Experience Heirloom: A Culinary Haven at Cape Grace
Cape Grace warmly invites you to discover Heirloom, a dining experience that takes you on a journey through South Africa’s rich flavours, cultural heritage, and culinary artistry. Nestled within the heart of our iconic hotel – a symbol of Cape Town’s elegance and history – Heirloom blends contemporary luxury with the vibrant essence of South African traditions.
Our hotel’s design, inspired by breathtaking landscapes and the city’s storied past, creates the perfect setting for this exceptional culinary experience. At Heirloom, the finest local ingredients, seasonal produce, and innovative techniques come together to craft dishes that are as memorable as they are delicious.
Whether you are savouring a refined meal, enjoying an indulgent afternoon tea, or relaxing to the sounds of live music, Heirloom offers an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and welcoming. True to Cape Grace’s ethos of combining world-class luxury with authentic local charm, every moment at Heirloom is designed to make you feel both pampered and at home. Allow us to welcome you to Heirloom, where timeless tradition meets inspired innovation to craft an experience you will never forget.
Cape Grace’s Heritage: A Legacy of Excellence
At Cape Grace, we take pride in being a cherished part of Cape Town’s luxury landscape. Since the hotel’s opening in 1996, we have become synonymous with impeccable service, refined elegance, and an intimate connection to the city’s history and culture. Perfectly situated on the vibrant V&A Waterfront, our hotel offers breathtaking views of the marina and iconic Table Mountain, creating a setting as extraordinary as the experiences we provide.
Drawing inspiration from South Africa’s rich heritage, our design seamlessly blends elements of local craftsmanship with modern comforts, and each detail reflects the cultural richness and natural beauty of our surroundings, creating an atmosphere that is as authentic as it is luxurious. Deeply rooted in Cape Town’s maritime and cultural history, Cape Grace is more than a place to stay – it is a living testament to the city’s past and vibrant present. This is what makes it the ideal home for Heirloom, our signature restaurant, where the flavours and artistry of South Africa come to life.
Whether you are celebrating a special occasion at Heirloom or simply enjoying the warm ambience of Cape Grace, every moment is crafted to make you feel truly valued. Here, tradition’s timeless charm seamlessly blends with modern luxury comforts, creating an experience that stays with you long after you leave.
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The Culinary Experience
At the heart of Heirloom is a thoughtfully curated menu that honours South Africa’s rich and diverse culinary landscape. Our culinary experience masterfully blends contemporary influences with cherished South African traditions, creating a dining experience that feels both innovative and nostalgic. Our culinary team’s vision bridges the past and the present, taking inspiration from South Africa’s cultural heritage while pushing the boundaries of modern gastronomy.
By championing locally sourced ingredients and seasonal produce, Heirloom is proud to not only support regional farmers and artisans but the restaurant also ensures that every dish is fresh, sustainable, and bursting with bold, vibrant flavours. This dedication to quality and sustainability is reflected in every bite, as the ingredients shine with authenticity and depth.
From indigenous herbs and spices to expertly prepared meats and freshly caught seafood, Heirloom takes you on a sensory journey that honours the land, the people, and the cultural lineage that has shaped the nation’s food traditions.
New Seasonal Menu: Our new seasonal menu draws inspiration from the deep-rooted flavours of South Africa, commemorating the land, the people, and the time-honoured culinary practices that have been passed down through generations. At Heirloom, we offer more than just a meal – we offer a taste of South Africa’s cultural heritage while celebrating the lasting legacy of Cape Grace. With every dish, we invite you to experience the story of our country’s culinary journey, reimagined for today’s discerning palate.
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Heirloom’s Elegant Atmosphere
Heirloom’s design effortlessly merges timeless luxury with the distinctive beauty of Cape Town’s landscapes, creating an atmosphere that invites all guests to feel truly at home. Situated in the heart of Cape Grace, our signature restaurant’s interior is a harmonious blend of modern elegance and traditional South African influences, featuring warm, earthy tones, plush seating, and an open, airy layout that fosters a welcoming and comfortable environment. Every element of the design is carefully considered, creating a space that feels both sophisticated and inviting.
Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, offering spectacular views of the marina and the majestic Table Mountain. These stunning vistas form a picturesque backdrop, enhancing the dining experience with nature’s beauty. Heirloom’s panoramic views are as much a part of the experience as the food, providing guests with an immersive atmosphere where the outside world blends seamlessly with the elegance inside.
Heirloom is characterised by its understated luxury, where every detail, from the carefully curated décor to the soft lighting, contributes to an overall sense of calm, grace, and refinement. This quintessential environment offers a space that feels both welcoming and exclusive, inviting guests to relax and unwind while being enveloped in an elegant atmosphere that reflects both quality and style.
The design ensures that every visit feels both special and effortless, and to further enhance the ambience, live music adds a soulful touch to every meal. Whether you are enjoying an intimate dinner with friends, a romantic evening with a loved one, or celebrating a special occasion, the soothing tones of live music at Heirloom elevate the dining experience.
