Reverie Social Table – Cape Town’s Most Unique Restaurant

Last Updated on March 23, 2025 by Hannah Stephenson

Cape Town is teeming with great restaurants, but if it’s a real dining experience that you’re after, then allow me to introduce you to Reverie Social Table. Part restaurant, part dinner party, this intimate eatery is unlike any other in the city!

I recently tried out the Social Table for myself and I had the most wonderful evening. So now, I’m here with my honest review of Cape Town’s unmissable foodie experience. Keep on reading for all of the need-to-know info so that you can decide whether or not Reverie Social Table is for you. 

What is Reverie Social Table?

Reverie Social Table is the brainchild of Chef Julia Hattingh. Each night, she creates a unique five-course menu with seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, so no two evenings at Reverie are ever the same. 

The food is thoughtfully paired with a LOT of local wine, so you get to try a ton of the Western Cape’s best vino while you’re here. 

But what really sets this dining experience apart is the communal dining concept. Guests eat at an 18-seater dining table, which makes way for conversations and laughter all night long. Chef Julia also got us to get up and shuffle around twice during the meal, so that we were able to get to know as many new people as possible.

Why I chose Reverie Social Table

After spending some time at home in the UK, I stayed with my friend, Sarah, on my return to Cape Town. I wanted to take her out somewhere nice to thank her for having me. I initially booked a fancy restaurant but Sarah’s a real foodie and so I wanted something more unique. 

After a little research, I came across Reverie Social Table. I instantly knew that Sarah would love the dinner party concept, so I booked it right there and then. 

I booked Reverie seven weeks in advance and even then, there were very limited dates available! In fact, I managed to snag the last two spots on the night that we went. 

Moral of the story: if you want to dine here, you need to book well in advance. You can check availability here.

My experience at Reverie Social Table

I was so excited to surprise Sarah with our evening at Reverie Social Table. I had told her we were going out somewhere, but she had no idea what we would be doing! 

We were actually the first to arrive at Reverie. Chef Julia gave us a warm welcome and led us out into the garden, where we started the evening with a crisp glass of white wine. Before long, the other guests started to show up. I actually got chatting with a couple who were here for their third time, which I took as a very good sign.

We were seated just after 7 pm, and the feast began. It started out with freshly baked bread, as every great meal should, and then we were served a light cherry salad. It was paired with a local chardonnay, and that was just the beginning. 

During these first courses, I was sitting next to a lovely couple who were in Cape Town on their honeymoon, and I realised I even had a mutual friend with them from back in the UK. How crazy is that?

Before each course was served, Chef Julia gave us a little introduction to the food and wine. It was great to hear her insights into the local farms and their sustainable practices. It was so evident that a lot of care and thought had gone into every detail of our meal. 

I could sit here all day and talk about the food, but for me, the highlights were definitely the fresh tomato salad and indulgent mac and cheese. My absolute favourite, though, was our second course which was white fish in a light curry sauce. I wish I could eat it again!

The menu changes all the time based on what’s fresh and in season so you won’t get the exact same meal I did, but trust me, you’re in for a treat.

The food was exceptional, but I also loved getting to meet so many new people. Our table was full of travellers from all over the world and we had such a great evening together. Most of the group actually headed out to party together afterwards! 

I also have to give a shout out to the waitstaff, who were so kind and kept our glasses full all night. I left feeling absolutely trollied and had a very sore head the next morning. It was 100% worth it though!

How much does it cost?

An evening at Reverie Social Table costs R1,480. The full amount is payable at the time of booking, although you can cancel up to 48 hours before the night of your dinner party. 

This price includes an incredible five course meal and basically unlimited wine. So honestly, while it may seem like a lot, you would easily rack up this kind of bill in one of Cape Town’s fancy restaurants – especially if you had as many glasses of wine as I did. 

Where is Reverie Social Table and how do I get there?

Reverie Social Table is in Observatory, which is about 10 minutes outside of the city center. Take an Uber here, because you will be in no fit state to drive afterwards! 

What time does it start and end?

The experience starts at 6:30 pm, with seating at 7 pm. We left at around 11:30 pm, so we were there for 5 hours in total.

Are tips included?

No, but you can leave a tip with either cash or card at the end of the night. Tipping is customary in South Africa, and 12 – 15% is the standard these days. The service here was absolutely amazing though, so feel free to leave more if you feel it’s warranted. I think I tipped about R350 in the end.

What if I need to cancel?

Payment for Reverie Social Table is upfront, but you can cancel for up to 48 hours before your booking and receive a full refund. If you need to change the date of the booking, you can do that up to 24 hours in advance.

What if I have allergies?

When you book Reverie Social Table, there’s a section of the booking form that asks about allergies. So just let Chef Julia know what your dietary requirements are and you’ll be well looked after.

Are you affiliated with Reverie Social Table?

No, I wish! I came across the experience on my own and paid in full for my experience. This is a totally independent review and I won’t earn any commission from any bookings, either. 

Would I dine at Reverie Social Table again?

Yes and I fully plan on doing so. It’s a really special experience that showcases the Western Cape’s fantastic wine and produce, and a fantastic way to connect with new people. I can’t wait to come back! 

You can book Reverie Social Table here! 

Thanks so much for reading this blog post! I hope you have a blast at Reverie Social Table, just like I did. For more unique and exciting experiences in Cape Town, check out the following resources:

• Stellenbosch Wine Tractor – Everything You Need to Know! 
• Hiking India Venster – What You Need to Know!
• How to Visit the Langebaan Lagoon in West Coast National Park 
• Guide to Visiting Bo Kaap: Cape Town’s Most Colourful Neighbourhood!
• Champagne Sunset Cruise in Cape Town – Is It Worth it? (Honest Review!)