This was so much better than expected - the historical reviews don’t give it the justice it deserves.

We ordered the... read moreThis was so much better than expected - the historical reviews don’t give it the justice it deserves.

We ordered the pani puri and chilli bites for starters - both yum! The chilli bites were pakoras for those who are keen to try.

And then for mains (we went overboard as normal) but we tried the shahi paneer, daal makhani and aloo jeera. The latter two were sides but were big enough to be mains! And garlic naan and the veg biriyani and roti … everything was very flavourful and tasty!

And now drinks - the cocktails menu had a lot of the expected drinks but they also had some with an Indian twist - I got the pani puri gin but without the gin and it was delicious (with a spicy kick). Highly unexpected and highly recommended read less

Another "dinner club" done and dusted. Miserable weather made good by good food and good friends. A very nice experience... read moreAnother "dinner club" done and dusted. Miserable weather made good by good food and good friends. A very nice experience at Bukhara. There were about 18 of us, so quite a large table. Our server did quite well but forgot some of our orders and we had to remind him the whole time to bring the other nan bread. Other than that he was good, professional and informed. The good itself was amazing. I like hot/burny/spicy food so I ordered the Lamb Lal Maas. It was pretty burny and had amazing flavour. If you cant handle spicy food, do not order this. I also had the duck Kulcha nan bread which was very good too. Their nan bread in general was incredible and I would suggest ordering double whatever you think you want, it was very good. We had the garlic and Laacha nan. My wife had the Butter chicken which was very tasty and creamy. Definitely recommended if you are not into the "hot stuff". We didn't have any dessert though, so I can't comment. The atmosphere was cosy and inviting with friendly staff. The food was cooked very well and was delicious. Great evening. Perhaps just a bit pricey for the amount of food you get. read less

My experience at Bukhara in Cape Town was absolutely outstanding! The food was delicious and the atmosphere was great, but... read moreMy experience at Bukhara in Cape Town was absolutely outstanding! The food was delicious and the atmosphere was great, but what truly made the visit special was the service. Brendon was incredibly helpful and attentive—he made sure everything was perfect and went above and beyond to ensure we had a great time. Thank you, Brendon, for the amazing experience! I’ll definitely be coming back. read less

During our trip to Cape Town, we were craving our home cuisine, Indian food. After searching the area, we came... read moreDuring our trip to Cape Town, we were craving our home cuisine, Indian food. After searching the area, we came across Bukhara, and we’re so glad we gave it a try. It was unbelievable to find such delicious Indian food outside of India!

First and foremost, special thanks to our wonderful host and server, Mr. Simba, who took excellent care of us and offered some great recommendations.

For starters, we ordered the Tandoori Mushrooms and Haryali Chicken Tikka. Both were absolutely amazing. The dishes were expertly prepared and perfectly cooked. I had asked for the Haryali Chicken Tikka to be a bit spicy, and the chef kindly added small pieces of chili, which really enhanced the flavor and made the meal even more enjoyable.

For the mains, Mr. Simba requested the chef to prepare Kadai Paneer for us though it wasn’t on the menu—and it turned out to be a fantastic suggestion. We paired it with paratha and garlic naan, which complemented the dish wonderfully.

Overall, it was a fantastic experience, thanks to the incredible team at Bukhara. I highly recommend people of all nationalities to try this place. This is the closest you’ll get to authentic Indian taste in Cape Town without actually visiting India.

Make sure to say hello to Mr. Simba, his wide smile and warm service will make your visit even more special! read less

Consistently Outstanding for 16 Years!
Visiting Cape Town isn’t complete without a meal at Bukhara CBD Restaurant. We’ve been dining here... read moreConsistently Outstanding for 16 Years!
Visiting Cape Town isn’t complete without a meal at Bukhara CBD Restaurant. We’ve been dining here for over 16 years, and the food has remained consistently amazing—full of flavour and expertly prepared. On our latest visit, Waiter Lloyd provided impeccable service, and we were delighted when Chef Rakesh personally came to check on our meal. General Manager Johan greeted us warmly and made us feel right at home. Every visit is a wonderful experience, and we can’t recommend it highly enough. read less

