The saying goes, “If the shoe fits, wear it”. When it comes to the restaurants in Green Point, that couldn’t be more appropriate, especially if we’re talking the-best-in-the-business.
A suburb that’s no stranger to fame, Green Point knows how to show off. With sporting ground royalty, everything and more retail therapy hubs, and a selection of truly tastebud tantalizing restaurants, what more could you want?
Showcasing a fusion of global cuisine with local ingredients, Green Point has quickly become a melting pot of culinary genius. Figuring out which hotspots should top your itinerary can be challenging.
Luckily, you have the only guide to the best restaurants in Green Point you’ll ever need. Keep reading and build up an appetite that only these gems can satisfy.
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11 of The Best Green Point Restaurants & Cafés
Originally named “Glijpunt” by the Dutch, the area has undergone transformation after transformation. These days, the area, hugging the Atlantic Ocean, showcases a culinary scene, and these ten spots steal the show.
1. El Burro Taqueria
Image from official Facebook page
As it is very close to the Cape Coliving Villa, much of that culinary affection goes to El Burro Taqueria. This authentic Mexican eatery never fails to impress with food that creates a symphony of flavors on the palette.
Bringing the vibrancy of Mexico right into the heart of Cape Town, it seamlessly mirrors the very soul of Mexican cuisine. You won’t have to look for proof of this, with it being clear in everything from their zesty guacamole to savory enchiladas.
Inside, its colorful decor and design mix so well with the very lively atmosphere, inviting every meal to be a celebration. The menu leans heavily towards tapas-style dining, where each dish boasts authentic Mexican tortillas, tortilla chips, hot sauces, and salsas.
But what would Mexican fare be without tequila? After your meal, head down to their festive tequila bar, Cabrito. Boasting a selection of imported premium varieties, you’ve never had a tequila margarita like these.
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 12 pm to 12 am
Address: 79 Main Road, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005
2. Bao Down
Image from official web page
Syncing into the growing trend of a less-is-more approach, the culinary scene found within the best Green Point, Cape Town, restaurants, is often a case of big things in small packages. And Bao Down is the perfect example of this.
Although from the outside you wouldn’t think it, the interiors showcasing soft-pink walls, vintage bird prints, antique mirrors, and origami-esque lights create an instantly calm space. Food-wise, under the helm of chef Graham Oldfield, expect a concise Asian small-plate menu.
Boa buns are the star attraction here, and they’re incorporated into every plate, even making their way onto the dessert menu. Each bite is packed with flavor without ever being overbearing, from its moreish Korean fried chicken to spicy prawns.
Some dishes you shouldn’t dream of skipping include the tantalizing hoisin-braised duck leg or pork belly with gochujang sweet potato. Wrap all that in a bow of innovation, and Bao Down is an Asian culinary sensation.
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 5 pm to 11 pm
Address: First Floor, The Exhibition Building, 79 Main Road, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005
3. GOLD
Image from official web page
There are restaurants in Green Point, and then there’s GOLD – a celebration of the continent’s culinary heritage. And that’s not even an exaggeration. Here, you’re in for an inspired and diverse flavor experience, perfect for a night of fine dining.
Starting with the entertaining and interactive Djembe drumming sessions, the restaurant sets the tone for each night with the sounds of authentic African rhythms. It’s not just in the live entertainment. Interior decor shines with varying influences from around Africa.
Unsurprisingly, its menu is where GOLD steps up a notch with sample dishes that give you just enough of a taste of African cuisine to leave you wanting more. Each plate is as unique as it could be, with a flavor profile to match.
Indulge in everything from Moroccan tagines to classic South African braais. The entire continent is present from the front door to your last bite. Treat yourself to their Zanzibar line fish curry with coconut or the East African kachumbari.
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 6:30 am to 11 pm
Address: 15 Bennett Street, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005
4. Jason Bakery
Image from official Facebook page
When it comes to breakfast, there are few places, anywhere, that can compete with Jason Bakery. The timeless establishment is a favorite among locals and tourists and an easy contender for the best Green Point restaurant.
But what should you expect from a spot that blends tradition with innovation and experiments with bold flavors and unconventional pairings? Beyond an air filled with the aroma of freshly baked croissants, the menu is a standout.
Breakfast sees the dawn of spinach-spiked green pancakes, creamy mushroom ragout, and fragrantly spiced shakshuka. Mid-morning cravings are dealt with swiftly thanks to a spread of delicious sandwiches and, of course, a perfect coffee pairing.
