{"id":2841,"date":"2026-01-29T08:02:00","date_gmt":"2026-01-29T06:02:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.otwo.co.za\/?p=2841"},"modified":"2026-01-18T15:25:24","modified_gmt":"2026-01-18T13:25:24","slug":"discovering-de-waterkant-cape-towns-chicest-neighborhood","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.otwo.co.za\/he\/discovering-de-waterkant-cape-towns-chicest-neighborhood\/","title":{"rendered":"Discovering De Waterkant: Cape Town\u2019s Chicest Neighborhood"},"content":{"rendered":"

Tucked between the CBD and Green Point, De Waterkant is one of Cape Town\u2019s most distinctive and walkable neighbourhoods. With its cobbled streets, colourful Georgian-style cottages, and blend of old-meets-new architecture, it\u2019s equal parts historic and modern. Once a quiet residential district, this compact enclave has evolved into a stylish hub for fashion, design, food, and culture \u2013 all while maintaining its village-like charm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Neighbourhood with Layers<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

De Waterkant has a rich history rooted in Cape Town\u2019s early colonial days. Many of its buildings date back to the 1800s and still carry the influence of Cape Georgian architecture, so it’s perfect for taking photos.Except shuttered windows, flat roofs, and pastel-painted fa\u00e7ades. You\u2019ll also notice how the neighbourhood sits on a gentle slope, giving many of the streets stunning views over the city and Table Bay. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the late 20th century, De Waterkant became known as one of Cape Town\u2019s most inclusive and progressive areas, with a thriving LGB scene and a strong creative community. That energy remains today. While it\u2019s a bit more polished than it used to be, the neighbourhood still feels lived-in and eclectic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Caf\u00e9s, Bakeries & Brunch Spots<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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There\u2019s no shortage of good food in De Waterkant, especially if you\u2019re the type who enjoys slow mornings and great coffee. Start your day at Origin Coffee Roasting<\/a>, a pioneer of Cape Town\u2019s third-wave coffee scene. Their caf\u00e9 space is buzzy, industrial, and packed with locals and digital nomads nursing single-origin brews.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For something sweet, pop into The Sweet LionHeart Studio<\/a>, a small-batch bakery known for beautifully decorated cakes and nostalgic South African treats like peppermint crisp tarts and milk tarts. Or if you\u2019re in the mood for something more filling, Loading Bay<\/a> offers stylish brunches and excellent fresh juice in a concept space that includes fashion, fragrance, and minimalist furniture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many of the caf\u00e9s here spill out onto the pavements or hidden courtyards, giving De Waterkant a distinctly European feel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Boutique Browsing<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Shopping in De Waterkant is less about big names and more about curated, local style. Wild Olive African Artisans<\/a> is a beautifully designed apothecary offering handcrafted perfumes and skincare inspired by indigenous botanicals. Everything smells incredible, and the space itself is worth visiting for the aesthetic alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wander into The Yard<\/a>, a design-focused concept store that doubles as a caf\u00e9 and gallery. Here you\u2019ll find everything from contemporary South African fashion to art books and ceramics, all beautifully displayed and often with a story behind the maker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re after souvenirs with substance, skip the trinkets and pick up something locally made here. It\u2019s a great way to take a piece of Cape Town style home with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cocktail Culture & Rooftop Views<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Come evening, De Waterkant transforms into one of the city\u2019s best places for drinks and small bites. There\u2019s a strong cocktail culture here, with bartenders who take their craft seriously and menus that celebrate local ingredients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The Art of Duplicity<\/a>, a hidden speakeasy nearby in the CBD, is a favourite for those in the know. But if you prefer staying in the neighbourhood, Shoreditch House<\/a> has a fantastic rooftop bar where you can sip something cold while watching the sky turn pink over the harbour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For something more casual, Caf\u00e9 Manhattan<\/a> is a neighbourhood institution \u2013 relaxed, welcoming, and full of personality. It\u2019s the kind of place where locals and visitors mingle over burgers, beers, and good conversation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Galleries & Design Studios<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

De Waterkant may be small, but it punches above its weight when it comes to creativity. You\u2019ll find several galleries and design studios dotted throughout the area, often hidden behind unassuming doors or tucked into courtyards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SMITH Studio<\/a> is a great stop for contemporary African art, while Studio 19 showcases local ceramics, textiles, and homeware in a beautifully curated space. If you\u2019re into interiors, drop by Weylandts or Lim, both offer an upscale take on African-inspired design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even if you\u2019re not shopping, it\u2019s worth browsing. There\u2019s a strong sense of pride in South African creativity here, and much of it is on display in De Waterkant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Few Tips for Your Visit<\/h4>\n\n\n\n