The Best Fish and Chips Spots in Cape Town

Fish on the Rocks is one of the Cape’s most iconic fish and chips shops. It’s situated just metres from the harbour in Hout Bay, so you can be confident that your fish is freshly caught. Fish on the Rocks dates back some 26 years, and they’ve specialised in hake and chips for much of this time. They also offer a selection of other fish and seafood, as well as soft-serve ice creams to round off a perfect seaside meal.

Kalky’s is another harbour-side spot that dishes up some of the city’s best, and most traditional, fish and chips. The portions here are substantial, and the chips, or tjips, are almost worth the trip alone. The prices at Kalky’s are still unbeatable, while the lack of pretence and focus on plain and simple seafood make this one of the most popular spots on the False Bay Coast for tourists and locals alike.

Snoekies dates back to the 1950s and, though they offer nothing particularly fancy, they still have their vocal fans. There are now branches located throughout the Cape serving a selection of traditional fish and chips, but if you want to keep it authentic, make sure you visit them at their original branch over in Hout Bay.

There’s almost always a queue outside Fish Hoek Fisheries, which is a good thing. If it wasn’t for its near-permanent popularity, you might easily walk right past this inconspicuous location. They serve up some of Fish Hoek’s best fish and chips at unbelievable prices, which keeps the regulars returning and the visitors marvelling.

Lucky Fish & Chips is another Cape Town establishment that’s popping up in multiple locations across town. There are branches in Sea Point, Muizenberg and Kalk Bay. Though a chain of restaurants, they follow a strict policy of no frozen fish and use only fresh ingredients. Service is always quick and efficient, and prices are competitive.

Salty Sea Dog has one of the best locations in Simon’s Town, overlooking the historic harbour. On a sunny day the views are unsurpassed, and they serve traditional battered hake and snoek, as well as other seafood options. If the restaurant is full, you can also choose to get your food to-go and find a quiet bench nearby on which to enjoy it.

Good fish and chip shops are a rare find in the Cape Town CBD, but if you’re looking for a cost-effective seafood fix while in the city, head to Lusitania. They’re located on the busy Waterkant Street and, though further from the sea than many other spots, they stay true to tradition. You’ll find the usual deep-fried hake and chips drenched in salt and vinegar, which they wrap up in wax paper for easy transport.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.