Cape to Cuba image

Cape to Cuba

Restaurant Bar Seafood restaurant Cocktail bar Live music venue Tapas bar Cuban restaurant

One of the Most Revieweds in Kalk Bay


Address

165 Main Rd, Kalk Bay, Cape Town, 7990, South Africa

Website

capetocuba.com

Contact

+27 21 788 1566

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.20 (3.7K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Wednesday: 11 am to 11 pm
  • Thursday: 11 am to 11 pm
  • Friday: 11 am to 12 pm
  • Saturday: (Day of Reconciliation), 11 am to 12 pm, Hours might differ
  • Sunday: 11 am to 12 pm
  • Monday: 11 am to 11 pm
  • Tuesday: 11 am to 11 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: service (24) Cape (21) great (20) Cuba (19) atmosphere (16) staff (15) Cuban (14) good (13) experience (12) decor (11)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 1/5 Michael W. 2 years ago on Google
    We used to really enjoy coming here but had a terrible experience today. Despite supposedly being in a non-smoking area (see the sign in the picture below), there were a lot of people smoking around us. When I asked a waiter about this, he said that smoking was allowed everywhere. I found this odd, as we didn’t have this experience before. By the end of our meal I felt like I had been out at a nightclub with the amount of smoke I’d breathed in. To make things worse, a drunk person from another table approached us after hearing that we had asked the waiter about the smoking. He got a bit threatening and wouldn’t leave our table but there were no waiters around to intervene. This wasn’t that surprising given how long we waited for service. It took over an hour to get any food, despite the fact that we had ordered a starter of jalapeno poppers. When the food came out, my plate was extremely hot and the sauce was congealed, as if it had been sitting under a heater for a long time. Everything tasted quite oily, which is not really what you expect when paying ~R200 for a main. Cocktails were okay but tasted very alcoholic. In short, there are a lot of great places to eat/drink in Cape Town, but I don’t think this is one of them anymore.
    14 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Londa M. 2 years ago on Google
    A great find in Kalk Bay. Great service. Friendly and helpful staff, from the bar to the kitchen and everyone in-between. But enough about them. Let's talk food. Wow! Had this extraordinary and yummy seafood platter. Without a shadow of doubt, one of the best seafood platters, this side of Cape Town. You probably think I'm exaggerating, neh? Well, go there and taste for yourself. I dare you to prove me wrong. I have never tasted calamari like that of Cape to Cuba. Never. Ever. We can't wait for our return visit.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gill A. 5 months ago on Google
    Kalk Bay along the False Bay coast of Cape Town is the place to be in summer. And Cape to Cuba is one of this seaside town' most popular haunts. The atmosphere even during lunch is festive. Cuban music plays making patrons do the boogey in their seats while taking in the panoramic views of the stunning Kalk Bay coastline. The food is delicious. I highly recommend doing tapas and trying a bit of everything. The chicken livers and Cuban bread were a standout as were the Chorizo and Shrimp fritters dishes. Filling too! For dessert, the bread pudding was a clear winner! And as you would expect, they boast an enviable drinks menu. The place is vibey and energetic during the day so it must really turn it on at night. That will be next time. If you don't have to drive yourself, consider taking an uber as parking around the popular Kalk Bay is as bad as everywhere else in the city.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Noah V. 1 year ago on Google
    Truly great atmosphere! I've never been to Cuba, but it definitely felt like some of the older dive bars I've been to in southern Florida, and I mean that in the best possible way. The ribs were very good, but the muscles were simply wonderful. I've never had them served on the half-shell, and I'm afraid this has me spoiled now. Nice selection of Cuban cigars in their humidor as well.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Courtney F. 11 months ago on Google
    I recently had the privilege of dining at Cape to Cuba after their renovations, and I must say that the transformation is truly remarkable. The updated ambiance and improved facilities have completely changed my perspective of this restaurant. Initially, Cape to Cuba didn't align with our preferences as we found it to be overwhelming and bustling. However, the recent changes have completely turned the tables, creating an enjoyable and authentically pleasing experience. Before the renovations, Cape to Cuba had a vibrant and bustling atmosphere that didn't quite resonate with our personal tastes. However, the recent overhaul of the restaurant's design has truly impressed us. The revitalized ambiance strikes the perfect balance between vibrancy and sophistication. The new decor pays homage to Cuban culture in a tasteful and refined manner, creating an inviting and visually appealing setting. The attention to detail is evident in every corner, from the carefully chosen furnishings to the captivating artwork that adorns the walls. The renovations have not only enhanced the visual appeal but also improved the functionality of the space. The dining area now feels more spacious, providing a comfortable and relaxed environment for guests. The new seating arrangements offer versatility, accommodating both intimate conversations and larger group gatherings. Furthermore, the lighting has been thoughtfully adjusted, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere that complements the overall dining experience. One of the most notable improvements following the renovations is the level of service. Previously, the bustling nature of the restaurant often resulted in rushed and impersonal service. However, I am pleased to say that the staff at Cape to Cuba has undergone