The Cape’s Love Affair with Snoek – and Where to Find the Best Dishes
Exploring Cape Town’s Favourite Fish
Snoek isn’t just a fish in the Cape – it’s a culinary tradition, a backyard braai essential, and a salty-sweet symbol of heritage passed down through generations. Whether smoked, curried, pickled, or fresh off the coals, snoek (Thyrsites atun) is deeply woven into Cape Town’s food culture.
Snoek is a long, sleek, silver fish found off the southern African coast. Its firm, oily flesh makes it perfect for smoking, grilling, or flaking into fragrant stews. Known for its rich flavor and slightly bony texture, snoek has been a staple in Cape kitchens for centuries – especially among Cape Malay and coastal communities.
The Traditional Way: Braaied Snoek with Apricot Jam
The ultimate snoek experience? Braaied over open coals, brushed with a mixture of apricot jam, garlic, lemon juice, and a hint of chili. The smoky char and sweet-salty glaze are iconic at weekend gatherings and seaside holidays.
Where to Find the Best Snoek Dishes in Cape Town
1. The Codfather – Camps Bay |📍 37 The Drive, Camps Bay
While known for upscale seafood, the Codfather occasionally features snoek among its fresh daily catch. Ask the chef for a traditional braaied version with a modern twist.
2. Die Strandloper – Langebaan (Day Trip Worth Taking) |📍 On the beach, Langebaan
This legendary beachside restaurant offers an epic seafood buffet – snoek is grilled over open flames in full view of diners, served alongside roosterkoek, sweet potato, and traditional pickled fish.
3. Bo-Kaap Kombuis – Bo-Kaap |📍 7 August St, Schotsche Kloof
Famous for its Cape Malay cuisine and views, Bo-Kaap Kombuis offers a snoek curry that’s rich, spiced, and steeped in family recipes. Pair it with turmeric rice and sambals.
4. Ocean Jewels – Woodstock Market |📍 The Old Biscuit Mill, Saturdays only
This seafood deli offers expertly smoked snoek fillets you can enjoy on-site or take home. They’re known for fresh, sustainable sourcing and exceptional flavour.
5. Snoekies – Hout Bay Harbour |📍 1 Harbour Rd, Hout Bay
It doesn’t get more classic than Snoekies – this casual fish and chips shop has served locals since 1951. Go for their battered snoek and slap chips by the sea.
6. Kalky’s – Kalk Bay Harbour |
📍 Harbour, Kalk Bay
A Cape institution! Ask for the snoek when it’s available – grilled or fried, always served with a side of sea breeze and local character.
A Cultural Icon
Snoek isn’t just food – it tells stories of working-class resilience, Sunday lunches with extended family, and the unique flavors of the Cape’s melting pot. It bridges the city’s coastline, its communities, and its culinary creativity.
Whether you're trying snoek for the first time or reliving childhood memories, Cape Town offers no shortage of places to enjoy this beloved fish. Just don’t forget the apricot jam.
