Mr & Mrs Smith

Derwent House is a few seconds' stroll from the heartland of Cape Town dining, Kloof Street. More South Beach than South Africa, Manolo (+27 (0)21 422 4747), in a zhuzhed-up Victorian house, is a good place to start your culinary journey. It’s only open for supper from 7pm, and it’s by no means the cheapest option in town, but the European, Asian and South African flavours are suitably sophisticated, as is the clientele. For simple, no-nonsense Vietnamese and sushi, head to Saigon (+27 (0)21 424 7670) on the corner of Camp Street – a refreshing change from the superabundance of Thai and Chinese in the city. Café Gainsbourg (+27 (0)21 422 1780) – a chilled café-style spot – dishes up some exquisite Mediterranean flavours. Feast on hearty fare cooked with an Italian influence (try the beef ravioli or pork belly with sweet potato fondant) at Societi Bistro, at 50 Orange Street, Gardens (+27 (0)21 424 2100).

Vide e Caffe (+27 (0)21 426 0627) and Manna ( +27 (0)21 426 2413), both on Kloof Street, are ideal stop-offs for brunches and posh snacking.

March–April Cape Town Festival is an exciting arts extravaganza that takes place in the City Bowl and at the Waterfront – the short-film and food offerings are the most exciting elements.