Live music at Heirloom adds a distinctive touch, creating a relaxed yet refined ambience that transforms every meal into a memorable occasion. It elevates the dining experience, establishing Heirloom not just as a restaurant, but as a destination where every visit is marked by a unique and unforgettable atmosphere.
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An Afternoon Tea to Savour
At Heirloom, we offer an unforgettable Afternoon Tea experience, often referred to as high tea in South Africa. While afternoon tea traditionally consists of lighter fare served in the afternoon, and high tea features heartier dishes served later in the day, the terms are used interchangeably here in South Africa. Regardless of the term, we ensure every guest enjoys an indulgent and memorable experience, blending tradition with South African flavours.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront yacht marina and the majestic Table Mountain, this iconic tea tradition is a sensory journey. With the sounds of Atlantic seagulls, the playful roar of seals, and the rhythmic clink of yacht masts, the atmosphere is as captivating as the delectable fare.
Whether you prefer calling it afternoon tea or high tea, Cape Grace’s offering is an exquisite experience combining luxury, elegance, and South African flavours. Curated by our renowned pastry team, our afternoon tea features a tempting selection of freshly baked scones, including traditional sweet scones and Klein River cheese scones with wholegrain mustard and thyme, served with lemon curd, whipped mascarpone, Dalewood Simond cheese, and strawberry jam.
Enjoy a variety of delicious finger sandwiches, such as rare roasted beef with mustard and rocket, smoked salmon trout with lemon and dill, and cucumber with cream cheese and basil – each bite showcasing carefully balanced flavours and fresh ingredients.
To further indulge your palate, we present an array of indulgent pastries, including rooibos-infused macarons, pistachio madeleines, and the rich, sweet blood orange and crème fraîche tartlet. Our cakes, ranging from Paris Brest to hibiscus milk chocolate cubes, are artfully crafted to provide a balance of textures and flavours, while our lime and basil tartlets, guava and caramel slices, and orange tuile dentelles offer the perfect light bite.
Each item is thoughtfully prepared using the finest seasonal ingredients and locally sourced products, ensuring freshness and sustainability. Complementing the delightful treats is our wide selection of loose-leaf teas, carefully curated to pair with the flavours of the menu. Whether you prefer a traditional English breakfast tea, a delicate green tea, or a fragrant rooibos tea, there is a tea to suit every taste. We also offer an exclusive tea: a bespoke blend crafted specifically for the Cape Grace. This exquisite creation harmoniously combines spices, herbs, fruits, and rooibos to deliver a blend of pure elegance, understated charm, and captivating beauty.
For those seeking an elevated experience, our Deluxe Afternoon Tea includes the option of Cap Classique, South Africa’s signature sparkling wine, making it the perfect indulgence for special occasions or a luxurious treat. Afternoon tea at Cape Grace is more than just a meal; it’s an experience to savour. With the beauty of Table Mountain or the serene marina as your backdrop, every moment feels like an escape. Whether celebrating with friends or enjoying a quiet afternoon, our tea service ensures a luxurious, unforgettable experience.
Afternoon Tea Menu: R550 per person or R650 per person (the latter option includes a glass of Cap Classique).
Afternoon Tea Hours: Thursday to Sunday at 14h30, 15h00, or 15h30 (bookings essential).
Afternoon Tea
Heirloom’s Moët & Chandon Oyster Bar
Raise a glass to elegance and indulgence at Heirloom’s Moët & Chandon Oyster Bar, the centrepiece of our refined Cape Town restaurant. This sophisticated oasis invites guests to immerse themselves in the art of pairing freshly shucked oysters with the crisp, effervescent sparkle of Moët & Chandon champagne. The combination of oysters and champagne has long been celebrated as the epitome of culinary luxury, with the briny freshness of oysters perfectly complementing the delicate acidity and bubbles of fine champagne. From 17h00 to 19h00, the bar comes alive, transforming into a haven for connoisseurs of champagne bars in Cape Town and seafood dining, offering an inviting space where indulgence meets sophistication.
Set against the elegant and timeless backdrop of our Heirloom Restaurant, the Moët & Chandon Oyster Bar is the perfect prelude to an unforgettable evening. Join us in raising a toast to your milestones, sharing moments of joy with friends, or simply treating yourself to luxury dining in Cape Town, this exquisite bar creates the ideal ambience for relaxed celebrations, sparkling conversations, and cherished memories.
The pairing of champagne and oysters is a time-honoured tradition that highlights the best of both indulgences. The crisp, lively bubbles of champagne cut through the richness of oysters, enhancing their natural flavours and creating a harmonious balance that delights the palate. At Heirloom, we bring this classic pairing to life with fresh, locally sourced oysters and the renowned elegance of Moët & Chandon, offering a taste experience that embodies luxury and refinement.
Positioned at the heart of Heirloom, the bar exudes an atmosphere that is both lively and refined. Every sip and bite is a celebration of flavour and finesse, blending the finest local ingredients with the world-renowned elegance of Moët & Chandon. At Heirloom’s Moët & Chandon Oyster Bar, indulge in Cape Town’s best champagne and oysters and elevate your evening with a touch of sparkle and sophistication, making every moment truly extraordinary.
