This week Design Indaba hits Cape Town, and with it, designers and creative types from all around the world descend on the city for a week of inspiration and creativity. And what a better way than to gather tips and hints from local creative types on coolest things to do and places to go over design week. So here’s your ultimate guide to creative Cape Town.
Brett Webb, Senior Art Director, Ogilvy & Mather
“To take in Cape Town nightlife, I’d suggest starting off with a glass or two of wine at Publik, then grab some great food from Clarkes. Move onto Outrage of Modesty and try an artisan cocktail before watching some live music next door at House of Machines. End the night off at either Village Idiot or Aces ‘n Spades”.
Sarah Gregg-Macdonald, Graphic Designer, The Jupiter Drawing Room
“As cheesy as it sounds, one of my favourite things to do as a local is watch the sunset with a picnic and a glass of wine on Signal Hill. It’s an escape from the city and a perfect end to a long day”.
Rowan Foxcroft, Art Director, Y & R
“The Tap Room has hands down the best burger in Cape Town. Don’t listen to anything anyone says otherwise, they’re lying and they know it. Keep it really simple and tasty with the classic cheese, and if you haven’t eaten all day: make it a double. Complement this dish with one of my other favourites: Woodhead Amber Ale.
The Best Of Asia is also one of my favourites – a small sushi joint that never seems over crowded. If you like good, unpretentious sushi and spent most of your money on your ticket to the Design Indaba, then the two for one special is definitely for you”.
Mathew Nielsen, Founder and Designer, Mat Blac
”Head to the Power and the Glory (P&G) at the top of Kloof Nek Road for a post Design Indaba pint, followed by many tiny tacos at Taqueria over the road”.
Mike Beukes, Creative Director, Saatchi & Saatchi Brandsrock
“The Gin Bar behind Honest Chocolate is always a winner with me; Arcade has been decent recently for an early evening drink; Door 221 is a cracking little late night spot (although it’s one of those names I can never remember); and Vasco’s is an absolute winner if you’re a dive bar fan and like your dive bars to have proper authenticity.
The Palms market is an unpretentious, top quality little market. Latitude 33 is perfect for an incredible brekkie away from the Jason’s crowd. And the food is waaaay better. Oh, and don’t forget Loading Bay for killer burgers with double fried truffle chips. Hell. Yea”.
Tammy Tinker, Style Director, Superbalist.com
“My Saturday routine is an excursion to Beta Beach (best hidden gem in Cape Town) followed by French toast with bacon and maple syrup at Baked Bistro – truly a spot not to be missed!
Then if you manage to make it before the City Farm closes I usually get all my fresh fruit and veg en-route to a cheeky breakfast Moro ice cream – if you don’t get one at the market they have a tiny shop in salt river! Complete gem! Another fashion gem is Keith’s store on Kloof Street called AKJP – search for Drotsky the brand. Beautiful woman’s wear and unique one-off pieces!”.
Megan Grills, Art Director and Co-Owner, Purely Porcelain
“Pop into Maria’s for the most Incredible Greek food. Perfect for lunch or dinner but be sure to book!
Check out the Watershed at the V&A Waterfront for some inspiring local design. Lastly, head out of the CBD for a break from the hustle and bustle – go to Muizenburg breach for a swim followed by an ice cold beer or a glass of wine at the original Tigers Milk”.
Justin Williams, Social Media Strategist, Platinum Seed
“If you’ve spent all day in the Design Indaba conferences and just want to unwind with a refreshing drink, two of the best places to go are either Mother’s Ruin in Bree Street or The Secret Gin Bar behind Honest Chocolate in Wale Street. The perfect way to cool off after enduring the Cape Town summer heat!”.
