The Cape Town Essentials Food Tour

4.9 (510 reviews) Cape Town, South Africa
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Duration4h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 12 travelers

Overview

Our signature experience takes you on a captivating journey through time—from the 1600s to today—revealing how centuries of cultural exchange, global trade, and resilience have shaped Cape Town’s distinctive flavours and traditions.

Stroll through the colourful streets of Bo-Kaap, where every building tells a story. Indulge in local favourites like golden koeksisters, savour the rich spices of Cape Malay bobotie, and explore hearty classics such as bunny chow, pap, and chakalaka. Sip on rooibos tea and enjoy a selection of locally crafted beverages—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.

Led by a passionate local foodie expert, you’ll uncover hidden gems, meet local vendors, and hear the stories behind each dish. From the spice routes of the 17th century to the lasting impact of slavery and apartheid, every stop offers a deeper connection to the city—its people, its past, and its vibrant food culture.

What's included

  • Local professional guide with history insights of the area
  • Alternative beverages provided for those who do not consume alcohol including coffee and tea
  • 10+ South African food and drink tastings included — all beverages, wine and alcohol covered
  • Gratuities
  • Transportation to/from tour.

What to expect

  1. Bo-Kaap
    1h
    Our tour begins in the Bo Kappa where Cape Malay culture is in full display. We will taste and explore this fascinating neighbourhood as we learn about it's culture and history.
  2. Cape Town
    1h
    Next we wander towards Bree street in the city centre, where Cape Town's most concentrated restaurant scene can be found, including the beautiful Heritage Square where we will indulge in some delicious South African classics under the vines in one of Cape Town's most beautiful courtyards.
  3. De Waterkant
    1h
    Next up, De Waterkant (the waterfront in Afrikaans). A chic enclave centered around the Cape Quarter Lifestyle Village packed with fashion boutiques, commercial art galleries and global eateries. Leafy streets nearby are lined with brightly coloured cottages housing craft coffee bars, stylish gift shops and guesthouses.

    We will wander the beautiful streets and learn about why this area of one of the most sought after in Cape Town, but also one with the highest concentrations of global restaurants to savour.
  4. Foreshore
    1h
    Our tour ends at one of Cape Town's oldest sports bars where true South African patriotism is on full display. Here we will eat like a local while soaking in the atmosphere of one of Cape Town's busiest watering holes.

    Please note that on Mondays, our tours end in the city centre, a few hundred meters from our usual location.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Our tour meets at Bo Kaap Deli. It is situated on the corner of Rose and Church Street. Our group will be ready to go promptly at 12:00pm, so please do let us know if you happen to be running a couple of minutes late.

End point

Please note that 2pm MONDAY tours will end at the hidden Gin Bar at 6pm. We do recommend making use of Uber or Hotel provided services. We do not finish the tour were we start from. 

End point

The 12pm and 1pm tour bookable between Tuesdays and Saturdays ends in the popular Fireman's Arms in the De Waterkant area at 4pm. We do recommend making use of Uber or Hotel provided services. We do not finish the tour were we start from. Please note that Monday tours end at a different location.

Additional information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • When booking, please note any dietary restrictions or allergies, as our guides arrange the food in advance to ensure you don't miss out on any dishes. We can accommodate vegetarian and gluten friendly diets, as well as restrictions for seafood, shellfish, and pork. However, please be aware that we cannot guarantee that any tasting will be 100% free of allergens.
  • Dress code is comfortable, including comfortable walking shoes. Weather changes fast in Cape Town so please come prepared as we will be outside.
  • Tours run rain or shine; however, in cases of extreme weather, your guide will reach out to inform you of any changes or cancellations.
  • A moderate amount of walking is involved, approximately 1.7 Km.
  • Unfortunately the tour route includes stairs, and is therefore not wheelchair or stroller accessible.
  • Cape Town has paid street parking available. We do recommend making use of Uber or Hotel provided services. We do not finish the tour where we start from.
  • Children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult and any kids over the age of 2 require a regular ticket to attend.
  • Guests under 18 years old will be served alternate drinks where alcohol would have otherwise been offered.
  • Tickets are non-refundable, they are however exchangeable/transferable with a minimum of 24 hours notice prior to tour commencing. Within 24 hours, tickets are 100% non refundable and non-exchangeable for any reason.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.9 (510)
From
2,275.00 ZAR per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
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Operated by Cape Town Culinary Tours · Booked through Viator
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