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Celebrate Local Artistry
At Cape Grace, we believe that every detail contributes to the creation of an extraordinary experience. A true highlight of our Heirloom restaurant is its exceptional art collection, which enhances the atmosphere and adds a unique dimension to the dining experience. Curated with care, the collection showcases works by South African artisans, reflecting the vibrant creativity and diversity that make this country’s artistic heritage so rich.
Our recent refashioning of Cape Grace embraces South Africa’s bold artistic expression while respecting its deep cultural roots. The artworks displayed throughout Heirloom are more than just decorative pieces – they are stories of South Africa’s history, landscapes, and craftsmanship. Created by local artists, each piece is a testament to the country’s diverse and evolving creative talent. From intricate ceramics, glass works, and wooden sculptures to detailed bronze pieces, these works evoke the beauty and spirit of South Africa, offering a glimpse into its culture.
By incorporating such a range of media, we proudly celebrate local craftsmanship while fostering a deeper connection between our guests and South Africa’s dynamic artistic traditions. The artworks are a seamless extension of the Heirloom restaurant’s design, blending contemporary elegance with authentic cultural expressions. These pieces, displayed thoughtfully around the restaurant, create an ambience that is both grounded in tradition and forward-thinking, allowing our guests to feel truly immersed in the beauty of South African culture.
The art collection at Heirloom also reflects our commitment to ecological awareness and sustainability. Many of the pieces are created with materials that not only embody the natural beauty of South Africa but also reflect the growing global movement towards conscious craftsmanship. With each piece thoughtfully chosen for its connection to the environment and its significance to the local community, the collection speaks to our values of sustainability and support for local artisans.
As you dine in the elegant surroundings of Heirloom, the art collection enhances the experience, offering more than just a visual feast. It allows you to explore the soul of South Africa, inviting you to connect with the country’s past, present, and future through the creative expressions that adorn our space. At Cape Grace, we believe that every corner of our restaurant should tell a story, and through our art collection, we offer a celebration of the unique South African artistry that makes this space truly unforgettable.
The Unmatched Setting
We are proud to be located at the world-renowned V&A Waterfront, one of Cape Town’s most iconic destinations. Here, Heirloom offers an unparalleled dining experience with sweeping views of the marina, the vibrant waterfront, and the majestic Table Mountain in the distance. This exceptional location places us at the heart of one of South Africa’s most popular attractions, renowned for its rich history and bustling atmosphere. The V&A Waterfront, once a working dockyard, has transformed into a premier retail and entertainment hub while retaining its historical charm. It stands as a testament to Cape Town’s maritime heritage, making it the perfect setting for Cape Grace, which opened its doors in 1996.
Positioned between the ocean and the towering Table Mountain, our hotel offers guests the best of both worlds – proximity to the sea and breathtaking views of the mountain’s breathtaking beauty. The location provides the ideal base for exploring Cape Town’s rich cultural scene, with the nearby Two Oceans Aquarium, scenic walking routes, world-class shops, and entertainment options all just moments away. The V&A Waterfront’s history as a once-bustling harbour has transformed it into a thriving cultural and retail destination, making it a must-visit location for any traveller.
While there is much to explore in and around the V&A Waterfront, Cape Grace offers its own array of experiences. From indulging in world-class dining at Heirloom and enjoying the sophisticated tradition of Afternoon Tea to admiring the local art collection or relaxing at our Fairmont Spa, there is always something to enjoy at the hotel. For those eager to explore the vibrant nearby attractions or simply relax in the tranquillity of one of our many elegant spaces, Cape Grace promises a memorable experience in the heart of Cape Town’s most historic and iconic location.
Our position between the ocean and Table Mountain gives the hotel a unique sense of place, offering guests breathtaking views, easy access to local attractions, and a luxurious retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The blend of Cape Town’s history, the waterfront’s energy, and our commitment to offering the highest level of service makes Cape Grace the perfect destination for discerning travellers.
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Important Information
Location: Cape Grace Hotel, West Quay Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town.
Cuisine: Contemporary South African, seasonal dishes, and Afternoon Tea with a South African twist.
Atmosphere: Elegant, inviting, featuring live music.
Dress Code: Smart casual.
Opening Hours:
- Breakfast: 06H30 – 10H00
- Dinner: 18h00 – 22h00
- Afternoon Tea: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM 14h00 – 17h00
Dietary Options: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.
Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for Afternoon Tea and peak dining times.
Contact: +27 (0)218 410 7069
Special Features:
- Locally sourced ingredients
- Sustainable practices
- South African artwork
- Live music
- Seasonal menus
Parking: Complimentary valet parking for guests and secure parking for visitors.
Indulge in a one-of-a-kind dining experience at Heirloom, where culinary artistry meets South African tradition. To book a table, simply reserve your seat seamlessly via Dineplan.