Three South African Restaurants Shine on World’s Best 2025 List

South Africa’s vibrant gastronomic scene has once again captivated global palates, with three distinguished Cape Town establishments securing coveted spots on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 extended list (51-100). This prestigious recognition solidifies Cape Town’s standing as a world-class culinary destination and shines a well-deserved spotlight on the exceptional talent and innovative spirit of South African chefs.

The highly anticipated announcement, which precedes the official Top 50 reveal in Turin, Italy, on June 19th, saw La Colombe, FYN Restaurant, and Salsify at the Roundhouse earn their places among the global elite. All three culinary gems hail from the Mother City, further cementing its reputation as the epicentre of fine dining in South Africa.

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The Illustrious Line-up: A Deep Dive into SA’s Best

These aren’t just restaurants; they are experiences, meticulously crafted by passionate culinary teams.

La Colombe: Constantia’s Enduring Legacy (Ranked 55th)

Nestled amidst the breathtaking Constantia Valley on the Silvermist Wine Estate, La Colombe continues its remarkable streak, making its sixth appearance on the World’s 50 Best list. Led by the visionary Chef James Gaag, La Colombe is renowned for its exquisite French-Asian fusion cuisine, characterized by intricate plating, theatrical presentation, and an unwavering commitment to flavour.

La Colombe’s consistent presence on this global list is a testament to its enduring quality and innovation. Their immersive dining journey, often featuring multi-course tasting menus, has consistently drawn international acclaim, making it a must-visit for any serious gourmand. The restaurant’s stunning setting, with panoramic views, perfectly complements its refined culinary artistry.

FYN Restaurant: Where Africa Meets Japan in the City Centre (Ranked 82nd)

Perched on the fifth floor of an old silk factory in Cape Town’s bustling city centre, FYN offers a truly unique and captivating dining experience. Under the masterful guidance of Chefs Ashley Moss and Peter Tempelhoff, FYN seamlessly blends indigenous African ingredients with Japanese techniques and philosophy. This innovative approach results in dishes that are both unexpected and deeply satisfying, challenging perceptions and delighting the senses.

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FYN’s fifth consecutive inclusion on the list underscores its sustained impact on the international culinary stage. Beyond its culinary prowess, FYN is also the only restaurant in Africa to boast a three-star rating from the Food Made Good Standard, a global benchmark for ethical hospitality, and the only stand-alone restaurant on the continent inducted into the prestigious Relais & Châteaux club. This speaks volumes about their holistic commitment to excellence, from ingredient sourcing to guest experience.

Salsify at the Roundhouse: A Dazzling Debut (Ranked 88th)

Making a spectacular debut on the World’s 50 Best extended list is Salsify at the Roundhouse. Located in Camps Bay with captivating ocean views and the majestic Lion’s Head as a backdrop, Salsify provides a sensory feast even before the first bite. Chefs Ryan Cole and Luke Dale-Roberts are the creative forces behind this establishment, known for its beautifully plated dishes that champion bold, local South African flavours.

Salsify’s rapid ascent to global recognition, following its recent win as the Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant of the Year, highlights its fresh, dynamic approach to fine dining. Their focus on locally sourced produce, foraged herbs, and a dedication to preserving heritage while crafting light, delicate dishes resonates strongly with modern culinary trends. Chef Cole’s commitment to personally catching much of the fish served further emphasizes their farm-to-table (or ocean-to-table) philosophy.

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What This Means for South African Gastronomy

The inclusion of these three Cape Town powerhouses on such an influential global list is more than just an accolade for the restaurants themselves. It represents:

• Elevated Global Profile: It significantly enhances South Africa’s reputation as a premier destination for culinary tourism, drawing more international visitors eager to experience these celebrated dining experiences.
• Boost for Local Economy: Increased tourism translates to direct and indirect economic benefits, supporting local suppliers, farmers, and the broader hospitality industry.
• Inspiration for Aspiring Chefs: This recognition serves as a powerful inspiration for young South African chefs and culinary students, showcasing the possibilities and the high standards achievable within the industry.
• Validation of Culinary Innovation: It validates the bold and distinctive culinary identity that South Africa is forging, characterized by a unique fusion of local ingredients and global techniques.

The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, compiled from the votes of over 1,000 independent experts including chefs, food writers, and global gastronomes, is a powerful barometer of the world’s most exciting and influential dining establishments. For these three South African restaurants, their inclusion is a testament to their unwavering dedication, creativity, and the exceptional dining experiences they offer.

As the global culinary world looks forward to the Top 50 announcement, South Africa can celebrate this significant achievement, reaffirming its place on the international gastronomic map and inviting the world to savour its unique and diverse flavours.

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