Cape Town’s plant-based dining scene has flourished, with the city embracing a vibrant array of restaurants that celebrate healthy eating while packing a flavour punch . From fully vegan eateries serving comfort food classics to fine dining establishments offering exquisite tasting menus and charming cafes with garden settings, the Mother City caters to every palate . This guide highlights thirty of the best vegan and plant-based restaurants in Cape Town, including both fully vegan establishments and venues with exceptional vegan options.
Top 30 Vegan & Plant-Based Restaurants in Cape Town
1. Plant Cafe
One of Cape Town’s pioneering vegan gems with locations in the CBD and Camps Bay, Plant Cafe is a fully vegan eatery that prides itself on delicious plant-based meals, smoothies, juices, and desserts . The menu offers a wide selection of dishes, including wraps, crepes, burgers, and decadent sweet treats.
Guests can also stock up on supplies like milk alternatives and vegan baking ingredients while they dine . With its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to plant-based living, Plant Cafe has become a beloved destination for vegans and curious foodies alike. Whether you are craving a hearty burger or a refreshing smoothie bowl, this eatery delivers on both flavour and quality.
2. Nourish’d Café and Juicery
Founded in 2017 by Natasha Napoli, Nourish’d began with a simple mission: creating healthy smoothies people actually want to drink while championing a strict zero-waste policy. It quickly became popular among Cape Town’s vegetarian and vegan community and soon attracted others seeking alternatives to unhealthy fast food. Nourish’d has since expanded to multiple locations across the city, all serving a full menu of healthy meat-free dishes.
Favourites include the adventurous CBD Peppermint Crisp smoothie and the delicious homemade lentil and beetroot patty burger. The cafe also sells juice cleanses, tinctures, meal boxes, and zero-waste merchandise through its online store.
3. The Conscious Kitchen
Zero waste, ethical, organic, and plant-based, The Conscious Kitchen on Kloof Street embodies mindful consumption with a Bali-style charm . This café and juice bar sources local, organic ingredients, eschews processed foods and sugars, minimises plastic, uses biodegradable packaging, and pays fair wages.
The daytime menu features nourishing bowls, salads, and all-day breakfasts that pair well with fresh juices and healthy smoothies. By evening, it transforms into a delightful spot for vegan cocktails, small bites, and their famous raw, house-made desserts. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it perfect for any time of day.
4. The Sunshine Food Sprouting Co
Bright, breezy, and bursting with goodness, this cheerful vegan café in Three Anchor Bay serves 100% organic plant-powered food just steps from the sea . Despite its tiny, hole-in-the-wall setting, the atmosphere is full of warmth thanks to the owner’s vegan journey that inspires every dish.
The menu features wholesome and creative options such as bunless veggie burgers, wraps filled with fresh sprouts and greens, and even vegan sushi rolls. To pair with your meal, the café also offers an excellent selection of revitalising smoothies and freshly pressed juices. The quirky #FoodFARMacy is both pet-friendly and LGBTQ+ friendly, adding to its inclusive charm.
5. Prashad Cafe
Prashad Cafe is a family-owned business that has become a vibrant plant-based gem serving South African-Indian fusion across multiple Cape Town locations . The menu features imaginative vegan and vegetarian Indian cuisine, including hearty curries and creative meat-free stand-ins like soya chicken or prawn alternatives.
Popular dishes include butter bean bunny, mixed vegetable bunny, pani puri, potato and coriander samosa, and masala dosa. Their Durban-style bunny chow, serving curry inside naan, is a clever plant-based spin on this iconic street food . Portions are generous, and the menu delivers exceptional value for money.
6. Scheckter’s RAW
Inspired by New York’s food trends and accessibility of nutritious food, Scheckter’s RAW has established itself as a favourite with Cape Town vegans along the popular Sea Point restaurant strip . The restaurant’s sleek setting and beautifully plated dishes make every visit feel special, with a mission to serve natural, authentic, honest, plant-based, cruelty-free, and nutrient-dense food.
