A little gem of a place! Seeking some really good steak I turned to FourSquare which listed this spot. I didn't hesitate to contact them and make a booking for 30 minutes later. The speaker on the phone was witty, friendly and very professional.
On arrival, we were quickly shown to our table, where Meryl served us for the evening. The starters were quickly served - which set a good tone for the evening! Main was the same and the steak was cooked to perfection! It was juicy and looked amazing too.
I would definitely recommend this place to anybody looking for a cozy, quiet spot to enjoy great steak!! Thanks Meryl for an excellent service last night.
You will definitely see us again to explore more of your menu.
Стейк из страуса очень вкусный и сочный , рекомендую попробовать ! The ostrich steak is very tasty and juicy, I recommend to try it!
Met local residents for a reunion dinner. In their words "a bit pricier than most local restaurants but well worth it" and it surely was. Fabulous meals and great service and ambience. Definitely recommend it.
Superb in every way. Old school charm, great service with friendly staff. The 800g T-bone had amazing flavour and was cooked to perfection. Ludicrous value for money.
I've never had a bad experience at Nelsons eye. All the waiters and staff are completely competent, experienced and knowledgeable. I would recommend it only to my closest friends. Perfect steaks, great vibe and excellent service
This place is absolutely amazing! The best steak I have had. Our server was amazing! Awesome little restaurant.
Real food done really well. Outstanding menu, from the meats to the seafood to the pasta to the sides. Top-notch cooking. Great wine list. Go there, then go again and again.
I absolutely loved the vibe, the food and the atmosphere that was there. Felt comfortable and had a great night! My sirloin was perfectly grilled and I actually finished my meal! Will definitely recommend the place to friends and family!
Awesome, just awesome! I didn't even have to chew my steak it just melted in my mouth... best steak in Cape Town!
How does this work. We have eaten in your restaurant tonight and when asked about the early bird menu was told they didn't exist and yet you advertise them on FB and your website? Steve H confused😦
What an amazing place to eat. The steaks we're fabulous and the steaks just melts in your mouth. I can't wait to go back.
If you come to Cape Town and don't come and eat here. In my opinion it's as much a landmark as table mountain. Best steak in town bar far
Tom Are Byman Andersen
+5
The best steak I have ever been served Absolutely worth a visit!
Don't question it just go. If anyone asks or a hotel suggests, just go and go hungry. Well worth the experience.
The most amazing dead cow ever. Everything was perfect.
Hands down one of the best steaks myself and my husband have ever eaten. The service and staff were amazing!!! Highly recommend this place, couldn’t fault it
Ah this place is just great, food is awesome, beer is cold, service is friendly, not much more you can ask for, when In Cape Town, dinning out here is a must.
The ribs were unbelievable so was the fish (kingclip) with mussels and prawn. Absolutely delicious. The snail sauce is a must try! All paired nicely with some white wine!
Back after many years! Absolutely loved it! Such detail to each customer, best waitress ive had in long time and without a doubt every meal ordered at our table was insane! Loved it!
The BEST ever!!!! Ordered snails n fillet in medium rare with Russian sauce on too! Meat is perfect and the sauce was so rich. Totally worth it even though its slighly pricey comparing to other steak place! Staff was friendly too! Must try!
We arrived late and only for desserts. Old day ambience with a lively crowd. Food looked great. We chose creme brûlée and were very happy. Recommended for a fun night out.
I’m always on a mission for ‘the best steak’ in town. I’ve realized that maybe there isn’t ‘one’ best steak but lots. Also, steaks differ from place to place. Anyway Nelson’s Eye make a steak that competes with my other three favorites (Wombles, Grillhouse & Local Grill) The trick is to have all three toppings on it (also something I never do is have toppings), Butter, crispy onions and diced jalapeños on an aged 300g Rump is out of this world. I’ve had it a few times to confirm. It’s unreal, try it. Also their fillet on the bone is fab. Go for it.
Very unassuming place, but don’t let that fool you. The service was great , the food came out really fast and made to standard. This is not nouvelle cuisine but it’s just above good pub fair. Nothing to complain about and definitely had a good time. I would say a Cape Town hidden gem.
Such a hidden GEM!!!
The steaks were all cooked to perfection 💯
A bit overpriced in my option (otherwise it would be 5 stars)
I'd rate it one of the best steaks I've ever had in South Africa and Cape town hands down!
Service was pleasant.
Would definitely want to return buy because of the price range, not as often.
