Margate, along South Africa’s beautiful KwaZulu Natal coast, is not only known for its beaches and sunshine. It is also a paradise for food lovers. Whether you are craving freshly caught seafood, a hearty family dinner, or the perfect cup of coffee after a morning swim, Margate’s food scene offers something for everyone.
Stay at Kridzil Apartments and you will be perfectly located to experience it all. Here is your ultimate foodie guide to the best places to eat in Margate.
Top Picks: Local Favourites You Cannot Miss
1. The Lobster Pot
A Margate favourite and one of the best seafood restaurants in town. Known for generous seafood platters, friendly service, and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.
Review Highlights:
“Fantastic restaurant! Service is always great. Food is delicious. The staff and owners are friendly and helpful. Would highly recommend.” – Jessica Tebbutt
“The ambiance is Old School style, such enduring class, perfect personal attention, to a romantic, evening, with good food, good people, classy and well worth the meal and also the experience. Thank you to the owner and staff.” – Lilani Pheiffer-Heath
Why Visit: Fresh seafood, big portions, and a casual coastal setting. Ideal for a special dinner with ocean views.
Tip: Ask for their signature whiskey or garlic prawns and visit before the dinner rush for a quiet table.
2. Aura on Margate Beach
Aura offers a relaxed dining experience with stunning ocean views, making it a favorite among families. The menu features a variety of dishes, including seafood, grills, and vegetarian options, catering to diverse tastes.
Review Highlights:
“Been going to Aura for the past 3 years. At least more than 4 times a month. The food is exceptional, well presented and freshly prepared. You can see that the chef takes pride in their work. Always a warm welcome from the staff and Stha for making my coffee with attention, always! The ambience and view of the main beach is amazing.” – Pearl Shusha
“We had a wonderful time. The food was amazing and the place has a very nice ambiance. Would highly recommend it.” – Chantelle Muller
Why Visit: Ideal for families seeking a beachfront dining experience with a variety of meal options.
Tip: Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a table with the best views.
3. Larry’s Family Restaurant (Uvongo)
Located right on the beachfront, Larry’s is ideal for families and anyone wanting variety with a sea view. Their menu offers everything from seafood and pasta to burgers and pizza.
Review Highlights:
“Absolutely fantastic amazing tasting food. The best tasting union rings, calamari sticks…and just everything.” – Vincent K
“Absolutely beautiful restaurant great service delicious food fantastic service and a great view.” – Chere Pretorius
Why Visit: Beachfront dining, a wide variety of meals, and friendly staff.
Tip: Choose an outdoor table at sunset for the best view.
4. The Waffle House (Ramsgate)
Just a short drive from Margate, The Waffle House is a South Coast icon. Known for sweet and savoury waffles made fresh to order.
Review Highlights:
“The Banoffee remains the waffle that steals the show. Staff were all super friendly & quick to serve. Was an absolute pleasure sitting next to the fireplace whilst enjoying the scenery and coffee.” – Madre Van der Merwe
“Most delicious waffles in town. Great variety of waffle options available. Friendly staff and fast service.” – Pieter Visagie
Why Visit: A fun and casual stop for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Great spot for the kids.
Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid the long queues.
5. Lilly’s Bread Bin
A cosy bakery and café known for homemade bread, pies, and pastries. Perfect for a relaxed breakfast or to pick up snacks for a beach picnic.
Review Highlights:
“Lilly’s Bakery in Margate offers a delightful variety of freshly prepared meals and baked goods. Enjoy warm, flaky pies, soft homemade bread, decadent pastries, as well as hearty burgers, flavourful seafood, and authentic bunny chow – all available for sit-down or takeaway. The food quality is consistently excellent.” – Tania von Bargen
Why Visit: Local charm, good prices, and delicious baked goods.
Tip: Try their pies or quiches for a takeaway meal to enjoy by the sea.
Hidden Gems to visit
Margate Village Market:
A vibrant local market offering handmade crafts, fresh produce, and tasty street food. Ideal for sampling authentic South Coast flavours.
Dirty South Brew House:
For those seeking a laid-back atmosphere paired with exceptional craft beer and satisfying pub fare, Dirty South Brew House in Margate is the place to be. Opened in July 2025, this family-run brewery and taproom has quickly become a local favourite.
Local Coffee Corners:
Keep an eye out for small cafes along the promenade or tucked away in side streets. These hidden gems serve some of the best coffee in town.
Recommendations for Every Taste
- Romantic Dinner: Try The Lobster Pot, The Grove Restaurant, or Pavilion Restaurant for a relaxed meal with good wine and a cosy atmosphere.
- Kid Friendly Meals: Larry’s Family Restaurant, The Waffle House, and Van’s Roadhouse are all family friendly and offer meals that kids love.
- Quick Bites or Brunch: Lilly’s Bread Bin, French Vanilla Coffee Shop and Tree Top Café are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or takeaway.
- Budget Friendly Options: Grab a meal at Margate Village Market or pick up baked goods from Lilly’s Bread bin for a picnic on the beach.
- Sea Views: For lunch or dinner with a view, try The Pumphouse Family Restaurant, Blue Lagoon, or Popeye’s Bar & Grill.
- Coffee and Snacks: Wild Coast Coffee, The Little Café, and small side street cafes offer quiet spots for a coffee break or light snack.
Stay at Kridzil and Explore Margate’s Culinary Scene
After a day of delicious dining, come home to the comfort of Kridzil Holiday Apartments. Located just a short walk from the beach and many of these fantastic restaurants, Kridzil offers the perfect base for your South Coast getaway.
Whether you are planning a romantic escape, a family holiday, or a foodie weekend, Kridzil Holiday Apartments is your ideal home away from home.
Book your stay at Kridzil today and taste the best of Margate.
