The biggest events happen only once a year – the Grammys, the Oscars, and the Kfm Best of the Cape Awards, powered by YOCO. And the Helderberg has rolled out its own red carpet.
When the finalists for the 2026 Kfm Best of the Cape Awards were announced on Tuesday 4 August the region’s name appeared in 15 of the 30 categories, a remarkable showing for a corner of the Western Cape that continues to punch well above its weight.
From the vineyards of Somerset West to the seaside charm of Gordon’s Bay, from the craft beer hubs of Paardevlei to the farm stalls of Grabouw, here are the local contenders vying for the Cape’s ultimate titles.
Dinner dates are in good hands with 96 Winery Road in Somerset West, a finalist for Best Date Night Restaurant, the kind of spot for which you dress to impress and block the rest of the world out.
This honour is a coveted one; Avontuur Estate restaurant nabbed the honour in two consecutive years, 2021 and 2022, and 96 Winery Road hopes to bring it back to the Helderberg.
Morning people have two reasons to celebrate in the Best Breakfast Spot category: Goldfish Cafe and Takeaway in Strand and Sage & Thyme in Somerset West.
The latter is no stranger to the podium; it earned silver in last year’s competition, proving it has the recipe to go one better this year.
And if history is anything to go by the Helderberg has form in this category too: Pajamas and Jam in Strand took the top spot back in 2021.
Four-legged friends are catered for too. Grille Shack in Gordon’s Bay is a finalist for Best Pet-friendly Restaurant, where a water bowl for furry family members comes as standard.
The seaside establishment is the undisputed king of this category, having won it for three consecutive years – 2023, 2024, and 2025 – and will be hunting a remarkable fourth title in a row.
On the craft front Triggerfish Brewery, located in the Paardevlei Precinct, is in the running for Best Local Craft Beer, while Triple Three Distillery in Broadlands represents the region in the Best Local Craft Spirit Brand category.
Local is lekker indeed.
For the Cape’s best biltong The Butcher & Son in Somerset West is the local contender.
The Best Bakery category is a three-way local celebration: Weirdough and Backerei German Artisan Sourdough Bakery, both in Somerset West, alongside Miss Dimples Boutique Bakery in Gordon’s Bay.
Weirdough, in particular, has pedigree: it was crowned the Cape’s Best Bakery in 2024 and backed that up with silver last year, proving its sourdough magic is no flash in the pan. That’s a lot of freshly baked competition.
Out on the N2, Houw Hoek and Peregrine Farm Stall in Grabouw are both finalists for Best Farm Stall, which serves as proof that some detours are worth every kilometre.
Vergelegen in Somerset West needs little introduction, and it’s a finalist for Best Wine Farm Experience, where the drive, the wine, the food and the view all come together.
When it comes to saying “I do” Laurent in Somerset West is the Helderberg’s finalist for Best Wedding Venue.
Sweat has never been so much fun. Bounceback Bungee Fitness in Strand is a finalist for Best Place to Sweat.
The Best Market category sees two local favourites in the running: Elgin Railway Market in Elgin and Lourensford in Somerset West.
Organic, craft, food or flea, the Helderberg has it covered.
Looking good is serious business. Chanice & Chicks Beauty Parlour in Somerset West is a finalist for Best Beautician.
For Best Hairdresser the Helderberg is doubly represented with 178 on Mane and Fabiano Hair, both in Somerset West.
And for the perfect fade Four Gents Barbershop in Somerset West is the local finalist for Best Barber.
So, Helderberg residents, it’s time to rally behind your favourites by casting your votes. Online voting closes tomorrow (Thursday 13 August).
After all, this beautiful place we call home deserves nothing less than the best.
How to vote
Voting for the 2026 Kfm Best of the Cape Awards is now open and locals are implored to make their mark for the Helderberg finalists.
Votes can be cast until 19:00 tomorrow (Thursday 13 August).
Listeners can cast their votes online at bestofthecape.primediaplus.com.
The winners, along with bronze and silver recipients, will be announced at the all-day awards show on Friday 21 August, broadcast live on Kfm 94.5.
