In Cape Town, local seafood is a must-try, and Miller’s Thumb is a great place to get your fix. Their eclectic menu blends traditional and ethnic flavors, and fresh seafood is clearly the focus. The menu is geared towards daily specials highlighting what’s freshest.

I visited for dinner quite late on a Wednesday night and was surprised to find the cozy Cape-house-turned-restaurant packed with an energetic vibe. Reservations are definitely recommended. Tables are spread through the rooms of the main floor with a bar built in one corner and the kitchen on the opposite side. Bright orange and green walls give the place a vibrant feel, certainly a tropical flair.

The jovial, casual, and unpretentious atmosphere of Miller’s Thumb belies the top notch seafood. When I visited, fresh oysters, tuna, dorado, kingklip, and kabeljou were featured on the specials board. The helpful staff came around right away to enquire whether I was familiar with the local fish and explain the finer points of texture and flavor of each option. Fish is served a variety of ways—besides grilled with lemon, you can choose Cajon, Moroccan, Malay, or a special.

I tried the peri peri calamari tube starter, which was super tender and delicious, and the creamy peri peri (a Portuguese/Mozambican spicy sauce) didn’t pull any punches. For the main, I had the kabeljou in a special Indian tikka preparation. The fish was meaty yet very juicy and flavorful, and the tikka rub with fresh coriander was very tasty. Miller’s also offers a reasonable selection of local wines.

The owners’ passion for food and fun are on clear display. If you like great food and attentive service but prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, I would highly recommend Miller’s Thumb for an enjoyable meal.

Miller’s Thumb is located in trendy Tamboerskloof; parking is available at the school around the corner.