Halal Food in Cape Town’s City: 12 Places to Visit When You’re Hungry

Cape Town entrances its visitors with sandy beaches, tall mountains, rich history and culture. Colloquially known as the “Mother City”, Cape Town is perfect for travellers in need of a change of view and pace. The mountains are just as iconic as their residents, like legendary president Nelson Mandela. You might also want to grab yourself a Springbok paraphernalia to pay homage to their beloved rugby team.

Unbeknownst to many, Cape Town has a growing population of Muslims. This makes it a perfect destination for Muslim travellers from all over the world as it is teeming with Halal spots around this city. From fine restaurants to family-friendly eateries, there are Halal places for every type of Muslim traveller here.

Sea Point

Situated near iconic spots such as Camps Bay, Clifton Beach and City Bowl, Sea Point is where the ocean meets the city of Cape Town. Sandy beaches such as Milton and Saunder’s Rock are perfect for gorgeous sunset views and kids to play in the tidal pool.

Looking for a lovely place to take a casual stroll? Head to Sea Point Promenade which traces the breathtaking coastline. You might also want to visit Mojo Market which draws Muslim travellers with its traditional African handicrafts, superb coffee and live music.

1. Atlantic Express Train Restaurant [Halal-certified]

The unique design of this restaurant definitely draws their customers. Formerly a railway carriage, Atlantic Express Train Restaurant serves up warm meals that range from burgers to variantly-cooked lamb. Their extensive breakfast menu is a great way to start your day!

Note: Atlantic Express also provides Halal meals at neighbouring hotels if you plan to stay in the area.

Address: 1B Regent Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8060, South Africa
Hours: Mon – Thurs 08:00 – 23:00, Fri 08:00 – 12:45 & 13:45 – 00:00, Sat – Sun 08:00 – 00:00

2. Syriana Restaurant [Halal-certified]

Indulge in a broad range of Mediterranean cuisine at Syriana Restaurant. Tasty kebabs, shawarma wraps and Mandi (rice) are just some of the lip-smacking possibilities.

Be sure to stay for dessert! Warning: It will be hard to choose between the crepes or mana’aoshe (traditional Syrian bread topped with various toppings). We recommend you enjoy both and count the calories later.

Address: 307 Mount Curtis, Main Road, Sea Point, Western Cape, Cape Town, 8060, South Africa
Hours: Mon – Thu 12:00 – 00:00, Fri 14:00 – 00:00, Sat – Sun 12:00 – 01:00

3. Nando’s [Halal-certified]

Hailing from South Africa itself, Nando’s is a crowd favourite among both locals and Muslim travellers alike. Although served fast-food style, the mains still come piping hot. Diners have to try their famous Peri-Peri sauce paired with grilled Portuguese chicken. The crispy and soft bread rolls are also perfect accompaniments to your meal. When you dine at Nando’s, you are truly eating like a true-blue local!

Address: 66-72 Main Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 7530, South Africa
Hours: Mon – Sun 10:00 – 22:00

*There are multiple locations for Nando’s in Cape Town.

Cape Town City Centre

Learn about the Cape’s Malay culture at the Bo Kaap Museum and spot the vibrantly-coloured homes at the Bo Kaap area, also known as the Malay Quarters. From here, you can also get a great view of Signal Hill. Longing for some retail therapy? Stroll through Greenmarket Square and check out some African jewellery, shoes and bags on display for bargain shoppers.

For lovers of art and nature, visit the South African Gallery and Cape Town’s Company Gardens respectively for appreciation of beauty and tranquility of this city. If you’re more of a history buff, District Six Museum is a must-visit to explore Cape Town’s past. Learn more about the melting pot of cultures and history of slavery and merchanery. Later, visit the oldest colonial building, the Castle of Good Hope, which is a reflection of its colonial past.

Not far from here is the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront where you can either shop at one of Cape Town’s bustling malls or take a boat to Robben Island, a prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 27 years.

Note: You can have a gorgeous view of iconic Table Mountain from #4!

4. Bo-Kaap Kombuis [Halal-certified]

Kombuis means kitchen in Afrikaans and this kitchen serves delicious South African Malay cuisine. Almost synonymous to Malay cuisine in southeast Asia, their menu features Lamb Penang Curry and Fish Curry.

Located in the Malay Quarter of Cape Town, this kombuis houses great seats which overlook the famous Table Mountain’s landscapes and beyond.

Address: 7 August St, Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Hours: Tue – Thurs & Sat 12:00 – 22:30, Fri 14:00 – 22:30, Sun 11:30 – 15:00

5. Anatoli [Muslim-owned]

Anatoli is a great restaurant for you to savour authentic Turkish cuisine. Their mezze (a selection of appetizers) and grill menu are popular among diners. You can try various mouth-watering lamb dishes such as Lamb Shank and Lamb Ribs.

