Upon arriving in Cape Town you will be struck by the magnificence of the iconic Table Mountain. For me, as a foodie, it was not the only table of interest in this picturesque city. In fact, before travelling I always check HappyCow way before planning what tourist attractions to add to my to-do list.

From flight to food

It was a long overnight flight and as I disembarked the plane I was already planning my first food stop. So, after my hotel check-in I went straight to Romeo & Vero. This ‘Vegan Butcherie’ lived up to its name. With a menu packed full of mushroom-based meat alternatives it was almost impossible to choose. After much deliberation, my friend and I opted for the ‘ribs’ and ‘chicken.’ Both came with perfectly seasoned homecooked chips and a side salad. They were delicious and almost too realistic - cutting into the breaded drumsticks is a moment I’ll never forget.

Next on the list… wine

Vineyards surround Cape Town, so a visit to one felt mandatory. We headed east to Stellenbosch to visit Spier, a working winery and vineyard. It is easy to see why it was voted one of the 100 World's Best Vineyards in 2021, and Editor's Choice - Winery of the Year 2022.

Just a 30-minute drive away, a day trip is perfectly doable. This was our plan, although the luxurious onsite hotel makes overnight stays easy if you want to escape the city for an extended period. We arrived early, allowing us to wander the grounds and soak up the sun. I welcomed the vitamin D boost after a dark winter in London. There were historic buildings and curious art sculptures dotted about to peruse and admire. 

It was soon time for wine tasting. We enthusiastically followed the directions to where we needed to be and were warmly greeted by the host. She escorted us to our table on the veranda where we enjoyed the cooling breeze and shade from the wicker canopy. 

The knowledgeable, enthusiastic sommelier reassured us their wines were vegan, so we opted for the Spier tasting selection. To accompany the alcohol, we also ordered the garden bowl. This tasty selection of bread, crudites, and lentil hummus are also labelled vegan-friendly on their website.

The combination of the weather, company, food and wine made it one of my most enjoyable experiences. Do plan to go if you can, but make sure you book in advance, giving them at least 48 hours’ notice.

An early start

The surrounding peaks have several trail options, but Lion's Head gets the most attention. It is a reasonable 5.5km round trip and takes about 1.5 hours to hike to the top, and about an hour to return. It is mostly a steady incline, but can get quite challenging at times. On the most difficult route, there are even ladders and chains to assist. (These were the most fun parts for me.)

The objective was to reach the summit in time for sunrise. At the car drop-off point, I could already see specks of lights flicking on the mountainside. These super-early starters were well-prepared with their headlamps. I started my ascent just as dawn began to break. As I circled the elevation I was able to view the city in all its glory. Both it and I basked in the sun's golden glow as it appeared in the distant horizon. I was told it was a very popular activity for first dates, and I can see why.

Post-trek sustenance

Some are indifferent to doughnuts, but not me. This meant that I had a keen eye on Grumpy & Runt and was unwilling to leave the city without stopping by. This ‘Little Deli & Donuts’ heaven had a display cabinet full of sweet treats. I gravitated to the custard-filled doughnut which I ordered alongside a cheese and mushroom toastie and a hot chocolate. I’ve never been more satisfied. 

Sadly, their recent Instagram posts state that they have ceased trading. While the exact reasons are unknown it does present a reminder for us to support vegan businesses as much as we can. It would be a real shame if ethical businesses like these disappeared from our highstreets. Grumpy & Runt do suggest a comeback so I’m crossing everything that they make a triumphant return. Please do show them some love if they do.

Beach day… and night

Camps Bay is to the southwest of the city. This long stretch of beach and natural rock swimming pool is ideal for a day of swimming and sunbathing. There is lots to keep you entertained with a long promenade of bars, a mall, and a theatre.

The only vegan eatery in this neighbourhood is Plant Cafe. Open all day, it serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with plenty of desserts to satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth. I arrived in the evening, ordered a burger and pastry, and sat on the balcony watching the sunset over the ocean. It was a glorious end to a carb-filled day.

A sushi obsession

When I checked out local eateries, I was immediately drawn to Plushi. This HappyCow top-rated restaurant has some stiff competition given my recent sushi experiences in Lisbon and London. And you know what, I think it might have been the best I’ve had. Their menu is extensive and includes spring rolls, poke bowls, and dumplings. 

I was keen to try every sushi menu item, so I did not hold back. After all, I was on holiday. It was immaculately presented and every piece tasted sublime. The highlights were definitely the Salmoon Rose (carrot salmon and avocado, topped with vegan mayo and Plushi Caviaar) and the Crab Salad Inari (topped with jackfruit 'crab' salad, celery, red onion and spring onions). 

A bonus was the beetroot brownie. Chocolatey and healthy, I’m sure. I was so full, though, I saved the brownie for breakfast the next morning - an optimal way to start the day.

Heading south

For some of the most spectacular ocean views, a car trip along the coast of the national park, heading to the Cape Point lighthouse, is a must. You can jump on a Flying Dutchman funicular at the car park if you want to spare yourself the uphill trek. However you decide to get there, you won’t be disappointed. From this elevated vantage point, you can look out at the vastness of the Atlantic and Indian oceans. Simply breathtaking.

As you travel south, make sure to stop at Boulders Beach to visit the Boulders Penguin Colony. This sandy beach area is home to a free-living colony of African penguins. I stumbled across several as I clambered under and over the various boulders but took care to keep a respectable distance. Boardwalks have been constructed to ensure people are able to view these adorable animals without encroaching on their home. It was a joy given penguins are my second favourite animal.

The best till last

I saved Table Mountain for the last day. Given I’d already hiked Lion’s Head, I opted for the easier option: the cable car. You have to purchase your tickets in advance and at busy times, you can expect to queue. 

Table Mountain is well known for its ‘tablecloth’ of clouds. These are often draped over its plateau, which I was confronted with upon arrival. This meant no queues and quick access to the cable car. It felt like a win. 

As the car glided up the side of the mountain it soon hit the bank of clouds, obscuring the view. The mountain top is a rocky nature reserve with dedicated pathways for walkers. As I strolled along these paths, I recalled the movies I’d watched with eerie scenes of characters walking through the mist of the Yorkshire moors. It made it feel more like an adventure. 

I was also fortunate that the cloud cleared before descending, sot I got to view the cityscape from a different vantage point and it was stunning. I couldn’t have asked for a better end to my trip.

No shortage of vegan eateries

You can be certain you will not leave Cape Town hungry. There were many other restaurants and cafés I tried. It would be irresponsible of me if I didn’t acknowledge them as they were all special in their own plant-based way.

BamBoo Plant Power is on a mission to help their community eat better. With a wide selection of plant-based toasties, bowls and many mains, it is certainly doing that. 

The Conscious Kitchen focuses on making healthier and eco-friendly choices available. The Mean Greens juice and smoked ‘salmon’ & cream cheese bagel certainly ticked those boxes. 

Okja is a bakery serving delicious coffee using their own branded soya milk. They specialise in pastries, and their frangipane swirl and choc hazelnut twist were too difficult for me to resist. 

Thali was the only non-vegan restaurant I ate at, but they are still worthy of a mention. This contemporary Indian eatery, with its industrial décor, has a set vegan menu that is beautifully curated. Go hungry and expect a bit of heat from their dishes. 

If you are a traveller and a foodie you might be interested in exploring what we discovered in the Scottish Highlands, or the best vegan spots across the pond in Dallas.