Menu highlights include their baked pumpkin pie doughnuts, Naturella crepes, homemade falafel wraps, and signature smoothies. The focus on quality ingredients and nutritional value makes it a top choice for anyone who wants to eat well and feel good doing it.
7. Wild Eatery
This compact vegan spot in the East City focuses on healthy, gluten-free meals designed to fuel your day, whether for a desk break or city exploring. The menu features falafel wraps as a quick win, available in classic or chipotle versions, along with the popular Inari Tempura warm bowl .
The Inari Tempura brings tempura cauliflower on black rice with red cabbage, avocado, and ponzu dressing, while the Superfood Cleanse salad offers a lighter option. Natural textures and a calming earthy setting encourage you to slow down and savour every moment. Leave space for their vegan Millionaire Shortbread, Bounty, Snickers, or Peanut Cup for dessert.
8. Spirit Café
Tucked away in the leafy suburb of Constantia, Spirit Café is a haven for wholesome, feel-good food adjacent to a yoga studio run by the same owner. This tranquil spot invites you to slow down and enjoy colourful breakfast bowls, refreshing smoothies, and a selection of plant-forward lunch options. The menu features seasonal, farm-to-table produce, including spinach and feta quiche, power bowls, and crustless quiches.
Many dishes are vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and sugar-free, though some may contain eggs or honey, so it is best to check with staff when ordering . It is an unfussy, health-centric suburban eatery with a loyal following.
9. Ground Zero Café and Obscure Apothecary
In the heart of Observatory, Ground Zero Café brings together community, creativity, and conscious eating in one inspiring plant-based space . The cafe’s menu is a celebration of plant-based comfort food, offering everything from loaded wraps and hearty breakfast bowls to inventive herbal lattes and raw desserts.
What makes this spot special is its fusion of nourishment and natural alchemy, with ingredients often locally sourced and sometimes infused with adaptogenic herbs or fermented elements. The vibrant decor, eclectic antique collections, and Rasta vibes add to the unique atmosphere. It perfectly captures the area’s laid-back charm and has become a beloved local haunt.
10. Chefs Warehouse at Tintswalo Atlantic
Nestled in Hout Bay with stunning ocean views, Chefs Warehouse offers a four-course vegan tasting menu that showcases the indigenous flavours of the Cape. The menu features mouth-watering dishes inspired by local ingredients, prepared with creativity and precision that elevate plant-based dining to a fine art . Guests can enjoy this culinary journey for lunch or dinner, with advance booking essential due to the restaurant’s popularity.
The combination of breathtaking coastal scenery and exceptional plant-based cuisine makes it a memorable destination for special occasions. The restaurant is committed to sustainability and showcases the best of what the Cape has to offer.
11. Honest Chocolate Café
Honest Chocolate is a Cape Town institution, offering ethically sourced, handcrafted chocolate made from raw, organic cacao with a touch of natural sweetener agave . With locations on Wale Street in the city centre and in Kalk Bay, this cafe serves all things chocolate, including vegan chocolate, dairy-free drinks, and a range of vegan treats.
The small artisanal bean-to-bar chocolate company has become a beloved destination for those with a sweet tooth. Visitors can enjoy rich hot chocolate, decadent brownies, and other plant-based confections in a warm and inviting setting. It is the perfect place to indulge your chocolate cravings without compromising on your values.
12. Vegan Street Food
Dubbed the “Home of Vegan Saucery,” Vegan Street Food has established itself as a casual hotspot for plant-based fast food lovers at the SALT Food Market in the city centre. The menu features delicious, affordable vegan dishes like loaded wraps, burgers, and sandwiches that pack a flavour punch.
Popular meal items include the Oh My Cluck Burger, Wicky Wacky Wrap, and Bacun Avo Feta Pizza, all crafted with creative plant-based ingredients. The brand also hosts pop-up events across the city, bringing their exciting vegan experiences to various locations . Vegan Street Food is on a mission to make vegan eating accessible, fun, and full of bold flavours.
13. Romeo & Vero
Romeo & Vero brings artistry to vegan dining, drawing inspiration from Mediterranean and African cuisines to create dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. The restaurant’s warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it a lovely choice for a relaxed meal with friends or a special evening out. Expect colourful mezze platters, fresh salads, and innovative pasta dishes that showcase the vibrant flavours of the region.
