From world-class hotels and conference venues, to the city’s finest restaurants; Business Traveller has rounded up the best of the best for your next visit to the Mother City…
>> WHERE TO STAY
Westin Grand Cape Town
It’s hard to beat the Westin when it comes to location, location, location. Built as part of the precinct around the Cape Town International Convention Centre it’s ideally placed for attending events at the CTICC, or the CBD is just a short walk away. The hotel offers over 480 sleek modern rooms, each boasting floor-to-ceiling views over the Mother City. There’s a well-equipped gym in the top-floor spa (try out the pool with a view) or book one of the WestinWORKOUT® Rooms that come fitted with state-of-the-art gym equipment.
You’ll like: that there’s free wireless Internet access in all rooms
Web: www.starwoodhotels.com
The Cullinan Hotel
If you’re watching your budget (and who isn’t these days!) The Cullinan will help to knock a little off your expense account. It’s still in a great location though, just minutes from the city centre and CTICC, and a short walk from the popular V&A Waterfront. There’s a small business centre on-site, and wireless Internet available throughout the hotel.
You’ll like: that it’s a more affordable option in a great location
Web: www.southernsun.com
Cape Royale Luxury Hotel and Residence
Overlooking Cape Town’s gleaming football stadium, the Cape Royale is one of the new faces on the trendy Green Point block. The elegant façade and marbled entrance give the Cape Royale a vintage European flair, but the 95 suites are decidedly modern. The large (minimum 63m²) suites all feature a well-equipped kitchenette, while lavish bath products, good coffee and designer furniture make this a welcoming home-from-home. The Equinox Spa also recently launched a convenient Executive Spa Menu if you need a treatment on the run.
You’ll like: the complimentary transfers within a 5-kilometre radius of the hotel, and double-glazed windows to ensure a good night’s rest.
Web: www.caperoyale.co.za
The Grand Daddy
Just because you’re on business doesn’t mean you can’t have fun! The Grand Daddy in trendy Long Street is ideal for travellers with an eye for design with a sense of humour. Cape Town ‘décor-magician’ Tracy Lynch has infused each room with a sense of local style, so why not splash out on one of the Sugar Daddy Suites which each have their own secluded, wooden-decked patio. The hotel also offers two multi-functional spaces for meetings and events.
You’ll like: the Daddy Cool Bar, one of the hippest places in town for meeting over drinks.
Web: www.granddaddy.co.za
Vineyard Hotel & Spa
If you prefer to escape the city after 5pm, the historic Vineyard Hotel in leafy Newlands is ideal. With its 175 rooms spread over six acres of stunning gardens on the banks of the Liesbeeck River, this four-star hotel has the feel of a country estate. However, it’s just 15-minutes from the city centre and is the perfect place to relax and recharge after a busy day. Once you’ve soaked up the mountain views the hotel offers a top-notch fitness centre as well as two excellent restaurants. The Cavendish Square shopping centre is five minutes’ walk away if you need some retail therapy.
You’ll like: to reward yourself with a massage at the serene Angsana spa.
Web: www.vineyard.co.za
>> WHERE TO EAT
95 Keerom
With his own Karoo farm and fishing boat to ensure his meat and tuna are of the finest quality; Executive Chef Giorgio Nava takes fresh ingredients seriously. So it’s no surprise that the authentic Milanese cuisine from his kitchen has made this one of Cape Town’s top eateries. Choose between the elegant open-plan upstairs or one of three more intimate rooms on the ground floor. A stylish private-dining room can accommodate up to 12 people.
Insider’s tip: don’t miss the Butternut Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce.
Web: www.95keerom.com
Jardine
Voted one of SA’s top 10 restaurants in 2009, Jardine is the place to woo clients or celebrate a done deal. Contemporary European cuisine using the finest local ingredients is the signature of Scottish-born chef George Jardine. The five-course chef’s menu paired with some of the Cape’s top wines is ideal for that special occasion.
Insider’s tip: Ask for a table away from the kitchen, where it can get noisy.
Web: www.jardineonbree.co.za
Salt
If you’re in the Cape you need to be by the sea, right? Well, few restaurants have a front-row view that can compete with Salt. Floor-to-ceiling sunset views are well matched by the modern Cape cuisine – with an Asian twist – whipped up by globe trotting chef Dave Winton. The restaurant boasts an impressive wine list, with over 70 wines by the glass for you to toast the sunset.
Insider’s tip: Book in advance to get a table at the window.
Web: www.newmarkhotels.com
Beluga
A firm favourite with Capetonians, Beluga is buzzing almost any night of the week. The open courtyard is perfect for after-work drinks, while inside the glam Art-Deco restaurant is perennially packed with diners enjoying the excellent wine list, varied menu and decent prices. Need to impress your clients? Reserve the glass-walled Wine Attic for a private function and enjoy dinner surrounded by over 7000 bottles of premium wine.
Insider’s tip: The service can be patchy when things get busy, so get your orders in early.
Web: www.beluga.co.za
Cape Quarter
It’s been a long day; you’re tired and just need to unwind a little. Head straight to the Cape Quarter in colourful De Waterkant where you’ll be spoilt for choice. The open courtyard is idyllic on warm summer evenings, and you can take your pick between sushi at stylish Tank, Italian at Andiamo, fine wines at Chenin or let your hair down a little at the Mexican-inspired Fiesta.
Insider’s tip: Street parking in De Waterkant is a nightmare, so head straight for the underground parkade in Hudson Street.
Web: www.capequarter.co.za
For more great business travel tips in Cape Town, get the latest issue of Business Traveller magazine.
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