a remarkable transformation along with the physical space. The team now exhibits attentiveness, friendliness, and a genuine commitment to ensuring a memorable dining experience. From the moment you step foot in the restaurant, you are greeted with warmth and professionalism, setting the stage for a delightful evening. While Cape to Cuba always featured a diverse menu of Cuban dishes, the post-renovation era has brought about a refinement in presentation and flavor. The culinary offerings now showcase a skillful blend of traditional Cuban cuisine and innovative fusion creations. Each dish reflects a harmonious marriage of vibrant flavors and thoughtful plating, showcasing the chef's dedication to culinary excellence. From beloved classics like empanadas and slow-roasted meats to exciting reinterpretations of Cuban staples, the menu caters to a wide range of palates and preferences. In conclusion, Cape to Cuba's renovations have completely transformed the restaurant into a delightful dining destination. The concerns we initially had about the bustling and overwhelming atmosphere have been skillfully addressed. The revitalized ambiance, improved facilities, and attentive service have elevated the overall experience to new heights. Whether you are a fan of Cuban cuisine or simply seeking an inviting and authentic atmosphere, Cape to Cuba is now a place worth visiting. I highly recommend giving it a try and indulging in the culinary delights they have to offer.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Annalisa P. 8 months ago on Google
    I only like the location about this place, the rest is miserable. From the cocktails(disgusting and very strong, the worst I ever had in my life) to the waiters who demanded aggressively about getting tips in cash when the sign at the bar clearly says CASHLESS PAYMENT. The waiters were rude saying: how we supposed to get tips if you don't pay us in cash. They don't know anything about customer service or good manners I wonder where they coming from. I would add zero stars if I could!!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Elizabeth S. 8 months ago on Google
    I visited Cuba in 2018 so I was keen to try this place out after seeing the beautiful pictures of decor and hoping to get some Cuban flavors in my tummy. The aesthetic of the restaurant was beautiful but that’s just about it. The service was terrible. I was hoping to try their authentic dishes such as the pork belly ribs. They didn’t have it in stock because they claimed that it goes quickly and it has to be prepared overnight. So then I opted for beef brisket. They said the same thing about the brisket. So basically all the meat dishes on their menu were apparently “out of stock” due to it being prepared overnight. Why open for business on a day if half of your menu items are not available?? Eventually they convinced me to try their pulled pork baguette which they claimed is filled with well seasoned pulled pork, sauces and cheese. Extremely disappointing dish. There was 5% of meat in it and no flavour. We also had pina coladas as our drink options and guaranteed that they were virgins when we in fact paid for the ones containing alcohol. Overall this place is nice to look at and take pictures, that is about it. The cherry on top of the cake was the rude car guard who basically demanded that we give him a tip because he is in charge of the car park. I must say, this was probably one of the most undesirable restaurant experiences I’ve had in Cape Town. Highly do not recommend.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Janet van A. 3 years ago on Google
    It’s a very Cuban-themed restaurant. I found the decor rather over the top, but then maybe that’s what Cuba is like. The waiters are good and the setting magnificent as you overlook the little harbour. Food is good, not the best mussels I’ve had but I give them a 4*
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Leon G. 3 years ago on Google
    Long time loyal customer of Cape to Cuba. Tonight I was bitterly disappointed. After waiting for about 30 mins for service at our table, I went to the bar to get assistance. Social distancing is in place, so I wait my turn - another 20mins. When I reached the bar I was ignored by bar staff. An obnoxious man named Mike, with no mask, skips the line and squeezes in beside me, ignoring the pandemic - hangs over me and others around the bar and embraces your staff. He then gets served before me. No enforcement of social distancing protocols here. Dangerous place to go. I had been in the establishment for an hour by this time so sadly had to leave and look for a place which could provide a safe place for us to eat.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Yassie Z. 2 years ago on Google
    Great atmosphere and we immediately felt a sense of Cuba on our arrival. The art decor is amazing and, combined with the stunning sea views across Kalk Bay and Cuban-Afro-Jazz music, made a really great afternoon vibe. Our dishes were really good and the service even better. The friendly attentive staff were always welcoming and attentive to our food and drinks. Highly recommended and a great choice when visiting Kalk Bay.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Ivan D. 3 years ago on Google
    The place was completely empty and the waiter told me I can't sit at a table with four seats. So I left and met my three friends next door instead.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Eugene S. 2 years ago on Google
    I still love this place, the Vibe the energy of the esthetics is absolutely amazing. I just wish that the staff had such pride and vibrance. The food and place is only but 50% of the way I cannot fault unfortunately the staff need to bring the experience home!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 magasphree v. 3 years ago on Google
    Really good decor. Food is pathetic no customer service.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sally C. 3 years ago on Google
    Great service and meal, thank you.

