Bianca Coleman’s favourite places and things to do

There is plenty to choose from, especially in Kloof Street and on Dunkley Square, with a huge selection of food types, and dress-up or dress-down styles. My favourite is Societi Bistro. Whether it’s a quick drink or business meeting in The Snug bar, a casual lunch outside with a view of Table Mountain, or a celebratory dinner inside the old converted house (which has a story all of its own; some residents will recall the woman who lived there, her colourful outfits, and her old car parked outside) with its bare brick walls and original fireplaces, Societi is a place for all seasons and all reasons. 021 424 2100

Coffee shops and bars, and then there is afternoon high tea at the Belmond Mount Nelson. For me, this remains the best in Cape Town. The spread of savoury and sweet treats is impressively immense and a range of teas is offered. 021 483 1000

The Labia is a charming gem. It is an independent cinema steeped in history. Here you get your popcorn in a brown paper bag and you can add vodka to your Slush Puppie. The movie line-up includes new commercial releases as well as all the best art films. Tickets, which are torn off a paper roll, are way less expensive than those in mall chain movie houses. 021 424 5927

De Waal Park, situated on the border of Gardens and Oranjezicht, is famous for its many varieties of trees (around 120 species) and the bandstand, which was built in 1903/04. During the summer months there are free live music performances in the park. It’s a popular place for dogs and their humans.

The lovely little City Bowl Market On Hope takes place every Thursday inside a hall from 4.30pm until 8.30pm. The space, at 14 Hope Street in Gardens, is set out with stalls all the way around the perimeter, with tables and chairs in the middle where you can sit while you listen to live music. Street food, local produce, gourmet goods, crafts and clothing. 083 676 6104