Cape Town | My Favourite Markets You Must Visit

This is the start of a blog series in which I give out all my tips for travelling to Cape Town. I did after all spend six years of my life there, and it is still one of my favourite cities in the world. That being said, brace yourself for all things Capetonian over the next few weeks. For my Canadians, this might seem pointless, but just maybe, I’ll get you booking a ticket to Cape Town in no time! 😉

If I could spend every weekend at a farmer’s market or local food’s market, I would. I am just that girl. Yes, I’m a foodie, but I love the vibe you feel at markets. People are there to socialise and indulge and the atmosphere just makes me happy! If you’re a foodie, then Cape Town is definitely your dream destination. Do you know what is the best part of going to a market while you’re in Cape Town? Getting to sample and eat a variety of goodies all in one place!!

#1 Neighbourgood’s Market 

My all time favourite food market, located in the heart of Woodstock at the Old Biscuit Mill, is on every Saturday, come rain or shine. This hipster hotspot was my favourite weekend outing, and it’s the city’s most popular market. This place is the best representation of Capetonian lifestyle. Come and experience it.

Foodie item to try: All the food is outstanding and I’m not joking. Also, if you have a designated driver, I would indulge in a freshly made cocktail.

Tip: Get there really early and grab a table. This place gets super packed!

Trading hours: 9am – 2pm.

373 Albert Road Woodtock, Cape Town.

#2 The V & A Waterfront Food Market

Located at the V & A Waterfront Shopping Mall, it’s probably already a stop on your touristy-to-do-list. The V & A Food Market is newer than the Neighbourgood’s Food Market, but it is open 7 days a week and therefore gives you a bit more flexibility in terms of which days you can go.

Tip: The best coffee shop in the world, TRUTH, is sold here. I’d grab a cup if you aren’t planning to go to their main headquarters (cafe) in Buitenkant Street in the City Bowl. (But seriously, you really should check out their cafe).

Trading hours, subject to change: May to October – 10h00 – 18h00; November to April – 10h00 – 20h00.

Tip: It can be quite difficult to find because it is not inside the main shopping mall. Ask someone for directions or look for the big brick building pictured below as you drive into the Waterfront area.

Taken from the V & A Waterfront Food Market Website.

#3 Hout Bay Habour Market

This indoor eclectic market located in Hout Bay is another favourite of mine. My favourite is a Friday evening when the market is full of buzz, the drinks are flowing while live music is playing.  That being said, we frequently arrived as the traders were opening on Sunday mornings to get a spot before people rushed in for breakfast. The omelettes were our favourite! Beside the great food, you can also pick up local crafts here.

Tip: There is an Absa ATM outside, but always ensure you go with cash on hand. Some places only accept cash. That applies to every market, in fact!

Another Tip: Beware of the fish smell outside.

Trading hours: Fridays 5pm – 9pm; Saturdays & Sundays: 9:30am – 4pm.

31 Harbour Road, Hout Bay.

#4 Oranjezicht City Farm Market

This farmer’s market is held every Saturday from 9am to 2pm, at a new location from the one I know. Nonetheless, it’s still as popular as ever at the new Granger Bay location, maybe even more popular thanks to the added advantage of a sea-view? Foodies can do their weekly shop here and grab a meal or two.

Tip: There is parking available for R10, and the gates to Beach Road will be open for those wishing to park that side or walk to the market from the promenade.

Trading hours: 9am – 2pm.

Granger Bay, V&A Waterfront (Next to The Lookout Event Venue).

Picture taken from the Cape Markets Website – a great resource when looking for information on Markets. 

Others worth mentioning include:

• City Bowl Market is a smaller indoor market on Thursdays between 4:30pm – 8:30pm. (14 Hope Street, Gardens)
• Noordhoek Community Market is an outdoor market, a bit of a drive from the city, on Thursdays between 4:30pm – 8:3pm. (Cape Point Vineyards, Noordhoek)

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Missing Cape Town Markets,

Leigh 

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