If you’re looking for a spot that perfectly blends festive cheer with exceptional food, Chefs Warehouse & Canteen at 91 Bree Street should be at the top of your list this Christmas. Known for its legendary Tapas for Two concept, this is the place where laid-back dining meets bold, unforgettable flavors. Upstairs, the Merchant Bar & Grill, its sister restaurant, offers a menu that’s all about celebrating producers with a modern twist on classic dishes. Liam and Jan Tomlin have brought the magic back to Bree Street, recreating the vibrant energy of the original Chefs Warehouse while adding a fresh touch. It’s not just about the food here—there’s also a treasure trove of cookbooks from Liam’s personal collection and a stunning dining area sandwiched between two wine cellars stocked with South African gems. Whether it’s the food, the wines, or the welcoming vibe, this spot promises to make your Christmas dining extra special.

Recently reborn as Heirloom after an extensive renovation, the signature restaurant at Cape Grace Hotel has quickly become one of Cape Town's most sought-after dining destinations this Christmas. Overlooking the marina with Table Mountain as its backdrop, the restaurant combines breathtaking views with a refined culinary experience. Under the expert guidance of Chef Asher Abramowitz, Heirloom takes a refreshingly minimalist approach to fine dining. Offering four- and seven-course tasting menus alongside a vibrant seasonal à la carte selection, the focus is on restrained elegance and pure flavors. Forget theatrics, foams, and unnecessary garnishes—here, simplicity meets sophistication, making it an unmissable choice for a memorable festive season.

COY is a must-visit this Christmas, offering a dining experience as remarkable as its location. Nestled between the luxury yachts of a striking marina and the bustling fishing boats of the operational V&A Waterfront harbor, this restaurant boasts a breathtaking waterside view. The iconic Table Mountain provides a stunning natural backdrop, making every meal a visual delight. At COY, the culinary journey is a celebration of Africa’s rich heritage, showcasing indigenous ingredients, ancient cooking techniques, and forgotten culinary tales. It’s a place where the essence of the continent comes alive on your plate, making it an exceptional choice for a festive dining experience.

Pizza Shed St James is the perfect spot to satisfy your pizza cravings this Christmas. Their authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas are so good, they’ll have you dreaming of Italy with every bite. The restaurant has a relaxed, airy vibe, filled with natural light, making it a great place to kick back and enjoy a meal. The staff are incredibly friendly, adding a warm, personal touch to your visit. Whether you’re a regular or stopping by for the first time, Pizza Shed St James delivers a dining experience that’s both comforting and memorable—just what you need to make the holiday season extra special.

Sloppy Sam is back, and this time it’s in the cozy setting of Heritage Square—easily one of the best spots to check out this Christmas. The decor is as inviting as the food, with exposed brick walls, Persian carpets, mismatched tables and chairs, and kilim saddlebags creating a space that feels both unique and homey. The menu takes inspiration from Middle Eastern flavors, with mazzeh-style (not mezze!) dishes like naan, hummus, kebabs, and köfte stealing the show. Open for both lunch and dinner, what really sets Sloppy Sam apart is Chef Saffarian himself, who’s known for personally connecting with guests and overseeing every detail. It’s that hands-on approach, paired with the rave-worthy food, that makes this spot a must-visit this festive season.

Bellagio is a top pick for Christmas dining in Cape Town, blending Italian charm with unforgettable flavors. Chef-owner Louise Castle, trained in Italy, crafts fresh, seasonal dishes like seafood risotto, crispy zucchini fries, and a standout cheese soufflé. The specials board keeps things exciting, while the shady terrace and cozy trattoria-style interior make it perfect for relaxed summer meals. With freshly baked bread and desserts like a berry-filled mille-feuille, Bellagio promises a festive dining experience that’s both delicious and memorable.

Tucked away on Regent Road in Sea Point, Qué Linda is the perfect spot to indulge in Spanish-inspired tapas and wine this Christmas. Set in a charming, old building at 39 Regent Road, the restaurant has a welcoming, cozy vibe that feels both intimate and lively. Inside, you’ll find a relaxed downstairs area, a casual bar, and a comfy couch corner by the kitchen, while the outdoor courtyard, sparkling with fairy lights, sets a magical scene for the season. Whether you're gathering a group to share delicious tapas or simply enjoying a glass of wine with something light, Qué Linda offers a laid-back yet festive atmosphere that makes it a must-visit this Christmas.

Melfort, a charming new farm-to-fork restaurant in Stellenbosch’s Helderberg district, is the perfect place to enjoy a festive meal this Christmas. Set on one of the oldest wine farms in the area, the restaurant prides itself on using the best local ingredients, with everything from grass-fed meats to stoneground flours and organic grains making its way into the season’s menu. The space itself is a beautiful blend of rustic and refined, housed in a farmhouse dating back to the 1600s, with high ceilings, contemporary art, and antique brass and copper touches that add to the cozy, welcoming atmosphere. With its focus on quality, sustainability, and flavor, Melfort is one of the best new spots to visit this Christmas season.

This Christmas, Adara Restaurant in South Africa is the ideal destination. Adara is well-known for its amazing cuisine and provides a visually spectacular and delectable eating experience. Because every dish is so flavorful and exquisitely presented, every meal feels unique. A personal touch is added to your visit as the team goes above and beyond to make sure you're well taken care of. Adara creates the ideal setting for a memorable dining experience with its cozy and inviting ambiance, which strikes a balance between style and comfort. It's undoubtedly one of the greatest spots to take in the holiday cheer, whether you're celebrating or just having a laid-back lunch.

Explore The Table Restaurant, which offers the best local produce combined with farm-to-table eating in a charming environment. The Table provides a genuinely unforgettable Christmas experience at Oak Valley, a quaint agricultural setting. Savor a three-course, shared lunch with a weekly rotating menu that showcases the best seasonal foods. Their use of locally sourced ingredients and meticulous attention to detail guarantee a consistently memorable dining experience. It is the perfect option for holiday occasions because they are delighted to accommodate most dietary requirements with advance notice. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon with loved ones while taking in the tranquil beauty of the farm. It's the ideal way to celebrate the season.