12 Bree Street restaurants for date night

As one of Cape Town’s oldest thoroughfares, Bree Street holds a special place in the city’s rich history and culture. Today, it remains abuzz with locals seeking good food and urban adventures.

This bustling avenue provides Capetonians with the perfect setting to unwind and socialise. Offering a diverse selection of restaurants, lively bars, boutiques, and nightclubs, this street caters to all tastes and desires.

Check out our list of Bree Street restaurants:

1. Hacienda Coastal Mexican

Hacienda on Bree Street brings the vibrant flavours of Baja California to Cape Town. Hacienda’s menu caters to everyone, offering a variety of options for vegetarians and vegans. Immerse yourself in the lively and intimate atmosphere, where natural fibres and organic materials, combined with neutral and earthy tones, create a truly captivating dining space.

For those seeking an extraordinary experience, Hacienda also offers a unique Patron tequila tasting menu, allowing you to explore the soul of Mexico, and don’t miss out on its daily special: half-price margaritas from 4 pm to 5:30 pm.

• Location: Hacienda Coastal Mexican | 92 Bree Street, Cape Town
• Times: Monday to Sunday, 12 pm to 10:30 pm
• Contact: 021 422 0128 | [email protected]

 

2. Scala Pasta Bar

Inspired by the pasta eateries scattered throughout Europe, Scala Pasta Bar is a celebration of Italian culture and cuisine. In collaboration with Michelin-starred Italian master chef Luciano Monosilio, Scala Pasta Bar creates a unique and modern twist on classic Italian dishes.

Using tried and tested Italian methods and only the best seasonal ingredients sourced from local producers, Scala’s ‘Pasta Laboratory’ produces three types of fresh pasta daily, all made by hand. Located in the dining and entertainment hotspot of Cape Town’s inner city, a visit to this upmarket pasta bar is essential for foodies and pasta lovers alike. What makes this award-winning restaurant unique is its focus on pasta, with all of it made in-house daily and served tapas-style to give diners a unique and unforgettable Italian dining experience.

But it’s not just the pasta that’s sure to impress – Scala’s Josper Charcoal Oven, imported from Spain, allows the restaurant to produce spectacular sauces, vegetables and meat to use throughout all of their dishes.

The true magic of Scala Pasta Bar lies in the experience. On arrival, guests will receive a complimentary pasta lollipop – truffle pasta croquette, pepper bechamel. And for dessert, be sure to try their signature tiramisu by Luciano Monosilio, for a touch of culinary theatre. To top off the night, guests will receive a complimentary Panera (coffee semifreddo) dipped in melted chocolate.

• Location: 81 Church Street, Cape Town
• Times: Monday to Sunday, 12 pm to 10:30 pm
• Contact: 021 424 7204 | [email protected]

3. Clarke’s Bar and Dining Room

Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room is a well-known restaurant in Cape Town, South Africa. It provides a modern and chic dining experience that is inspired by both local and international cuisine. The restaurant is well-known for its welcoming atmosphere, which is reflected in the pared-down decor and friendly service.

The menu includes a variety of dishes ranging from classic favourites to modern twists on traditional recipes, but for this special occasion, toasted cheese and tomato soup are a must.

• Location: 133 Bree Street, Cape Town
• Times: Monday, 7 am to 4 pm | Tuesday to Friday, 7 am to 10 pm | Saturday, 8 am to 10 pm | Sunday, 8 am to 3 pm
• Contact: 087 470 0165 | [email protected]

4. I Love the Dough

• Location: 101 Bree Street, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
• Times: Tuesday to Saturday, 12:30 pm to 10 pm | Sunday and Monday, 12:30 pm to 9 pm
• Contact: 072 145 9988 | [email protected]

 

5. Chefs Warehouse at The Bailey

Chefs Warehouse at The Bailey opened its doors in early March 2023, replacing The Bailey Bistro on the ground floor. The Brasserie upstairs at The Bailey will continue to serve its favourite classic French-inspired cuisine, as will the Old Bailey Loung Bar on the top level.

Fans of the original Chefs Warehouse concept may expect some old favourites such as salt and pepper squid with chilli, pineapple and caramelised ginger; Vietnamese rice paper rolls; and a signature risotto dish. It will also feature some exciting new dishes conceptualised by Tomlin and the Executive Chef of The Bailey, Asher Abramowitz.