Great food, fantastic service (thank you Craig!!). ?Owner/manager (? Steve) needs to take a chill pill & actually help the staff instead of berate them in the middle of the restaurant in the thick of a busy service. Very poor form. We witnessed at least four separate staff members being “told off”. Of the one we did hear clearly was Steve telling the waiter not to refill water in the midst of such a busy time... yet he then never helped clear plates or re-set a table with waiting customers at the door. Made for a very awkward meal and created a very tense atmosphere. Would have rated 5 if not for Steve.
Excellent steaks but lacked a bit of ambiance. All 4 diners very happy with their meals. They also tried to serve us warm(ish) beer after their stocks had run low.
Another annual attendance at this hidden gem. Efficient and knowledgeable staff make this restaurant a pleasure to eat at. The food is always great - meat cooked to perfection.
I was there about 2 weeks ago, you won't be disappointed at all with the food and service. I can safely say they have the BEST steak I've ever had in Cape Town and I have been to a lot of restaurants that are supposedly the best and nothing beats Nelson's eye. The staff were attentive and our waiter such a friendly fellow even went out of his way to call us a cab home after our wonderful dinner. Being a very difficult person to please when it comes to what I eat, I would definitely recommend anyone who loves good food to go here you won't be disappointed at all. I certainly will coming back as I had no complaints. I had their fillet steak with some cherry sauce for my main and malva pudding for dessert my taste buds were blown away. They don't have cocktails on their menu but again our waiter went out of his way to make some for us as we are not big fans of wine. Excellent service and great food.
The Nelsons Eye has always been our favorite steak place in town. Very well established and the meat is well chosen and hung. The sirloin on the bone currently the best option. Wines expensive!! But you can bring one bottle in no corkage.
We will return.
It was my first visit to the city of my dream Cape town, and of course I cannot leave South Africa if I don't taste their wine and their steak. One of my colleagues suggested to go to Nelson's for dinner. And by only looking at the place you can tell that it is a hidden gem lost in the amazing city of Cape town. People were standing in line to get a table the restaurant is small and cosy yet very busy and vibrant. Nothing fancy at all, as if we were at home a regular table with nothing on it. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, explaining the wine and the food menu recommending items and promoting others. And eventhough I personally don't like steaks but I ordered some because its south africa!. And how lucky I was for having it, the meat was medium rare, juicy very thick alongside some mashed potatoes a top notch meal. And we had a local red wine as well, it was one of the most perfect meals I had so far. Highly recommended restaurant when visiting Cape Town.
The best meat and chips in town cooked to perfection. Excellent service. . A very busy and good vibe restaurant. Recommend u book as it is packed with overseas visitors
Lamb chops are absolutely Divine ...Grilled to perfection ...great Quality ...authentic atmosphere... Steve is " The Guy"... #Steak me home tonight..
We were transported back to the 60's when we entered Nelson's Eye. The best steakhouse in the Cape by far. Uncomplicated decor and setting.
We had T-bone medium rare with Madagascar sauce and the beef kebab 300g also medium rare. A Jalapeño topping accompanied that. The only sides ordered were the pan fried mushrooms with a touch a garlic. The meals was accompanied by fries, spinach and pumpkin. Left untouched though. This was 60's old school dining.
Both dishes were done to perfection and the mushrooms divine.
An Allesveloren Shiraz 2013 complimented the meal superbly.
Lovely atmosphere with attentive service.
If you want a great steak without outrageous pricing and no fuss, treat your to Nelson's Eye.
This beautiful steak house is a well known location in Cape Town. The steak is superbly cooked my a master artisan, servicd is excellent and the ambiance is warm and cosy. The restaurant is decorated by dark varnished wood and paintings. Its really luxurious and one of the best stake houses in Cape Town
Nelson's Eye is one of those few restaurants where it's history is really cherished. The acclaimed steak house is almost as old as the business in Cape Town - making steaks for too many years. Strangely, I love them for their delicious grilled chicken and vegetable sides. The steaks are usually great, however sometimes are slightly overdone. The baked potato with sour cream is a favourite with regulars, and their side dishes and sauces are always great. The wait staff are very professional, and seem to take pride in their work - always lovely. The only downside is the price - they are quite pricey. If you want a taste of history, while enjoying a hearty steak - give them a try. 80%.
Nelson's Eye has always been a great experience for me. Of course, this might not be the same for everyone, however, I have never felt myself needing to complain. Very nice atmosphere, as well as excellent food (especially the sirloin and fillet). Highly recommended.