Each plate is thoughtfully crafted with attention to presentation and taste, making the dining experience feel both indulgent and nourishing . It is a celebration of plant-based eating at its most creative and inspired.
14. Pizzasaurus
Pizzasaurus is a quirky and welcoming spot in the East City District that calls itself a very nice place for vegan pizza . All 15 of their wood-fired pizzas are dinosaur-themed, with sizes ranging from Medium to Dino, and each is crafted with care.
Some pizzas, like the T-Rex, feature vegan bacon, but many are purely vegetable-based through and through . Don’t miss their signature The Herbivores, which features mushrooms, mixed peppers, olives, tomatoes, artichokes, and onion. The fun dinosaur theme and commitment to quality vegan ingredients have made Pizzasaurus a favourite among plant-based pizza lovers.
15. Seven Colours Eatery
Chef Nolu Dube-Cele has brought her charming Seven Colours Eatery to Battery Park in the V&A Waterfront, celebrating African cooking and the concept of serving an array of colourful dishes. While the menu includes meat options, the plant-based menu features local delicacies like umfino (maize pap with leafy greens), isaladi yamazimba (salad with roasted onion, peppers, chickpeas, and sun-driedtomato), and millet salad with zucchini. Enjoy these dishes with local bread varieties like amagwinya or amarostile for a delicious and authentically South African meal . It is a tribute to the vibrant and diverse culinary traditions of the country.
16. Kanéla Café
Dive into a world of delicious vegan and vegetarian delights at Kanéla Café in Sea Point, where every bite celebrates nourishing goodness and the team makes every visit feel like a warm welcome . Whether you are in the mood for a hearty tofu scramble or simply seeking some zen vibes, this charming cafe has it all.
Indulge in heavenly sweet treats, energising smoothie bowls, and aromatic African-sourced coffee in a laid-back and inviting setting. The cafe focuses on fresh, wholesome ingredients that make every meal feel light and satisfying. It is a perfect spot for a relaxed breakfast or lunch after a walk along the Sea Point promenade.
17. Unframed Ice Cream
Unframed Ice Cream has turned ice cream into an art form, proving that plant-based treats can be just as indulgent as their dairy counterparts. Their vegan ice cream features bold and creative flavours such as spicy mango, turmeric latte, lusty coconut, beetroot chocolate ginger, and matcha tea.
With locations across Cape Town, including Woodstock, V&A Waterfront, and Gardens, this ice cream shop offers a perfect scoop of guilt-free indulgence. The flavours are creamy, rich, and completely dairy-free, made with natural ingredients. It is a refreshing stop on a warm Cape Town afternoon and proof that vegan desserts can be truly spectacular.
18. Thank Goodness Foods
Thank Goodness Foods is a haven for anyone with a sweet tooth, specialising in vegan and gluten-free desserts that taste as good as they look . Their brownies, cinnamon rolls, and tarts are crowd favourites, offering all the comfort of classic baked goods with a plant-based twist.
Every bite feels wholesome yet indulgent, making it a go-to destination for those seeking delicious treats without compromise. The bakery focuses on quality ingredients and skilful baking techniques to create desserts that satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth . It is proof that vegan baking can be truly exceptional.
19. Grumpy & Runt x Ditto
Tuck into delicious, homemade vegan doughnuts at Grumpy & Runt, now located on Kloof Street with a dedicated plant-based following. Everything is prepared from scratch, including their vegan butter, vegan cheese, and the fluffiest doughnuts you will find in the city.
While you are there, pop over to Ditto Dessert Bar & Café, located on the same property, for freshly prepared plant-based sandwiches, milkshakes, and ice creams. This combined space offers a perfect one-stop destination for indulgent plant-based treats. The creative approach to vegan comfort food has made it a popular spot for those seeking something special.
20. Planet Bar at Mount Nelson
If you are after breathtaking views, elegant surroundings, and delicious plant-based fare, the Planet Bar at the iconic Mount Nelson Hotel is a must-visit . This chic spot serves up a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, from a vegan mushroom burger and a falafel wrap to a sharing veg platter perfect for groups.
