Our signature experience takes you on a captivating journey through time—from the 1600s to today—revealing how centuries of cultural exchange, global trade, and resilience have shaped Cape Town’s distinctive flavours and traditions. Stroll through the colourful streets of Bo-Kaap, where every building tells a story. Indulge in local favourites like golden koeksisters, savour the rich spices of Cape Malay bobotie, and explore hearty classics such as bunny chow, pap, and chakalaka. Sip on rooibos tea and enjoy a selection of locally crafted beverages—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Led by a passionate local foodie expert, you’ll uncover hidden gems, meet local vendors, and hear the stories behind each dish. From the spice routes of the 17th century to the lasting impact of slavery and apartheid, every stop offers a deeper connection to the city—its people, its past, and its vibrant food culture.
In demand: 80 of the next 98 departures are already sold out.
From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Nov 12.
Our tour begins in the Bo Kappa where Cape Malay culture is in full display. We will taste and explore this fascinating neighbourhood as we learn about it's culture and history.
Next we wander towards Bree street in the city centre, where Cape Town's most concentrated restaurant scene can be found, including the beautiful Heritage Square where we will indulge in some delicious South African classics under the vines in one of Cape Town's most beautiful courtyards.
Next up, De Waterkant (the waterfront in Afrikaans). A chic enclave centered around the Cape Quarter Lifestyle Village packed with fashion boutiques, commercial art galleries and global eateries. Leafy streets nearby are lined with brightly coloured cottages housing craft coffee bars, stylish gift shops and guesthouses. We will wander the beautiful streets and learn about why this area of one of the most sought after in Cape Town, but also one with the highest concentrations of global restaurants to savour.
Our tour ends at one of Cape Town's oldest sports bars where true South African patriotism is on full display. Here we will eat like a local while soaking in the atmosphere of one of Cape Town's busiest watering holes. Please note that on Mondays, our tours end in the city centre, a few hundred meters from our usual location.
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
Excurgo comparison of 3,057 Viator tours, recalculated daily.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
The Cape Town Essentials Food Tour lasts about 4 hours. The itinerary has 4 stops.
Prices start at $141 per person for this Cape Town experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs every day, starting at 12:00 PM, 12:30 PM, 1:00 PM, and 2:00 PM.
It can: 80 of the next 98 departures are already sold out, so booking ahead is a good idea.
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
The meeting point is Our tour meets at Bo Kaap Deli. It is situated on the corner of Rose and Church Street. Our group will be ready to go promptly at 12:00pm, so please do let us know if you happen to be running a couple of minutes late. Hotel pickup is not part of this experience.
The experience is available in EN.
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
| Tour | Duration | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 The Cape Town Essentials Food Tour | 4 hours | 4.9 (511) | $141 | |
 Robben Island Ticket & Cape Town Essential Museum tour including Zeitz MOCAA | 9 hours | 5.0 (1) | $199 | View |
 Cape Town Essentials: Combo Tour of Iconic Highlights | 5h 30min | — | $322 | View |
 African Food and Storytelling Tour in Cape Town City Centre | 2–3 hours | 5.0 (134) | $111 | View |
 Little Mogadishu Food Tour in Bellville, Cape Town | 3h 30min | 5.0 (18) | $111 | View |
 Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine | 3h 30min | 5.0 (13) | $97 | View |
 Taste Of Africa Food & Wine Paring Experience | 1–3 hours | 4.4 (68) | $63 | View |
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 12 participants.
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap Unfortunately the tour route includes stairs, and is therefore not wheelchair or stroller accessible. Children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult and any kids over the age of 2 require a regular ticket to attend.
Unfortunately the tour route includes stairs, and is therefore not wheelchair or stroller accessible.
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