Our waiter Lloyd was so warm and welcoming and answered every question we had. The atmosphere is lovely and we... read moreOur waiter Lloyd was so warm and welcoming and answered every question we had. The atmosphere is lovely and we ended up staying even after paying the bill. Would come again read less

Beste pani puri ever! An all-round successful evening: from very good advice from our waiter Eddy to the delicious food. Both starters like Pani... read moreAn all-round successful evening: from very good advice from our waiter Eddy to the delicious food. Both starters like Pani Puri were the best we have ever eaten. And also my lamb gosht was unique! Great show kitchen where you could watch the masters doing their work. We would definitely come back. read less

We were craving for some comforting desi food and found Bukhara on Google. Ordered the butter chicken which we loved... read moreWe were craving for some comforting desi food and found Bukhara on Google. Ordered the butter chicken which we loved as it was not too sweet, Dal Makhani was good as well. Tried their desi inspired cocktails which was great. The garlic naan was real soft and we could taste the ghee without it being too overwhelming. Didn't take a picture of the Raita with Garlic which was yum! Our server gave us excellent service although it was a little difficult for us to find the restaurant as tourists. read less

Restaurant Review – 4 Stars

Finding this restaurant was quite a mission, as it wasn’t easily locatable on Church Street. I’m... read moreRestaurant Review – 4 Stars

Finding this restaurant was quite a mission, as it wasn’t easily locatable on Church Street. I’m sure others would face the same challenge—some clearer signage or directions would help!

However, once inside, the service was absolutely 5-star. A special shoutout to Simba, who was attentive and made the experience enjoyable.

Food Breakdown:
• Starter: Not the best, I’d rate it 3.5 stars. Could be improved.
• Mains: Excellent! 5 stars. Well-prepared and full of flavor.
• Dessert: Ordered two—Kulfi was a solid 5 stars, but the Sahi Tukda was disappointing (1 star). I’ve been enjoying Sahi Tukda since school days, and traditionally, the bread/loaf is fried. It seems like the restaurant has their own take on it, but if they want to keep the name, they should stick to the authentic recipe. Hope the chef considers this feedback!

Overall: 4 stars, thanks to Simba’s great service. A few tweaks to the food, especially the dessert, and it could be a perfect experience. read less

Best Indian food I've had in Capetown.
I loved the ambience and the fact that got the Imdian taste from a... read moreBest Indian food I've had in Capetown.
I loved the ambience and the fact that got the Imdian taste from a restaurant after so many months. read less

Authentic and Outstanding The dining experience was truly excellent, starting with a recommendation from an Indian friend from Birmingham (“curry capital” of the... read moreThe dining experience was truly excellent, starting with a recommendation from an Indian friend from Birmingham (“curry capital” of the UK!), followed by a personal email from Johan to confirm our booking which was a nice touch. The restaurant is well designed with an open kitchen. The food was altogether fantastic: chicken tikka, tandoori lamb chops to die for. Curries were excellent and our server, Mohammed, was attentive in the best possible way. Will definitely return. read less

Wonderful experience! Wow! What an incredible experience. From the time my friend and I walked in, to the incredible food and exceptional... read moreWow! What an incredible experience. From the time my friend and I walked in, to the incredible food and exceptional service from Arthur, who was amazing! He kept us engaged and gave us his undivided attention. He even obliged me and put a bowl of water on the veranda for a few very thirsty Pigeons. Thank you Arthur! From Louise and Jenny. 🙏🏻 read less

Amazing Indian food! Chef Rakesh is so talented and the waiter Lloyd was so funny and welcoming. Definitely recommend this... read moreAmazing Indian food! Chef Rakesh is so talented and the waiter Lloyd was so funny and welcoming. Definitely recommend this place 🙂 also the cocktails are great. read less

