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How to Find the BEST Vegan Food in Cape Town: 35+ Options!

Byamyroserae

You might be surprised but Cape Town is one of the most vegan-friendly cities I’ve visited in the world! There are many different options to choose from, so if you’re looking for the best vegan food in Cape Town, you won’t be disappointed. 

Outside of Germany or the UK, I’ve yet to travel to a place that has SO many amazing vegan food options everywhere you go. That said, it can be a bit overwhelming, so I’ve broken it down into the best restaurants I’ve tried, as well as vegan-friendly places in the city! 

And if you’re vegetarian, don’t worry because I’ve got that covered as well. 

Is All of South Africa Vegan-Friendly? 

While Cape Town is incredibly vegan-friendly, I’m not so sure that the rest of the country is.

South Africans eat a lot of meat and most traditional dishes aren’t vegan so it may be harder to find vegan options when you’re outside of the city. 

I spent some time travelling along the Garden Route in the Eastern Cape and had no problem finding options, however, there are many tourists that travel that route so it may be because of that! 

And I just recently did a road trip around the Kruger and into the Drakensberg mountains and also found it fairly easy to get my hands on vegan food. 

Of course, restaurants are limited compared to Cape Town, however, I was able to get by and if there’s a Woolworths grocery store in the area, they always have great vegan ready meals you can choose from!

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Vegan Restaurants in Cape Town 

I’ve honestly lost count of how many amazing vegan restaurants I’ve been to while in Cape Town (Toronto could never ?) but here are some of my faves you need to try when you’re visiting! 

1. Okja Café

Address: 77 Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa 

When I first found Okja Café, I couldn’t get enough! 

At the time (in 2021), there was only one location in Camps Bay but there are now a few others, including the location on Kloof St, next to Never @ Home hostel. 

I’m actually sitting at my hostel drinking a coffee and just finished eating a bagel from Okja while I write this! 

Okja is definitely a takeaway cafe, although there is some seating. It doesn’t really have the best area to sit, chill and have a coffee or food with friends but what they have to offer makes up for that.

They make fresh bagels daily, as well as sweet treats like croissants, cookies and more to go with a coffee and it’s 100% vegan!

2. Nourish’d

Address: 2 Hill Rd, Green Point, Cape Town, 8051, South Africa

Nourish’d is another one of my faves! 

They have a couple of locations, the first one being the one on Kloof St and I’ve also visited their Green Point location. They currently have a third location in Observatory but it’s about to close. 

They offer lots of healthy vegan choices but they’re probably most known for their smoothie bowls! 

They’re thick and creamy smoothie bowls topped with homemade granola, fruit and nut butter to fill you up in the morning. 

I’ve tried a couple of their other dishes such as their wraps but keep coming back for the smoothie bowls because they’re SO nice on a hot day (and I’m a sucker for a smoothie bowl). 

You definitely need to stop by one of their locations when you’re in Cape Town!

3. Sweetbeet

Address: Shop B11, Cnr Mill and, Gardens Shopping Centre, Buitenkant St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa 

Sweetbeet is a chain in Cape Town and the location linked above is in a mall in Gardens Centre. They have loads of healthy options and are all about fresh, build-your-own bowls, wraps, smoothies and more. 

While it’s not fully vegan, you can easily customize your order to make it vegan — I usually go for a wrap or salad bowl and add all the good stuff like falafel, avo, hummus, and roasted veggies.

It’s a great spot for a quick and healthy lunch on the go, especially if you’re in the Gardens area!

4. Scheckter’s Raw

Address: 98 Regent Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8060, South Africa

There are two different locations in Cape Town, although I’ve only been to the Sea Point location personally. 

Schecter’s Raw is a vegan restaurant/cafe that serves a range of different food but some of my faves are their pancakes, wraps, sweet potato gnocchi and desserts! 

They use really clean ingredients, which I love, so if you’re health-conscious, you’ll probably love it too. 

5. Plant Cafe

Address: 87 Victoria Rd, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa

Looking for a vegan restaurant in Camps Bay? Look no further!

