Valentine’s Day: The perfect date spots for you and your gals or your special someone
Looking for a special spot to celebrate Valentine’s day with your special someone or Galentine’s with your gals? Fortunately for us we live in a country where the culinary scene is some of the best in the world and with a variety of new eateries popping up as well as our more established one’s, we are spoilt for choice. Since social media plays a huge role in our lives our options offers you a variety of aesthetically pleasing venues, from rustic to modern to ensure your content is swoon-worthy. Below are a few that are on our radar and would recommend you try.
One of the newest eateries on the culinary block is Wilde Vy Bistro nestled in the Durbanville region on Hoogelegen Farm which is home to Signal Gun Wines. The restaurant over looks the vineyard and if the views aren’t enough the menu is a carefully curated selection of dishes to tempt any food enthusiasts palette paired with Signal Gun wines of course, including a selection of cocktails to enjoy. Enjoy a leisurely lunch with the family as they do offer a kids menu or a romantic dinner for two in this picturesque location. Our recommendation, try the Côte de Boeuf, Smoked Aubergine, Black Garlic and Steak Sauce -this is to be shared. They do offer a set menu for Valentine’s Day at R850pp.
SÓTANO restaurant in Mouille Point, situated directly across from the iconic Green Point Lighthouse with a view to the Atlantic ocean is the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed meal for two. This establishment is by no means a new spot but with a newly revamped menu of seafood and sushi that takes centre stage, we highly recommend paying a visit. Enjoying the freshest seafood the Cape has to offer with dishes like king prawns, grilled octopus, Patagonian calamari, and line fish on a skewer, accompanied by grilled seasonal vegetables and baby potatoes are a must. Not only do you get to enjoy this spot but your four legged furry friends are welcome too. With a special menu designed for an equally important member of your family makes it The place to be.
Aubergine restaurant found in the heart of the city is an established eatery that has been around for over 20 years by German chef-owner Harald Bresselschmidt. Gerald honed his skill set at London’s Savoy before opening his own space in Gardens. This intimate spot is well known for exceptional quality food that is innovative and exciting with a wine list that is enviable. They offer an A la Carte menu as well as a Degustation menu which can be paired with wine as well as an offering of small plates to be shared. This is the ideal spot to celebrate and toast your love or your friendship seated outside on their patio under the stars served by a team of knowledgeable and passionate individuals. A recommended dish would be the crayfish - a definite 10 out of 10. Either way your experience will leave you satisfied and planning your next visit.
Amare, is a stylish new restaurant in Bantry Bay, meaning “to love” in Latin. It’s a love letter to Mediterranean flavours, blending coastal elegance with a sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance. From handcrafted pasta to South Coast-inspired sharing plates, the menu is a celebration of the Mediterranean’s rich culinary heritage. Paired with expertly curated wines and inventive cocktails, every meal is designed to be an unforgettable experience. Not only is the food tantalising to the senses but the restaurant itself has been designed to capture the essence of its location and an extension of the Mediterranean inspired menu. Neutral tones and varying textures makes this an Instagram worthy location. Enjoy a fun night on the town with your girlfriends sipping cocktails and feasting on fabulous cuisine.
Lastly, but by no means the least a South African favourite, Ocean Basket. If you are looking for a familiar setting with guaranteed great food and chill vibes this is the place to be. Their famous seafood platter, expect a generous spread of delicious Prince prawns, crispy calamari, flaky fish, Panko prawns, mussels, rice, and chips, all served with Ocean Basket’s signature creamy lemon sauce. No tiny portions, no unnecessary fuss—just fresh, delicious seafood made for sharing. It’s the ultimate way to celebrate love, whether that’s with a partner, a bestie, or your favourite people gathered around a table. The Perfect Catch Platter is just R299 (excluding wine or extras) and is available for sit-down at all Ocean Basket restaurants
