Cape Town is a vibrant and diverse city that offers a range of culinary experiences. It is the perfect destination for food lovers who want to indulge in something new and exciting. From seafood to street food, Cape Town has a lot to offer.
In this article, we will explore some of the most popular local dishes in Cape Town. Get ready to take your taste buds on a journey through the flavors of this beautiful city.
1. Bobotie
Bobotie is one of the most iconic dishes in South Africa and a must-try for anyone visiting Cape Town. It is a savory dish made with minced meat (usually beef or lamb), curry powder, and spices, topped with an egg custard. The dish is typically served with rice, chutney, and sliced bananas. The combination of flavors is simply delicious and will definitely leave you wanting more.
2. Biltong
Biltong is a popular snack in South Africa and is also becoming increasingly popular around the world. It is a type of dried meat that is cured in vinegar and spices, then air-dried. Biltong comes in many different flavors, including spicy, sweet, and savory. It is the perfect snack to enjoy while exploring the city or to take home as a souvenir.
3. Gatsby
The Gatsby is a legendary sandwich that originated in Cape Town. It is a massive sandwich made with a long roll filled with chips, viennas, steak, and a variety of sauces. The sandwich is typically cut into quarters and shared between friends. The Gatsby is the ultimate street food and can be found at many roadside vendors in the city.
4. Snoek Braai
Snoek Braai is a traditional South African dish that is prepared by grilling Snoek, which is a type of fish that is found in the waters around Cape Town. The fish is marinated in a spicy sauce and then cooked on an open flame. It is typically served with a side of braaibroodjies (grilled bread) and a salad. If you love seafood, then Snoek Braai is a must-try dish.
5. Boerewors Roll
A Boerewors roll is a popular South African street food that consists of a Boerewors sausage (a type of sausage made with beef and pork), served on a hot dog bun, and topped with fried onions, chutney, and tomato sauce. It is a quick and easy snack that is perfect for those on the go.
6. Malva Pudding
Malva Pudding is a quintessential South African dessert that is a must-try for anyone visiting Cape Town. It is a sweet and sticky pudding made with apricot jam, butter, and cream, topped with a hot cream sauce. The dish is usually served warm and is best enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It is the perfect comfort food and a great way to end a meal.
7. Bunny Chow
Bunny Chow is another famous South African dish that originated in Durban but can be found in many parts of Cape Town. It is a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, usually made with lamb or chicken. The dish is typically eaten with your hands and is perfect for sharing with friends. It is a unique and delicious dish that should not be missed while in Cape Town.
8. Cape Malay Curry
The Cape Malay Curry is a unique blend of spices that is a result of the Cape’s history as a Dutch colony and the influence of the Malaysian and Indonesian slaves brought over during that time. The dish is typically made with lamb or chicken and includes spices such as cinnamon, coriander, cumin, and turmeric. It is usually served with rice, sambals (chopped onion, tomato, and cucumber), and a variety of pickles.
Cape Town is a food lover’s paradise. Whether you are looking for traditional South African cuisine or something more modern and unique, there is no shortage of options in this city. From Bobotie to Bunny Chow, there is something for everyone. So, the next time you find yourself in Cape Town, make sure to try some of these delicious dishes and take your taste buds on a journey through the flavors of this beautiful city.