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As we head into summer in South Africa, the food calendar is filling up. The days are getting longer and so is my list of must-have restaurant reservations!
From exciting new openings to a series of great events throughout the month, there’s a lot to sink your teeth into. And, because it’s World Taco Day on the 4th and International Nacho Day on the 21st, we’ve dubbed October “Mexican Month” at Dineplan. From a new tequila bar on Kloof Street to LA-inspired Birria tacos in the Mother City, we’re all about finding the best of Mexico this month.
Read on to browse my list of 11 must-have restaurant reservations for October.
Cape Town and surrounds
Mamacita’s
District Six, Cape Town
New to Dineplan, Mamacita’s on Harrington Street is a vibrant expression of the Los Angeles food scene. The menu takes you on a tour of the city’s flavours, including Tex-Mex classics like nachos, quesadillas, fajitas, corn and flour tacos and loads more. The extra-saucy, TikTok-famous Birria tacos are a must-try, and the cinnamon churros are the perfect dessert. Beyond the food, there’s signature cocktails and a wide selection of tequilas, making Mamacita’s the perfect Mexican restaurant for date night or a fun evening out with friends.
Rita’s Cocktail Bar
Gardens, Cape Town
Rita’s is the latest addition to Kloof Street – and a very welcome one, too! With spectacular views over the city lights and Table Mountain, a line-up of DJs, and a long list of signature tequila-based cocktails, including one of the best Palomas in the city, it’s the place to be this summer. With not one but two outside sections separated by a long bar, Rita’s is a great spot to book for any of your upcoming celebrations or year-end functions. Don’t forget to join them from Tuesday to Saturday, for their Happy Hour special. They’ll be serving half-price margaritas between 5 – 7 pm until the end of November.
Constantia Glen
Constantia, Cape Town
Constantia Glen is hosting two evening fun runs this month, on the 6th and 20th of October. Each run starts at 17:45 and costs R150 per person. To book your spot, simply reserve for 5 pm and choose the “GC Fun Run” option. See you there!
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The Hart
Melkosstand, Melkbos
You’ll find The Hart in Melkbos and, thanks to its beachside position, it’s a favourite pet-friendly watering hole for dog owners (you can hear more about it here on Cape Talk). It’s a great place to head for coffee and brunch after your morning stroll along Melkbosstrand or the Duynefontein beach. But, be warned, it gets packed! It’s best to book a table beforehand so you don’t have to wait for one to free up.
On Thursday, 26 October, The Hart will be hosting a fun “Gin & Trivia Night” at 16:30. For only R85 per person, you and your friends can join in the fun and order off their much-loved menu.
Judd’s Local
Gardens, Cape Town
Judd’s Local, located towards the top of Kloof Street, hosts regular wine and food events in collaboration with their sister wine shop, Judd’s Cellar. This month, join them for a Social Table dinner with winemaker Gavin Bruwer from Raats Family Wines on the 11th. Starting at 18:30, you’ll drink fine wines from Raats and enjoy a meal and conversation at their communal, social dining table. Seats are limited, so book early. Dinner with wines is R600 per person.
AA Badenhorst Family Wines
The Swartland, Western Cape
Just an hour’s drive from Cape Town, you’ll find this scenic Swartland retreat with plenty of farm-fresh food and fine wine. As one of South Africa’s premier Chenin Blanc producers, all wine lovers should pay Adi and his team on Kalmoesfontein Farm a visit. Every Thursday is Pizza Night on Kalmoesfontein. So, reserve your spot anytime from 6 pm and enjoy piping hot pizzas, fresh from the wood-fired oven, with a glass of wine or a Caperitif and Swaan tonic. Then sit back and take in the peaceful farm surroundings and incredible views over the Swartland as the sun sets.
Johannesburg and Pretoria
Club Como
Sandton, Johannesburg
There’s a wonderful new restaurant that’s just opened its doors in Joburg, Serving a mix of flavours and styles from Greece, Portugal, Spain and Italy, Club Como is like a trip to the Mediterranean “without the jet lag”! Taking a quick look through their reviews, Club Como is already a hit with diners praising the food and service. One reviewer even writes: “Dare I say my new favourite spot? Service is 100/10.” I can’t wait to try out Club Como and order their luscious spaghetti prawn olio and Limoncello tiramisu.
Insights at Sanctuary Mandela
Houghton Estate, Johannesburg
Set in the late president’s primary place of residence, Sanctuary Mandela in Houghton is a fine dining restaurant and is rated very highly by guests . It pays tribute to Madiba’s favourite dishes, based on recipes prepared by his long-time personal chef, Xoliswa Ndoyiya. On Saturday, 21 October, the team at Insights is hosting the Dante Quartet Dinner at 6 pm. For R995 per person, you’ll enjoy an evening of enchanting music and a meal that will take you on a rich cultural journey. Booking is essential.
Ground The Venue
Krugersdorp, Johannesburg
Ground is a top-rated spot in Krugersdorp that’s known for its events and picnics. On Sunday, 8 October, you can join them for a Pasta & Paint event from 12 to 5 pm. For only R850 per person, you’ll enjoy a delicious pasta meal, a wine tasting, and a creative session of painting with all the necessary supplies. It’s the perfect way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon out of the house. Bookings are essential, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance. Ground also hosts weekly picnics on Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays. As we head towards summer, it’s a lovely way to enjoy an al fresco meal with your family and friends.
Artistry Experiences
Sandton, Johannesburg
Artistry is bringing the best of the art world to Jozi in October with a series of very cool events. From Movie Nights (R300) with dinner and music, to guest DJs in the Listening Bar and Comedy Club evenings (R150) with a show and after-party, there’s always something to enjoy on their calendar. Check out their social media for all the details and book on Dineplan to avoid missing out.
Greenhouse on Festival
Hatfield, Pretoria
With gorgeous decor, delicious food and top-notch service, Greenhouse on Festival is fast becoming a favourite with foodies in and around Hatfield, Pretoria. On Thursday, 19 October they are hosting a Whiskey & Food Pairing dinner. Join them anytime from 5pm for only R400 per person.
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