Brilliant steak. There's no second guessing their many accolades as "best steak in SA & CPT" a true must try! So genuinely food food and a little drink ;) I must highly recommend a visit for those meat eaters out there!
Excellent steaks and old style fried rice. Onion rings extra crispy and delicious Highly recommended restaurant. Quite liked the decor - fits the name and takes you to a bygone era.
Hands down THE best steak you will ever have! An old CBD favourite, nelson's eye has quite literally been around for longer than I have been alive - and as they say, practice makes perfect.
I personally recommend the rump, topped with a pepper sauce and crispy onions. But I'm sure you'll be able to find your favourite cut of meat on the menu.
The staff are friendly, the food is delicious, and you really do just feel right at home the second you walk in 🍴
Cape Towns best hidden secret!
Immediately when entering through the 'Nelsons eye' door we were greeted with smiles and friendly faces all around. The range of meats on the menu is amazing and all of the waiters are very knowledgable in this field aswell. I had the mushroom and garlic flambe which is unquestionably the best steak I have ever eaten! Thanks so much to Steve and the team for maintaining such an incredible restaurant that continuously offers delishes food and impeccable service. We will definitely be back!
Margot Lynn Summerfield
+4.5
I cannot express how impressed I am with this restaurant. Fast service with a smile. Great food. Small intimate surroundings. I would definitely recommend this place!
Great steak and good wine, however the price did not match the quality of food we received. Better pricing would have resulted in higher scoring but the expectation was set by the price on the menu and unfortunately we did not feel that the steak met this expectation. Over all good experience and great atmosphere, really good wines on selection and great friendly staff.
I really enjoyed my dinner at Nelson's Eye. Being a vegetarian for most of my life, this experience was novel and I don't really know how to rate steak. That said, my meal was delicious! I had their lasagna and a 380g sirloin. I enjoyed the intimacy of the restaurant (it's big, but divided into small rooms) and the old-school bathrooms. I had a really fun chat with the owner/manager over a cigarette outside, who educated me on choosing the correct meat for my preferences. Verdict: good evening!
Right from the start, meeting the owner you can tell that this is a personal and heritage driven grill house...
The atmosphere was that of an English pub house, lively with the right amount of noise (if there was too much noise, it was my tables fault)...
The staff were very friendly and helpful, and efficient where it mattered...
The food was truly enjoyable and portion sizes were good (I did have the Double patty burger which would explain that). My only gripe would be the prices, as a surcharge for more than 6 people was implemented, but considering the 170 rand price tag on a burger, it seemed a bit steep nonetheless...
The environment was small, keeping to the old pub aesthetics but never truly felt cramped...
All and all I really enjoyed my evening, and going with a large group is a must, as the vibe is just suited for "banter & beer" kind of experience, just be prepared for a fairly large price tag at the end, but one that I didn't mind paying...
I would recommend this stunning establishment to anyone that is looking for a good meal & great service.
The food was incredible, tasty and filling. The service was very good. The staff approached us open arms and lovely attitudes.
I was very happy with the overall experience and would recommend this establishment to family's groups of friends, or anyone looking for a filling meal.
What a great experience. Not much open in Cape Town central on a Sunday night but we were recommended this restaurant. Not much to look at from the outside, but from the moment we entered, we were greeted in A welcoming manner . We had come from the rugby sevens. Our waiter was great and very attentive. We then all had the most amazing steaks which were cooked to perfection. The baked potatoes, veggies and a wide range of sauces complimented the meal beautifully. Will definitely go again when next in Cape Town .
Nelson's Eye is a Cape Town institution.
Tucked away in a suburban side street, you'd never guess they were serving mouthwateringly marvelous food inside.
My partner loved the Angels on horse back starter. We both loved our steaks and will back again as soon as we're in Cape Town.
Gold stars!!
Good steakhouse. Had ordered their T-bone: Prepaired slightly rawer than expected, but succulent and warm till the end. Cozy atmosphere and friendly service
We felt incredibly well looked after this evening at Nelson's Eye. Staff and management made special arrangements for us to watch the rugby with commentary and there was a lovely atmosphere -old pub meets up market restaurant. All were pleased with their orders which ranged from sea food to vegetarian and steaks. The meat was a particular stand out. A really happy, satisfying evening. Looking forward to returning!
