Discover 11 Amazing Soup Places in Cape Town

It seems like soup has been around for as long as we can remember. Back in the Middle Ages, families would have up to three bowls of soup every day because it was affordable and there were not enough food supplies. In France, street vendors even sold a special broth that was believed to cure physical exhaustion. As time went on, the first-ever recipe book solely dedicated to soups was published in 1742 – it was called “The Compleat Housewife.”

Putting its historical significance aside, soup is still a beloved dish for many, especially during the colder months. In fact, it’s one of my absolute favorite meals to enjoy during winter. So, I embarked on a quest to find the top spots in Cape Town where you can relish a heartwarming bowl of soup. After taste-testing nearly 20 bowls (sometimes even three bowls in one go), here are the fabulous places that made the cut…

1. Aubergine Restaurant, Gardens

First up, let’s talk about Aubergine. It’s the fanciest place around, and it’s the first one on the list (because it’s alphabetically organized, of course). They really go all out with their classy decor. The floors are made of this fancy wood called Kynsna Blackwood, and the tables are made of Yellowwood. And let me tell you, their wine list is no joke. It’s so extensive, they actually give it to you in a book!

Now, I have to warn you, dining at Aubergine doesn’t come cheap. It’s definitely a splurge kind of place. In fact, you might end up spending around R115 just for a single bowl of their delicious food. But hey, if you can afford it, why not treat yourself to a night of pure sophistication?

This place has won tons of awards, so you know they’re doing something right. And let me tell you, their food is out of this world. When I went, I had the Cape Seafood Chowder in Oriental style. It came with coconut milk and a seafood spring roll on the side. It was absolutely divine. I also tried their Mushroom Soup, which was served with duck ravioli and pickled mushrooms. The flavors were so rich and satisfying.

Now, here’s a little tip for you. Instead of just ordering the soup dishes on their own, I’d recommend going for one of their set menus. They offer a 2-course menu for R215 (or R298 with wine pairing), and a 3-course menu for R290 (or R415 with wine pairing). It’s a better deal, and you get to try more of their amazing dishes.

If you’re interested in checking out Aubergine, you can get in touch with them by calling Tel 0214654909 or emailing [email protected] You can also visit their website at www.aubergine.co.za.

2. The Brasserie, Tokai

Welcome to The Brasserie, Tokai – a place where good food and great company come together. Whether you’re meeting friends for dinner or treating your family to a delightful lunch, this is the perfect spot. With its sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, you’ll feel right at home.

What sets The Brasserie apart is their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and their dedication to craftsmanship. In fact, they bake their own bread, ensuring that every bite is fresh and full of flavor. And if you’re a fan of French Onion soup, you’re in luck – it’s always on the menu and loved by many. But that’s not all, they also offer a daily soup special, each one as delicious as the last. During my visit, I had the pleasure of indulging in their rich and creamy Roast Tomato Soup, which was simply divine. But perhaps I’m biased, as tomato soup happens to be one of my personal favorites.

A bowl of soup at The Brasserie costs just R38, and it comes with a generous bread basket, perfect for soaking up every last bit of goodness. Oh, and here’s a tip: if you’re lucky, you might be able to snag one of the two pink chairs that are available. They are incredibly comfortable, so don’t miss out!

Before you head over to The Brasserie, make sure to give them a call at Tel 0217121363 or shoot them an email at [email protected] to secure your reservations. For more information, you can also visit their website at www.brasseriect.co.za. Don’t wait too long though, as this place tends to get booked up quickly. So why wait? Treat yourself and your loved ones to a memorable dining experience at The Brasserie, Tokai.

3. Constantia Glen, Constantia

Hey there, if you want to enjoy some delicious soup with an amazing view, Constantia Glen is the place to be! Trust me, the views of the valley are absolutely breathtaking, just like the soups they serve. And guess what? The ladies in the kitchen have a friendly competition every day to see who makes the best soup! How cool is that?

