, drawing guests into the creative energy behind each dish....

Grub & Vine

Interior of Grub and Vine bistro in Cape Town, South Africa, a Star Wine List Red Star venue.

Phone: +27 212160035

Address: 103 Bree Street, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town

Best Medium-Sized List of the Year International Open 2026

Grub & Vine brings a polished yet unpretentious bistro experience to Cape Town’s lively Bree Street. Chef Matt Manning focuses on ingredient-driven, seasonal cooking, delivering dishes that are refined without being fussy. Expect bold flavours, expert technique, and a touch of British influence, all served in an inviting, relaxed space. Whether you’re settling in for a multi-course dinner or a leisurely lunch, the menu is designed to let quality ingredients shine, with a rotating selection that keeps things fresh and exciting.

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Judd’s Local

Phone: +27 064 527 1272

Address: 141 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town

Judd’s Local, situated at 141 Kloof Street in Cape Town, is a family-owned eatery and wine bar that combines a warm, inviting atmosphere with a dedication to quality cuisine and exceptional wines. Established by the Judd family, the restaurant offers a menu of elevated comfort food, featuring dishes like snoek tacos, West Coast crayfish rolls, and a variety of burgers, including vegan options. The wine selection at Judd’s Local is thoughtfully curated, showcasing local favourites and hidden gems from South Africa’s diverse wine regions. This commitment to excellence in their wine offerings...

Leo's

Phone: +27 76 042 0224

Address: Shop 28, De Oude Schuur, 120 Bree Street, Cape Town

Leo’s Wine Bar is a unique fusion of daytime bagel shop and nighttime wine haven, located on Bree Street in central Cape Town. By day, the space operates as Max Bagels, serving fresh bagels to a bustling crowd. Come evening, it transforms into Leo’s Wine Bar, offering an intimate and relaxed atmosphere for wine enthusiasts. The bar specialises in low-intervention wines from smaller producers, with a strong emphasis on natural and organic selections. Their curated wine list features approximately 20 options, with around 10 available by the glass, rotating frequently to provide guests with new...

La Colombe

Phone: +27 21 794 2390

Address: Silvermist Wine Estate, Main Road, Constantia Nek, Cape Town

La Colombe is South African fine dining at its best with white table cloths, a horde of service staff, refined detail everywhere and set on the mountain side surrounded by a forest of blue gum trees on Silvermist Wine Estate at the end of a steep and winding road leading up from the top of Constantia Nek. This is terrain that reassures 4x4 drivers that they made the right vehicle choice, don’t try to walk it up. The food and service is top notch and the wine service is quirky, showing confidence and personality. You will always have a good time here.

Openwine

Phone: +27 21 422 0800

Address: 72 Wale Street, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town

Openwine on Wale Street isn’t just a wine bar – it’s an enoteca, a space where wine is meant to be explored, discovered, and enjoyed at your own pace. Founded by Raphael Paterniti, this cosy yet sophisticated spot embraces a European approach to wine drinking, with no fixed wine list in sight. Instead, guests are encouraged to browse the shelves lined with an ever-changing selection of South African wines, or seek recommendations from the exceptionally knowledgeable staff. Whether you’re in the mood for a rare Swartland Syrah or a crisp Elgin Chardonnay, the experience is guided by curiosity...

PIER Restaurant

Phone: +27 21 879 6329

Address: V&A Waterfront, 9 Breakwater Boulevard, Cape Town

PIER Restaurant from the La Colombe group is a seafood lover's dream with stunning views of the V&A Waterfront. Outside ships bustling about and inside a calm and serene delectable culinary journey. As with the other La Colombe restaurants, the space is the theatre, and the food is the show. The Chef's menu is R1650 and an additional R1250 if you do the wine pairing. The pairing menu has a great mix of classic South African wines such as Graham Beck Ultra Brut and Klein Constantia Vin de Constance, to up and coming wines like De Kleine Wijn Koop Semillon and B Vintners Haarlem to Hope (exact...

Publik Wine Bar

Address: 11D Kloof Nek Road, Gardens, Cape Town

Publik Wine Bar is where South Africa’s wine industry goes to drink. Tucked away on Kloof Nek Road, this unassuming yet deeply respected spot is all about celebrating the country’s small-batch, minimal-intervention producers. Founded in 2013, Publik has built a reputation for showcasing wines with a sense of place – bottles made by winemakers who prioritise sustainable farming, spontaneous fermentation, and hands-off cellar work. The by-the-glass selection is ever-changing, encouraging guests to explore lesser-known varieties, edgy natural wines, and the best of South Africa’s modern winemaki...

The Waterside

Phone: +27 21 879 6329

Address: Pierhead Building (next to the NSRI, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town

The Waterside Restaurant, also a part of the La Colombe group, sits directly below PIER Restaurant and shares the wine list. A bit more relaxed than its upstairs counterpart, the food is presented with a whimsical beauty that almost looks too good to eat! The six-course menu is R795 and is not exclusively seafood. If you're kicking things off with bubbly, the Colmant Blanc de Blanc is a staple. Iona Sauvignon Blanc or the Beaumont Chenin get my vote if you're in the mood for an easy-drinking white. A great selection across all South African wine categories. I highly recommend this place for...

The Pot Luck Club

Phone: +27 21 447 0804

Address: The Silo/The Old Biscuit Mill, 373-375 Albert Road Woodstock, Cape Town

The Pot Luck Club, sitting high above Cape Town in The Old Biscuit Mill, delivers both skyline views and an exciting, flavour-packed dining experience. Created by acclaimed chef Luke Dale-Roberts, this sought-after spot has become a fixture in the city’s restaurant scene, known for its bold, globally-inspired small plates. The space itself blends industrial cool with warmth, offering an energetic yet laid-back atmosphere where the open kitchen keeps the dining room buzzing. The menu is all about balance, with dishes grouped into taste profiles – salty, sour, bitter, sweet, and umami – encoura...

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