The á la carte menu is available all day from 12pm to 9pm and invites diners to order individual plates from the tapas menu of vegetarian, vegan and meat dishes, as well as fish dishes prepared at the open seafood bar.

• Location: The Bailey | 91 Bree Street, Cape Town
• Chefs Warehouse Times: Monday to Saturday, 12pm to 9pm
• Brasserie Bailey hours: Monday to Saturday, 6pm to 9.30pm
• The Old Bailey Lounge Bar hours: 3pm to late
• Contact: 021 773 0440 | [email protected]

 

6. Max Bagels

Amid the Great Bagel Drought of August 2014, Max Bagels emerged as a beacon of hope in Cape Town. In those trying times, finding a good bagel seemed like an impossible quest, but Max Bagels rose to the occasion, becoming an integral part of the bagel renaissance that followed.

Their hand-crafted, boiled bagels are a labour of love that results in the ideal texture and flavour. Alongside these delectable treats, patrons can indulge in speciality coffee sourced from the esteemed Rosetta Roastery, a pairing that elevates the bagel experience.

With a warm and inviting ambience, Max Bagels has become a beloved destination for bagel aficionados and coffee connoisseurs.

• Location: Shop 28, de Oude Schuur, 120 Bree Street, Cape Town
• Times: Monday to Friday, 8 am to 3 pm | Saturday, 8 am to 2 pm | Sunday, 9 am to 2 pm
• Contact: 063 177 7771

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7. Tomson

Tomson offers an array of Cantonese-style street food, skillfully curated by Andrew Kai, a third-generation Chinese-South African chef whose inspiration springs from the cherished South Cantonese flavours of his childhood.

Among the offerings are wontons filled with pork, shrimp, shiitake and tofu, all bathed in a vibrant chilli sauce. For those seeking a kick of spice, sliced Sichuan pork with a hint of kimchi promises a flavour explosion. The menu also features fiery and spicy beef paired with tender broccoli, aromatic roast Cantonese duck and delicately steamed white fish.

To complement these dishes, Tomson assembles shareable sides like smacked cucumbers, Chinese stem cabbage and Morning Glory – Chinese water spinach, fried garlic and chilli -served with a bowl of rice.

Inside the small white eatery, patrons seated at the counter can witness the kitchen in action. Alternatively, for a more relaxed dining experience during warmer weather, diners can enjoy their meal on the pavement benches, which are ideal for sharing plates with friends.

Matthew Freemantle, a business partner who also oversaw operations at Leo’s Wine Bar, takes pride in Tomson’s succinct wine list. The selection features notable Cape Rock, B. Vintners and Sunday labels. Beer enthusiasts will be pleased with the refreshing range of offerings, including Tsing Tao, Kirin and Asahi beers.

For reservations, diners can secure their spot via direct message on Instagram.

• Location: 120 Bree Street, Cape Town
• Times: Tuesday to Friday, 6 pm to 10 pm
• Contact: @tomson_cpt / Instagram

 

8. fable

fable’s allure comes not only from its cocktails, which push the boundaries in terms of flavour and the expertise with which they’re crafted but also because the entire venue, like its drinks, exudes the promise of mystery and enjoyment.

Josh Sarembock, whose imagination and knowledge of global cocktail culture conjured up fable, set out to bring the essence of the world’s best bars to his hometown while infusing it with uniquely South African elements. The idea of using original cocktails to show off local myths and legends led Raoul Goetze, a Cape Town tattoo artist, to make characters for each myth and legend. His captivating images can be seen on the walls of the bar and even on the bartenders’ biceps. At this one-of-a-kind cocktail lounge, the layered creations have been developed in tandem with local fables, and each has been through numerous iterations before it was deemed ‘perfect’.

fable’s vast menu includes wine, bubbly, beer and classic cocktails for those who prefer more subtle libations and a small menu of enticing comfort food that’s been cleverly curated to cater for mid-party cravings. On offer is a grilled cheese on brioche with bitters-infused butter; a ribeye steak served with charred peaches, whipped feta, crackers and microgreens; a Japanese katsu sando; or pulled pork sliders. If your hunger is more peckish than ravenous, fable’s small plate menu includes popcorn chicken, deep-fried olives, fries and crispy Patagonia squid.