We recommend you order a cocktail and soak in the expansive ocean views from this cosy and stylish setting. The bar offers an assortment of plant-based choices alongside an impressive drinks menu, making it perfect for sundowners . It is a taste of luxury with a conscience.
21. Harvest Cafe & Deli
Harvest Café & Deli is famed for serving nourishing meals like smoothie bowls, salads, soups, and healthy wraps in both Muizenberg and Newlands. The Muizenberg branch offers a refreshing seaside surf cafe experience with handcrafted wooden surfboards and bamboo furniture. The Newlands location in the leafy Quarter features swing chairs and a striking, modern design.
The menu focuses on wholesome, plant-forward dishes that are both delicious and nutritious, using fresh, seasonal ingredients It is a perfect spot for a healthy breakfast or a light lunch in a charming and relaxed environment.
22. Govinda’s Natural Food Cafe
The Hare Krishna Centre in Rondebosch has been the suburban hub for vegetarian and vegan dining for decades, with Govinda’s Natural Food Cafe serving “karma-free food for higher consciousness”. Open on weekends from 10:30 am to 4:00 pm, this vibrant suburban café offers a selection of vegetarian and vegan meals, snacks, and sweets.
The menu draws on India’s culinary heritage, featuring curries, paneer dishes, samosas, pastries, and weekend specials. It is warm, affordable, and community-minded, with a loyal following that keeps returning for the nourishing and flavourful meals . A visit here is both a culinary and spiritual experience.
23. The Whole Earth Café
The Whole Earth Cafe is a vegetarian-friendly restaurant located in the beautiful seaside suburb of Scarborough, offering a perfect escape from the city bustle. The menu features hearty and healthy breakfasts, with favourites like falafels and veggie burgers available for lunch and dinner.
It is the perfect place to enjoy delicious food while soaking up the natural beauty of the Cape Peninsula. The cafe’s location makes it an ideal stop for a relaxed meal before or after exploring the scenic coast. The focus is on simple, fresh, and satisfying food made with care and quality ingredients.
24. Blended Health Cafe
Blended Health Cafe in Glencairn serves 100% vegetarian dishes with vegan and gluten-free options available, offering a wholesome dining experience in the South Peninsula . Popular items include freshly pressed juices, smoothies, and “snackeroos”, along with light snacks for those who are not too hungry.
Located between Fish Hoek and Simon’s Town, it is a convenient stop for those exploring the False Bay coastline. The focus is on fresh, healthy ingredients prepared with care, making it a reliable choice for health-conscious diners. The cafe’s peaceful setting adds to its appeal as a neighbourhood gem.
25. Bamboo Plant Power
Bamboo Plant Power is a quick-service eatery focused on healthy eating and the sustainability of the planet, located on Long Street in the city centre. Their menu options include toasties, bowls and salads, mac and “cheeze”, and a variety of delicious desserts.
The fast-casual concept makes it an ideal choice for a quick, nourishing meal without compromising on quality or flavour . The eatery emphasises plant-based ingredients and eco-friendly practices, reflecting a commitment to both personal and planetary health. It is a great option for those seeking a convenient and tasty plant-based meal on the go.
26. Moro Gelato
Moro Gelato offers a selection of creamy and delicious dairy-free sorbets that are perfect for a refreshing treat on a warm Cape Town day. Indulge in flavours like strawberry, mango, raspberry, and apple, along with more adventurous options like Gingerbeet and Chai. With locations in Green Point, Sea Point, Long Street, and Stellenbosch Central, there is always a scoop nearby. The gelato is made in the traditional Italian way, keeping it simple, fresh, and full of flavour. It is a fantastic choice for those seeking a cool, vegan-friendly dessert option.
27. The Green Orchid Restaurant
Situated at Vida Nova Retreat in Hout Bay, The Green Orchid Restaurant specialises in plant-based recipes, incorporating fresh, locally sourced ingredients into a contemporary menu. The restaurant overlooks rolling lawns towards a swimming pool and outdoor cocktail bar, with private dining pods tucked into the gardens.