Note: This establishment serves alcohol so please dine at your own discretion.

Address: 24 Napier St, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Hours: Mon – Sat, 18:30 – 22:30

6. Saray Restaurant [Halal-certified]

Savour a bite of Istanbul while in Cape Town! Be greeted by a Turkish-Kurdish menu when you come to Saray restaurant. Muslim travellers who dine here can expect traditionally-prepared authentic kebabs and pide (Turkish pizza).

If you’re looking for their specialty, tuck into kavurma (meat & vegetable dish served with rice) or iskender (succulent meat cooked in a tomato and bread sauce, with a side of thick creamy yoghurt). Their exhaustive dessert menu also promises a large range of choices for you to end your meal on a sugar high.

Address: Harbour Edge Building, 10 Hospital St, Green Point, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Hours: Mon – Thurs 11:30 – 23:00, Fri 12:30 – 00:00, Sat 11:30 – 00:00, Sun 11:30 – 22:00

7. Biesmiellah Restaurant (Halal-certified)

This family-run restaurant is a community favourite in the Bo Kaap area. You can find authentic Cape Malay and Northern Indian cuisines when you browse their interesting menu.

The menu is filled with usual favourites like the tomato bredie (mutton stew) and mutton biryani (spiced mutton and rice) which are both delicious and affordable. Their butter chicken also comes highly recommended by their regular customers!

Address: 2 Wale St & Pentz St Bo-Kaap, Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
Hours: Tue – Thurs 11:00 – 22:00, Sat 11:00 – 23:00

8. Batavia [Halal-certified]

Batavia is a quaint cafe for lovers of Cape Malay cuisine and coffee. It is a great spot for you to start your day with a hearty breakfast like the Green Shakshuka. Alternatively, indulge in a Deconstructed Biryani during a quiet lunch. If you need a quick wake me up, try their strong coffee. Snap a photo of yourself at this Instagrammable cafe!

Address: 114 Church St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
Hours: Tue – Fri 08:00 – 16:00, Sat 09:00 – 16:00, Sun 09:00 – 01:00

9. Food Inn [Halal-certified]

There is something for everyone when you dine at Food Inn! Their cuisine spans from Indian and Pakistani cuisines to Middle Eastern cuisine. There is something for every Muslim traveller who dines here. This simple fast food-style restaurant guarantees you a satisfying meal well worth your money.

Address: 156 Long St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
Hours: Mon – Sun 11:00 – 04:00

10. Eastern Food Bazaar [Halal-certified]

This is a great spot for you to pick up some grub before going about your day. Eastern Food Bazaar is an unassuming canteen-style eatery for quick, affordable and delicious food. Their menu includes cuisines from all over the world, notably the Middle East and Asia.

Shawarmas, Turkish kebabs and pizzas are great choices for a filling meal to kickstart your adventures for the day. If you prefer something more exotic, go for their creamy North Indian curries and real tandoor dishes. Vegetarians won’t be left out either here with the array of snacks and mains!

Address: 96 Long Market Street, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Hours: Mon – Thurs 11:00 – 22:00, Fri – Sat 11:00 – 22:30

11. Bukhara [Muslim-owned]

Located near the Bo Kaap Mosque, Bukhara is known for their Northern Indian cuisine where you can savour a range of authentic curries and rice dishes. The fusion twist and upscale menu makes this top-notch Indian restaurant worthy of a visit.

Note: This establishment serves alcohol so please dine at your own discretion.

Address: 33 Church St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
Hours: Mon – Sat 12:00 – 23:00, Sun 12:00 – 15:00 & 18:00 – 23:00

12. 126 Cape Kitchen and Café [Halal-certified]

Planning a date with your better half or eager to treat yourself? 126 Cape Kitchen and Cafe is perfect for Muslim travellers looking for an exclusive restaurant to celebrate a special occasion. Located at the Hilton Cape Town City Centre Hotel, this chic restaurant has a menu boasting South African, Cape Malay and Asian cuisine. Despite the hefty price tag, diners enjoy this restaurant for their superb five-course meals.

The café is available throughout the day for caffeine lovers. PS: The unique range of tea and coffee paired with delightful pastries will certainly keep you company.

Address: 126 Buitengracht Street, Cape Town 8001, South Africa
Hours (Restaurant): Mon – Sun 12:30 – 15:00, 18:00 – 22:30
Hours (Cafe): Mon – Sun, 06:00 – 22:00

Hungry already? Make that long flight to Cape Town first and reward yourselves with these delectable options later. We’re guessing you don’t even know where to begin!