One of my favourite things to do (I have many!) is to explore the local market scene. We really are spoilt for choice in the Western Cape and there is certainly no shortage of markets in and around Cape Town. You can find everything from farmer and foodie markets that offer freshly harvested fruits and vegetables and heavenly gastronomic delights to vintage markets selling a wide range of vintage clothing and other retro items. Markets that cater for families are increasingly popular as there is usually entertainment for the kids and space for them to run around to their hearts content. At this time of year, you’ll find a whole host of Christmas and gift markets popping up, great for finding that perfect and perhaps unique gift for that special someone.

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My favourite type of market is one that has a little bit of everything – delicious foodie treats, great drinks (I’m especially partial to bubbly!), live music, plenty of retail therapy and a cool vibe. If you’re looking for a market like this, then I’ve got just the one for you! Recently named as one of the top 6 must-visit markets in Cape Town is the Bay Harbour Market in Hout Bay. Housed in an old authentic fish factory in a working harbour, it is the real deal.

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I first fell in love with this indoor market a few years back and have been itching to go back. So hubby and I popped in a few Sundays ago and spent a couple of very happy hours just chilling out, relaxing and listening to awesome live music while noshing on some yummy food and drinks – bubbly for me and beer for hubby!

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As you enter this vibrant and eclectic market, you will find everything from arts, decor, clothing, books, old vinyl records, bags, jewellery and shoes, just to name a few – it’s retail therapy at its best! I love the fact that many items are unique and also well-priced.

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Because of the market’s popularity, it can be a bit of a squeeze at times but I find the best thing is to be patient and go with the flow. As there are a limited amount of tables, they are only for use if you’re eating. Once you’re done, you get up and give others a chance to eat too. This system works quite well and most people are quite happy to do so. There is also a smallish outdoor area for the smoking crowd.  If you do bring your kids along, keep them entertained at the cool Kids Cove, an entertainment area designed just for them while you relax and enjoy the cool market vibe.

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There is so much to choose from on the foodie side of things that I find it quite tough to decide what to nibble on. I don’t think you could possibly leave this market hungry! Seafood, sushi, burgers, pizza, soup, wraps, LCHF for the Banters, ice-cream, pancakes, waffles – you name it, they’ve got it.

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As for the drinks, the list is endless too – craft beers and commercial beers on tap, wine, bubbly and cocktails, as well as juice, sodas and water for the non-drinkers.

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After sharing a pack of kudu biltong (so yum!), I finally decided on a crayfish and mango soft shell pocket with a slightly tangy curry mayonnaise from the Food Pirate. My taste buds went into overdrive and it reminded me of the vibrant food we ate whilst living in the Cayman Islands – there ain’t nothing like Caribbean food! Sadly, I gobbled it up before taking a photo, so you’ll just have to go there and try it  for yourself!

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Now that I’ve told you all about this awesome market, you’ve got to go if you’ve never been before. It’s a great spot to enjoy some fab food, drinks and live music in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere and your visitors are sure to love it. Don’t be surprised if you get “bitten” by the “Bay Harbour Market bug” which will see you returning over and over again. I’m already planning my next visit 🙂