My first visit which was Spur of the moment and no reservation! Lovely quaint bar vibe but was a bit surprised at their pricing which I thought was slightly on the more expensive side given the "pub" vibe. Having said that "Hubby's" 320g sirloin was to perfection according to him and it looked sublime!!! Served with a side salad, veg and fried onion rings...I opted for the pumkin and cumin soup (due to a "tooth" issue) and it was fantastically spiced and creamy! A lot of foreigners around us which is always a good indication!!!
Hands down the best steak I've had in South Africa. Pricey, but worth going to on a special occasion. We were warmly greeted by the owner upon arrival and seated quickly.
We started with the pear and blue cheese salad, it was good, but not the best I've had.
For mains, we both had a fillet steak with cafe, chili and special toppings (garlic butter, jalapenos and onion rings) and it really was sensational! Steak was done perfectly and the toppings really complimented the meat. (definitely recommend this)
Very intimate setting, and perfect for a date/anniversary/ special occasion.
A quaint place serving hearty meals. We opted for the specials and the steaks were reasonable. I don't know if I would go back and pay the full price though.
Expensive. But the steak is absolutely delicious. And they are generous with their sides (starch, butternut and creamed spinach). If you don't mind spending R250 on a steak then Nelsons Eye is a good choice (I've never had a bad steak there)! Perfectly cooked and the steak basting is to die for!
A British pub atmosphere and some of the best steaks you'll ever have! The service is attentive and friendly. Prices are a bit steep, but are worth the extra buck!
Finding places that consistently deliver a perfect steak is a little hobby of mine, so believe me when I say that their steak is GOOD!
The restaurant itself is quite old fashioned and maybe a bit dated in its decor but I'd go back again and again for that steak. I had the fillet with chips and you also get butternut and spinach on the side. Really very yummy indeed.
The current Winter specials are also super reasonable and good value for money!
Loved the food at nelson's eye!! My husband loved the steak so much ... That he dreams of going there everyday!!!
Will come back again.. Whenever we are in CPT!
The menu is a real throwback but good choices. Had the pepper flambé. It was delicious, great cut of meat and the sauce was delicious. The baked potato as an accompaniment was good loaded with sour cream and butter. Wine list is decent but pricey. For dessert I had the sorbet - did what a sorbet should. Friend had cassata - was nice enough.
Best steak house in the mother city area apart from the price! If you want to see you steak being prepared for you in an open kitchen then visit Nelson's eye!!! The starters were meal approved! Meaning that my starter chicken livers with rice was more than enough to start with!!! My main meal was a medium done fillet with a baked potato! Only down fall was that when there was a problem in the kitchen with staff and cook,you would hear it and see it! It's like eating at home with your family while being served upon !
Highly recommended
Probably the best steakhouse in the city bowl area. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive and seemed to go well out of their way to make us feel welcome. Food was sublimely prepared and also a pretty great selection on the wine. Will definitely be going back
Hostess seemed a bit snobbish. So that wasn't a great welcome. Waiter was great so that made up for it. As expected the food was sublime. Such a great tasting steak and the Princess sauce I picked to go with it was a good choice. My partner said his pepper fillet was divine and the best steak he has ever had.
The decor. Oh dear. When you go to a restaurant where the flambé steaks are over R300, you expect the decor to not be from the rinderpest era. One can do a couple of updates without losing the character of such a great landmark. Just the carpets, lighting, tiles and perhaps the wall where the air conditioner looks like it was put in the wall by someone who thinks he knows what he is doing.
That evening (by 8pm) all the traditional Creme Brule was sold out. The malva pudding was my partner's choice which is always a winner. The chocolate mousse was incredible, the presentation was lacking a bit.
But the decor was the only bit that let the restaurant down.
Great steaks and deserts always enjoy my food when I go here,staff are friendly and a nice atmosphere I can recommend this place to anyone who enjoys their meat and they also have a vegetarian option
This place is ridiculous I have been here 50 times and it never lets me down . The only thing I don't like is that I don't eat there every day - steaks - fish - chicken and everything you eat here is a winner A+++++++
What a great restaurant. The service was good and the food was outstanding. The steak I had was really yummy. Will definitely go back. I love it there!
Another fantastic meal and good service.
Best steaks ever. Will be back for more.
Love the place always go back for more.
Thanks Steve for always making us feel at home
Best steaks in the world. No other place comes close. And all their other food is also awesome. I eat here 4 x per month.
If ever you feel like an awesome piece of meat, this place won't disappoint you.
