Revel in the Global Infusion of Cape Town Cuisine

Breathtaking landscapes and bodies of water are not the only must-see aspects of Cape Town, South Africa. This historic city also mini-cultural heritage that exerts a strong influence on cuisine. The result? A unique mix of global foods for a food scene that is rich in techniques, flavors and styles. You will never be bored while eating in Cape Town. Here, we walk you through the food you simply must try during your visit.

Gatsby

While this dish is not upscale like the subject of The Great Gatsby, it is as flashy in terms of sheer magnitude. Gatsby is a cheap submarine style sandwich overflowing with chips, sauces and meat on the lower grade such as Vienna sausage, polony and masala steak. Despite its humble fillings, this massive sandwich is very tasty and a great way to enjoy flavorful food on a budget.

Bobotie

If you want a dish infused with a sweet and sour flavor, Bobotie is for you. This comfort meal made its debut in the 17^th century and often referred to as the African version of Shepard’s pie.  Bobotie is similar to the French quiche due to the use of eggs and cream, but the distinctive flavor comes from minced lamb or beef, turmeric, curry and other spices.  It is typically served alongside a bowl of yellow rice with sweet chutney, raisins, pineapple and cashews.

Biltong and Droëwors

Technically, these two popular foods are more of a snack than a meal. Regardless, you regret it if you pass on your chance to try biltong and droëwors. Both are made by seasoning cured and dried meat with a specific blend of spices. The meat is then left in solid sticks or sliced. The snacks are readily available in grocery stores, restaurants, bars and pubs.

Fish and Chips

With a history steeped in British colonial rule and proximity to oceans, Cape Town is an ideal place to enjoy fish and chips. The local fish is tantalizingly fresh and cooked to perfection. Low-end restaurants, high-end restaurants and restaurants in the middle of the cost spectrum serve various versions of this widely loved dish. Those that want to play it safe with their fish and chips should venture to a shop that specializes in fish and chips and order deep fried snoek or hake.

Bunny Chow

Rest assured, bunny chow is not comprised of an adorable rabbit. It is, in fact, one-half of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curried chicken or beef. Much like Gatsby, bunny chow is a no-frills, low-cost fast food that is also mouthwatering. You will have the best luck with bunny chow if you purchase from a modest takeaway joint that specialize in this dish.

Sushi

You read that right! It is possible to find excellent sushi in Cape Town – highly probable, in fact. The city is dotted with a significant number of noteworthy sushi restaurants and sushi is an item on the menu at many upscale restaurants throughout the area. While some chefs deviate from traditional versions, the new spin they put on it is typically delightful.

Braai

Believe it or not, barbeques are a common occurrence in Cape Town. South Africans love their braai – which is essentially barbequed meat. Just about any type of meat including lamb chops, pork chops, spiced sausage and boerewors qualifies for braai. The Mzoli’s in Guguletu is a popular place to get excellent braai.

Dessert

The recipes may be simple, but dessert in Cape Town is anything but ordinary. Koeksisters, malva pudding and milk tart are all traditional desserts that taste positively sublime.

Your taste buds will experience an adventure of different cultural influences when you dine in Cape Town. It is a transformative experience you will not soon forget.

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