They have a variety of soups to choose from. You can try their Honey Roasted Butternut & Sage Soup, a recipe that has been passed down through generations. Or go for their flavorful Beef Goulash Soup. And if you’re a fan of French Onion Soup, you’re in for a treat! Can’t decide? No worries, you can try a Trio of Soup, which gives you a smaller portion of all three soups.

Oh, and don’t forget to grab some fresh bread and Rooibos butter to go along with your soup. The single portion of soup costs R45, but if you opt for the Trio of Soup, it’s only R50. Such a great deal, right?

Here’s one thing you should know – Constantia Glen is not just a regular restaurant, it’s more like a tasting room with some amazing food. So, you’ll be required to enjoy their delicious soups alongside a glass of their fantastic wine. Don’t worry, I don’t think that will be a problem for most of us!

If you’re also interested in wine tasting, they offer that too! Just for R30 per person, you can savor their incredible selection of wines. It’s definitely worth a try.

So, if you’re ready for a soup experience like no other, head over to Constantia Glen. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

Contact: Tel 0217956100, email [email protected], www.constantiaglen.com.

4. Dear Me, Longmarket Street

Hello there! I just had to check out this awesome place in the CBD called Dear Me on Longmarket Street. Trust me, it’s a gem! As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by a super cozy and creative atmosphere. The menu, which is attached to a clipboard, is just too adorable. And let’s not forget about the cute flower stickers on the walls and mirrors!

We decided to try their soup of the day, and boy was it good! It was a Creamy Potato & Watercress Soup with a dollop of crème fraiche on top. I’ve never had potato and watercress soup before, but I instantly fell in love with it. The best part is that the soups change regularly depending on what’s in season. So, who knows? Maybe next time they’ll be serving up Roasted Parsnip Soup or Zucchini & Mint Soup!

If you’re in a hurry, you can grab their take-away soup for just R35. It even comes in a recyclable container, which is pretty cool. But if you have some time to spare, I recommend eating in. It’ll only cost you an extra R10, and trust me, the cozy atmosphere is totally worth it.

Oh, and did I mention that they also have a range of deli items and baked goodies for sale? So, if you’re looking for some delicious treats, this is your spot!

Enough chit-chat, here’s how you can get in touch: Call them at Tel 0214224920 or shoot them an email at [email protected] . Oh, and don’t forget to check out their website at www.dearme.co.za. You won’t regret it!

5. Frere’s Bistro, Foreshore

Hey there! I wanna tell you all about this awesome place called Frere’s Bistro. It’s a French-style restaurant created by celebrity chef Jason Whitehead. Now, I know he’s never been to France, but somehow he’s managed to capture that authentic French vibe in his 35-seater bistro. Pretty cool, right?

The place has been open since March, and let me tell you, it’s in a fantastic location. Surrounded by that fancy “broekie” lace, it’s got a lovely atmosphere. And get this, they even have parking! That’s a rare find in the city these days.

So, here’s the story: Jason challenged me to try all three of his signature soups, and being a food lover, I couldn’t resist accepting the challenge. Let me tell you, by the time I reached the third soup, I felt like I was gonna burst! And you know what? I didn’t even have bread with them. Who would’ve thought soup could be so filling, right?

Now, out of the three soups, my favorite was the Wild Mushroom Soup. It was garnished with truffle oil and had this amazing flavor. But Jason’s personal favorite is the Split Pea and Pancetta Soup. And don’t even get me started on the Frere’s Onion Soup! It’s so thick and chunky, I loved every spoonful. Seriously, it’s like a warm and cozy hug for your taste buds.

Now, I know what you’re thinking, how much does all this amazingness cost? Well, the soups at Frere’s Bistro go for R58 a bowl, and trust me, they serve you a hearty portion. Oh, and did I mention that they serve the soups with bread? Because they do. And let me tell you, the whole experience is served up with charm, good looks, and the occasional tattoo.

