Cape Town’s rooftop scene has evolved into one of the city’s most exciting culinary frontiers. With Table Mountain as a dramatic backdrop and the Atlantic Ocean stretching to the horizon, elevated dining has become a defining feature of the Mother City’s food culture.
These spaces are no longer just about a good view – they have become social rooms in the sky where kitchens experiment, bartenders set the mood, and the city’s energy drifts upward with the late-afternoon light. From sophisticated fine-dining destinations and Japanese-inspired heritage bars to casual poolside spots and hidden suburban gems, this guide highlights twenty of the best rooftop restaurants and bars in Cape Town.
Top 20 Rooftop Restaurants in Cape Town
1. The Silo Rooftop
Perched atop the iconic Silo Hotel at the V&A Waterfront, this rooftop offers one of Cape Town’s most dramatic vantage points. The infinity pool is reserved for hotel guests, but the rooftop terrace and bar are open to the public daily from noon. The menu features light meals, gourmet sliders, seafood, and tapas-style nibbles, with a refined selection of artisanal cocktails and fine wines. Reservations are essential to secure a spot at this high-demand venue.
2. Gigi Rooftop Restaurant and Bar
Located on the 6th floor of the Gorgeous George Hotel on St George’s Mall, Gigi is often described as Cape Town’s rooftop living room. Decorated by top local design talent, the space is filled with tropical foliage and features an emerald-green glass-panelled pool. The menu includes wood-fired grills, salads, Cape Malay-inspired fish tartare, risotto, pasta, and vegetarian options. The atmosphere is chic yet relaxed, with DJs playing from Thursday to Sunday. Children are allowed during the day but not after 20:30.
3. Tjing Tjing Rooftop Bar
A landmark since 2011, Tjing Tjing is tucked into the attic of a 200-year-old heritage building on Longmarket Street. The decor is inspired by Japanese culture, featuring a striking shrine-red bar, dark wood beams, lanterns, and walls lined with black-and-white photos of Tokyo and Kyoto. The menu offers Japanese-inspired bar bites, otsumami (snacks), and a creative cocktail selection including sake, Japanese whisky, and gin. The rooftop terrace opens up to fine views of Cape Town’s cityscape. No bookings are accepted, and guests must be over 21.
4. Utopia
Perched on the 15th floor of the Capital Mirage in De Waterkant, Utopia has been voted Africa’s Best Rooftop Restaurant for consecutive years. The Mediterranean-inspired menu features bistro-style dishes with generous portions, including West Coast oysters served with MCC. From the deck, views stretch over Green Point Stadium and the harbour, creating a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. No children under 10 are permitted.
5. The Nines by Kove Collection
Located on the ninth floor of Station House in Sea Point, The Nines offers a masterclass in compromise-free luxury. The floor-to-ceiling glass walls provide a 270-degree perspective of Upper Sea Point, Lion’s Head, and the Atlantic Ocean. The contemporary international menu showcases the finest local seafood and grilled steaks, with Sunday jazz-led lunches being a highlight. The dress code is smart-casual, and secure underground parking is available.
6. Marble Rooftop Bar
Up on the top of the refurbished Union Castle building at the V&A Waterfront, Marble’s rooftop radiates understated glamour. Co-founded by Chef David Higgs, the space features floor-to-ceiling glass facades, bespoke local art, and 360-degree views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic. The cuisine is centred around flame-grilled cooking, with dishes like snoek pâté with magwenya (fried dough) and Chalmar ribeye. The Grillworks adds smoky depth to the dining experience.
7. Locâl at RED Roof
Perched atop the Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront in the vibrant Silo District, Locâl at RED Roof captures the Mother City’s creative, laid-back spirit. The open-air terrace features a rooftop lap pool, relaxed lounge seating, and a converted red bus bar. The menu focuses on approachable, shareable plates paired with craft beers, local wines, and inventive cocktails. The vibe is casual and energetic, making it a go-to spot for sunset sessions and late-night hangouts.
8. The Moon Rooftop Bar
In the heart of Cape Town’s energetic CBD, The Moon Rooftop Bar sits atop The Trade Boutique Hotel on Shortmarket Street. The quirky hotel’s charm extends to its rooftop, which offers a poolside setting with city views. The menu offers simple yet delicious dishes like steak frites and grilled calamari, perfect for a lazy lunch or after-work nibble. Wines, beers, and ciders from around the Western Cape make the drinks menu feel local and familiar.
