Fish on the Rocks

1 Harbour Rd, Hout Bay, Cape Town, 7806, South Africa

Cape Town

Open

Visit Website +27 21 790 0001

Cuisines

Bbq / barbecue

Influencer Reviews1

Mark Wiens

1/25/2026

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About

Fish On The Rocks is an iconic seafood eatery located in Hout Bay, Cape Town. Established decades ago, it has become a landmark for both locals and tourists seeking classic South African fish and chips. Renowned for its fresh catches and scenic seaside setting, the restaurant is celebrated for its quality, generous portions, and relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

The Visit

Fish On The Rocks delivers a quintessential Cape Town seafood experience, offering freshly fried fish and chips right by the sea. The reviewer praised the perfectly crisp batter, freshness of the fish, and the clean, non-greasy taste of both snoek and hake. The peri peri prawns were highlighted as a must-try, with their buttery, spicy flavor. The location, with sea breezes and mountain views, added to the memorable meal, making it a standout stop on the food tour.

What They Ate

Snoek & Chips

Hake & Chips

Peri Peri Prawns

Fries with vinegar seasoning

Fries with tomato sauce

Quotes

"[Snook Fish] fried it at just the right temperature, so it’s not an oil sponge."

"[Hake Fish] It is more buttery, more oily, with a flakier texture."

"[Chips] Crispy on the edges, soft, not soaked in the oil."

"It’s one of the greatest places to eat fish and chips when you’re in Cape Town."

Our Reflection

The experience at Fish On The Rocks is a celebration of freshness and simplicity. Each bite of fish reveals a mastery of frying—crisp batter, moist and flavorful interiors, and not a hint of excess oil. The snoek and hake each bring their own texture and taste, while the peri peri prawns add a fiery, buttery punch that lingers. The setting amplifies the meal: sea air, mountain views, and the hum of Cape Town life. It's a place where food and environment merge, leaving a lasting impression of South African coastal cuisine.

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