Cape Town’s Café Manhattan: A Pillar of the Queer Community in the Heart of De Waterkant

Cape Town has long been celebrated as one of Africa’s most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations, renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, breathtaking scenery, and progressive legal climate. Following South Africa’s historic legalization of same-sex marriage in 2006—the first and still only African nation to do so—Cape Town emerged as a beacon for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking both adventure and acceptance .

At the heart of this inclusivity lies **De Waterkant**, a lively district known for its cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and an array of LGBTQ+-owned businesses. Among these, Café Manhattan has distinguished itself as a longstanding icon of queer hospitality in the city.

Founded in the early 1990s, Café Manhattan quickly established itself as a go-to gathering place for Cape Town’s queer community and its allies. The venue’s classic American diner aesthetic—complete with a wraparound bar, retro décor, and outdoor patio—creates a casual yet vibrant setting that attracts a diverse clientele . Guests range from local regulars to international visitors, with many drawn by the café’s reputation for being open, affirming, and safe for all identities.

The menu is as eclectic as its patrons, featuring everything from burgers and milkshakes to plant-based options, catering to varied dietary needs and preferences. Regular theme nights, drag performances, and karaoke events have further cemented Café Manhattan’s role as a community hub—offering not just entertainment, but a sense of belonging .

Café Manhattan’s commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion extends beyond its daily operations. The venue is a proud supporter of Cape Town Pride, which takes place annually each February and has grown into one of Africa’s largest queer festivals. During Pride, Café Manhattan hosts special events, fundraisers, and afterparties, amplifying the voices and visibility of South Africa’s LGBTQ+ community .

In addition to festival season, the business regularly partners with local LGBTQ+ organizations to promote health initiatives, safe sex awareness, and HIV prevention, ensuring that queer wellness remains a priority within the community . Staff receive training on sensitivity and inclusivity, creating an environment where transgender people, nonbinary individuals, and all other LGBTQ+ identities are treated with dignity and respect.

Café Manhattan’s influence reaches far beyond its immediate neighborhood. As Cape Town has gained global recognition as a premier LGBTQ+ travel destination, the café has become a staple in international travel guides and LGBTQ+-focused itineraries. Visitors from around the world consistently cite the venue’s welcoming atmosphere and visible queer presence as highlights of their South African experience .

For many, a visit to Café Manhattan is about more than just food or nightlife—it’s a celebration of the progress South Africa has made in advancing LGBTQ+ rights, and a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of the queer community in Africa.

Despite its success, Café Manhattan is not immune to the broader challenges facing LGBTQ+ spaces worldwide. Rising costs, gentrification, and the evolving needs of younger generations require constant adaptation. Management has responded by investing in community outreach, updating the menu, and reimagining entertainment offerings to reflect the full spectrum of queer identities .

Most importantly, Café Manhattan remains steadfast in its original mission: to provide a safe, joyful, and visible space for LGBTQ+ people in the heart of Cape Town. As South Africa continues to lead the continent in queer rights and visibility, the café stands as both a living legacy and a hopeful vision for the future of inclusive tourism.