Oh, and one more thing. If you’re into craft beer, you’re in luck! Frere’s Bistro also serves a range of Craft Beer. So, you can sip on a delicious brew while enjoying your scrumptious soup. How great is that?

If you want to get in touch with Jason and his bistro, here’s how you can reach out: Tel 0837777033, email [email protected], or check out their website at www.jasonwhitehead.co.za/freresbistro.

6. Reuben’s @ The One&Only, V&A Waterfront – A Dining Experience Like No Other

When it comes to dining experiences in the V&A Waterfront, Reuben’s @ The One&Only is a true gem.

Let me tell you, this place is not your average restaurant. From the moment you step inside, you are transported to a world of luxury and elegance.

The atmosphere is simply breathtaking. The soft lighting, the elegant decor, and the soothing background music all combine to create a space that is both intimate and inviting.

But it’s not just the ambiance that sets Reuben’s @ The One&Only apart. The food is truly something to behold. Every dish is a work of art, meticulously crafted and bursting with flavor.

Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy steak, a freshly caught seafood dish, or a delectable vegetarian option, Reuben’s @ The One&Only has something for everyone.

Their menu features a wide range of dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. The chefs at Reuben’s @ The One&Only take pride in using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients to create their culinary masterpieces.

And let me tell you, the flavors are out of this world. From the rich and savory to the fresh and tangy, every bite is a delight for the senses.

But it’s not just the food that makes Reuben’s @ The One&Only so special. The service is top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff always on hand to ensure that your dining experience is nothing short of perfect.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable night out, Reuben’s @ The One&Only is the place to be.

So if you’re in the V&A Waterfront and looking for a dining experience like no other, look no further than Reuben’s @ The One&Only. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

When I heard about Reuben’s at The One&Only, I had the impression that it was a fancy and expensive place. Well, I wasn’t entirely wrong; it does have an upscale feel, but it’s actually quite affordable. You’ll be surprised to know that they have a Winter Warmer Lunch Special for only R125. This special includes a delightful bowl of soup, a gourmet sandwich, and a delicious Malva pudding.

During my visit, I opted for the Carrot and Cumin Soup, which was unbelievably creamy and flavorful. To accompany my soup, I had a mouthwatering panini stuffed with slow-roasted lamb and roast vegetables. It was so filling that I had to take half of it home for dinner!

The restaurant itself is cozy and inviting, providing a picturesque view of Table Mountain and the canals. And the best part? You can park underground at the hotel for free.

This fantastic lunch special is available from Mondays to Fridays. So why not take a break from your office routine and leave those boring peanut butter sandwiches at home? Treat yourself to an affordable yet indulgent meal at Reuben’s.

If you’d like to make a reservation or find out more, you can contact them at Tel 0214315800 or email them at [email protected] You can also visit their website at www.capetown.oneandonlyresorts.com.

7. Discover Roxy’s Cafe at Dunkley Square

I have always loved coming to this place for a drink, but it never crossed my mind to try their food. That is, until a friend insisted that I absolutely had to try the soup there. And let me tell you, I am so glad I did! Their Cauliflower and Cashew Nut Soup is hands down the best cauliflower soup I’ve ever tasted. It’s packed with that amazing garlic flavor, and they even sprinkle roasted garlic shavings on top for an extra kick. Plus, they go the extra mile by adding a fried batter-coated chunk of cauliflower right in the middle of the bowl. It’s truly a unique and delightful experience, just like the place itself!

The interior of Roxy’s Cafe has remained wonderfully quirky throughout the years. The comic strips on the walls never fail to intrigue me, and I absolutely adore the vintage movie posters and cars that are suspended from the ceiling. Although I have to admit, the mannequin in the bathroom still creeps me out a little!

For just R35, you can enjoy a bowl of their delicious soup of the day, which they serve with freshly baked bread. And here’s a bonus: if you’re in the Dunkley Square area, they can even deliver it to you for an additional R5. Talk about convenience!

