Harbour House is something of an institution in Cape Town’s dining scene, with the original Kalk Bay restaurant having been around for years. And though the saying may go ‘if it ain’t broke don’t fix it’ it doesn’t apply to the Harbour House group. Never resting on their laurels, a third Harbour House has been added to the family. This one, in Constantia Nek, is the latest addition to join the Kalk Bay and Waterfront branches. And while the two stalwart restaurants may have big boots to fill, the Constantia Nek offering maintains standards wonderfully.

This Harbour House sets up shop in iconic Constantia Nek, which after a delicate facelift, is light, airy and spacious. With one entire wall of floor-to-ceiling windows, you wouldn’t be mad to go for the views alone. If you’re coming for the views, though, you’ll be staying for the food. True to Harbour House form, the food on offer is everything you have come to love of the brand. Delivering on the promises of its sister restaurants, Harbour House Constantia Nek serves up refreshed seafood inspired dishes. There is everything from sushi to shellfish to heaping seafood platters with calamari, mussels, prawns and line fish.

This Harbour House makes for the ideal celebratory spot. And for that, the crayfish is very special. Simply prepared over a grill and brushed with a garlicky-lemon butter, served with perfect chips on the side. If you’re looking to treat yourself, this is the ideal dish for it. With a drink in hand, this crayfish in front of you and the sweeping Constantia valley views, you pretty much can’t go wrong. While the menu may be extensive, don’t overlook the specials blackboard, which features the available fish of the day. It’s here that you’ll find dishes like the impressive pan-fried kingklip, with spinach, grilled artichokes and grapefruit drizzled in a heavenly citrus beurre blanc. Unfussy, clean flavours that let the fish do all the talking. If you’re swayed by the sweet stuff, don’t skip desserts, the creme brûlée especially is ridiculously good.

As you would expect of a brand that has been around for nearly 20 years, the service is slick, flawless and charismatic. Everyone knows their stuff too and can expertly answer any questions relating to food, wine or otherwise. If you were part of the crowd that pines for the Constantia Nek glory days, fear not. Harbour House is a worthy successor and will no doubt become an institution in its own right. Whether you’re looking for somewhere special to celebrate, have a meeting, a first date or even just casual dinner, you won’t go wrong with this restaurant. Harbour House has you covered in every way.

Great seafood, wine and vibes!