Where Food Shapes the Stay
Posted on: 18 May 2026 Written by: Newmark Hotels & Reserves
Food has a way of shaping how we experience a place. For some, it’s the reason to travel. For others, it’s what makes the journey memorable. Food-led travel is an exquisite way to experience new and familiar places. Bursts of flavour, culture, heritage and social experiences – this is what foodie travel is all about, and Newmark Hotels & Reserves has plenty of table settings to make it happen. From experimental dining to classic, Asian and outdoor rustic dishes, there is something for every food lover.
Chasing Cuisine or Uncovering Surprises: Which Foodie Are You?
There are two ways food shapes a journey. One is letting the cuisine guide you. You look up trending restaurants, cafes, specialty dishes, vegan options, or patisserie selections and visit every one on your shortlist. This is bound to lead to satisfying moments and travel that is enhanced by the joyous, delectable ceremony of dining.
The second is by being a free spirit, an adventurous wanderer who wants to be surprised by quaint eateries and formidable kitchen staff. You take the roads less travelled, you speak to the locals, and happen upon popular or undiscovered gems in the food world, leading to new culinary experiences and hosts of stories to tell when you get back home.
Whatever your preference, Newmark Hotels & Reserves has destinations to support your foodie adventure. Some restaurants are worth the journey on their own – destinations where flavour, setting and atmosphere come together to define the stay.
Terrarium: Where Ingredients and Creativity Lead
Connoisseurs of fine dining will appreciate Patron Chef Chris Erasmus’ back-to-basics approach to ingredients at Terrarium. He skillfully blends authentic cooking, reminiscent of farm life, with modern gourmet presentation styles. Experience food as art in a refined, intimate setting at the Queen Victoria Hotel on the V&A Waterfront, with subtle music that complements the mood.
Explore the experience:
Classic Dining at GINJA
GINJA at the Victoria & Albert Hotel is a destination in itself. Guests come for the food as much as they do for the view and the refreshing harbour atmosphere. You will find it on the Waterfront Pierhead, gracefully positioned for panoramic views of Table Mountain, warmly lit, keeping you close to the V&A buzz but safely tucked into a serene, inviting setting. Our friendly staff will take care of you while you enjoy the mouth-watering dishes, light conversation and Cape ambience at the water’s edge.
What’s to enjoy:
- Hot-brewed, roasted coffee
- Sunday brunch with fruit, pastries, artisanal bread and more
- Freshly caught seafood, burgers, salads and more
Collective Indulgence
The more the merrier at Yu Asian Tapas & Bar in Cape Town’s Foreshore. If you are staying at The Onyx Hotel or simply looking for a night out with friends, this is the place. YU pushes the boundaries of Asian dining, fusing popular dishes with contemporary twists and eclectic flavours, all in a vibrant setting. Sample the sushi, dim sum, spicy edamame, crab bao, crispy rice, soups, spring rolls, oriental curries and more – it’s a full house social experience.
Best Bush Dishes in Africa
In the bush, food becomes part of the experience itself. At Newmark Hotels & Reserves’ safari destinations, dining unfolds under open skies, where the rhythm of the wild carries through every meal. From flame-grilled South African boerewors to potjie, coal-baked pizza, juicy steaks and traditional side dishes, each plate is shaped by its surroundings and the moment.
Experience it here:
Let the Feast Begin
Book your table with Newmark Hotels & Reserves and experience destinations where food defines the stay.
FAQS
Q: What is the primary culinary philosophy behind the menu at Terrarium?
A: Patron Chef Chris Erasmus utilises a back-to-basics approach that blends authentic, farm-style cooking with modern gourmet presentation styles.
Q: What specific dining experiences can guests expect when visiting GINJA on the Waterfront Pierhead?
A: Guests can enjoy hot-brewed roasted coffee, Sunday brunches with artisanal breads, and freshly caught seafood while overlooking panoramic views of Table Mountain.
Q: How does Yu Asian Tapas & Bar cater to social dining groups in Cape Town?
A: Located in the Foreshore, it offers a vibrant setting for collective indulgence with a menu featuring sushi, dim sum, crab bao, and oriental curries designed for sharing.
