Cape Town is known for its Mediterranean climate, beautiful coastlines, and metropolitan city atmosphere, but there is far more to discover here than just the amazing landscapes, and friendly locals. Here, you can experience incredible cuisines from around the world: top notch sushi, authentic Indian restaurants, and even family-friendly pubs.

The well-known eateries might be something you’ll want to experience at first, but when you tire of the same environment day in and day out, check out these little gems below for a more atmospheric, and authentic, Cape Town dining experience.

A hearty dinner paired with wine can never be wrong. By naotakem (Flickr)

1.  A Touch of Madness – Observatory

For those who’ve longed to dine in a charmingly old-fashioned Victorian house, A Touch of Madness is exactly what you’re looking for! You’ll enter and discover the living room filled with cosy leather couches, side tables, dim lighting, and woven rugs, which add to the Victorian quaffery experience. Other ornate period pieces are scattered throughout the various rooms.

Spend some time relaxing in front of the fireplace in winter, as you’re encouraged to feel at home. Entertainment is provided three times a week, with poetry readings on Mondays from 8pm, lilting Irish music every Thursday from 9pm, and every second Sunday evening from 8pm, you can dine to the country tunes of the Blacksmith band. Average meal prices range between R40 to R60. To book a table for a romantic dinner or to socialise with friends, call 021-448-2266.

Nothing beats a still-warm from the oven croissant enjoyed with coffee. By Ghita Katz Olsen (Flickr)

2.  Spill the Beans Coffee Shop – Simons Town

If you’ve just come from the beach and found the water to be a bit chilly, nothing will warm you up faster than a piping-hot cup of coffee or red cappuccino, for those who aren’t caffeine addicts. This charming, owner-run coffee shop is situated inside the British Hotel, and comes highly recommended!

Though not the largest café around, the food here is divine, the service is friendly and personal, and the atmosphere is fantastic for those looking to find a community stop-in spot.  If you don’t have time to sit down and relax, then grab one of their freshly baked muffins or croissants, and make a note to come back and enjoy the full experience at a later date. There are daily specials, and in winter they serve yummy home-made soups, which change daily. The average meal price is R30, and you can phone ahead to book a spot on 021-786-2054.

An up-close look at dim sum. By Augapfel (Flickr)

3.  South China Dim Sum – Long Street

Those who long for a less formal dining experience, and one where you can bring your own alcohol (also known as BYOB – bring your own booze), should know that this laid-back dining extravaganza is what you’ve been seeking.  This is the perfect place for a holistic experience, as they use only fresh ingredients, home-made soy sauce, and produce a variety of popular and tasty South-east Asian street foods. Popular meal options include laksa lemak, beef potstickers, and wonton noodle soup.

You’ll pick up on the informal ambiance as soon as you enter as the décor is quite simplistic, so don’t be surprised to see items such as flowers in jam jars. In case you were wondering, only biodegradable items are used for plates, cutlery, and bowls. The only possible flaw is that they don’t have a credit card machine on-site, so please ensure you bring enough cash. Each dish is priced roughly at around R30, and you get a lot of bang for your buck here. Contact: 078-846-3656.

Let us know what your favorite obscure Cape Town restaurant is and why it’s so fantastic, be it service, food, ambiance, or live music!

Main image credited to antwerpenR (Flickr)