Cape Town, South Africa, is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, offering everything from upscale dining to bustling markets. For those who prioritize healthy, planet-friendly eating, Cape Town’s collection of vegan and vegetarian restaurants delivers a rich variety of flavors without compromising sustainability. Here’s a guide to some of the top plant-based eateries around the city.
The Conscious Kitchen
Located on Kloof Street, The Conscious Kitchen embodies zero waste and ethical, organic dining, aligning with its commitment to mindful consumption. The restaurant offers an extensive menu for breakfast, brunch, and lunch with options like nourishing bowls, fresh salads, and hearty all-day breakfast plates. For drinks, enjoy freshly made juices and nutrient-packed smoothies. The Conscious Kitchen is also a delightful evening spot, offering vegan cocktails and small bites, all crafted with their sustainability ethos in mind.
Address: 34 Kloof St, Gardens
Nourish’d
Founded by Natasha Napoli in 2017, Nourish’d quickly became a local favorite with its health-focused smoothies and zero-waste practices. Located on Upper Kloof Street, this spot appeals not only to vegans and vegetarians but also to those looking for fresh alternatives to fast food. With branches now in Observatory and Green Point, Nourish’d offers a full menu featuring everything from innovative smoothies like the CBD Peppermint Crisp to hearty meals like the lentil and beetroot patty burger. Their online shop also stocks juice cleanses, health tinctures, and zero-waste products, allowing you to carry their eco-friendly approach home.
Address: 177 Kloof St, Gardens
Pizzasaurus
For vegan pizza lovers, Pizzasaurus in Cape Town’s East City District is a unique spot where all pizzas are wood-fired and named after dinosaurs. Each pizza is crafted with quality vegan ingredients and comes in sizes ranging from medium to “Dino.” The standout pizza, “The Herbivores,” features a mouth-watering mix of mushrooms, olives, artichokes, and more. Pizzasaurus is a laid-back, quirky choice for plant-based pizza lovers looking for a memorable meal.
Address: 103 Harrington Street, Cape Town
The Sunshine Food Co.
Nestled in the coastal suburb of Three Anchor Bay, The Sunshine Food Co. is a cozy spot offering filling, wholesome plant-based dishes. With options like bunless veggie burgers, vegan sushi rolls, and wraps, it’s an ideal stop for a nutritious lunch or snack. Thanks to its location near the Sea Point promenade, it’s a great choice for a refreshing smoothie or juice while exploring the coast.
Address: 6 Main Rd, Sea Point
Scheckter’s Raw
One of Cape Town’s leading health-focused restaurants, Scheckter’s Raw is known for its dedication to honest, nutritious food. Originally opening its doors in Sea Point, it has since expanded to other areas in the city, bringing along its philosophy of high-quality, plant-based meals. Menu highlights include the signature falafel wrap and their various vegan burgers, appealing to both committed vegans and curious foodies alike.
Address: 98 Regent Rd, Sea Point
Seven Colours Eatery
Inspired by the vibrant colors of traditional South African meals, Seven Colours Eatery is a cultural culinary experience in Battery Park at the V&A Waterfront. While the menu includes meat options, Chef Nolu Dube-Cele’s plant-based creations celebrate South African heritage with dishes like umfino (a blend of maize and greens), millet salad, and a colorful veggie salad with chickpeas and sun-dried tomatoes. Pair these with local breads like amagwinya, and you’ll enjoy a distinct taste of South African cuisine, vegan-style.
Address: Battery Park, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Prashad Café
Prashad Café is a top destination for Indian-inspired vegan and vegetarian dishes, with locations in Cape Town’s city center, Rondebosch, and Constantia. Prashad’s menu features creative plant-based curries and hearty plates like the soya chicken and prawn substitutes, yet their purely vegetarian dishes are equally enticing. For a true taste of South African-Indian fusion, try their “bunny chow,” a Durban-style curry served in naan bread. Another must-try is the Vegetable Malabhar, an aromatic South Indian curry rich with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and coconut.
Address: Palmhof Centre, Kloof St, Gardens
PLANT
Opened in 2013, PLANT is one of Cape Town’s pioneering vegan cafes, now based in the scenic suburb of Camps Bay. PLANT’s extensive menu caters to various tastes, with highlights such as savory breakfast wraps, vegan crepes, and creatively crafted pasta dishes. Don’t miss their flavorful bao, which comes with filling options like shiitake mushrooms, tofu, or seitan. Despite the city’s steakhouse-heavy dining culture, PLANT has carved out a loyal following with its deliciously conscious dishes.
Address: 87 Victoria Rd, Camps Bay
The Vegan Butcherie
The Vegan Butcherie, located in De Waterkant, takes an unconventional approach to vegan dining, replicating the experience of visiting a butcher’s shop with plant-based “meats” like ribs, sausages, and bacon. With recipes refined over five years, their offerings satisfy any cravings for “meaty” flavors while remaining 100% vegan. The Vegan Butcherie is an ideal spot for anyone looking to indulge in rich flavors without compromising their values.
Address: 13A Dixon St, De Waterkant
Mary-Ann’s
Mary-Ann’s, located near Somerset Mall, is a health-focused shop and eatery created by pioneers Mary-Ann and Mark Shearer, who have been promoting whole food in South Africa for over 30 years. Their cozy restaurant serves nourishing vegan meals and light lunches, along with a range of lifestyle products and health foods. A stop here not only provides a delightful meal but also a glimpse into South Africa’s growing whole-food movement.
Address: Triangle House, 1st Floor, 1 URTEL Crescent, Somerset Mall Plaza
Cape Town’s vegan and vegetarian dining scene is a testament to its culinary diversity and commitment to sustainability. Whether you’re seeking a nutritious smoothie, an inventive plant-based meal, or a delicious vegan pizza, the Mother City has something to offer every palate. Embrace Cape Town’s green side and indulge in the city’s best vegan and vegetarian offerings—you’ll be sure to find delicious options that align with both health and sustainability.
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