Why I love Western Cape, South Africa's diverse coastal province

Learn all about what makes the cuisine of this coastal region so special from local chef Ryan Cole. From social barbecues to freshly caught seafood and historic wine regions, there is plenty for foodies to enjoy. Make sure you include a couple of days in the city exploring Cape Town's best restaurants.

Want to learn more about regional cuisine? Check out our guides to the cuisines of Kolkta in India, Istria in Croatia, the Nashville in America or Cork in Ireland.

Western Cape cuisine: 10 things we love

Constantia Wine Route

Nestled in the slopes of Table Mountain, the Constantia Wine Route is the oldest wine region in South Africa. Through a combination of varied elevation, a cool climate and granite rich soils, this part of the world is famous for its world-class sauvignon blanc and shiraz. Take part in tastings and tours of the vineyards to take advantage of what this fantastic region has to offer.

Vin de Constance

It is said that many famous historical figures enjoyed this sweet dessert wine, made only in the Constantia region. Napoleon is said to have enjoyed this beverage while in exile on Saint Helena, and it appears in Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility as a cure for a broken heart. This unique wine is definitely one to enjoy when you visit.

Local catch

As Cape Town is coastal city it is of no surprise that fish features heavily in local restaurant dishes. At my restaurants, Salsify and COY, fish is prominent on the menu and is caught by me or my brother Donovan, ensuring freshness and ethical sourcing. Tuna fishing is a significant industry in Hout Bay, with yellowfin, longfin, bigeye and skipjack varieties in the area. In the calmer bays near Simon’s Town and Kalk Bay you’ll find squid and reef fish.

Baked fish potato & leek served at Salsify restaurant — Image credit: JAN RAS PHOTOGRAPHY

Biltong

Originating in South Africa, biltong has in recent years been growing in popularity around the world. Commonly made with beef or game like springbok, this easy way of air drying and curing meat dates back centuries, and to the indigenous South African people. Whether enjoyed as an everyday snack, a day out essential or a lovely addition to a charcuterie, biltong is always readily available, and you can easily make your own.

Springbok

Springbok, South Africa’s national animal, is a popular game meat that’s lean and tender, comparable to veal or filet mignon. The best way to taste this is seasoned simply and cooked over a braai. You can also buy it as sausages or in biltong form.

Braai

Originating from the Afrikaans language, braai translates simply to ‘barbecue’ or ‘grill’ but the braai itself is so much more than that and deeply rooted in South African culture. It’s very much a social event meant to bring together friends and family around the open fire. At the heart of every braai is the meat, best cooked after being marinated for at least an hour in a range of herbs and spices.

Late afternoon BBQ prior to sunset with a vineyard view in Western Cape, South Africa.

Roosterkoek

A braai is not complete without its side dishes. Roosterkoek are small South African rolls cooked on a braai grid over the coals, served hot with plenty of butter. The word roosterkoek literally translates to bread cooked over fire. Made with a few simple ingredients these little pockets of dough are crunchy on the outside and soft in the middle.

Boerewors

Arguably one of the most popular foods in South Africa, boerewors is a beef sausage with strict guidelines on its making process. It must contain 90% meat to count as boerewors, with the remaining 10% being made up of herbs and spices like cloves, nutmeg and coriander, or sometimes other meat like lamb and pork. Of course, these are a staple for the braai.

International influence

With a long history of colonialism, South Africa’s food influence can be traced to many different African and European countries. Cape Dutch and Cape Malay are two of the main styles, focusing heavily on meat dishes, often cooked on the braai. Cape Town is arguably one of the best cities to find South Africa’s full range of dishes and influences, with a combination of traditional high-end dining establishments and a big street food culture.

Street food and markets

Cape Town is excellent at embracing street food culture, as seen through popular food markets like Oranjezicht City Farm Market and Neighbourgoods Market. These markets bring together the best of local farmers, chefs and suppliers for a uniquely casual take on South African cuisine. You’ll find burgers, tapas and the famous Gatsby – a giant sandwich filled with meat or fish, chips and sauces.