Eastern Cape Restaurants

Enjoy delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners in intimate surrounds or alfresco in the private courtyard. This home away from home lingers with the aroma of freshly baked bread and old world charm. Enjoy freshly baked scones and cakes baked daily at 137 High Street in Grahamstown.

Soak up the African sun relaxing on deck before perusing the specialised Greek cuisine. Perfect for lazy summer lunches and refreshing winter ambiance. Dine indoors, at the bar or on the sunny deck and terrace complimented by an expansive wine list and specialty seafood, grills and Mediterranean cuisine. From Octopus, calamari, mousaka and a wonderful array of mixed mezzes too 14-hour slow-cooked Lamb shank, The Big Time Taverna is the perfect setting for lazy lunches and vibrant dinners.

Cradled in the lush Eilandia Valley, Bon Rouge Bistro offers gourmet picnic baskets, salads, cold meats and cheeses, perfect for alfresco dining. Enjoy plated and buffet meals on Sunday and daily local cuisine such as waterblommetjiebredie and traditional Cape style bobotie. All meals compliment decadent wines from the Bon Cap Wine Cellar. Bon Rouge Bistro offers a lunch and dinner menu, revised daily, dependent on fresh produce. Bookings essential.

Dressed in plush red cushioned chairs and vibrant colours, Bourbon Street swaddles the palate in cuisine influenced from around the globe. Enjoy delicious fare, alfresco on the wooden deck starting with a Kudu, Springbok and Ostrich Carpaccio. Transport the palate to spice laden streets of Mexico and Morocco with meals like the chicken quesadillas wrapped inside two flour tortillas topped with melted cheddar or Moroccan Lamb and lentil dish with a feta and yoghurt sauce. For a taste of Russia, escape to Moscow and delight in smoked Salmon pasta tossed in Vodka and a dill sauce dressed with capers and parmesan. The palate sings a chorus tucking into chicken Athena tossed with sun-dried tomatoes, olives and feta or the Prawns parmigiana sautéed in garlic, wine and parmesan. Meat eaters ravage the prime beef espetada laced with green peppers, mushrooms and bacon drizzled with butter. End the meal with a choc chip mountain drenched with ice cream and a hot fudge sauce. Bourbon Street satisfies the most discerning palate with global cuisine and eclectic charm in Robertson, just off Route 62.

Intoxicate the palate with mouth-watering meals seduced with Klipdrift infusions. Delicious burger such as the renowned Klipdrift burger served with potato wedges dominates the senses and taste buds. Relax and make yourself at home delighting in burgers and roosterkoeks layered with strips of steak, chicken or veggie fillings. Brandewyntuin Restaurant intoxicates sweet and savour palates with their legendary brandy cuisine located on the Klipdrift Brandy Distillery in Robertson.

Peruse the delicious a la carte and buffet menu brimming with local cuisine and excellent award winning wines. Dine in rustic elegance framed by exposed beams and low ambient lighting with soft copper hue tables draped in traditional patterned tablecloths. Buffelsdrift specialises in local Karoo cuisine complimented by homemade preserves, chutney, pickles, fresh produce, herbs and bread. The grand fireplace adds cosy warmth to cold winter evenings and French doors invite the balmy summer evenings in extending out onto the wooden deck. Wrap the senses in soothing surrounds and delicious cuisine enchanted by the occasional call of the wild at Buffelsdrift Game Lodge in Oudtshoorn.

This popular restaurant is situated within close proximity to the prestigious Paxton Hotel in a prime location above Humewood Road. Framed by eclectic décor warmed by natural crete-stone walls and vibrant abstract artwork, Café Brazilia exudes a contemporary Mediterranean feel bustling with activity. Boasting an excellent variety of dishes from open sandwiches, tramezzinis, and salads to impressive seafood platters and peppered ostrich fillet. Portuguese inspired dishes include the famous espetada, trinchado and Brazilian steak served with fried egg. Alongside the aforementioned, Café Brazilia offers beautifully presented salads of which the spicy grilled chicken salad comes highly recommended. Conclude the dining experience with a selection of cakes and tarts, which includes Café Brazilia's famous baked Cheesecake.

Set in the poster town of Barrydale guided by a landmark wind pump, Clarke of The Karoo seduces the palate with traditional Karoo cuisine infused with Mediterranean twists. Dishes spill off the menu boasting delights such as Karoo oysters, Cape Malay bobotie, legendary Karoo Lamb curry served with papadoms and a vast array of sambals, Whitebait and roasted vegetable bruchetta served with balsamic reduction. Speciality sandwiches and homemade burgers available on the menu with pan-seared Yellowfin Tuna a specialty request when available. Enjoy fresh organic salads, traditional dishes, and a warm inviting ambiance. Winter invites log fires and homemade soups at this favourite stopover on Route 62.