Plant Cafe is 100% vegan and has been around for a while now. They’ve got all the classics like burgers, wraps, and pastas, but they also have some more creative dishes that are worth trying. I’ve had their nachos and jackfruit burger — both SO good. 

Plus, they have a cozy little interior and it’s just a short walk from the beach, so it’s a nice place to relax after a day in the sun.

Definitely a must if you’re hanging out in Camps Bay and want a proper sit-down vegan meal.

Lekker Vegan (no longer in Cape Town)

If you’re after vegan fast food, Lekker Vegan is the best spot! 

Unfortunately, they closed all their locations in Cape Town sometime in 2022/2023. I can only guess that it was due to the aftermath of Covid but they still have one location standing in Johannesburg. 

I’ve tried a couple of their options such as burgers and of course, many of their sweet treats. I loved their brownies and the cheesecake was pretty good as well. 

While it’s not in Cape Town anymore, I’d recommend checking them out if you’re visiting Joburg! 

6. Romeo and Vero Vegan Butcherie and Restaurant

Address: 13A Dixon St, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

Romeo and Vero is a super unique spot — it’s Cape Town’s very own vegan butcher!

It’s a small, locally owned place with a cozy vibe and a menu that’s constantly evolving. I had one of their sandwiches and was seriously impressed by how flavourful everything was. 

They also sell house-made vegan meats and cheeses to take home if you’re staying longer in Cape Town or want to prep your own meals.

It’s tucked away in De Waterkant so it feels like a bit of a hidden gem. I love supporting places like this that are doing something totally different in the vegan food scene!

7. The Sunshine Food Sprouting Co African Vegan Cafe

Address: 2 M61, Three Anchor Bay, Cape Town, 8005, South Africa

This spot is SUCH a vibe. It’s a small family-run place with big energy, serving up African-inspired vegan meals that are full of flavour and love.

It’s not fancy — think more of a casual roadside-style cafe — but the food is super nourishing and unique. I had one of their stews with sprouted lentils and veggies and was blown away by how hearty and satisfying it was. 

The owner is often there chatting with guests and spreading good energy, which makes the whole experience feel really personal.

If you’re keen to try something different from your typical smoothie bowl or burger, this is the place.

8. Wild Eatery

Address: 59 Harrington St, District Six, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa

Wild Eatery is located in District 6, which I didn’t spend much time in so I haven’t actually been inside the restaurant but I ordered their food regularly from Uber Eats!

Their menu is entirely vegan and super fun — they do things like vegan shawarma, mushroom burgers, and loaded fries. It’s comfort food with a twist, and it always arrives fresh and packed with flavour. I love that they use minimal plastic in their delivery packaging too!

I really need to make it to the actual location next time I’m back, but whether you go in-person or order online, you won’t be disappointed.

As you can see the options for vegan food in Cape Town city is pretty incredible! 

Vegetarian Restaurants Cape Town (Some Vegan-Friendly)

As you can imagine, Cape Town also has a good number of vegetarian restaurants to choose from! 

Here are some top vegetarian restaurants to try out: 

1. Prashad Cafe

Address: Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

In search of some good Indian food? 

Then look no further! Prashad Cafe is right on Kloof St and has some incredible dishes to choose from.

I’ve been a couple of times and they have some great curries! It’s also quick service and the staff are friendly so it’s a good option if you want tasty food quickly. 

They have a few other locations as well, surrounding Cape Town if you’re out of town!

2. The Conscious Kitchen 

Address: 34 Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

The Conscious Kitchen is also right on Kloof and the menu is fairly extensive. They have a couple of other locations around Cape Town but I’ve only been to the Kloof St one. 

It’s a vegetarian cafe/restaurant which has many vegan options as well. I enjoyed the few things I’ve tried there but definitely prefer some of the other options I’ve already mentioned in this list! 

3. Nish Nush

Address: 100 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa

While Nish Nush serves some meat, there are many vegetarian and vegan options, as it’s a Middle Eastern street food spot!