Bukhara is a new Fave ! Our evening at Bukhara Restaurant was nothing short of fantastic, thanks to the incredible team. Johan, the manager, impressed us... read moreOur evening at Bukhara Restaurant was nothing short of fantastic, thanks to the incredible team. Johan, the manager, impressed us with his extensive knowledge of the menu and his ability to guide us through the vast array of choices with ease and expertise. His passion for great food and hospitality truly elevated our dining experience. A special mention must also go to Arthur, our server, whose courtesy and professionalism were outstanding. His attentiveness and warm demeanor made us feel welcome and well cared for throughout the evening. Together, Johan and Arthur created an unforgettable experience, and we cannot wait to return. Highly recommended! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ read less

Super delicious and friendly Super delicous food. We've read that Bukhara is the best place for the best butter chicken im town and what... read moreSuper delicous food. We've read that Bukhara is the best place for the best butter chicken im town and what can I say- it is true. We had a fantastic dinner with excellent staff. read less

Good Indian and fusion cuisine.
I particularly recommend the salmon among starters, crispy crust with a delicious onion based seasoning.
Their saffron... read moreGood Indian and fusion cuisine.
I particularly recommend the salmon among starters, crispy crust with a delicious onion based seasoning.
Their saffron and pistachio kulfi was a nice surprise as well. read less

Awesome server Linathi and yummy food! Our server Linathi was amazing he was a new server. Very polite and he recommended the dish Murg Lababdar .... read moreOur server Linathi was amazing he was a new server. Very polite and he recommended the dish Murg Lababdar . I have to say It was better than butter chicken. Very yummy food. I usually don’t write reviews but because how nice our server was I wanted to write this review. Thank you Linathi for making our experience wonderful. read less

Very good indian food.

We served by Chris. Who is very knowledgeable on the menu items and he's super friendly and efficient. 🙌🙌🙌 the... read moreWe served by Chris. Who is very knowledgeable on the menu items and he's super friendly and efficient. 🙌🙌🙌 the head chef was also very friendly. Thank you so much read less

Great service, inventive cuisine with an Indian theme

Well indian food

Tasty Asian (Indian) restaurant in the centre of Cape Town. Service was friendly and prompt but prices are rather on... read moreTasty Asian (Indian) restaurant in the centre of Cape Town. Service was friendly and prompt but prices are rather on the expensive side. We went for dinner with 2 (starter and main course) and more or less paid 1,500 ZAR. It was a good restaurant but due to the excessive prices, they are not going to see me back there. read less

Great as usual Have visited Bukhara on previous visits to Cape Town and on this occasion brought along 5 friends. I had told... read moreHave visited Bukhara on previous visits to Cape Town and on this occasion brought along 5 friends. I had told them how good the food and service was and we were not disappointed. The food served was superb and service was great from our friendly waiter who explained the many dishes ordered and what to expect. Each of my friends stated it was the best Indian food they had ever had, and we all eat in Indian / Bangladeshi / Pakistani restaurants throughout the U.K. I would thoroughly recommend this restaurant for anyone and would go again in a heartbeat next time on holiday in Cape Town. Thanks everyone at Bukhara for a great evening ! read less

Increíble ! Delicioso un poco spicy si no estás acostumbrado! La atención de Chris el camarero es excepcional! Ideal para... read moreIncreíble ! Delicioso un poco spicy si no estás acostumbrado! La atención de Chris el camarero es excepcional! Ideal para comer comida sabrosa y típica. Si sos veggi también comes súper bien muchas opciones. read less

Enjoyed my dinner here for the first time..my waiter was Lloyd and he was amazing..thank you to chef Rakesh.

