PETS NEED A Break too! (March 2025)

BY BRIAN BERKMAN

“LUXURY TRAVEL WRITER, BRIAN BERKMAN, SEARCHES OUT THE FABULOUS AND OFTEN AFFORDABLE OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO YOU AND YOUR PETS. JULIE, HIS RESCUED MIXED-BREED DOGGIE-DAUGHTER, INSISTS ON JOINING THEM.”

Brian Berkman recommends SÓTANO after an outstanding lunch and special canine company.

Cape Town’s Most Tail-Wagging Dining Destination: SÓTANO Welcomes All Members of the Family

At Mouille Point’s iconic seafront strip, where the historic Green Point Lighthouse stands watch, SÓTANO restaurant has mastered the art of inclusive dining – where four-legged friends are as welcome as their human companions. This Mediterranean-inspired eatery has become the Atlantic Seaboard’s go-to destination for pet owners seeking exceptional cuisine in a genuinely welcoming atmosphere.

“We believe dining out should be a family affair, and that includes our furry family members,” says co-owner Brendon Crew, whose establishment has garnered a loyal following among Cape Town’s pet-loving community. “There’s nothing better than seeing dogs and their owners enjoying our promenade location together, especially during those perfect Cape Town days.”

The restaurant’s dedicated “Fur Babies” menu has become legendary among local pet owners. Four-legged guests are treated to specially prepared dishes including homemade meatballs, hearty beef stew, and premium sausages. Each canine visitor receives their own comfortable pillow for relaxation, and water bowls are always kept fresh and full. “We’ve put as much thought into our pet menu as we have our human one,” Crew adds with a smile. “Some of our regular dogs even have their favourite dishes!”

While pets lounge contentedly on the terrace, their owners can indulge in SÓTANO’s newly revamped seafood and sushi menu. The restaurant’s prime location, with its sweeping ocean views, provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying fresh Cape seafood and expertly crafted sushi. The outdoor seating area, designed with both human and canine comfort in mind, offers plenty of space and shade for pets while their owners savour signature dishes like the spectacular Seafood Espetada or Spanish Paella.

General Manager Lara Hatton notes that the pet-friendly policy has created a unique community atmosphere. “We often see friendships form between both pets and their owners. It’s wonderful to witness how food and pets bring people together. Many of our regular customers initially discovered us because we welcome pets, but they keep coming back for the exceptional food and atmosphere.”

The restaurant’s Mediterranean influence extends beyond just the menu to embrace the cultural appreciation for long, leisurely meals enjoyed in good company – whether that company has two legs or four. The spacious layout ensures that both pets and diners can coexist comfortably, while the attentive staff are well-versed in caring for guests of all species.

“Being truly pet-friendly isn’t just about allowing dogs,” explains Crew. “It’s about creating an environment where both pets and their owners feel genuinely welcomed and comfortable. Our staff know many of our regular pets by name, and we’ve trained them to be attentive to both human and animal needs.”

From sunrise to sunset, SÓTANO offers an all-day dining experience that caters to every occasion. Early morning dog-walkers can enjoy breakfast on the terrace, while the afternoon and evening crowds might come for the signature seafood dishes, craft cocktails, and carefully curated wine list. The restaurant’s position on the popular Sea Point promenade makes it an ideal pit stop during daily walks, with many pet owners making it their regular meeting point.

The interior design, while sophisticated with its handcrafted ceramic fish installations and nautical themes, maintains a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that puts both two-legged and four-legged guests at ease. The outdoor seating area features both sunny and shaded spots, with plenty of space between tables to accommodate pets of all sizes.

SÓTANO’s commitment to being genuinely pet-friendly while maintaining its reputation for excellent cuisine proves that fine dining and furry friends can coexist beautifully. Whether you’re stopping by for a post-walk coffee, enjoying a leisurely lunch with your pooch, or settling in for a sunset dinner with your canine companion, SÓTANO offers a warm welcome to all members of the family.

The best news, as far as Julie, our doggie-daughter is concerned, is that the green belt directly opposite next to the Promenade is a free-running area.

Open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:30 PM, SÓTANO provides a true home away from home for Cape Town’s pet owners who refuse to compromise on either their dining experience or their pets’ comfort. For reservations, call +27 (21) 433-1757 or book online at www.sotano.co.za – and don’t forget to mention your four-legged dining companion!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Images sourced from Sotano’s Instagram page @sotanoct.