Although Jason Bakery doesn’t serve cappuccinos, their flat whites are to die for. For the more adventurous, there’s also a selection of trendy matcha, turmeric, and beetroot lattes.
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 7 am to 3 pm. Sundays from 7 am till 2 pm.
Address: 83 Main Road, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005
5. Lievita Cape Town
Image from the official website
There aren’t many spots in Cape Town, let alone the world, that proudly describes itself as a culinary haven, and if you ask us, it’s very true. Here, Italian pizza (and other classic Italian dishes) aren’t simply food. Each plate is an artistic expression and taste explosion.
As you step into the inviting eatery, you’ll immediately be met by the rich aroma of hand-kneaded dough and savory sauces. All of which act as an appetizer for the real showstoppers. With the finest in locally sourced ingredients and a touch of Italian flair, the menu is impeccable.
Sure, they do pizzas. But these are second to none. On the other hand, their range extends into epic dishes such as a Gorgonzola and Pesto Rigatoni and their tender-as-ever slow-cooked Ragù. And when you consider that the helm of the restaurant is in the capable hands of Amalfi Coast native Andrea, there’s no room for error.
But back to the pizzas. Vegetarians are spoilt for choice with either the Bufalina with Fior di Latte Latteria Sorrentina and Buffalo cheese or the Zio Fabio crafted with ‘Giagiu’ Yellow tomatoes, purple potato chips, and burrata. Meat lovers shouldn’t skip the Porcellina with Fior di Latte, spicy Spianata salami, cubed roasted potatoes, and crispy potato skins.
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 12 pm to 9:30 am
Address: 1 Marina Road, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005
6. Moro Gelato Green Point
Image from the official Facebook page
Starting as a blissful daydream back in 1982 when the Moro family bought their first home gelato-making machine, has now become a synonymous highlight of Green Point. We’re not going to beat around the bush. There’s a massive array of gelato spots here, but none of them compete with Moro.
Each serving is made in an authentic traditional way at Moro. Hand-crafted from scratch with the freshest seasonal ingredients. Oh, and for foodies out there, they also still use traditional pozzetti to preserve every variant. For those not in the know, this is basically a sunken counter protected from air, light, and temperature, resulting in always-delicious gelatos.
Okay, enough about the origin and process. What about the flavors? Unsurprisingly, the standards are present from pistachio to Ricotta e Fichi. But then there are the scene-stealers, Fragola (strawberry sorbet), Cioccolato, Caffé, Tiramisu, and Salted Caramel Toffee.
The saying, less is more, is definitely not in Moro’s vocabulary, as the variety of flavors, each more tasteful and rich than the previous, give credence to this establishment’s fame. Don’t believe us? Try it for yourself. You can thank us later.
Opening Hours: Monday to Wednesday, 12 am to 11 pm; Thursday to Sunday,
11 am to 11 pm; Public Holidays, 11 am to 11 pm
Address: Shop 2, Portside Centre, Corner Upper Portswood Rd and Main Rd, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005
7. Shift Espresso Bar
Image from official Facebook page
For that perfect morning kickstart, you can’t go wrong with a coffee from Shift Espresso Bar, a laid-back spot on Main Road. Expertly showcasing how to redefine the coffee experience, there’s an artistry to how Shift brews every cup.
But you don’t have to be a caffeine connoisseur to appreciate all Shift offers. Trust us, casual sippers will enjoy the caf just as much. Their menu caters to varying preferences, and each brew is created to showcase craftsmanship that has no equal.
It’s not all coffee, though. Shift is also a fantastic, easy-eating breakfast and lunch spot as well. Get your day going with their scrambled eggs on toast with avo and cherry tomatoes, and lunchtime, check-in for The Revolver – a baguette sandwich with seared beef, Spanish onions, parmesan, and light mustard.
Back to the real showstoppers, their specialty coffees. First up is the Hashtag, a blended double shot of espresso with vanilla ice cream and Oreos. Or the Italian Plumber featuring vanilla ice cream, Nutella, and condensed milk.
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 6 am to 6 pm, Sunday, 7 am to 3 pm
Address: 45 Main Road, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005
8. Café Extrablatt
Image from official Facebook page
Any area that blends such expressive cultural elements in the way Green Point does, unsurprisingly, caters to a bit of everything. So, if you’re in the mood for a tour of the tastes of Europe, Café Extrablatt should be your next must-visit.