Can I give 100/10?? WOW WOW WOW!! My parents and I visited this restaurant about 12 years ago, and returned... read moreCan I give 100/10?? WOW WOW WOW!! My parents and I visited this restaurant about 12 years ago, and returned this January as we are always wanting to come but never had a chance to! Since the first visit, my parents have nothing but good things to say about Bukhara and our second visit, 12 years later, was nothing short of absolutely mouth-watering food and spectacular service. Our waiter, Simbarashe was such a delight and took such great care of us! The lamb dishes are to DIE for, as is the naan and the Love in Goa cocktail (tastes just like mango lassi - divine!). This restaurant is tucked away on an upstairs floor in CBD and it truly is a hidden gem. The location isn't boastful but the food and the huge crowd that flock here just show that this restaurant's service speaks for itself. Be sure to ask the car guards for help if you are struggling to find it - it is there!! (we almost thought they had closed down) If you are looking for an authentic indian experience, you have to try Bukhara, you can even watch the chefs prepare your meal! Great atmosphere and awesome experience overall! Pricey but worth every penny spent! Vegetarian options: There are delicious vegetarian options like Dal Makhani. Parking: A bit of a struggle to find parking as street parking can be limited especially during busy times Kid-friendliness: Awesome experience for kids as they can watch the chefs prepare the food, which is very interesting read less

Nice but hard to find Beautiful restaurant that is unfortunately difficult to find, upstairs and without a sign. The food was good and the service... read moreBeautiful restaurant that is unfortunately difficult to find, upstairs and without a sign. The food was good and the service was good. We had a very nice experience in the restaurant. read less

Nice but hard to find Beautiful restaurant that is unfortunately difficult to find, upstairs and without a sign. The food was good and the... read moreBeautiful restaurant that is unfortunately difficult to find, upstairs and without a sign. The food was good and the service was good. We had a very nice experience in the restaurant. read less

Amazing curry. One of the best I had including India!!

HIDDEN GEM!!! Can I give 100/10?? WOW WOW WOW!! My parents and I visited this restaurant about 12 years ago, and... read moreCan I give 100/10?? WOW WOW WOW!! My parents and I visited this restaurant about 12 years ago, and returned this January as we are always wanting to come but never had a chance to! Since the first visit, my parents have nothing but good things to say about Bukhara and our second visit, 12 years later, was nothing short of absolutely mouth-watering food and spectacular service. Our waiter, Simbarashe was such a delight and took such great care of us! The lamb dishes are to DIE for, as is the naan and the Love in Goa cocktail (tastes just like mango lassi - divine!). This restaurant is tucked away on an upstairs floor in CBD and it truly is a hidden gem. The location isn't boastful but the food and the huge crowd that flock here just show that this restaurant's service speaks for itself. Be sure to ask the car guards for help if you are struggling to find it - it is there!! (we almost thought they had closed down) If you are looking for an authentic indian experience, you have to try Bukhara, you can even watch the chefs prepare your meal! Great atmosphere and awesome experience overall! Pricey but worth every penny spent! read less

Food was absolutely delicious! We were 8ppl, celebrating a birthday, so we went all out and enjoyed starters, main and... read moreFood was absolutely delicious! We were 8ppl, celebrating a birthday, so we went all out and enjoyed starters, main and deserts. It was so much fun to share all the amazing dishes together and enjoy the rich and authentic flavours. read less

Vacker restaurang som tyvärr är svår att hitta, en trappa upp och saknar helt skylt. Maten var god och servicen... read moreVacker restaurang som tyvärr är svår att hitta, en trappa upp och saknar helt skylt. Maten var god och servicen var bra. read less

Great kitchen!! Atmosphere is electric and food was really very good. We didn’t have a great waiter but the rest... read moreGreat kitchen!! Atmosphere is electric and food was really very good. We didn’t have a great waiter but the rest of the restaurant looked well taken care of. When we had an issue or question he couldn’t field, he was able to call someone who could help. We enjoyed the location and overall experience. read less

For was extraordinary, not cheap but feasible and amazing taste Vegetarian options: Available Kid-friendliness: Small kids menu

Consistent flavorful dishes served by an efficient and professional waiter named Mohammed. We were not very hungry so ordered... read moreConsistent flavorful dishes served by an efficient and professional waiter named Mohammed. We were not very hungry so ordered some light meals this time around but still very delicious.. We always must stop here for a meal whilst in Cape Town…Thank you Mohammed for taking care of our family… read less