5 must-try burgers in Cape Town (2024)

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Published by Aiden Daries on August 25, 2024

While Cape Town boasts plenty of familiar fast-food chains with their iconic golden arches and promises of substantial meals, the city’s best burgers aren’t found at these global franchises. In fact, it’s best to avoid them entirely—Cape Town is home to a vibrant array of burger bars and casual eateries that far surpass these chains.

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Also read: Maggy Lou’s: Sea Point’s cosy all-day café

South Africans have a passion for braais (barbecues), and the city’s burger joints reflect this love with juicy, flame-grilled patties on excellent buns and a creative range of toppings. Many of these establishments also embrace the local craft beer scene, offering great brews to complement their burgers.

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With a beer in hand and a burger on your plate, you’re ready to indulge. Not sure where to begin? Whether you’re looking for the finest Deep South taprooms, chic city eateries, or unique local spots, Cape {town} Etc has updated our guide to Cape Town’s best burgers to ensure you find a top-notch experience.

1. Free Bird

Craving fried chicken? Skip the Colonel and try this South African burger chain instead. Free Bird’s chicken burgers get it right: they use free-range chicken breasts, coat them in a crispy buttermilk and flour blend, make their sides from scratch, and hand-cut the chips daily.

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2. The NOB

If you’re craving a burger experience that’s anything but ordinary, it’s worth the drive from the city centre to Tygervalley. At No Ordinary Burger (NOB), you’ll find a spot tailored for those with a big appetite, featuring enormous 1kg starter portions of pork ribs and chicken wings for a serious protein boost. But the star of the menu is the burger selection, boasting over a dozen varieties and toppings like peppery mushroom sauce, camembert, prego sauce, bacon, and eggs.

Their ‘Average Joe’ burger patty begins at 180g, while the NOB burger comes with a substantial 280g patty measuring 16cm across. Still hungry? Their ‘mega’ option doubles up on everything, creating a calorie tower that could keep you satisfied for a week. For the truly adventurous, there’s the ‘Big Burger’ challenge: a 2kg pulled beef burger that’s as messy and daunting as it is impressive.

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Address: 2 Niagara Rd, Tygerlake Building
Hours:Monday – Saturday, 12pm to 9:30pm | Sunday, 12pm to 4:30pm
Contact: 084 477 2434

3. Aegir Project

There are plenty of reasons to adore the Aegir Project in Noordhoek. Whether it’s the breath-taking sea views from the top floor (make sure to book in advance) or the relaxed, beachside ambiance, it’s no wonder locals rave about this Deep South taproom and brewery. The beers are exceptional, featuring a diverse range of styles with about a dozen options on tap at any given time.

The menu is equally impressive, boasting a selection of three top-tier burgers that perfectly complement a craft beer. The classic Cheeseburger, made with grass-fed beef, aged cheddar, and house pickles, is a standout, but there’s also a smashburger and a ‘truffled smash’ burger available. All burgers are served on their exquisite Hokkaido-style milk buns, freshly baked in-house. For those who prefer something other than beef, there are also Asian-style chicken and fish options on the menu.

4. Dog’s Bollocks

What started as a cult pop-up has evolved into a beloved inner-city burger spot. The Dog’s Bollocks may not win any style awards with its wooden bench tables set in a concrete alleyway, but its massive burgers and affordable prices more than make up for the simple décor.

Each burger features a substantial 200g patty and salad, all nestled in an oversized sesame bun, with a variety of toppings available. There are also chicken and vegetarian options on the menu. Additionally, Pizza Warehouse, located on the same premises, offers some of Cape Town’s finest pizza.

Address:6 Roodehek St, Gardens
Hours:Monday – Sunday, 9am to 10pm
Contact: 083 440 7843

5. Burger & Lobster

The name says it all: Burger & Lobster offers an upscale twist on the typical burger joint. If you’re not in the mood for the lobster roll—tender lobster meat pan-fried in lobster butter, served with Japanese mayo on a brioche roll—then the classic B&L burger won’t disappoint, featuring a hearty handmade patty with pickles and salad. For a fusion of both, try The Wolf burger, which combines a 180g beef patty with lobster, truffle mayo, and brie.

Burger & Lobster is also renowned for its impressive co*cktail menu. With excellent service and sleek décor, it stands out as one of the city’s top dining spots.