From the African Queen bar to sunlit tables framed by wall-to-wall windows, it’s a place to linger over golden bitterballen, enjoy a slow lunch, and watch the bustle of the working harbour drift by.
The menu is anchored in Belgian classics with a Cape Town twist. Moules Marinières, seared tuna, Steak au Poivre, and signature bitterballen are all crafted with fresh local ingredients. And for dessert? Their famous waffles with strawberries are the sweet full stop to a perfect meal.
Whether it’s a casual drink, a celebratory dinner, or a long-overdue catch-up, Den Anker turns moments into memories. Their warm, people-first approach blends the best of European tradition with Cape Town’s laid-back charm, making it a must-visit for locals and travellers alike.
When lockdown hit, Den Anker transformed its network into a lifeline, creating 12 community kitchens and serving over 250,000 meals since. They continue to fight hunger, save food from landfills, and support neighbourhood initiatives, work that earned them the Social Impact Award at the 2024 V&A Neighbourhood Awards.
Having been tenants for 30 years, Den Anker is proud of its longstanding relationship with the V&A Waterfront. This recognition honours the time and effort they have invested in fostering a positive presence within the precinct and surrounding neighbourhoods.
The Den Anker Team
Generosity is part of the recipe at Den Anker. Whether through the meals they serve or the community projects they champion, their work has purpose — and their table is always set for Capetonians and diners from near and far.