
Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 11 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine worth booking?
Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine is a 3.5-hour experience in Cape Town, South Africa, from $87 per person. It scores 72 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 11 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 72 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (11)
- Duration
- 3.5 hours
- From
- $87 per person
Forget the tourist traps, let’s eat like locals! On this immersive Cape Town food tour, we dive into the colorful soul of the Bo-Kaap, where the aromatic spices of the Cape Malay community meet the sizzle of a traditional South African braai. Led by a passionate local guide, you’ll navigate cobblestone streets and hidden back alleys that guidebooks miss. We’ve curated 6 unique stops that tell the story of the Rainbow Nation. You’ll learn the authentic art of eating pap with your hands, savor comforting street food favorites, and discover how Dutch, British, and indigenous African flavors fused into one of the world’s most exciting food scenes. From vibrant markets to tucked-away gems, you’ll meet the artisans keeping these traditions alive. We’ll even share our legendary Secret Dish, a surprise kept strictly off-menu that captures the essence of the Mother City. Come hungry; you’ll leave with a full stomach and the inside track on the city’s best eats.
What you get
About this experience
Forget the tourist traps, let’s eat like locals! On this immersive Cape Town food tour, we dive into the colorful soul of the Bo-Kaap, where the aromatic spices of the Cape Malay community meet the sizzle of a traditional South African braai. Led by a passionate local guide, you’ll navigate cobblestone streets and hidden back alleys that guidebooks miss. We’ve curated 6 unique stops that tell the story of the Rainbow Nation. You’ll learn the authentic art of eating pap with your hands, savor comforting street food favorites, and discover how Dutch, British, and indigenous African flavors fused into one of the world’s most exciting food scenes. From vibrant markets to tucked-away gems, you’ll meet the artisans keeping these traditions alive. We’ll even share our legendary Secret Dish, a surprise kept strictly off-menu that captures the essence of the Mother City. Come hungry; you’ll leave with a full stomach and the inside track on the city’s best eats.
What's included
Included
- Boerewors roll an Afrikaans Braai classic
- Maheu - A creamy maize drink
- Pap, Chakalaka, and assorted African vegetable and meat stews
- Water and soft drinks available
- 3 local Cape wines paired with cheese and meats
- Banana bread & Bunny Chow
- Fried Samosas and Daltjie with spicy dipping sauce
- Koeksister - Local doughnut with coconut icing
- Rooibos Tea
- Nqomboti - A homemade maize beer from SA and Zimbabwe
- A local IPA beer
- Local cheese, charcturerie homeade bread and oil
Not included
- Gratuity for your guide
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
What you'll see and do
Bo-kaap
Walk through the iconic, brightly colored houses of the Bo-Kaap (formerly the Malay Quarter). Your guide will share the history of the Cape Malay community while you stop to taste traditional snacks like spicy samosas or sweet koesisters, offering a true immersion into this vibrant heritage.
45 minutes here
Company's Gardens
Wander through this lush botanical oasis, originally established in the 1650s to provide fresh produce for passing ships. Explore the park's natural beauty and European architectural influences, stopping to feed the local squirrels and discover the oldest cultivated pear tree in South Africa.
35 minutes here
Greenmarket Square
Immerse yourself in the bustling energy of one of Cape Town's oldest public squares. Beyond the vibrant African art, hand-painted textiles, and unique souvenirs, we will hunt for hidden culinary gems where you can sample authentic flavors from across the continent in the heart of the city.
30 minutes here
Step inside the quiet, elegant courtyard of one of the city's most prestigious historic buildings. Here, we reveal a "hidden secret" of Cape Town's past before settling in for a curated, unhurried tasting of premium South African wines, expertly paired with local cheeses and artisanal charcuterie.
40 minutes here
Conclude your journey on the city’s premier foodie strip. While it's known for its trendy nightlife, we head to a tranquil, artisanal shop to witness the craft of chocolate-making. Indulge in a decadent, handcrafted treat that serves as the perfect sweet ending to your urban exploration.
