by Rick Bosch 

The World Cup has kicked off, and our entire country has a severe case of ‘Football Fever.’ People that have never watched a game of football in their lives are suddenly glued to their television sets; the talk on the streets is all about football. The net result: South Africa is a great place to be right now. Restaurants, pubs, and bars are constantly full, and the streets are a very pleasant place to be. As a huge fan of the sport and my country, I feel a great deal of pride in what we have achieved thus far – and the tournament is only a week old.

I was lucky enough to be at the very first game played at the brand new Green Point stadium here in Cape Town. I was nervous at first, because logistically there are so many factors that could spoil any football fan’s night, but I didn’t encounter a single one, well, except for the lackluster performances the two teams displayed. France and Uruguay were both flat, the game was a little dull, but the organizers and crowds were both exceptional. Visitors in South Africa can enjoy peace of mind that everything is running smoothly, albeit noisily, so please remember your earplugs.

Next up in my series of what to do when there’s no football (or even when there is) in Cape Town will cover a Cape Town specialty, the ‘Breakfast Run.’ There is quite literally a breakfast serving restaurant on just about every single block in the city. I frequent a couple of them and can highly recommend these two. The one thing these restaurants have in common is great food, inviting atmospheres, and the cornerstone of every great breakfast, great coffee.

Puka, Tamboerskloof

This hidden gem (it really is) can be found slightly off the beaten track – many locals don’t even know about it. I feel a little guilty telling the world about it, I would hate not being able to enjoy my bacon, egg, and cheddar rӧsti there on a Saturday morning, but for you I will make an exception. With a warm atmosphere, great coffee, and service with a smile, this little restaurant caters to everyone’s needs. The menu is impressive and the combinations used really are inspired and most importantly, delicious.

Sidewalk Café, Vredehoek

By using fresh produce the Sidewalk Café creates beautiful and extremely tasty meals. This neighbourhood favourite offers more than just great food, it also boasts some of the best views of the city you’re likely to find. Overlooking the stadium and Robben Island allows diners to tuck into their delicious eggs benedict whilst enjoying the splendor that is the Cape Town cityscape. Poached eggs, spinach, and salmon drenched in Hollandaise sauce served on a croissant, rye bread, Turkish flat, or sourdough bread comes highly recommended.

After breakfast venture into the city and explore the gardens, museums, and host of art galleries in the heart of town. Cape Town is home to some of the finest artists around, and just by paying attention to your surroundings you will be able to see that. With graffiti proudly on display in the City Bowl and a lot of talent on show in the art galleries, the Mother City offers the perfect blend of World Cup Fever and proudly South African art. Taking in the cultural sites whilst in Cape Town should be mandatory; a guide to the sights should be handed to every single person disembarking at Cape Town International.

Once you are done exploring the center of the city, head to the German club on Hope Street for lunch, football, and a cold beer. A merry atmosphere and reasonably priced meals provide the perfect foundation to a fun night out on the town, and at the moment, a night out on the town here is pretty damn special.