If you are looking for something truly special and unique to do when visiting Cape Town, then this should be on your list.
Welcome to Die Stranloper, a 10 course fish braai (BBQ) right on the beach where there is so much to love and appreciate about this special place.
1. Location
What I love about this location is that it is in a precious little place right on the beach, so remote and serene it is hard to imagine there are sky scrapers and concrete jungles out there. With seagulls flying overhead, beach water lapping gently on the shore, this is a glorious little piece of heaven. Beautiful, big boulders occupy much of the shoreline making it fun for kids to search for shells. When you look out upon the seafront it feels as though you can catch your breath as the day’s worries subside and you are overcome with gratitude and appreciation for the simple things in life.
Ocean views while enjoying fresh seafood under the South African sun is pure bliss.
2. The Look and Feel
From the moment you park your car you instantly feel like you are stepping into a simpler time. As you arrive, a sandy stretch of beach awaits before you reach the entrance. The look and feel mimic that of fishing boats and trawlers and it works so well as we can all agree that this is a rustic, down to earth, shabby chic place. Entirely unpretentious, this is a place to relax and enjoy and the environment says just that. Having the beach sand right between your toes reinforces the natural, no fuss ambiance Die Stranloper is all about.
3. The Food
The food is simple and delicious served in a relaxed manner making you feel at home and at ease. It is buffet style and easy-breezy – even the cutlery is unique in that we used mussel shells to knife and spoon our food. No airs and graces as they say, just honest, down to earth seafood served the West Coast way.
I love that the way food is prepared and the actual menu at that is true to what is locally available, how local people would eat it and most importantly, is prepared by locals. While we were there I caught a moment where one of the ladies was rolling roosterkoek – a bread prepared on the coals, and it reminded me of generations of women who did this for their families before and here I was, catching a glimpse of everyday life.
All the food is prepared freshly in the open space over the coals which was unique. The smell of warm coals with sea breeze creates a juxtaposition not often experienced together.
The food was excellent, but I absolutely loved the bread. Prepared right there in ovens that resemble submarines, the loaves are crispy on the outside with a soft, fluffy interior — simply impeccable. Only 36 loaves are prepared per seating, as that is the maximum capacity of the ovens. All the jams and marmalades are homemade, adding an extra touch of authenticity. The garlic butter sauce will have you reaching for “just one more” piece of fish.
There are many standout moments when it comes to the food, but it’s best experienced for yourself. Of course, there is also a lovely taste of crayfish to look forward to. I particularly enjoyed the moerkoffie with condensed milk.
4. The People
The people working at Die Stranloper to make the magic happen are all from the area. I of course loved this as again, it helps us experience just a little bit of what local life looks like. Food is such a personal thing and sharing this together with people from all walks of life is priceless. Watching people enjoy a space, food, and others is so satisfying.
An added something special and deserving of a mention by name is Donny, a local man who sings throughout the day with his guitar and memories amongst patrons. Everyone could not help but enjoy it.
*Featured here is our 4 month old little boy being given his first introduction to “baby shark”. 😉
My hubby visited Die Strandloper 12 years prior to our visit and he recalls Donny being there signing away all this time ago as well. I admire Donny in that he is doing what he loves while making others think about what they love.
Die Strandloper was started 34 years ago and remains a family-run business. There is something comforting about a place that stays the same even when everything else changes — a quiet reminder that some traditions are worth holding onto.
This is a wonderful place to visit and to bring friends and family to experience something truly special and unique. It’s the kind of place where stories are shared, laughter travels easily on the sea breeze, and simple moments become lasting memories.
If you’re local — this is lekker and proudly West Coast.
If you’re visiting from overseas — this will be a highlight experience.
If you’ve been to Cape Town before — this is something new and special to discover.
The Nitty Gritty (What You Need to Know)
– Bookings are essential — no walk-ins. They do operate an active waiting list for cancellations.
– There is a bar on site. Guests are welcome to bring their own drinks (no corkage fee).
– Children under 5 years old do not pay. Children aged 5–11 pay a reduced rate.
– Photos and videos are welcome — tag Die Strandloper on social media.
– The price point of R450 per person is unmatched for the setting and food provided.
Can’t wait to visit again with our friends and family.