  • 3/5 Sanda S. 1 year ago on Google
    Property had beautiful art and details all over the place, sand floor bar was very unique! It wasn't very clean although I think that may have gone with the rustic feel intentionally. Drinks were okay but the view really sold it!

  • 4/5 Amieke B. 3 years ago on Google
    Really good cocktails

  • 5/5 Lorraine E. 3 years ago on Google
    We enjoyed our meal great atmosphere staff excellent service can't wait to return to Cape to Cuba. Love the venue!!

  • 5/5 CHRISTA B. 3 years ago on Google
    Very nice and clean

  • 5/5 Eric N. 3 years ago on Google
    Favourite place to eat in the Cape!

  • 2/5 Edna S. 3 years ago on Google
    My food arrived after all other people(5 people) where done with their food. I refuse to pay and was not hungry anymore. Sent my burger back.

  • 3/5 Danielle M. 3 years ago on Google
    Some of the waiters are super rude and treat customers as disposable. We know it's a popular place, but jeez. Food was nice.

  • 5/5 Nigel B. 3 years ago on Google
    Only stopped for coffee but really enjoyed the Cuban vibe and friendly staff.

  • 5/5 luvalamp l. 3 years ago on Google
    Loved it cuz they make amazing pina colada and they have a swing inside! Super edgy I love it. You feel like you're in a whole new world when you're in there it's awesome!

  • 4/5 Khanyii K. 2 years ago on Google
    Lovely atmosphere, immediately feel transported to the country of Cuba. The decor is heavily influenced by religious traditions and political affiliations of Cuba. There's a little corner where you can purchase Cuban Cigars and hats / t-shirts. The food is absolutely yummy and wholesome, from the salad to the tortilla and their ribs 😋😋

  • 4/5 Angela Caroline G. 2 years ago on Google
    Great meal, great vibe, beautiful spot, lovely decor, great band performing - Van der Metals with a charge of R30 to watch the band. The bottles of wine are very pricey being over R200 a bottle, along with the price of the meals. Pics by Angela Caroline Gray

  • 4/5 Deon C. 2 years ago on Google
    Great view of harbour, paella and fish of the day absolutely delicious. Long Island ice tea very average. Mojitos fantastic. Did not wait long for food, friendly staff. Definitely going back for more. Bit pricey but well worth it

  • 5/5 Anneke O. 1 year ago on Google
    One of my absolute favorites! Best cocktails in town! The vibe and food is great and the staff is always friendly and professional! Can't wait to go back.

  • 5/5 O O. 1 year ago on Google
    Wow! What a fantastic experience! Whether having a cocktail in the beach bar or meal in the restaurant, Cape to Cuba has it all. With views of the sea, authentically dressed staff, fine cigars, amazing food, great service, wonderful cocktails, and even a swing(!) you will love this place. My only suggestion for improvement is for them to remove the automatic addition of a service charge - personally I hate that and as the experience was so good I'd have tipped a lot more had they not automatically added it to the bill.

  • 3/5 MinChan K. 1 year ago on Google
    Really unique and cool atmosphere! Very friendly service from the waiters. I did find the prices too high, especially the seafood pasta for close to R250. Other than that, the experience was not too bad.

  • 5/5 Carmalore 1 year ago on Google
    Newly revamped and looks amazing. Such a rad spot Right by the Harbour. Gorgeous views. Great bar. Handsome barmen. Delicious margarita Good vibes all round.

  • 5/5 Eikenhof The Little F. 5 months ago on Google
    In loveeeee with this summer bar 🍸 I love this place too much. The cocktails are beyond delightful, and the food. The staff was great and helpful 👍. Also, I had the pulled pork wrap that was super amazing.

  • 5/5 Mark G. 5 months ago on Google
    I've visited many times before. Service was exceptional. If your peckish try the crab cakes.....absolutely brilliant. Serve great cocktails..... Go and soak up some Cuban atmosphere.

  • 5/5 Ciaran M. 9 months ago on Google
    I had such a lovely experience here with my sister and mom! The food, drinks, music, and atmosphere are incredible! It is quite an expensive place, but its perfect for celebrations! They offer great drinks and cocktails, and you can also opt to buy and smoke one of the cigars they have on sale.

