Put Mowbray on your radar when looking for a restaurant, says writer Bianca Coleman.
Here are her picks of the best places to eat and drink extracted from Independent Home's Insider's Guide to Mowbray.
1. Field Office
One of several in Cape Town, in Klipfontein Road is a meeting place, an office-away- from-the- office, a sometimes quiet spot to hide, read, eat, gaze or pretend to be working.
2. Fat Cactus
The best Tex-Mex since 1998, Fat Cactus in Durban Road is an institution regarded by locals as a fun place for after-work margaritas and chilli poppers, and once the evening is under way, huge portions of more-ish Mexican favourites.
3. Sakura Sushi (Durban Road)
Sakura Sushi (Durban Road) Is perfect for those looking for an affordable quick sushi-outing.
4. Chai-Yo restaurant
For superb Thai food prepared by skilful chefs in a wonderfully convivial atmosphere, try Chai-Yo restaurant in Durban Road, which has been around since 1996. It's one of Independent Home's firm favourites.
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5. Curry Quest
Curry Quest is another long-standing Durban Road restaurant fixture, owned by husband and wife team Kevin and Vani Moodley. Dishes served on any given day depend on availability of ingredients, and the magic comes from the Durban-supplied spices and powders. Curry Quest does sit-down meals as well as take-aways in different sizes depending on your appetite, or whether you are catering for yourself or a party of many.
6. Bruegels
Popular wood-fired pizzeria Bruegels is a firm local favourite in Klipfontein Road. The menu offers a variety of thin-based pizzas, as well as fresh salads, homemade pastas and a wine list of local and Italian wines.
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7. The Wild Fig Restaurant and Bar
The Wild Fig Restaurant and Bar on the Valkenberg Estate is in an 18th century farmhouse which is a national monument. Serving pub lunches, and creative Mediterranean and Asian dishes, the venue takes its name from the giant fig tree which was planted between 1840 and 1860.
8. Botanical Tea House (Bushwood Road)
Located in the heart of Little Mowbray, the Botanical Tea House (Bushwood Road) is a tranquil oasis away from the rush of a busy life. Set in a beautiful garden it is the perfect place to sit on a sunny day. Flowers and cuttings decorate the tables, and tea is a speciality, served in beakers over candle-lit Bunsen burners.