Gemma BLDIf you are planning to go to Cape Town (or you’re already there), the Oranjezicht City Farm Market is a MUST. It’s one of those rare places that feels both local and international, relaxed yet full of energy. The food is delicious and there is so much to try and look at.
I actually went three times during our ten-day stay in Cape Town. Once with my family, and one solo, and both visits were safe, fun and worthwhile.
A Market with a View
Set near the V&A Waterfront, the market has this casual open-air feel but with gorgeous, thoughtful styling. Think string lights, ocean breeze, local produce, and neatly laid-out vendor stalls filled with the best of what Cape Town has to offer. Getting there was easy — I Ubered each time. To be honest, I avoided walking in areas I wasn’t familiar with, and this felt like the safest and simplest way. Plus, Ubers are cheap in Cape Town.
The market is very tourist-friendly, but not in a way that feels tacky. It’s the kind of place where you could grab a smoothie in one hand, fresh flowers in the other, and be debating which handmade cheese to bring home — all before 10 a.m.
Lobster, Coconut & Everything In Between
There’s food, and then there’s market food — and this is the good kind. One day I had a fresh coconut, the next a perfectly prepared lobster tail. I also tried plenty of sweet treats across my visits, all of which were beautifully made and priced reasonably — especially considering the quality.
What I loved most is that everything is locally sourced and produced. From the food vendors to the craft stalls, there’s a strong sense of pride in local heritage, ingredients, and sustainability. Nothing feels mass-produced or generic.
Gifts, Gin & Good Vibes
Beyond food, we found some great things to take home. My favorite? A bottle of prickly pear gin — smooth, subtle, and surprisingly unique. It’s now one of my favorite souvenirs from the trip, and every time I pour a glass back home, it takes me straight back to that warm, bustling atmosphere. I also bought a bottle for some friends who are gin lovers.
There’s also produce, flowers, clothes, accessories, homewares — you name it. Whether you’re souvenir shopping or just browsing, there’s something for everyone.
Some of the clothes are really nice and good-quality. From what I saw there, everything is made locally but you might want to recheck for each unique piece.
Practical Details
- When to go: Weekends, ideally in the morning before it gets too busy.
- How to get there: I recommend Uber — easy, fast, and you’re dropped right at the entrance.
- Is it safe?: Yes — very safe and well-organized, especially compared to more hectic parts of Cape Town.
- Seating?: Yes, there are shaded communal tables where you can relax, snack, and people-watch.
Final Thoughts
Oranjezicht City Farm Market is more than just a food stop — it’s a full experience. If you’re in Cape Town for even just a few days, carve out a morning to visit. Grab a coffee, try something new, and soak in the atmosphere. I promise you won’t regret it.
Would I go back?
100%.
[…] After the waterfront, walk or call an Uber for a short ride to Oranjezicht City Farm Market. Just make sure to check the opening times first because they can vary season to season. The market is community-driven and open-air with handmade goods, local produce and delicious street food. There are plenty of seating options available too. To know more about the market and to see photos and videos, read my review of the Oranjezicht City Farm Market. […]