Soak up personalised service and local exotic dishes from the a la carte menu and extensive wine cellar. The décor speaks of elegance and timeless grandeur softened by padded chairs, crisp linen in a light and airy setting overlooking manicured gardens. Begin the culinary journey with a wrapped Cape Malay babotie starter, in a phyllo parcel served with a sweet sliced peach and coriander chutney. For mains, flame grilled medallions of port fillet (250g) served on a Rooibos tea and cinnamon infused dried fruit compote. Round off the journey with a warmed oven-baked apple and cinnamon pudding drenched with a sweet caramel sauce, served with vanilla ice cream. Cogman’s Restaurant perfects the fine dining experience with warm hospitality and tantalising cuisine.

Resting on the Zuurberg Pass, in the heart of frontier country, Cycad Restaurant exudes elegance and style reminiscent of a bygone era and true African hospitality. Peruse the a la carte and set menu brimming with country delights for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Housed inside a 150 yr old historical hotel, this manor house experience opens out its dining experience on a spectacular wide veranda and pool area serving delicious country cuisine. Cycad Restaurant embraces true African splendour in elegant charm for a pampered country dining retreat.

Exuding classic country style décor and relaxing ambiance centred around a log burning fire and ornate artefacts, De Opstal graces the palate with tastefully prepared dishes. Enjoy pre-dinner drinks before perusing the 4-course set dinner menu boasting delights such as smoked venison (Springbok) carpaccio served on a bed of lettuce with croutons, cream cheese and a drizzle of aged balsamic for starters. The sizzling aroma of Karoo Lamb cutlets overwhelms the senses, hardwood grilled, served with spiced potato wedges and fresh garden vegetables. Conclude the meal with a traditional Little Karoo, a platter for 2 brimming with koeksisters, walnut fudge, amarula crème brûlée and truffles. Die Opstal invites hearty farm style breakfasts and tantalising set dinners in a spacious setting the embraces relaxation and the art of cooking classic Karoo cuisine.

A new generation of women are paying homage to the roots of South African dining with delectable cuisine freshly prepared for the whole family. This well kept secret in Tsitsikamma follows the tradition of good, home-cooked food revived by and era long forgotten. Renowned for international recognition by the New York Times, De Ouda Restaurant boasts the culinary genius of Martha influenced by British flare. Using only fresh, local organic ingredients with emphasis on lots of fresh herbs from the garden, patrons experience an explosion of flavours and tastes combined with a welcoming service for a truly delectable experience.

Perched on the banks of the Grobbelaars River, nestled in Willow Trees, De Oude Meul Restaurant tenders for lunch and dinner in a relaxing and romantic atmosphere. This tranquil escape offers traditional cuisine from an a la carte and buffet menu complimented by some of the best local wines. Dine on succulent Ostrich and Venison paired with excellent wine. De Oude Meul Restaurant rests in Shoemanshoek along the picturesque Route 62 en-route to the Cango Caves.

Housed in a historic building dating back to the late 1800’s, this quaint little establishment is renowned for traditional fare. Die Dorphuis boasts tasty ostrich meals and daily breakfasts that pack a punch alongside languid lunches and relaxing dinners. Diners peruse the comprehensive menu starting with breakfast comprising of a breakfast platter brimming with bacon, eggs, tomato, sausage, toast & jams. Lunch calls for Ostrich goulash with salad or vegetables or lighter meals such as crispy toasted sandwiches followed by devilish waffles with ice cream or cream for desert. Dine amidst beautiful gardens in the poster town of Calitzdorp off Route 62 for a welcoming break from the scenic road.

Dine within the cool surrounds or sit along the waters edge. El Greco invites striking feature walls in bold shades of blue and red complimented by world-class service. The extensive menu secures Afro-Grecian fusion cuisine complimented by a fully stocked bar for pre-dinner drinks. Enjoy typical South African steaks, chicken, seafood and delicious spicy Greek sauces on signature dishes of fillet ala El Greca, lamb shank and ribs. Satisfy your hunger for some traditional fare at El Greco in Summerstrand.

This boma style restaurant secures a picturesque setting on the slopes of Lady’s Slipper Mountain in Emerald Hill. Catering for a range of tastes and traditional South African cuisine, Falcon Rock Country Restaurant opens the dining experience with summer alfresco setting alongside a roaring outdoor fire. Start with crumbed mushrooms stuffed with feta, served with tartare sauce followed by a portion of hearty bangers and mash in a tomato relish served with country style mash. Enjoy lunch in the tranquil tea garden perusing the a la carte menu or Sunday lunch in a relaxed country setting on the slopes of Lady’s Slipper Mountain at Falcon Rock Country Restaurant.