Some of their signature dishes include the crispy falafel pita, creamy hummus bowls, and the Sabich pita—a vegetarian delight featuring fried aubergine, boiled egg, and tangy amba sauce.

Bagels in Cape Town 

Bagels are a BIG deal in Canada and if you’re also feeling the craving for one in Cape Town here are a few places I’d recommend checking out! 

1. Max Bagels

Address: Oude Schuvr, 120 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

Max Bagels can be found on Bree Street and it’s got a New York-style deli feel to it. While they mostly serve meat and dairy options, they’ve got a couple of vegan options you can ask for — or build your own bagel with avocado, hummus, and veggies.

The bagels are always fresh and chewy, and it’s a popular spot with a casual vibe, perfect for grabbing breakfast or lunch while you explore the city.

2. Kliensky’s 

Address: 92 Regent Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8060, South Africa

Kliensky’s is more of a traditional deli vibe, and while it’s not a vegan place, they surprisingly have some great plant-based options. There’s also one attached to Workshop17 in the V&A Waterfront, which is super handy if you’re working remotely and need a quick lunch.

They do a solid vegan bagel sandwich with roasted veggies and hummus, and you can grab a decent coffee with oat or almond milk too..

Bonus: Okja Cafe also has great bagels in Cape Town and they’re all vegan! I always go for their hummus bagel but they have at least 3 options to choose from. 

Vegan Pizza Cape Town 

Cape Town has a surprising number of vegan pizza options! Canada barely has any so I was honestly shocked by how many there were. 

1. NY Pizza

Address: 49 Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

This is a chain pizza spot and there are so many around Cape Town so it’s easy to find! I’ve been to a few locations over the years and always get their vegan pizza. 

I think they have a few options but I’ve usually gone to get NY Pizza after a couple of drinks and truly couldn’t tell you the exact name of the pizza I’ve had. 

Regardless, it’s 100% vegan and I’d recommend adding some chili oil to it for a little kick! 

2. Pizzasaurus

Address: 103 Harrington St, District Six, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

This is a fully vegan pizza restaurant which we LOVE to see (because quite frankly I don’t think I’ve ever seen one anywhere else in the world).

They make their own cashew cheese, and the toppings are next-level — think smoky seitan, artichokes, truffle oil, and all kinds of creative combos. 

I had the “Notorious V.E.G.” and it was honestly one of the best vegan pizzas I’ve ever had. They’ve also got a super cute space with murals and a cozy indoor/outdoor seating area.

Definitely make the trip out to District Six for this one. It’s worth it!

Vegan Fine Dining Cape Town 

There are a couple of fine dining options for vegans in Cape Town!

If you’re celebrating something special or just want to treat yourself, check out FYN Restaurant.

While it’s not fully vegan, they do offer a plant-based tasting menu that’s incredibly creative and beautifully plated. The views over the city from the top floor are stunning and the whole experience feels super luxe.

Another solid choice is The Pot Luck Club.

Again, not vegan-only, but they’ve got some killer vegan tapas and the whole vibe is elevated but still laid-back. Book ahead for this one because it gets BUSY.

Vegan Restaurants V&A Waterfront 

The waterfront wouldn’t be my first stop as a vegan in Cape Town. 

I honestly find the waterfront a bit tacky and don’t love that area compared to many other spots in the city. It’s super busy and near a big shopping mall so you’ll find lots of different restaurants and places to eat (most of which will have vegan options) but they’re nothing to write home about. 

Vegan-Friendly Restaurants 

If you’re not near a fully vegan restaurant, you’ll find that pretty much every single place wil have at least one vegan-friendly option. 

That said, here are a couple notable restaurants that aren’t vegan but have good vegan options if you’re visiting with a non-vegan! 

1. Club Kloof

Address: 84 Kloof St, Tamboerskloof, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

Club Kloof offers a “Italian-ish” dining experience with a stylish, retro-inspired interior.

