PANAMA JACKS, CAPE TOWN HARBOUR

If you’ve had enough of the stuffy restaurants in the V&A Waterfront and you want a more adventurous outing, this is the place for you. Panama Jacks opened its doors in 1989, originally as a boat yard servicing the Royal Cape Yacht Club. These days it’s one of the best seafood restaurants in the city. Look for the bright blue roof among the grey industrial buildings. Ask to sit near a window – on a clear day you can see Table Mountain peeking out between the shipping containers. A pirate would feel right at home: Flags are draped across the ceiling and tanks bubble with crayfish and abalone. The candles on the tables give the dimly lit place a romantic atmosphere. The menu offers a wide variety of dishes and you can get everything from a Black Label quart to a bottle of French champagne at the bar. Try the chardonnay mussels in a cream sauce (R70) or brave a tequila and oyster shooter (R36). For mains, take your pick from a range of fresh seafood or sushi. Where? Follow Christiaan Barnard Street away from the mountain to the harbour and sign in at the security office. Turn right once you’re in the harbour and drive about 2 km until you see the Panama Jacks sign pointing left. GPS: S33.91989 E18.45091 Opening times: Lunch daily from noon until 2.30 pm; dinner from 6.30 pm to 10.30 pm. Contact: 021 448 1080; panamajacks.net