Authentic and meat-free South African options in Cape Town
If you didn’t gain weight after your trip to South Africa, then you didn’t eat at the right places. The food is full of spices that you would never think of trying, and you won’t able to resist eating more! Try these mouth-watering vegetarian places if you want the best taste of Africa.
1. Karibu South African Dining
Karibu, located on the VA Waterfront, is a fine dining place where you will not regret spending a little money. The food is as tasty as it looks. The Malay Vegetable Feast is a medley of chickpeas, beans and lentils, layered with aubergine and topped with feta and yoghurt served with salad. This dish is to die for–even the most devout meat eaters will love it! And don’t forget about dessert: try the souskluitjies, a traditional South African dumpling dish prepared in cinnamon and sauce, and served with ice cream. It’s a perfect way to end your dinner at Karibu.
2. Lolas
If you are looking for a great place to grab lunch with a friend, Lolas on Long Street is your place. It is a small joint with a modern twist. The menu changes everyday and is limited, but every option is delicious. Try the falafel– though it is not typical falafel that you would eat at a Mediterranean place, the twist that Lolas puts on it is pleasing.
3. Mama Africa Restaurant and Bar
Mama Africa, on Long Street, is a great place for dinner with live music and delicious food. Try the butter squash filled with potatoes–it sounds a little unpleasing at first, but once you take the first bite it will melt in your mouth! Mama Africa is perfect if you want a taste of different traditional African spices.
4. Addis in Cape
Ever wanted to try Ethiopian food? Well this is your place! Also located on Long Street, Addis will give you the full experience of African culture–so don’t be offended if they don’t allow you to use utensils. They dump everyone’s food onto a big platter so you all have to eat it together. The experience is unforgettable. You will find several pages in the menu of strictly vegetarian plates, so this is a great place for vegetarians. At the end of your dinner try the traditional coffee ceremony.
5. The Africa Café
The Africa Café is a communal feast. It is 250R per person for an all-you-can-eat meal. You’ll find 13 different flavors of Africa within the pre-appetizers, appetizers, dinner and dessert. They bring out all the food at once, and if you want more, all you have to do is ask for what you would like. The food is a mix of meats and veggies, but it is great to try the vegetarian food. They even do face painting to fully immerse you in the African culture!
