Two Japanese restaurants in Cape Town are shutting their doors for the last time.

The Mother City boasts countless restaurants that serve Japanese fare, from sumptuous main courses to delicious desserts.

Unfortunately for foodies, two of these eateries – both owned by Ilze Koekemoer – will close in less than a month.

MOCHI MOCHI SAYS ‘SAYONARA’

The first of these fine establishments heading for the chopping block is Mochi Mochi Café. Founded in 2021 and located at Heritage Square in the CBD, it has earned plaudits from foodies for its delectable menu, including its mochi dishes, savoury buns and sweet buns.

Mochi Mochi confirmed their upcoming closure in an Instagram post titled “Sayonara, Mochi Fam!”:

After 5 [sic] years of serving Cape Town’s first artisanal mochi and other irresistible treats, Mochi Mochi will be closing its doors on Saturday, 18 April 2026.

We’re so grateful to everyone who visited, tagged us in photos, and made our café such a happy place – from regulars to our Mochi-core fans whose magical kawaii creations on our doors and walls added extra sparkle to every day.

We have six weeks left to make more memories! Whether you’re a mochi regular or a milk bread fan, come and grab your “must-haves” while you still can.

TJING TJING: 15 YEARS OF JAPANESE RESTAURANT AUTHENTICITY

Like Mochi Mochi, Tjing Tjing will shutter on Saturday, 18 April 2026.

Founded in 2011 and located in Longmarket Street, this Harajuku-inspired restaurant serves a mix of street food-inspired fare, sushi dishes and upscale cocktails.

Per an Instagram post:

Fifteen years ago, we opened our doors with a vision: curated sound, refined flavours, and the perfect pour. This year, as we celebrate our 15th birthday, we’re also preparing for our final bow … But we’re not going quietly.

For the next six weeks, our house is open exactly as you remember it. Come enjoy your favourite cocktails and street food hits, set to the eclectic indie and electronica soundtrack you’ve come to love.

Come through, and let’s toast to 15 years together.

WILL YOU MISS THESE RESTAURANTS?

Koekemoer has yet to confirm the reason behind these eateries’ closures. Regardless, it’s a sad day for the local restaurant industry.

While there are plenty of other Japanese dining hotspots to frequent, including the popular Kloof Kobini, the shutdown of Mochi Mochi Café and Tjing Tjing will leave a gap in the hearts and stomachs of foodies in Cape Town and beyond.

Share your fond memories of these restaurants in the comments below.