Cape Town’s upcoming East City Precinct is the current buzzword and full of exciting changes. The East City is where the CBD meets District Six and centres around Roeland, Buitenkant, Darling, Canterbury and Harrington streets. Currently in a process of a rebirth and reinvention, there are plenty of new spots popping up alongside old favorites which have stood the test of time. The area boasts a mix of museums, eateries, bakeries, galleries, design studios and shops and is small enough to cover on foot.

The area’s nightlife centres around the Fugard Theatre and various night clubs on Harrington Street. Every third Thursday of the month the area comes alive when shops, studios, coffee shops and restaurants are open between 5pm and 9pm. (Hop over here for more details)

Happy exploring…

HAAS

Step into a cool, dark oasis and soak up the beautifully put together interior. Delicious baked goods, breakfasts, lunches and good coffee alongside a curation of art and gifts.

TRUTH COFFEE

Truth Coffee is one of Cape Town’s most popular coffee brands and their steampunk inspired café and roastery is always buzzing. 

SWAN CAFÉ

This slice of Parisian chic on bustling Buitenkant Street is a delightful addition to the area. Expect waiters in Breton stripes and amazing crêpes & savoury galettes.

BOOTLEGGER

The Bootleggers brand is another successful coffee shop success and you can always expect great coffees and food no matter which branch you visit.

KAMILI ON HARRINGTON

Great for grabbing an early morning coffee on the way to work or for a lunch time bite. Kamili also roasts their own beans.

NEW YORK BAGELS

This is the best place for fresh, authentic bagels and I love the coffee served in cheerful yellow Le Creuset mugs. Early mornings specials keep the place  bustling.

THE ELECTRIC

Freshly pressed juices, nut milks, coffee and light bites in a edgy spot that used to be an auto electrician shop.

EAST CITY CYCLES

A bike shop runner by avid bike lovers. Pop in for all your cycling accessories or to have your bikes serviced.

JUST LIKE PAPA

An urban adventurer’s dream store. A place to gear up and discover need-to-haves for your next expedition.

MARGOT MOLYNEUX

Classically styled, well made women’s clothing made in Cape Town. The sophisticated boutique has gorgeous interior fittings with brass and marble accents. 

WOODHEADS

Cape Town’s original leather merchant since 1867. They supply products and materials to the craft, art and design industries as well as offering various design services.

FAMKE

Situated on Buitenkant Street opposite Rust en Vreugd, here you can shop the contemporary Famke jewellery range or simply pop in for a great coffee.

ANOUK

Anouk offers a mix of affordable vintage furniture and quirky décor. Stock changes regularly, there’s always something new. 

THE BOOK LOUNGE

I always love supporting this independent bookshop. Check out their events page for details of what’s coming up or just come and enjoy a cup of coffee while relaxing in the lounge.

THE MOROCCAN WAREHOUSE

Full of gorgeous textiles and homeware, this shop is a treasure trove for fans of Moroccan interiors and decor. They stock stunning tiles too.

THE DIAS TAVERN 

BELLY OF THE BEAST 

Brand new to the area, I’ve yet to visit. They offer a daily tasting menu for lunch and dinner which changes daily, with no menu options or set amount of courses.

NUDE FOODS 

DOWNTOWN RAMEN & LEFTY’S

Downstairs you’ll find, Lefty’s, a hip, low-key bar/restaurant offering American food such as burgers, BBQ ribs & waffles. Head upstairs to Downtown Ramen for a delicious bowl of ramen in a no-fuss, laid back spot.

THE FUGARD THEATRE

One of Cape Town’s premier theatre, cinema and event destinations. The ground-floor bar opens two hours before all scheduled shows and there’s a rooftop terrace for warmer evenings. {Photo credit: Stumbler}

THE DISTRICT 6 MUSEUM

Established in December 1994, the museum works with the memories of the District Six experience and with that of forced removals more generally. 
{Photo credit: City Sight Seeing}