Seven Spur closing in Cape Town after decades — Here’s the full story
Seven Spur
For many Capetonians, the smell of sizzling steaks, the sound of birthday songs, and the sight of kids enjoying milkshakes under the watchful gaze of Native American décor are as much a part of the city’s memory as the mountain itself. This August, however, one of the most iconic locations in South Africa’s restaurant history will close its doors – at least temporarily.
A Journey That Began in Newlands
Before there was a Spur on every second high street, there was the Golden Spur. On 24 October 1967, founder Allen Ambor opened the very first Spur Steak Ranch in Dean Street, Newlands, Cape Town. Styled as a Wild West-themed eatery, the restaurant quickly became a family favourite. Ambor, who had no initial plans to franchise, was inspired to expand after the roaring success of his first two restaurants.
The second of those restaurants was the Seven Spur in Sea Point, which opened in 1968 on the corner of Main and Conifer Roads. Over the decades, it moved twice, finally settling at its Arthur’s Road location in 2006. For 56 years, it has been a fixture in the community, serving generations of locals and tourists alike.
Why It’s Closing
The closure isn’t due to lack of love – far from it. According to Spur Corporation, the decision comes after the landlord confirmed plans to redevelop the property, meaning the lease will not be renewed. While this marks the end of an era at this address, Spur has made it clear: this is not goodbye.
“We’re searching for a new home for Seven Spur – one that will capture the same spirit, flavour, and family feeling that made this spot so special,” the brand shared in a heartfelt Facebook post.
A Call for Memories
In true Spur fashion, the Sea Point branch is turning its farewell into a celebration. Customers are being invited to share their favourite memories online – from family dinners to first dates – creating a digital scrapbook of the restaurant’s history. The comments section is already filling with nostalgia, proving just how deep this restaurant’s roots run.
Spur’s Ongoing Success Story
While one chapter closes, the Spur story is far from over. From that single Newlands branch in 1967, the group has grown to 726 restaurants across 15 countries by the end of 2024, with 619 in South Africa alone. In the six months to December 2024, restaurant sales climbed 10% to R5.9 billion, with Spur outlets contributing a commanding 64% of the total.
From its humble beginnings with a free ice cream promotion for schoolchildren to its status as a Johannesburg Stock Exchange-listed company worth around R3 billion, Spur has remained a staple of South African dining. And as the Seven Spur team looks for its next home, one thing is certain – the legend will ride again.
