Carne SA

Carne SA is a steakhouse at 70 Keerom Street in the City Bowl of Cape Town, South Africa, known for dry-aged cuts of South African beef and Karoo lamb. The restaurant focuses on meat from local farms and uses ageing and grilling to build flavour, and it sits on a street with several other well-regarded restaurants in the central business district.

The menu is led by aged South African beef, Karoo lamb cuts and game. Karoo lamb comes from the semi-arid interior of South Africa, where the animals graze on aromatic scrubland, giving the meat a distinctive flavour. Steaks are ordered by cut and weight, and sides and sauces are charged separately. Prices run from roughly R350 to R800 per person, depending on the cut and the wine. A South African wine list with a focus on full-bodied reds suits the menu.

The dining room is smart, meat-focused and dark-wood, with a confident, masculine character and a mood that is lively without being loud. It suits business dinners, groups and couples, and tables are close enough that the room has a buzz at peak times. Smart casual attire is the norm, and service is attentive and unhurried.

The restaurant is open for lunch Monday to Friday and for dinner Monday to Saturday, approximately, so days should be confirmed before going. Reservations are recommended for dinner, particularly on Friday and Saturday evenings, and can be made directly with the restaurant. Keerom Street is a short walk from Bree Street and Greenmarket Square, and many visitors pair the meal with a drink at one of the neighbouring bars. Ride-hail is advisable after dark.