Located in a tranquil spot in Hout Bay, the Lookout Deck is a great casual date option that’s just a short drive from Cape Town proper. Come before sunset and sit on the deck facing the marina and watch the water turn inky dark, while shadows cast on the boat masts as the sun sinks lower over the Atlantic Ocean. Since it is a big place, it’s also conducive to private conversations – you don’t feel like you are sitting atop the people dining next to you, and if you sit outside on the deck you’ll have a whole big wooden picnic table.

Begin with a round of oysters, which are fresh and delicious. If you can’t stomach live shellfish, there are also focaccia bread starters in a range of flavors and a rotating soup special. For mains, the menu features options for every craving – from seafood offerings to flame-grilled meats to wood oven pizzas.

Portion sizes are really solid – my grilled calamari entree came with three big pieces of steak along with the heaping portion of mashed potatoes I substituted for the usually accompanying fries (without an up-charge). My dining companion ordered a BBQ pork rib pizza, which was really quite tasty for a seafood restaurant. Other popular items include three seared tuna steak served in three different ways, and fish and chips. There are also lamb, chicken and beef burger choices.

Service was friendly and efficient and although not flowery or romantic — the location really does work well for a first or second date. It also works well for families, as there is plenty of space to move about. If you plan to dine on the deck (recommended), bring a jacket as the wind can be cold even in summer.