The menu is refreshingly contemporary with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients taken to the next level with innovative taste and texture combinations. It is sophisticated but without being too stuffy, and plant-based options are a highlight for diners who focus on conscious eating . Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it is ideal for weddings or private functions.
28. Indigo
Heading out of the city towards the Northern Suburbs, Indigo in Bellville offers vegetarian and vegan options like potato samoosas, bean curry, and dhal bunny chow .This delightful Indian take-out spot provides a range of meat-free Indian dishes that are both flavourful and affordable.
The menu also offers burgers and vegetarian platters, ensuring there is something for everyone. It is a hidden gem for those seeking authentic vegetarian Indian food outside the city centre. The focus on fresh ingredients and traditional recipes makes it a reliable choice for a satisfying meal.
29. Addis in Cape
Addis in Cape is an authentic Ethiopian restaurant in the city centre that caters for non-vegetarian, vegan, and vegetarian clients, offering a unique communal dining experience. Ethiopian cuisine is famous for its rich aromas and generous use of herbs and spices, and this restaurant shares these traditions with great love and attention.
The traditional hand-wash ceremony and Ethiopian coffee ceremony add to the immersive cultural experience. Guests enjoy a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes served on injera, creating a memorable and flavourful journey. It has been voted one of the best African eateries in Cape Town.
30. Aubergine Restaurant
Aubergine has long been a fine dining institution in Cape Town, and while it is not strictly vegan, it offers a dedicated and exceptional plant-based tasting menu for those seeking an elevated dining experience. The restaurant’s commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients is evident in every beautifully presented dish.
The elegant setting and impeccable service make it an ideal choice for special occasions or a memorable night out. The plant-based menu changes regularly to reflect the best of what is available, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience each visit . It is a testament to the sophistication that plant-based dining can achieve.
## Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Cuisine Focus | Location | Key Feature | 100% Vegan? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant Cafe | Global Vegan | CBD/Camps Bay | Fully vegan, grocery items | Yes |
| Nourish’d | Healthy Plant-Based | Multiple | Zero-waste, instagrammable | No |
| Conscious Kitchen | Conscious Plant-Based | Gardens | Zero waste, ethical sourcing | Yes |
| Sunshine Food Co | Organic Vegan | Three Anchor Bay | 100% organic, LGBTQ+ friendly | Yes |
| Prashad Cafe | Indian Fusion | Multiple | Bunny chow, generous portions | No |
| Scheckter’s RAW | Gourmet Health | Sea Point | Baked pumpkin doughnuts | No |
| Wild Eatery | Healthy Gluten-Free | East City | Falafel wraps, Buddha bowls | Yes |
| Spirit Café | Farm-to-Table | Constantia | Yoga studio adjacent | No |
| Ground Zero Cafe | Plant-Based Comfort | Observatory | Herbal lattes, raw desserts | Yes |
| Chefs Warehouse Tintswalo | Fine Dining | Hout Bay | 4-course vegan tasting menu | No |
| Honest Chocolate | Vegan Chocolate | City Centre/Kalk Bay | Artisanal bean-to-bar | Yes |
| Vegan Street Food | Plant-Based Fast Food | SALT Market | Pop-up events, loaded wraps | Yes |
| Romeo & Vero | Mediterranean/African | Cape Town | Colourful mezze platters | Yes |
| Pizzasaurus | Vegan Pizza | East City | Wood-fired, dinosaur-themed | Yes |
| Seven Colours Eatery | African | V&A Waterfront | Traditional South African | No |
| Kanéla Cafe | Cafe | Sea Point | Tofu scramble, smoothie bowls | No |
| Unframed | Vegan Ice Cream | Multiple | Spicy mango, turmeric latte | Yes |
| Thank Goodness Foods | Vegan Bakery | Cape Town | Brownies, cinnamon rolls | Yes |