30 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Cape Town
We start in front of the Ziko Bo-Kaap Museum
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Cape Town Heritage Hotel & Spa Your guide will leave you safely at a location you can continue exploring, call a taxi or take any needed transport.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 14 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Secret Food Tours
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please ensure to contact us in advance of the tour for any dietary requirement, to ensure we can cater for them the best we can
- This tour involves a fair amount of walking; comfortable shoes are recommended.
- We regret that we are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any impairments requiring special assistance.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 11 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Food and drink
10 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
11 verified traveler reviews for Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Foodie experience
Our guide Ashlin Adam was very knowledgeable about the food of South Africa and its history. The walk went through the Bo-Kaap area and central downtown Cape Town. We went to Several different local restaurants and bars where the food and drink was presented and explained
Response from the operator: Thanks for making us part of your trip. We’re grateful you joined Secret Food Tours. Safe travels and happy eating!
via Tripadvisor
Unique experience!
My friend and I ended up being the only two people on the food tour, so we essentially got a private experience. Our guide, Matthew, was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. He even tailored the tour slightly to our interests, which we really appreciated. Not only did we get to enjoy some delicious food, but we also learned a lot about Cape Town’s fascinating history and culture along the way. It was a great combination of food, sightseeing, and local history! The tour was a fun and unique way to explore Cape Town!
Response from the operator: Ending up with a private experience in Cape Town is a lucky turn, and we're so glad you and your friend made the most of it! Food and history are tightly woven in this city, and we hope the day gave you a feel for both that lasts well beyond the trip. Secret Food Tours would love to have you both back, in South Africa or wherever you head next.
via Tripadvisor
Great culture and good tour
Ashlin was excellent, passionate about the history. Took us on a very interesting route showing us the many dimensions if Cape atown history and culture. The food and drink stops were all interesting and varied. Highly recommended.
Response from the operator: Your kind words are much appreciated! Thanks for making Secret Food Tours part of your visit and taking the time to tell us about it. We’re grateful for the support.
via Tripadvisor
Wonderful food tour!
We had a wonderful time with Matt! He was a great guide, so knowledgeable and fun. The food was delicious, too. All in all, a great tour and we would highly recommend it!
Response from the operator: We’re grateful you spent part of your trip with Secret Food Tours. Your review gives the team a lovely glimpse into your experience. Thanks for taking the time to share it!
via Viator
Cape Town Secret Foods
We had a great time with Ashlin's Secret Food Tour during our holiday in Cape Town. The pace of the eating was the best we've had on any food tour and we've done a few. There was a nice variety of foods from appetizers, sweets, savories, and drinks. Ashlin was very focused on the safety of the group, which was appreciated in an unknown place. Highly recommend if you're interested in experiencing the local cuisine and may be unsure of where to find it.
Response from the operator: It was great reading your thoughts after the tour. The team enjoyed sharing the route and introducing you to some places you may not have found otherwise. We hope you enjoyed the rest of your visit!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $87 to $97
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 4
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Secret Food Tours, who run 207 experiences we rank across 112 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 70.6 and 17 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Secret Food Tours runsWhy this scores 72
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cape Town.
How much does Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine cost?
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Prices start at $87 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Cape Town usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine take?
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Plan for about 3.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Cape Town is not rushed.
Is Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 72 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 11 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Cape Town, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine?
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Around 4 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Cape Town can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Cape Town and add a light layer if any part of the 3.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Cape Town within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Cape Town?
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On Outty we rank every Cape Town experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Cape Town: Lion's Head Sunrise/Sunset Hike, Hike Table Mountain or Lions Head in Cape Town Like a Local, Cape Point and Boulder's Penguins Full Day Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Cape Town?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Cape Town?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine?
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Included: Boerewors roll an Afrikaans Braai classic; Maheu - A creamy maize drink; Pap, Chakalaka, and assorted African vegetable and meat stews; Water and soft drinks available; and 3 local Cape wines paired with cheese and meats. Not included: Gratuity for your guide; and Hotel pick-up and drop-off. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine?
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We start in front of the Ziko Bo-Kaap Museum Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and We regret that we are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any impairments req. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Cape Town Historic Centre Food Tour with 15 Local Dishes and Wine?
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Across 11 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include food and drink, the guide, knowledge and storytelling. The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
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