9. Chinchilla Rooftop Bar and Cafe
Located within the Promenade Building on Victoria Road in Camps Bay, Chinchilla has been ranked among the Top 20 rooftop bars worldwide by Time Out Travel. The laid-back, loungey atmosphere is complemented by stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, with DJs playing from 4pm to 8pm on weekends. The seafood menu includes prawns, mussels, oysters, and crayfish. The signature Twisted Bellini and a bottle of ice-cold chardonnay are highly recommended.
10. Rick’s Café Americain
Inspired by the 1942 classic Casablanca, Rick’s resides in a beautifully restored 1912 Victorian villa on Kloof Street. The rooftop terrace features foldable glass doors, making it a reliable choice regardless of the Cape Town wind. The menu is a diverse mix of Moroccan and Mediterranean flavours, paired with one of the most extensive drinks lists in the city. The dress code is smart-casual.
11. The Sky Bar at The Grand Daddy Hotel
Sharing its rooftop space with seven authentic Airstream trailers, The Sky Bar on Long Street offers a nostalgic, otherworldly feel in the heart of the city centre. A permanent tented roof shields guests from the southeasterly wind, making it an all-day destination perfect for everything from breakfasts to rooftop movie nights. It is perhaps the most unique rooftop venue in Cape Town.
12. Jack@SKYE Rooftop Bar
Located on London Road in Sea Point, Jack@SKYE is the city’s first rooftop wine-tasting centre. With over 37 different Bruce Jack wines alongside Spanish-style tapas and pintxos, it is an exceptional spot for wine enthusiasts. The terrace offers comfortable loungers for watching the sunset, while the indoor area provides a sleek alternative. The vibe is casual and welcoming.
13. Oblivion
A rare rooftop gem in the Southern Suburbs, Oblivion Bar and Kitchen in Claremont offers a more suburban, relaxed atmosphere with views stretching toward the Constantia Winelands. Known for its wood-fired pizzas and craft beers, it also serves as a great remote office for digital nomads during the day thanks to free Wi-Fi. It is a local favourite for casual dining and sunset drinks.
14. Allure Rooftop Lounge
Located at 71 Waterkant Street in the city centre, Allure offers a stylish urban terrace with ample indoor and outdoor seating. The menu features a diverse selection of starters, mains, and drinks, including grilled squid, bobotie spring rolls, beer-battered hake, sticky ribs, and a 300g steak cut. The venue is popular for both casual lunches and upscale celebrations.
15. Cloud 9 Mountain Club Bistro
Part of Cloud 9 Hotel and Spa on Kloof Nek Road in Tamboerskloof, this bistro is highly praised for its 360-degree views of the city and the surrounding Lion’s Head and Table Mountain. It is open to the public and offers a wide selection of meals, snacks, sides, wines, cocktails, and other cold and hot drinks. The bistro offers exceptional views that make any meal feel special.
16. 14Stories Rooftop Bar
Located on the 14th floor on Buitengracht Street, 14Stories offers views extending over the V&A Waterfront, Signal Hill, and Table Mountain. The menu includes light meals, snacks, and cocktails, all paired with highly praised views of the city. It is a great spot for sundowners and social gatherings.
17. Skye Rooftop Bar and Restaurant
Skye Rooftop offers deck, dining, and bar services with panoramic views of Cape Town’s mountains, city, and ocean. The menu features a blend of refined and edgy dishes designed for sharing, including sharing plates, Lebanese flatbreads, and main courses like classic fillet and smoked riblets. Live DJ performances add to the atmosphere, especially on weekends.
18. The One and Only – Vista Bar
Located at the luxurious One and Only hotel, the Vista Bar has an unbeatable view of Table Mountain. It serves an exquisite selection of wines and features a menu inspired by local flavours. The sophisticated yet laid-back atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for both casual outings and formal events.
19. 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa – Sunset Bar
Perched on the edge of the Atlantic, the Sunset Bar at the 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa is an iconic spot for sunset lovers. Guests can enjoy gourmet snacks and expertly crafted cocktails while watching the sun dip below the horizon. It is a perfect location for unwinding after a busy day and capturing the famous Camps Bay sunset.
20. City Grill
As one of the top steak houses in the city, City Grill offers meats and views alike. The restaurant boasts a rooftop deck that overlooks the bustling cityscape, perfect for summer nights. Their specialised grill menu guarantees that every bite is bursting with flavour, making it a must-visit for meat lovers.
Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Cuisine Focus | Location | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Silo Rooftop | Seafood, Tapas | V&A Waterfront | Iconic architecture, infinity pool, bookings essential |
| Gigi Rooftop | Wood-fired Grill, Global | City Centre | Tropical décor, pool, DJs, halaal-friendly |
| Tjing Tjing | Japanese Bar Bites | City Centre | Japanese-inspired, over 21s only, no bookings |
| Utopia | Mediterranean | De Waterkant | Africa’s Best Rooftop, no under 10s |
| The Nines | International Fine Dining | Sea Point | 270-degree views, Sunday jazz lunches |
| Marble | Flame-grilled | V&A Waterfront | 360-degree views, Chef David Higgs |
| RED Roof | Local, Tapas | V&A Waterfront | Red bus bar, lap pool, casual vibe |
| The Moon | Steak, Seafood | City Centre | Poolside setting, local wines |
| Chinchilla | Seafood | Camps Bay | Top 20 rooftop bars worldwide |
| Rick’s Café Americain | Moroccan/Mediterranean | Gardens | Casablanca theme, extensive drinks |
| The Sky Bar | Breakfast, Drinks | Long Street | Airstream trailers, unique setting |
| Jack@SKYE | Spanish Tapas | Sea Point | Wine-tasting centre, 37+ wines |
| Oblivion | Wood-fired Pizza | Claremont | Southern Suburbs gem, craft beer |
| Allure | International | City Centre | Diverse menu, stylish terrace |
| Cloud 9 | International | Tamboerskloof | 360-degree views, open to public |
| 14Stories | Light Meals | City Centre | Views of Waterfront and Table Mountain |
| Skye | Sharing Plates | City Centre | Live DJs, contemporary menu |
| Vista Bar | Tapas, Seafood | V&A Waterfront | Table Mountain views |
| Sunset Bar | Gourmet Snacks | Camps Bay | Iconic sunset views |
| City Grill | Steakhouse | City Centre | Rooftop deck, grill menu |
Tips and Other Useful Information
Bookings are Essential: For top establishments like The Silo Rooftop, Gigi, Utopia, and The Nines, reservations are strongly recommended, often days or weeks in advance. The Silo Rooftop requires bookings to secure a spot at this high-demand venue.
Dress Codes: Most rooftop restaurants expect smart-casual attire. The Nines, Utopia, and The Silo Rooftop all maintain smart-casual dress codes. Tjing Tjing is more casual, while Gigi recommends smart-casual.
Age Restrictions: Several venues have age restrictions. Tjing Tjing does not allow guests under 21, and Utopia does not permit children under 10. Gigi allows children during the day but not after 20:30.
Budget Expectations: Prices vary widely. Allure Rooftop offers starters from R80 to R165 and mains from R155 to R450. Skye Rooftop offers sharing plates from R75 to R160. Most venues offer premium wine selections and cocktails at higher price points.
Location Grouping: Rooftop venues are concentrated in several areas: V&A Waterfront (The Silo, Marble, RED Roof, Vista Bar), City Centre (Gigi, Tjing Tjing, The Moon, Allure, 14Stories, Skye), Sea Point (The Nines, Jack@SKYE), and Camps Bay (Chinchilla, Sunset Bar). This makes it easy to plan a rooftop tour of the city.
Halal-Friendly Options: Gigi Rooftop offers halaal-friendly options upon request, and the staff are known to accommodate dietary needs.
World Recognition: Chinchilla in Camps Bay has been ranked among the Top 20 rooftop bars worldwide by Time Out Travel, placing Cape Town on the global rooftop map.
No Bookings: Tjing Tjing Rooftop Bar does not accept reservations, so arriving early is advised to secure a spot.
Conclusion
Cape Town’s rooftop scene has elevated the city’s dining culture to new heights, offering a diverse range of experiences that combine exceptional food, creative cocktails, and the city’s most breathtaking views. From the internationally acclaimed Chinchilla in Camps Bay and the sophisticated elegance of The Nines in Sea Point to the bohemian charm of Tjing Tjing and the laid-back vibes of RED Roof, there is a rooftop venue for every taste and occasion.
Whether you are celebrating a special milestone, enjoying a romantic sunset dinner, or simply soaking up the Mother City’s energy from above, these twenty rooftop restaurants and bars promise unforgettable experiences that capture the true spirit of Cape Town.