Vegetarian diners can enjoy options like the garlic confit pizzette, featuring buffalo mozzarella and marinated tomatoes, and a fresh salad with goat cheese and mint.

I didn’t find many vegan dishes here but the staff were helpful and I enjoyed the meal!

2. Thali Restaurant

Address: 3 Park Rd, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

Thali has a modern Indian tapas dining experience with dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus.

Dishes like sweetcorn and kale bhaji with black garlic aioli showcase innovative plant-based options. The restaurant’s stylish setting includes a courtyard for outdoor dining, making it a great date spot!

3. El Burro 

Address: 1, New Church St & Kloof Nek Rd, Tamboerskloof, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

El Burro is a Mexican-inspired restaurant with a couple of different locations around Cape Town. Now it’s definitely not the best Mexican I’ve had, however, it’s pretty good and there are a few different vegan options to choose from, which was great! 

I’ve tried a couple of the tacos and a burrito and remember really enjoying the tacos. 

4. The Fat Cactus

Address: 5 Park Rd, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

The Fat Catus is right off of Kloof St so it’s easy to access if you’re staying in town and they have a very extensive menu with many vegan options. 

It’s definitely more of a drinks spot in my mind but they have great snacking options to go with drinks if you’re meeting up with friends! 

5. Zuney Wagyu Burgers

Address: Shop 2, 69A Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

Zuney is a new burger joint on Kloof St that I didn’t expect to have a vegan option but they did! It’s a bean-based burger (which I personally LOVE compared to the fake meat options) so I really enjoyed it. 

I will say, it’s pretty overpriced, even for Cape Town standards so it wouldn’t be my first choice. 

6. Kloof Street House 

Address: 30 Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8005, South Africa

Kloof Street House is a classic Cape Town spot with a magical garden setting and vintage-style decor — very much a “treat yourself” type place.

It’s not a vegan restaurant but they always have at least one vegan dish on the menu and it’s usually really well done. I’ve had a mushroom risotto here before that was SO creamy and delicious. Great for a date night or a nicer evening out!

7. Nom Nom 

Address: 166 Long St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

A cozy little spot on Long Street, Nom Nom is ideal for a quick lunch or coffee catch-up. While it’s not fully vegan, they do have a solid plant-based menu and are super accommodating with substitutions. 

Their falafel wrap and vegan smoothie bowls were my go-tos. It’s affordable, tasty, and right in the heart of the city.

8. Addis in Cape 

Address: 168 Loop St, CBD, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

If you’ve never tried Ethiopian food, this is your sign. 

Addis in Cape is such a unique dining experience and super vegan-friendly! You’ll eat with your hands using injera (a type of sourdough flatbread) and can order a full vegan platter with lentils, veggies, and stews — all incredibly flavourful and filling. 

It’s great for a date night or a special occasion.

9. The Poke Co 

Address: 90 Loop St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa

If you’re in the mood for a poke bowl, you’ll have a few vegan options to choose from at The Poke Co! There are a few different locations in the city but I’ve only been to the one on Loop St. 

They do a bowl with tofu and really great and fresh ingredients that I loved. 

I haven’t been since 2021 or 2022 so I’m sure the prices I’ve gone up since but it was pretty affordable when I was last there. 

10. The Ladder

Address: 136 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

I’ve siad it before and I’ll say it again, The Ladder is the best cafe in Cape Town! 

They don’t have the most vegan options but they have quite a few and all of their food is SO good. Plus I just love how bright and open the atmosphere is. 

11. Clarke’s Bar

Address: 133 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

Clarke’s is a classic spot for brunch or casual drinks, and while it leans more towards comfort food, there are a few vegan dishes that are worth trying. 

Their mushroom toast and smashed avo can be made vegan and they often have plant-based specials. Great vibe, especially if you’re looking to meet up with friends.

12. Tjing Tjing

Address: 165 Longmarket St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

A must-visit if you’re into Japanese food! Tjing Tjing is such a vibe — it’s a rooftop bar, lounge, and restaurant all rolled into one. 