| Grumpy & Runt | Vegan Doughnuts | Kloof Street | Scratch-made vegan butter | Yes |
| Planet Bar | Bar | Mount Nelson | Ocean views, mushroom burger | No |
| Harvest Cafe | Healthy Cafe | Muizenberg/Newlands | Swing chairs, smoothie bowls | No |
| Govinda’s | Indian Vegetarian | Rondebosch | Weekend only, affordable | No |
| Whole Earth Cafe | Cafe | Scarborough | Falafel, veggie burgers | No |
| Blended Health | Health Cafe | Glencairn | Vegan & gluten-free options | No |
| Bamboo Plant Power | Quick Service | Long Street | Mac and “cheeze”, toasties | Yes |
| Moro Gelato | Vegan Sorbet | Multiple | Traditional Italian style | Yes |
| Green Orchid | Plant-Based Fine Dining | Hout Bay | Private dining pods | No |
| Indigo | Indian Takeaway | Bellville | Samoosas, bean curry | No |
| Addis in Cape | Ethiopian | City Centre | Communal dining, coffee ceremony | No |
| Aubergine | Fine Dining | Gardens | Plant-based tasting menu | No |
Tips and Other Useful Information
Check for 100% Vegan Status: Several restaurants listed are exclusively vegan, including Plant Cafe, The Conscious Kitchen, Vegan Street Food, and Pizzasaurus. Others are vegan-friendly with a large plant-based menu. Spirit Café and Prashad Cafe offer excellent vegan options but also serve some animal products. Always double-check with the restaurant if you have strict dietary requirements.
Bookings are Essential: For fine dining establishments like Chefs Warehouse at Tintswalo Atlantic, Aubergine, and The Green Orchid Restaurant, reservations are strongly recommended, often days in advance. The vegan tasting menu at Chefs Warehouse is particularly popular and requires advance booking.
Dress Codes: Most vegan and plant-based restaurants have a casual or smart-casual dress code. Aubergine and Planet Bar at Mount Nelson lean towards the more sophisticated side, while Plant Cafe, Nourish’d, and The Sunshine Food Co are more relaxed and casual.
Budget Expectations: Prices vary widely. Plant Cafe, Nourish’d, and The Sunshine Food Co offer affordable meals under R200. Prashad Cafe and Govinda’s Natural Food Cafe provide excellent value for money. Chefs Warehouse at Tintswalo Atlantic and Aubergine are premium fine dining experiences with higher price points.
Location Grouping: Vegan restaurants are concentrated in several areas: City Centre (Plant Cafe, Wild Eatery, The Conscious Kitchen, Honest Chocolate, Vegan Street Food), Sea Point (Scheckter’s RAW, Kanéla Café), Gardens (Nourish’d, Planet Bar, Aubergine), Constantia (Spirit Café), and Southern Suburbs (Prashad Cafe, Govinda’s, Blended Health). This makes it easy to plan a plant-based culinary tour of the city.
Zero-Waste Ethos: Nourish’d and The Conscious Kitchen are both committed to zero-waste and sustainability practices, making them excellent choices for eco-conscious diners. The Conscious Kitchen sources local, organic ingredients and uses biodegradable packaging.
Sweet Treats: Cape Town has an impressive array of vegan dessert options. Unframed Ice Cream, Thank Goodness Foods, Grumpy & Runt, and Honest Chocolate are all must-visits for those with a sweet tooth. These establishments prove that plant-based desserts can be truly indulgent and creative.
Sunday Dining: Govinda’s Natural Food Cafe is only open on weekends, making it a special Sunday treat. Seven Colours Eatery celebrates the traditional South African “seven colours” Sunday lunch, offering a unique cultural experience.
Conclusion
Cape Town’s vegan and plant-based restaurant scene is a vibrant and diverse culinary landscape that celebrates healthy eating with bold, delicious flavours. From the pioneering Plant Cafe and the zero-waste Nourish’d to the creative vegan pizzas at Pizzasaurus and the fine dining experience at Chefs Warehouse Tintswalo Atlantic, the Mother City proves that plant-based dining is anything but boring. With a wide range of options to suit every budget and setting, these thirty restaurants represent the best of Cape Town’s plant-based dining scene, offering something for everyone.