Effortlessly capturing the essence of a typical European bistro, its diverse menu is nothing short of pure genius. Extending into the architectural and interior design features, the eatery lures you in from a mile away with an inviting ambiance.
Getting to the good stuff – the menu. Light meals are dominated by their Chicken McRosti, a crunchy German hash brown with a crispy chicken schnitzel with a side of green salad. On the more hearty front, there’s no beating Extrablatt’s beef fillet resting on a bed of savory rice.
Rounding out each meal is one (or two) of their crisp and vibrant drinks. Think fresh, fruity flavors blended perfectly from sweet to sour. If you want to treat your sweet tooth, don’t skip out on their Oreo white chocolate frappe.
Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 9 am to 1 am, Friday to Saturday, 9 am to 2 am
Address: The Exhibition Building, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005
9. Hudson’s The Burger Joint
Image from official Facebook page
At Hudson’s, it’s literally all about the burger, and if it sounds perfect, wait till you sit down for one of the best you’ll ever have. If you’re after a gourmet serving that fits the tone of a breezy, low-key evening.
Taking what most expect a burger to be and elevating it from humble comfort food to new heights, it’s the kind of place that knows what they’re doing and does it well. Their menu brims with innovative creations that demonstrate meticulous attention to detail.
On the cards is a vibrant, modern, and harmonious combination of flavors and textures easily noticed in the house-made sauces and toppings. Synonymous with the restaurant is the Rockafella burger, with the star of the show being its eight-hour roasted pulled pork.
Each burger that leaves the kitchen is a standout in its own right, with an artistry behind it, and the same goes for their selection of cocktails. Indulge in The Vaccine or a Mr Belvedere, you won’t regret either, trust us.
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 12 pm to 11:30 pm
Address: 1A, Portside Mall, Main Road, Green Point, Cape Town, 8001
10. Mano’s
Image from official Facebook page
Instantly recognizable with its white canopy roof along Main Road and, to the true foodie, an always welcome sight, Mano’s, is culinary heaven. A genuine Cape Town stalwart specializing in easygoing homemade-style food, there’s no equal if you’re after a relaxed dinner spot.
With a clientele as varied as its menu items, there’s a plate for every palate and a taste for every trend. But, the beauty of Mano’s lies in it’s unpretentious take on contemporary Mediterranean cuisine.
The bustling energy in the restaurant’s atmosphere is perfectly reflected in dishes such as its spicy prawn curry, delectably creamy chicken limone, and chicken-liver pasta.
If you’re a fan of kebabs, treat yourself to their chicken kebabs. And what’s dinner without dessert? At Mano’s still impressive, but when you cap off your meal with their Brownie Mess, you’ll leave with a smile that’ll be near-impossible to wipe off.
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 12 pm to 11 pm
Address: 39 Main Road, Green Point, Cape Town, 8051
11. Randy Warthog Bar & Grill
Image from official Facebook page
So, you’re yearning for the perfect burger, but Lady Luck isn’t in your favor. How does a classic bar and grill that reworks grilled meat into an artisanal masterpiece sound? Welcome to the Randy Warthog Bar & Grill.
It shouldn’t be shocking that South Africa is a carnivore’s nirvana. And if you’re on the hunt through the wilderness of Green Point restaurants in Cape Town, you’ll find a warthog to be the top prize. With its masterful combination of creative flair and bold flavors, a meal at the Warthog is second to none.
Stepping through the door, the eatery’s first impression is one brimming with a rustic but contemporary ambiance. It’s the kind of place where unwinding with your friends and socializing into the late-night hours is the order of the day.
How about their delectable steak and eggs served with a side of fries? Or how about something a bit more spicy? Their chili popper quesadilla should fit the bill, although the Sriracha chicken quesadilla might just snatch first place. We’ll let you decide.
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7 am to 10 pm
Address: 107 Main Road, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005
Wrapping Up the Best Restaurants in Green Point for 2024
There you have it, the ultimate restaurants in Green Point all wrapped up. Comfort food? Check. International flavor? Check. Artistic expression? Check. It doesn’t matter where in the area you are; you’re never more than a few steps away from the meal of your life.
Every restaurant and every dish tells a unique story you’ll fall in love with at first bite. Whether you’re a culinary connoisseur or a curious, casual food lover, you can trust that you’re in good hands. Now. You must be starving.
Pro tip: Explore beyond the culinary borders of Green Point and head for the best eateries in Sea Point.