This is one of Simon’s Town’s best-kept secrets. Located at the south end of Simon’s Town and owned and run by a local Capetonian, Sophea Gallery is a spiritual art gallery with various forms of fine art, as well as a Tibetan teahouse offering “food for body and soul”. Their all-day menu consists of a variety of sweet and savory vegetarian dishes, including baked goods, soups, salads, stews and desserts. The prices are extremely competitive, starting at R17 (US$1.70) and capping at R50 (US$5).
We went in to browse their crafts and stayed for lunch when we smelled the delicious lunch being prepared. Being a cooler day in the Cape, we ordered the Gonga Thukpa Soup, a traditional vegetable soup with rice noodles (R35) and Sakarkhanda Ko Tarkari, a Nepalese sweet potato and pea curry served with rice, yogurt and chutney (R49). Don’t forget to try the traditional Tibetan Butter Tea, it is surprisingly fulfilling for the savory taste bud. The vibe is very laid back and the staff is exceptionally friendly – definitely a place we can come on a regular basis without breaking out budget.
Best deal: Gonga Thukpa Soup – R35 (US$3.50)
Must try: Tibetan butter tea R12 (US $1.20)
Pros:
- Relaxed ambience
- Good service
- Easy to find on main road with street parking nearby
- Great view of False Bay with outdoor tables on sheltered verandah
- Low prices
- Vegetarian
Cons:
- No espresso
Sophea Gallery & Tibetan Teahouse
2 Harrington Road
Simon’s Town, 7975
+27 21 786-1544
www.sopheagallery.com