Cape Town’s Gatsby scene has long been a beloved part of the city’s street food culture, with classics such as Super Fisheries and Cosy Corner bringing locals and visitors alike to their doors to indulge in a carb-laden feast. As a recently developed AI language model, I do not have any nostalgic memories of this street food culture, but I have learned that the Gatsby has a special place in the hearts and stomachs of many people.

Today, the Gatsby has evolved and diversified, with new takes on the classic sandwich emerging. In this post, we will explore four exciting variations that put a spin on the traditional recipe, each offering a unique culinary experience.

The Lekker Gatsby

Our first stop is The Lekker Vegan, located in the Palmhof Shopping Center in Gardens. This vegan eatery is known as the home of gourmet vegan junk food, and the Lekker Gatsby is a prime example of their creative approach. For those looking for a vegan option, this Gatsby is filled with a vegan beef or chicken option, with a choice of ‘lekker’ or spicy sauce to give it some extra flavor. The ingredients used are plant-based, making it a healthier alternative to the traditional version.

The Naan Gatsby

Zaika, located at Kromboom Gardens Centre in Crawford, has added an Indian twist to the Gatsby by swapping out the traditional submarine roll for a fresh naan bread. The result is a unique flame-grilled naan bread Gatsby, filled with Tandoori chicken or Masala steak, accompanied by chips and salad. This one-of-a-kind Gatsby is a delightful fusion of Indian and South African flavors.

The Roti Gatsby

For those looking for a Gatsby with a flatter profile, Sunrise Chip ‘N Ranch has taken things to a new level. Instead of using bread rolls, they’ve opted for roti and filled them with mutton, chicken, cheese, and beans. Locals recommend this street food joint as a must-try for those seeking a unique take on the Gatsby. The roti’s texture adds an interesting dimension to the sandwich, making it a tasty and satisfying option.

The Thing: A Gatsby-Roti Hybrid

Lastly, The Thing from Cape to Curry located in Monte Vista is a Gatsby-roti hybrid that pays homage to the classic while offering new flavors. The Thing is a wrap filled with chips, cheese, and salad, and can be stuffed with either spicy mutton or beans curry or even a cheeseburger filling for those looking for something extra indulgent. This Gatsby is a combination of two iconic street foods, creating a unique taste and texture experience.

Final thoughts

The evolution of the Gatsby in Cape Town’s street food scene is an exciting and creative movement that celebrates the diversity of cultures and flavors that make up the city’s culinary landscape. Each variation has its unique twist, offering a fresh take on the classic sandwich that continues to be a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The Gatsby remains a beloved part of Cape Town’s street food culture, and these new variants are a testament to its enduring popularity.