Wale Street, Cape Town, is a vibrant thoroughfare that seamlessly blends history, culture, and culinary delights. This captivating area is not just about its rich past; it has become a modern hotspot for foodies and history enthusiasts alike. I know this street well, having attended high school in the CBD and worked there several times over the years. While the more famous streets in Cape Town, such as Long, Kloof, and Bree, attract much of the attention, Wale Street and its surrounding attractions offer unique charm and insights into the city’s diverse heritage, making it well worth exploring. Be sure to check out my list of must-see spots and activities in the area in this post.

A Food Lover’s Paradise

The Food Lover’s Market

The Food Lover’s Market at Newspaper House offers a variety of affordable modern dishes, embodying a hot-food emporium with a distinct New York deli feel. Here, you can indulge in a range of offerings, including a bakery, a salad bar, and a sushi section, along with fresh fruits and vegetables. The prices are also reasonable. It’s not a five star restaurant but it does have delicious food and a canteen style dining area along with a coffee area where you can sit.

Address: Newspaper House, 122 St George’s Mall, Cape Town

Operating Hours: 7am to 5pm, Monday to Friday

Honest Chocolate: A Sweet Retreat in Cape Town

Honest Chocolate is a charming café located at 64A Wale Street, Cape Town, dedicated to all things chocolate. I first visited this delightful spot when a friend from North Bend, US, wanted to buy authentic South African chocolate as souvenirs. The high-quality chocolate and beautifully designed packaging make it the perfect gift for loved ones. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich hot chocolate or decadent chocolate treats, Honest Chocolate will satisfy your sweet tooth.

Address:64A Wale Street, Cape Town

Contact Information:

Telephone: 076 765 8306
Email: cafe@honestchocolate.co.za
Opening Hours:

Sunday: 09:00 – 16:00
Monday – Friday: 10:00 – 18:00
Saturday: 09:00 – 17:00

The Taj Hotel

Across the street is the luxurious Taj Hotel, a five-star establishment that offers a breakfast experience like no other. From simple pastries to elaborate breakfast dishes, the Mint Restaurant provides a perfect start to your day, and it’s an ideal place to unwind in the evening with award-winning South African wines. I enjoyed breakfast there, and I must say it was a wonderful experience, albeit on the pricier side.

Address: 1 Wale Street corner Saint Georges Mall, Wale St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000

Phone: 021 819 2000

Fable

For those seeking something refreshing, Fable serves up unique cocktails in a laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. They are kind of expensive but they have specials so follow them on social media to look out for them. I have not been yet but this place is on my bucket list.

Address: Corner Bree &, Wale St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000

Phone: 066 009 7786

Don’t forget to check out the Bo-Kaap thrift store for some unique finds and visit Rosa’s Café, a local tuck shop famous for its delicious samoosas and koesisters.

Embracing the Local History

St George’s Cathedral

Wale Street is not just a culinary destination; it’s also steeped in history. Start your morning at St George’s Cathedral, often referred to as the “people’s cathedral.” This historic site has stood as a bastion for civil rights in Cape Town and is the oldest cathedral in South Africa. During the apartheid era, the cathedral became a rare sanctuary for individuals of all races, fostering inclusivity at a time when such openness was uncommon. The steps of the cathedral frequently served as a gathering place for protests. Notably, in 1989, Archbishop Desmond Tutu led a peaceful march from the cathedral to City Hall, showcasing the dedication of over 30,000 citizens to the ideals of peace and justice.

St George’s Cathedral Address: 5 Wale St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001

Berlin Wall

As you wander the area, take a moment to reflect on the poignant piece of the Berlin Wall displayed nearby. The Berlin Wall was built in 1961 to prevent people from defecting from East Germany to West Germany. After the wall fell, the German government sold pieces of the wall to buyers around the world. However the piece in Cape Town was gifted to Nelson Mandela, this significant remnant serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles against division and injustice, mirroring South Africa’s own history.

Berlin Wall Piece: Outside the Mandela Rhodes Foundation on St. George’s Mall

The Company’s Garden and the Arch for Desmond Tutu

The picturesque Company’s Garden, a historic park that offers a serene escape from the bustling city is also located on Wale street. At the entrance of the garden stands the Arch for Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a striking tribute to his contributions to South Africa’s democracy and reconciliation efforts. This archway is not only a beautiful landmark but also a symbol of hope and unity in the country’s journey toward healing.

Address: The corner of Adderley and Wale Streets

Bo-Kaap Museum

If you find yourself in the Bo-Kaap, be sure to visit the Bo-Kaap Museum. This intriguing museum offers a glimpse into the lives of the community that has shaped this vibrant neighborhood. Housed in one of the oldest buildings in the area, which dates back to the mid-18th century, the museum preserves its original architecture. It’s a wonderful place to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of the area.

Address: 71 Wale Street, Bo-Kaap

The Robert Gray Monument

At St Georges Mall which is a lane not a mall, you’ll find the Robert Gray Monument, commemorating the first Bishop of Cape Town. It isn’t a monument that stands out but it is close to the Berlin wall piece so it is easy to spot.

Address: 150, 136 St Georges Mall, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town

Atlas Trading

When exploring Wale Street, don’t miss the chance to visit Atlas Trading Company in the colourful Bo-Kaap. Established in 1946, this renowned shop is famous for its high-quality spices, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to enhance their culinary creations. If you’re in the area, I highly recommend stopping by to experience the vibrant atmosphere and the wide variety of spices on offer.

Address: 104 Wale Street, Bo-Kaap, Cape Town
Telephone: +27 (0)21 423 4361
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 AM – 5:15 PM, Saturday 8:30 AM – 12:15 PM, Sunday Closed

Murals

The Bo-Kaap is home to a vibrant Cape Malay community, with many residents practicing Islam and expressing solidarity with Palestine. Throughout the area, you’ll find Palestinian flags and murals that convey this support. Notably, there are several striking murals along Wale Street, close to both the Bo-Kaap Museum and Atlas Trading, showcasing the community’s commitment to this cause.

Read more:

https://www.designindaba.com/projects/arch-arch

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this part of Cape Town invites you to explore its many offerings. From delicious eateries to significant cultural landmarks, there’s always something new to discover on and around Wale Street!

Thank you for reading and please feel free to comment.

Happy travels!