Top 10 Places to Eat at Cape Town International Airport (Updated 2025)

Whether you’re traveling internationally or just hopping on a local flight, food is one of the most important parts of the airport experience.
Cape Town International Airport (CPT) offers a surprisingly wide range of places to eat — from quick takeaways to full sit-down meals.
Whether you’re arriving early and want a proper breakfast, grabbing a snack before boarding, or simply need coffee after a long flight,
this list of the top 10 restaurants and cafes at Cape Town International Airport in 2025 will help you make the right choice.

1. Vida e Cafè – Cape Town’s Coffee Darling

With multiple branches across the airport, Vida e Cafè is the go-to for South Africans who love their caffeine.
Expect great coffee, Portuguese-style pastries, and fast service. It’s ideal for early flights or a midday pick-me-up.
Grab a croissant and a cappuccino and you’re set for the skies.

2. Wimpy – Family-Friendly & Fast

Wimpy is a South African classic. Their full English breakfast, grilled burgers, and signature coffee make it popular
with both locals and international travelers. Located landside in the departures terminal, it’s a solid choice for families.

3. Steers – Flame-Grilled Greatness

Famous for their flame-grilled beef burgers and signature seasoned fries, Steers is one of the most popular fast food
options at CPT. Expect quick service and bold flavors — perfect if you’re hungry and short on time.

4. Ocean Basket Express – Seafood, Fast

Craving seafood at the airport? Ocean Basket Express brings the freshness of the ocean to CPT.
Their quick-serve model offers sushi, calamari, fish fillets, and seafood platters at reasonable prices.
It’s a tasty alternative to fast food.

5. Spur – The Sit-Down Experience

Spur Steak Ranches offers a full restaurant experience, great for longer waits. Whether you’re in the mood for steaks,
ribs, schnitzels, or a good old-fashioned burger, Spur delivers. Plus, it has a play area for kids and excellent service.

6. Illy Go! – Italian Coffee Culture

For a more international café feel, Illy Go! provides smooth Italian espresso, tasty paninis, and pastries.
It’s a quieter, modern space often favored by business travelers or digital nomads needing a clean seat and reliable WiFi.

7. Kauai – Health First

Health-conscious travelers love Kauai for its smoothie bowls, protein wraps, and fresh juices.
If you’re vegetarian, vegan, or just trying to stay on track while traveling, Kauai is your guilt-free go-to.

8. Panarottis Pizza Express – Fast, Hot, Delicious

If pizza is your comfort food, head to Panarottis. Their Pizza Express outlet serves fresh slices, calzones,
and garlic breads to go. Quick, convenient, and surprisingly good quality for airport food.

9. McDonald’s – Consistent Comfort

Sometimes all you want is something familiar — and McDonald’s delivers. The menu includes all your favorites:
Big Macs, fries, chicken nuggets, and even South Africa-exclusive items. It’s located in the arrivals terminal.

10. Java Junction – Quiet & Cozy

Tucked away near the domestic departures side, Java Junction is a smaller café with strong coffee, fresh sandwiches,
and a relaxed vibe. It’s a great alternative if you want to avoid the crowds at more mainstream spots.

🧭 Where to Find These Restaurants

Most food outlets at Cape Town International Airport are located in the landside departures area,
domestic terminal food court, and the international departures hall after security.
If you’re looking to grab a bite before heading through security, stick to Vida, Wimpy, Spur, and McDonald’s.
For quick snacks airside, check out Kauai, Illy Go!, and Ocean Basket.

✈️ Final Thoughts

CPT Airport might not be the biggest in Africa, but it definitely punches above its weight when it comes to food options.
From fast food and coffee to fresh seafood and health-conscious meals, there’s something for everyone.
Arrive a little early for your next flight and try one of these great airport eateries —
your taste buds (and your stomach) will thank you.