They don’t have a huge vegan menu but there are a few veggie-forward dishes that can be made vegan. 

I’d recommend going for the atmosphere and drinks alone, but the food is also delish.

13. Hugo Social Club 

Address: 9th Floor, 2 Kings Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8060, South Africa

This rooftop restaurant in Sea Point is stunning — incredible views, chic decor, and a surprisingly good number of vegan options. 

I had a beautiful grain bowl and a watermelon salad that I still think about! It’s a bit on the pricier side but perfect for a sunset dinner or special night out.

14. Coco Safar

Address: Piazza St-John, 395 Main Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

??Coco Safar is super luxe and known for their coffee, pastries, and elegant brunch menu. It’s not a fully vegan spot but they do cater well to plant-based diets. 

Their vegan croissants are incredible and they offer a full vegan high tea if you’re looking to splurge. The Sea Point location is beautiful and feels very European.

15. The Lawns at Roundhouse

Address: Round House Rd, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8005, South Africa

The Lawns is one of the best restaurants in Cape Town if you’re looking for a view and they have a decent amount of vegan options to choose from as well. 

I had a veggie burger when I was there but they also offer sushi and some other dishes that are vegan! 

16. Cafe Caprice

Address: 37 Victoria Rd, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8005, South Africa

Another great Camps Bay spot with ocean views and a laid-back vibe. While the menu is mostly meat-heavy, they do have a few vegan-friendly items like bowls and salads. 

It’s also a great place to grab a drink and watch the sunset — very trendy, very Cape Town.

17. The Strangers Club 

Address: 1 Braemar Rd, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005, South Africa

Hidden away in Green Point, The Strangers Club is one of those spots that feels like a secret garden. It’s also part concept store, so you can browse locally made fashion and art while waiting for your food. 

Vegan options include smoothie bowls, avo toast, and fresh juices — perfect for a light brunch or breakfast.

18. Obi Restaurant

Address: Shop 2, 14 Long St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa

Obi is a small, authentic Japanese spot that does amazing sushi and ramen. 

While it’s not a vegan restaurant, they do have a vegan sushi platter and can adjust some dishes to suit plant-based diets. Great if you’re craving something a little different.

19. Naked Coffee

Address: 2 Wisbeach Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8060, South Africa

Naked Coffee is one of my fave places to get work done or just grab a quick coffee with oat milk. They’ve got some light food options and always have at least one or two vegan-friendly baked goods available. Super chill vibe and great staff!

20. Azure Restaurant

Address: Queen Victoria St, Oudekraal (Nature Reserve), Cape Town, 8005, South Africa

Azure is located at the 12 Apostles Hotel, so it’s definitely on the high-end side — but if you’re celebrating something special, it’s worth the splurge. 

They have a separate vegan tasting menu (!!) and the views of the ocean are absolutely unreal. This is one of the best spots if you’re after a luxury dining experience that still caters to vegan diets.

Markets in Cape Town With Vegan Options 

At this point, you can probably guess that the markets in Cape Town ALL have vegan options! It would be hard to come across a market that didn’t which makes it feel very inclusive.

Some of my favourites include:

  • Oranjezicht Market (OZCF): Held every weekend, it’s a mix of fresh produce, food stalls, and local vendors. Tons of vegan-friendly food trucks and fresh juices.
  • Mojo Market: Open daily and has everything from ramen to tacos, with clearly labeled vegan choices. Plus it has live music on the weekends.
  • Neighbourgoods Market (at the Old Biscuit Mill): More of a Saturday tradition. It gets super busy but has loads of great options for vegan pastries, coffee, and hearty meals.

What Vegan Food Are You Trying First? 

Vegan food in Cape Town is unlike vegan food in most other major cities around the world! 

I honestly get so excited for the range of food options whenever I’m in Cape Town and hope you enjoy trying some of these restaurants out for yourself.

I’ll be back shortly with another blog but in the meantime, you can connect with me on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube!

Cheers,

Amy xx

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