  • 4/5 Lynn D. 5 months ago on Google
    I had a table overlooking the harbour so it was great to just sit and watch the ocean. The food was amazing!. It took a little while to flag down my waiter in the beginning (which is the reason for 4 star rating) but once contact was made, service was swift and friendly.

  • 3/5 Arlene G. 3 years ago on Google
    The food was nice, the service leaves something to be desired, as well as the time it takes to get your food.

  • 4/5 Candy P. 3 years ago on Google
    Mostly seafood on the menu. I seen top remember there being more 'Mexican' food on the menu before. Amazing vibe and decor!

  • 5/5 Baxter J. 3 years ago on Google
    Very nice atmosphere. All the different decorations somehow work together cohesively. Even sent a postcard to my family in Namibia, when last did you send one?

  • 5/5 Ashok S. 3 years ago on Google
    The interiors truly give you a feel of the Cuban aesthetics. What more can you expect while you can seat by the sea and enjoy some good food and drinks. The flat bread here is a must try while the other stuff is as good as well. Watch out the metro train if you are seated by the sea side. Makes for a good video while the train passes by so close😃😃

  • 4/5 Jasmine W. 3 years ago on Google
    Decently sized and very boozy cocktails and fun vibe. They had a band on Saturday. They do charge a small cover fee to stay and listen.

  • 4/5 Rehana P. 3 years ago on Google
    Loved the atmosphere, friendly staff and amazing food. We hàd the ribs, burger and paella. All three dishes were very tasty. The ribs were so tender it just melted off the bone. The burger had two very tasty beef patties, bacon and melted cheese. The paella had sufficient portion of muscles, prawns, calamari. Will definitely eat here again on our next visit.

  • 5/5 Joseph M. 3 years ago on Google
    Lovely vibe, with no tension towards black people like some Cape Town places... Delicious food and drinks

  • 5/5 Alison F. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place for drinks, however no social distancing! Won't be back til after COVID19

  • 5/5 Fabian 3 years ago on Google
    One of the best bars in Cape Town

  • 4/5 Elizabeth F. 3 years ago on Google
    Love visiting Cape to Cuba. Great food, great staff, fabulous views and a wonderful atmosphere. Thank you x

  • 5/5 Chelsea R. 3 years ago on Google
    Loved it. The quality of food was excellent !

  • 5/5 James E. 3 years ago on Google
    Good times!!!!!

  • 5/5 Gadget n C. 3 years ago on Google
    Homie

  • 5/5 Jamie M. 3 years ago on Google
    great location and drinks!

  • 5/5 Leigh-Anne M. 3 years ago on Google
    The cocktails are the best. Ask for Maxwell. His service was brilliant.

  • 5/5 steve k. 3 years ago on Google
    Awesome, but verrrry pricey

  • 4/5 Tobie E. 3 years ago on Google
    Pina Colada at Cape to Cuba

  • 5/5 Streamer A. 3 years ago on Google
    Great service and food.

  • 4/5 Lauren M. 3 years ago on Google
    Safe dining with a great sea view. We loved our mussels and line fish, and the service was great.

  • 5/5 Kyle S. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Proper things (Original) Proper ting

  • 4/5 Jano B. 3 years ago on Google
    Atmosphere is awesome, service is great and all in all had a great experience.

  • 5/5 SLAVEN D. 3 years ago on Google
    Loved it Beautiful place at Kalk Bay. We were seating in floating in the air chairs.

  • 4/5 Eugene G. 3 years ago on Google
    Unbeatable setting. Jawdropping decor. Oozes coolness.

  • 5/5 Christelle G. 3 years ago on Google
    The Paella is sooooo good

  • 3/5 Alan D. 3 years ago on Google
    Great location and atmosphere but the food is average. An awful lot of batter!

  • 4/5 Lizelle P. 3 years ago on Google
    Lovely

  • 3/5 Muntie G. 3 years ago on Google
    It's lovely place just think they are a little pricey, awesome customer service and love the decor 👌🌷

  • 4/5 Sydney M. 3 years ago on Google
    Good service. and the food is also delicious. Will go again.

  • 3/5 Devan P. 3 years ago on Google
    Stunning venue, friendly service... Menu very limited though as the choices were quite restricted... I had the burger for R169... Portion was ok but for R169 could get better...

  • 4/5 Dina D. 3 years ago on Google
    Gorgeous Cuban style decor and stunning sea views. A good place for a casual cocktail. Or seven.


Call +27 21 788 1566 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Parking
    • ✓️ Free parking lot
    • ✓️ Free of charge street parking
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Spirits
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Healthy options
    • ✓️ Late-night food
    • ✓️ Happy-hour drinks
    • ✓️ Vegetarian options
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Brunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
    • ✓️ Breakfast
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✗ Delivery
    • ✓️ Takeaway
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

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