The quality and variety of food available in Cape Town is sometimes thought of as one of the city’s major tourist attractions, but high prices in restaurants have raised a few eyebrows.
Some visitors to the city recently remarked that restaurants were raising their prices following an increase in tourist numbers, but Fedhasa Cape Restaurant and Catering Segment Chair, Rey Franco, says food prices have increased significantly over the last few years, causing an impact on margins and forcing operators to walk a tightrope.
“The Western Cape’s quality of service, product and ensuring amazing experiences for customers every time is what keeps them coming back, despite pricing barriers that may or may not exist,” he adds. 
Franco says some restaurants do tend to overprice during busy periods, but that they are in the minority and largely linked to upscale high-demand establishments. “The plethora of dining options are so great that competition is tough. This has resulted in Fedhasa Cape Restaurant and Catering Segment members offering widespread specials and discounts.”