Cape to Cuba Restaurant in Kalk Bay: Food, Fun & Things To Do in False Bay
If you’re searching for a restaurant in Cape Town that feels like more than just a meal, look no further than Cape to Cuba in Kalk Bay. This iconic spot isn’t just about seafood and cocktails — it’s about stepping into another world, where Havana vibes meet False Bay charm.
The Story Behind Cape to Cuba
Cape to Cuba has been a Kalk Bay landmark since 1999, welcoming locals, artists, and travellers from around the world. It began as a quirky family-run restaurant and quickly became known for its eclectic décor — a mash-up of Cuban posters, antiques, chandeliers, and bold colours.
One of the most famous features? The beach bar where the floor is sand, so you can sip your mojito with your toes in the beach sand while overlooking the ocean. Over the years, it’s grown into a must-visit destination for those exploring the Cape Peninsula.
What’s on the Menu?
Cape to Cuba is renowned for its Cuban-inspired flavours and fresh seafood from Kalk Bay Harbour. The highlights include:
- 🥘 Paella & Cuban tapas – great for sharing with friends.
- 🐟 Seafood platters – with line fish, prawns, mussels, and calamari.
- 🍹 Mojitos & rum cocktails – their claim to fame (and Instagram star).
- 🍨 Cuban desserts – indulgent endings to a seaside feast.
This is one of the few places in Cape Town where you can enjoy a taste of Cuba with an African twist.
The Atmosphere
From salsa rhythms and live music to quiet seaside evenings with candles flickering, the vibe here is always special. Whether you’re coming for a romantic dinner, sundowners with friends, or a lively evening out, Cape to Cuba is as much about the experience as it is about the food.
Things To Do Around Cape to Cuba in Kalk Bay
Your visit doesn’t have to stop at the restaurant — Kalk Bay and False Bay are filled with fun attractions and experiences. Here are some must-do activities nearby:
1. Explore Kalk Bay Harbour
Just steps from the restaurant, watch local fishermen haul in their daily catch or buy fresh fish straight off the boats. It’s a slice of authentic Cape culture.
2. Browse Quirky Boutiques & Art Galleries
Kalk Bay’s main street is lined with vintage shops, bohemian clothing boutiques, and art galleries — perfect for a leisurely post-lunch stroll.
3. Visit St. James Beach & Colourful Bathing Huts
A short walk away, you’ll find one of the most photographed spots in False Bay — the brightly painted Victorian beach huts. Great for a swim in the tidal pools or a few Instagram snaps.
4. Take the Scenic Train Ride
Hop on the Muizenberg-to-Simon’s Town train line, which passes right by Kalk Bay. The views over False Bay are some of the best in the world.
5. Go Seal & Whale Spotting
Between June and November, you might spot whales in False Bay. Year-round, cheeky seals can be seen sunbathing along the harbour.
✨ Why Cape to Cuba Belongs on Your Cape Town Bucket List
- One of the most Instagrammable restaurants in South Africa.
- Combines food, cocktails, history, and Cuban culture in one spot.
- Perfectly located for a full day of exploring Kalk Bay and False Bay.
- Offers a unique break from wine farms and city dining.
📸 Top 5 Instagram-Worthy Spots at Cape to Cuba & Kalk Bay
If you’re the kind of traveller who loves capturing picture-perfect moments, then Kalk Bay and Cape to Cuba offer a treasure trove of backdrops. From colourful beach huts to mojitos-in-the-sand, here are the most Instagrammable spots you don’t want to miss:
🌴 1. The Beach Bar at Cape to Cuba
The famous sand-floor bar, with chandeliers overhead and ocean views, sets the stage for one of the most iconic Cape Town shots. Order a mojito, slip off your shoes, and snap away — it’s the ultimate island-in-Africa vibe.
📸 Best shot: Cocktail in hand, toes in the sand, with the False Bay ocean behind you.
🍹 2. Mojitos & Chandeliers
Cape to Cuba is known for its quirky décor — think velvet chairs, mismatched mirrors, Cuban posters, and crystal chandeliers dangling above the bar. Every corner has a story, making it a content creator’s dream.
📸 Best shot: A wide-angle capture of the bar with chandeliers twinkling above your mojito.
🎨 3. Kalk Bay Harbour
Just a few steps away, the harbour is alive with colour and activity. Fishing boats painted in bold hues, cheeky seals basking in the sun, and fishermen with their daily catch make for vibrant, authentic photos.
📸 Best shot: Rustic boats against the backdrop of False Bay’s turquoise waters.
🏖️ 4. The Colourful St. James Beach Huts
These iconic Victorian bathing boxes are among the most photographed spots in Cape Town. They’re only a short walk or train ride from Cape to Cuba, making them a must for your grid.
📸 Best shot: Symmetrical row of brightly painted huts with the mountains in the background.
🌊 5. Sunset on the Kalk Bay Pier
As the sun dips behind the mountains, the Kalk Bay pier is illuminated with soft, golden tones. It’s romantic, atmospheric, and one of the best places to end your visit with a magical shot.
📸 Best shot: Silhouette against the sun setting over the ocean.
✨ Pro Tip
Visit Cape to Cuba in the afternoon, enjoy a late lunch or sundowners, then explore the harbour and St James huts for golden hour. You’ll leave with a camera roll (and stomach) full of memories.
