Top 10 Best Seafood Restaurants in Cape Town

As the name suggests, this is where you come for oysters—fresh, briny, and served with all the proper accompaniments. The Oyster Tasting allows you to sample different varieties and understand why South African oysters are gaining international acclaim, paired with crisp local wines that cleanse the palate between each slurp. The casual counter-style seating and knowledgeable staff create an educational yet unpretentious experience that appeals to oyster novices and connoisseurs alike. Pop in for a quick dozen during a Waterfront shopping break, or settle in for a full seafood feast paired with their excellent wine selection.

Den Anker has been a V&A Waterfront anchor (pun intended) for over two decades, serving Belgian-inspired seafood to generations of locals and visitors. The Mussels Pot—available in various flavor profiles from classic white wine to Thai curry—is their signature dish and remains as popular today as when they first opened. The sprawling outdoor terrace offers some of the best people-watching at the Waterfront, while the cozy interior with maritime memorabilia provides shelter on Cape Town's windier days. It's perfect for large groups, families, or anyone seeking reliable quality in the heart of the tourist hub.

Sharing the Pierhead Building with PIER, The Waterside offers a more relaxed alternative with equally stunning harbor views and surprisingly accessible prices. Their Seafood Curry, rich with Cape Malay spices and generous portions of fresh catch, showcases the city's unique culinary heritage in a bowl. The casual yet polished atmosphere works equally well for family lunches or after-work gatherings, and the outdoor seating lets you soak in the Waterfront bustle while enjoying top-notch seafood. The value proposition here is exceptional—premium location without the premium attitude.

PIER represents the pinnacle of Cape Town seafood dining, where every element—from the pan-roasted Kingklip to the expertly paired wines—reflects meticulous attention to detail. This is fine dining with a capital F, where the tasting menu takes you on a journey through South African waters with innovative preparations that honor traditional flavors. The sleek, modern interior and impeccable service make it the go-to for milestone celebrations, business dinners where you need to impress, or anyone willing to splurge for an unforgettable culinary experience. Reserve the chef's table if you want to watch the kitchen's ballet-like precision up close.

Don't let the chain restaurant status fool you—this Kloof Street location has earned an impressive 4.9 rating by consistently delivering fresh, well-prepared seafood in a casual, family-friendly environment. The Hake and Chips is comfort food perfection, with golden-fried fish and crispy fries that hit the spot every time. The bustling atmosphere and efficient service make it perfect for families with kids, groups looking for reliable quality, or solo diners who just want a satisfying seafood meal without fuss. Their platter options offer excellent value, and the location in trendy Kloof Street means you can explore the neighborhood before or after.

This City Centre gem punches well above its mid-range price point, offering creative seafood dishes that could easily command double the price. The Grilled Yellowtail with Asian-inspired glazes showcases chef-driven innovation while respecting the quality of local fish, and their constantly evolving menu keeps regulars coming back. The intimate, almost speakeasy-like atmosphere with moody lighting and a carefully curated soundtrack makes it feel like you've discovered Cape Town's best-kept secret. It's ideal for adventurous eaters and couples who want something special without the Waterfront tourist premium.

The Codfather brings theatrical dining to Camps Bay with its unique concept: you select your fresh seafood from the display, and they prepare it exactly how you want it. Their Sushi selection is surprisingly exceptional, with the Salmon Roses being a particular standout that combines artistic presentation with melt-in-your-mouth freshness. The location on The Drive means you're steps from the beach with Table Mountain as your backdrop, making it perfect for impressing out-of-town visitors or date nights where you want to splurge. The intimate setting and attentive service elevate it beyond your typical seafood joint.

Tucked on trendy Bree Street, SeaBreeze has earned cult status for its no-nonsense approach to exceptional seafood at prices that won't sink your budget. Their Seafood Platter is the stuff of Instagram legend—a towering monument of prawns, mussels, calamari, and fish that easily feeds two hungry diners. The industrial-chic interior with exposed brick and communal tables creates a buzzing, convivial atmosphere that attracts the young professional crowd and foodies alike. Don't sleep on their oysters during happy hour—they're some of the freshest in the city at unbeatable prices.

This V&A Waterfront institution has been serving impeccable seafood with million-rand views for years, making it a consistent favorite among both tourists and seasoned Capetonians. The Grilled Linefish changes daily based on the catch, but it's always perfectly executed with simple seasoning that lets the fish shine. Floor-to-ceiling windows and a prime location right on the water mean you're practically dining on the ocean, while the upstairs deck offers one of the best sundowner spots in the city. It's perfect for business lunches, family gatherings, or anyone who wants that quintessential Cape Town waterfront experience.

Perched at the V&A Waterfront with sweeping harbor views, Baía brings contemporary Portuguese seafood flair to Cape Town's dining scene. Their Peri-Peri Prawns are legendary among locals, perfectly charred with just the right amount of spice, while the seafood platter showcases the day's freshest catches. The sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for romantic dinners or special celebrations, and snagging a table on the outdoor terrace during sunset is the ultimate Cape Town experience. The wine list features excellent Portuguese and South African selections that complement the bold flavors beautifully.