Contact: To find out more, give them a call at 0214618507, or shoot them an email at [email protected]

8. The Vineyard Hotel, Newlands

I have to say, The Vineyard Hotel holds quite a fascinating history. It was originally built back in 1799 as a residence for Lady Anne Barnard. But then in 1894, it was transformed into a hotel by a Scottish banker named James Mitchell. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe as I walked through its halls, knowing that I was treading in the footsteps of some truly remarkable individuals. Just imagine, even Rudyard Kipling himself was a guest here in 1898!

Now, let’s talk about the food. The soup of the day at The Square Restaurant was none other than my personal favorite: Roast Tomato Soup. It’s so incredibly delicious that I couldn’t resist indulging in my friend’s portion as well. Trust me, it’s that good! The soup came with a delightful side of breadsticks and pesto, accompanied by a basket of fresh bread rolls. As we savored our meal, we couldn’t help but appreciate the restaurant’s serene atmosphere, complete with indoor trees and a soothing waterfall. And those high-backed chairs? Sitting in them made us feel positively regal!

If you’re planning a visit, I highly recommend checking out their Winter Special Lunch Menu. For just R155, you can enjoy a delectable 2-course meal, or go all out with a 3-course menu for R185. It’s definitely worth it! And once you’ve satisfied your appetite, take some time to explore the enchanting grounds of The Vineyard Hotel. The lush gardens are simply perfect for a leisurely stroll.

If you’re interested in coming by, you can get in touch with them at Tel 0216574500 or drop them an email at [email protected] . You can also find more information on their website at www.vineyard.co.za.

9. The Wild Fig, Observatory

The Wild Fig is one of my favorite places because I love it all year round – you can sit outside with twinkling lights during the summer or stay cozy by the fire during the winter. And let me tell you, they have incredible food. But I recently discovered something amazing: they serve soup in a giant bread bowl! Picture this – a huge bun with the top taken off and the inside hollowed out, like a Bunny Chow but in soup form!

When I went with a friend, we couldn’t resist trying their Corn Cheddar & Chilli Soup, which came in the bread bowl. We also had their French Onion Soup and the super spicy Tom Yum Soup. Let me just say, all three were absolutely delicious. We even devoured the bread bowl – it was that good! And after that satisfying meal, we decided to have a nightcap at Annie’s Bar, where they have an impressive selection of whiskeys. We sank into a comfy leather couch and it was so hard to leave!

The price for the soup of the day at The Wild Fig is R39, and if you’re in the mood for the Tom Yum Soup, it costs R58 with fish or R60 with prawns. They also offer 3-course set menus that start at R185 per person, which is a great option if you’re looking for a complete dining experience.

If you want to get in touch with The Wild Fig, you can reach them at Tel 0214480507 or email [email protected] . You can also visit their website at www.thewildfig.co.za. Believe me, it’s worth checking out!

10. The Yard, Gardens

If you’re in the mood for a tasty bowl of Sweaty Betty’s Sexy Soup, I highly recommend giving it a try. Trust me, it’s so satisfying that you might not need anything else to eat all day! At The Yard (also known as the Dogs Bollocks burger joint at night), they serve their soup in recyclable containers and fill it up with all the good stuff. It’s just like the soups your granny used to make that kept you full for days.

My personal favorites are the Pea and Ham Hock Soup, which is packed with tender ham shreds, and the Cauliflower and Broccoli Soup, topped with melted cheese. Both soups come with a side of bread and are priced at R40 for the meaty options and R30 for the vegetarian options. If you’re on a tight budget, don’t worry, they also offer smaller, more affordable portions.

What sets The Yard apart is its unique charm and affordable prices. It’s quickly gaining popularity as the coolest food spot in town. No fancy frills here, just good food and generous portions at reasonable prices. When you visit, make sure to write your name on the chalkboard, sit back, relax with a beer or a glass of wine, and keep an eye out for scooters zooming by when it’s time to pick up your order. It’s that kind of laid-back place, and that’s why I love it so much. I hope it never changes.

Contact: Tel 0834407843.