10 Hidden Gems of Cape Town

From secret beaches to speakeasies to best views of the sunset to a party where you showcase your favourite artist, Catherine Franklin uncovers some of Cape Town’s little secrets. Whether it’s Fish Hoek, the city centre or the Northern Suburbs, they all have some great gems. Now – as they say – it’s time to get out!

1.  Julep, off Long Street

This quiet cocktail bar is literally hidden down an unnoticeable alleyway off Long Street. Replicating the speakeasy atmosphere of the 1920s, Julep invites you to sprawl over the comfortable furniture and enjoy signature cocktails while your ears are saturated with soulful live music.

2. The Cave on Chapman’s Peak Drive

Sunset plays a major role in the average Capetonian’s life, but the trick is to find the best viewing position. Just below the designated viewing point (you may have to do some climbing), The Cave provides a full view of the sea and the sunset. Just be wary of the wind!

3. The Great Wizoo in Rondebosch

The Great Wizoo pairs sports and jazz and finds that the combination really works. While one room is blaring sports games from the wide-screen television, the other is host to a group of jazz musicians thrilling the audience. With fantastic drink and food specials as well as a pool table, this bar is perfect for everyone, no matter how old you are.

4. Beta Beach in Bakoven

Even if the beaches are popular and crowded during summer, there is always a secret little seaside corner close at hand. Such as this one just next to Camps Bay, which is almost unknown. Although it is a small beach, the surrounding rocks provide a great playground.

5.  Secret Soiree

What a brilliant idea for any city! The group City Soiree organises private viewings of local bands and artists, funded by the people attending. These events can even happen in your own home. As long as 30 people pledge to attend, the event happens, and next thing you’re pouring a drink for your favourite music-maker or artist or … (you fill in the blank).

6. Yogis Barber Shop on Buitengracht Street

For anyone who wants to spoil themselves having a haircut or a shave the old-fashioned way – and lots more people are doing it, because men need pampering too – there is no better chair to sit yourself down in than one at Yogis Barber Shop.

7. The Slow Market in Willowbridge

The ‘slow’ doesn’t mean that it is lethargic, but rather that all the produce is made locally, in the way it was made originally. Featuring age-old family recipes that have been perfected over the years, the Slow Market at Tygervalley (there is another one in Stellebosch) is like a homecoming for your taste buds.

8. The Book Lounge

After the chaos of the outdoors there’s nothing better than settling down in your comfiest armchair with a good book. The Book Lounge provides that exact service in the perfect surroundings. Many locals will take off an entire day just to sink into the plush seats of the bookstore while poring over their favourite books.

9. Jager’s Walk Rock Pool

Near Fish Hoek beach, there is a little path decorated by lego benches that leads to a secluded and beautiful rock pool. To escape the crowds and swim amongst the sea anemone and starfish, take a stroll down Jager’s Walk.

10. Tagore’s in Observatory

We all know that smokey, low-lit bar, featuring a washed-up musician suffering over his whisky on the rocks. In Cape Town that bar is Tagore’s. Comfortable and welcoming, Tagore’s is the best place to make new friends and enjoy a jazz-cat atmosphere.

Catherine Franklin is an Honours graduate from UCT, and is currently working her way towards her dream job of being a journalist. Much of her writing has been published on her blog catchingcapetown.