Reshmi Muringathuparambil
+5
Nelson's Eye Restaurant is truly the best kept secret in Cape Town. Nobody makes steak quite like they do. Honestly, I can't even comment on whether they are pricy or not without adding that you get the best value for your money. It is the only place I go to when I want MEAT, and I have never once been disappointed.
Best service. Best steak. Go!
One of the best fillet steaks I've had in Cape Town. Hands down. Service is friendly and helpful, and it's great for couples or group dining. The variety in the menu is unexpectedly impressive as well. Definitely coming back here.
This place is old school but cool in the same breath. It is certainly not the cheapest steak in Cape Town but it is one of the best. We had a starter to share, 2 steaks and a bottle of wine.... R800 including tip. That's at the top end of what you will pay but it is worth it as the quality of the food and the service is top notch.
The decor is old, very old, but it sort of works for this place.
On my first day of traveling in Cape town, I asked one of my uber drivers what is the best steakhouse in Cape Town. He proudly introduced me this restaurant.
We went there with reservation. Everything went smooth and food was amazing. Also the staffs there were super friendly and attentive.
This will be the place I will recommend to my friends.
Try their Wagyu beef ribs!
The food was great and the staff was very friendly! Very appreciated that we did not have to wait for long for our food, even if there was around 150 people sitting on that day. There are some parking spaces in front of the restaurant guarded by someone.
PSA: trust me take the pork ribs, not the steak, you won't regret it.
Brilliant steak house for someone who has lived of good meats for a long time. Must try the Escargot and chicken livers for a good kick! Staff are super friendly too!
Great steak. We had the fillet on the bone and the rump 420g (definitely too much for one). The sides were a little disappointing. Spinach could have been more creamy and a more generous portion and the baked potato was a little small, plus the sour cream could have used some garnishing and/or fragrance. Starters were Burrata (lovely) and Kudu Carpaccio (lovely with Caperberries but could do with a little less grana padano on top). We paid R700 per person including a bottle of red wine and tip so would have expected a tad bit more for the budget.
Excellent steaks and excellent service. The staff was very friendly and gave us good recommendations.
Proper South African steakhouse. You’re going to pay a bit but the meat, service and “dark wood steakhouse” interior are a treat. Good wine selection goes well with a variety of cuts. I’ll be back
What a great gem of a place. I was completely unaware of them and found it with work colleagues through our steak club social.
This is a true steak house in the great traditional way. Proper food quality steaks. Lovely cuts to choose from. Their creamed spinach is awesome. They have a lovely option of condiments, chilly jalapenos, thinly crumbed and fried onions and yummy garlic mushrooms!
They are a bit pricey but well worth the effort. Their drinks are also not cheap. They charge R150 corkage per 750ml bottle wine and you can take 2 per 3 people.
We ran into the owner on the evening. Very nice to speak to him. He still believes in good customer service and even better food.
Will recommend them for sure and also go back for more.
Hidden Gem you must visit. My husband ate here six years ago and was impressed by the service, food and prices. It was at the top of his Cape Town to do list and did not disappoint. The restaurant is old school and part of the charm. Services are efficient And knowledgeable. The menu is quiet extensive and reasonable priced. The steak was delicious. Cooked perfectly. Highly recommend the fillet steak and grilled vegetables.
Definitely give this place a try over the other big chains, you won’t be disappointed
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I hardly eat at meats places when I'm in Cape Town (prefers more seafood because you are by the sea), but the food at this restaurant is amazing, and we were all craving eating meats.
Why I think this place's food is great? My opinion only - I can never eat a whole 200g sirloin without getting bored of it, and this time, I order more than 300g because I was sharing with my son. I was able to finish 200g and still want more. I digged into the steak without taking a picture!!! It was so good, juicy, soft and cooked perfectly. I had a good piece with enough meats to fats. Their basting made it perfect. We also ordered roasted vegetables and crispy fried onions as sides and 2 sauces. My mushroom sauce was so flavourful (best one I had so far). Roasted vegetables aren't just your typical carrots, butternuts but cauliflowers, broccolis, and purple cabbage in olive oil with some spices.
The place is so busy (recommend to book prior) and it is a big restaurant with upstairs but the spaces inside are like a tight-space you see in a pub in the UK. You do pay about R200 or more for a steak with a starch on the side. We had friendly service, food didn't take too long (the restaurant was fully booked), and I really enjoyed eating there.
Really liked the food here. One tip: maybe next time don’t add the extra sauce on the grilled meat. Some clients might not like it. Friendly staff! Great sides, big variety of wines to choose from. Loved the menu. Thank you!
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