• Location: Corner of Bree and Wale Street, Cape Town, South Africa
• Times: Tuesday to Thursday, 5 pm to 2 am | Friday and Saturday, 4 pm to 2 am
• Contact: 066 009 7786 | [email protected]

9. Burger & Lobster

Burger & Lobster has secured a special place in the hearts of Capetonians as the go-to spot for a satisfying, no-fuss meal after a long day at work. Embracing simplicity, they offer three signature dishes that hit the mark every time: a delectable burger, a mouthwatering lobster roll or a succulent whole lobster.

B&L effortlessly transitions from a laid-back lunch spot during the day to an intimate dinner haven as the sun sets. The ambience is electric, with a lively bar atmosphere where occasional sets from up-and-coming DJs fill the air with delightful tunes.

A perfect complement to this experience is their inventive concoctions and twists on classic cocktails, expertly paired with a selection of bar bites.

• Location: 105 Bree Street, Heritage Square, Cape Town
• Times: Monday to Sunday, 12 pm to 10:30 pm
• Contact: 021 422 4297 | [email protected]

10. Grub & Vine

Grub & Vine on Bree Street personifies sophisticated yet unpretentious dining, which Matt Manning, the restaurant’s executive chef and owner, aptly describes as ‘no-nonsense, good food.’

The restaurant has amassed a devoted following by showcasing beautifully executed, seasonal cuisine and providing impeccable wine pairings – a testament to Chef Manning’s inherent mastery of the art, in which his philosophy revolves around food crafted with exquisite ingredients and an unwavering dedication to honest cooking.

Grub & Vine serves refined bistro-style dishes in a contemporary and relaxed setting. The restaurant’s menu changes on a regular basis to keep things fresh and exciting, and the wine list features some of South Africa’s most esteemed producers.

• Location: 103 Bree Street, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
• Times: Lunch: Monday to Friday, 12 pm to 2:30 pm | Brunch: Saturday, 11:30 pm to 3 pm | Dinner: Monday to Saturday, 6 pm to 9:30 pm
• Contact: 087 153 5244 | [email protected]

 

11. Iron Steak and Bar

Iron Steak and Bar is celebrated for its steaks and is renowned for using only the finest grass-fed and dry-aged cuts. Each steak is expertly grilled to perfection on a Spanish Vulcano Grez open-fire charcoal grill.

Beyond the food, Iron Steak’s allure extends to its contemporary design and inviting ambience, creating the perfect setting for a memorable date night or a joyous gathering with friends.

Adding to the appeal are the regular, budget-friendly specials that cater to various palates. One such offering is its Wagyu Wednesdays, where guests can indulge in a delectable Wagyu burger paired with beef-dripping side fries, all for just R99.

For those seeking to unwind after a busy day, Iron Steak and Bar presents the Half Price Social Hour, available daily from 4 pm to 5:30 pm. The offer is applicable to selected wine, beer, bubbly and cocktails at half price. To complement the libations, guests can indulge in a range of bar bites, each priced at R79.

• Location: 114 Bree Street, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
• Times: Monday to Sunday, 12 pm to 10:30 pm
• Contact: 021 422 1175 | [email protected]

 

12. Pizza Shed

Each pizza at Pizza Shed is crafted with a signature slow-proofed dough before being baked to perfection in wood-fired ovens at high temperatures. The pizzaiolos at the restaurant are true masters of their craft, collectively churning out more than 4 000 pizzas each month.

The atmosphere at Pizza Shed is wonderful at both its Observatory and Bree Street eateries, but if you’re hankering for a Pizza Shed spread and don’t feel like venturing outside, delivery options are available.

For piping hot, freshly baked pizzas, they offer delivery at a cost of R30 per order, requiring a minimum purchase value of R220. Alternatively, for those who prefer the convenience of frozen pizzas, they provide delivery at a cost of R70 per order, with a minimum purchase value of R300. Any purchase exceeding R600 qualifies for complimentary delivery.

• Location: 231 Bree Street, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
• Times: Monday to Sunday, 12 pm to 9:30 pm
• Contact: 071 342 5681

 

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Article originally written and published by Sarah du Toit for Cape Etc.

Feature image: Pexels