Fish Eagle Arms boasts the best fish and chips in the Eastern Cape, with a hearty selection of all tim favourites such as toasted sandwiches, burgers, wraps, calamari and salads. The extensive a la carte menu offers languid lunches and memorable dinners with pre dinner drinks and warming Irish Coffee nightcaps rounding off the meal.

Situated in the heart of the Eastern Cape’s Sunshine Coast, on the lower level of the hotel awaits a feast for the senses. Friday evenings invites ‘Out of Africa’ buffet followed by renowned Saturday evening ‘Seafood Splash’ buffet. Enjoy a lazy champagne breakfast on Saturday and Sundays. Fish River Sun Hotel offers buffet heaven in peaceful surrounds and scenic vistas.

Inventive global fare with emphasis on local produce and African influence, Five Elements Restaurant seduces the palate with sophisticated flair. Relax in tranquil surrounds perusing the seasonal menu enjoying the scenic vistas at Five Elements Restaurant

Deep in the scenic Robertson Valley is an award-winning restaurant that has diners returning again and again.Enjoy long leisurely lunches with stunning views spanning the vineyards and Sonderend Mountains in the distance.The decor is simple and unpretentious and creates a charming and tranquil atmosphere. A large verandah complete with umbrellas provides a great place to enjoy al fresco dining.Country cuisine is the order of the day, created with care using seasonal ingredients and fresh vegetables and herbs from the garden. Portions are substantial and diners have a superb selection of the finest wines from the Robertson Valley to choose as an accompaniment.

Embracing the principles of the International Slow Food Movement, Gordon’s Restaurant seduces the appetite with local venison, organic Karoo Lamb and legendary dinners. Located in the heart of Andreas Stockenstrom Guest House, Gordon’s Restaurant invites good honest food spilling off the seasonal menu complimented by fine South African wine. Savour fine Karoo cuisine in a relaxed dining experience immersed in a four course set menu at this culinary oasis in Graaff-Reinet.

This eco-friendly fine dining restaurant exudes a comfortable, wonderful ambiance, housed inside a lovingly restored home. Boasting gourmet cuisine, diners peruse the 3-course fine dining menu brimming with light, fresh and tasty meals inspired by seasonal choices. Elegantly dressed tables compliment high ceilings and a cosy open fireplace heightened by personal attention and regional / international wines from Robertson Wine Valley. Dine on the wine terrace, alfresco, or indoors on excellent cuisine at this food sanctuary along the famous Route 62.

This beautifully decorated restaurant transports the senses to a bygone era wrapped in luxurious drapes and banquet style seating. The large menu secures speciality cuisine with a hint of flamboyant jest. Sample bold meals such as chocolate chilli steak complimented by a great selection of wines. Henry Ate drapes the palate in pampered cuisine and ornate setting reminiscent of feasting banquets fit for a king.

Situated on an eco reserve garnished with breathtaking views of citrus orchids and countryside vistas, Hitgeheim Country Lodge Restaurant boasts a reputation for outstanding cuisine. Lavish the senses in gourmet cuisine prepared by resident Cordon Blue chefs seduced by private collections from the walk in wine cellar. Peruse the 6-course menu indulging in regional cuisine with pre-dinner sundowners on the veranda for an unforgettable dining experience. Hitgeheim Country Lodge offers a slice of gourmet heaven dressed in luxurious splendour.

Located 35km from East London in the heart of a lush reserve, Huberta Restaurant offers a unique blend of luxury and dining that caters to the heart of culinary connoisseurs. Relive the legend of the travelling hippo; dine in close proximity in a strategically built setting above the Mpongo hippo waterhole. Linger the day away on a decadent afternoon meal, watching hippos at play tempting a delicious blend of African and European cuisine. Cooled by stylish décor and a touch of Xhosa, diners relive the colonial days savouring traditional breakfasts, light lunches and a wide range of wine carefully chosen to compliment each meal. Treat the palate to a unique dining experience pampered by acclaimed chefs at Huberta Restaurant in Mpongo Private Game Reserve.

Voted SA top 100 restaurants in 2007 and Diners Club Award, Kurland Hotel embraces a soft elegance warmed by flickering candlelights and the aroma of freshly cut flowers over crisp white linen table clothes. Exuding plush opulence and whisked away romance, Kurland Hotel offers gracious dining and outstanding cuisine with elegant alfresco setting romantically Mediterranean pampered by a picturesque fountains and candelabra for a distinctive alfresco dining experience.

Les Hauts de Montagu smiles from within the gentle slopes, garnished by indigenous fynbos and olive groves, perched in tranquillity. From within the colonial style restaurant, overlooking the olive and lavender groves, lingers the aroma of unforgettable cuisine, flanked by the Langberg Mountains and tranquil valleys. The high beamed ceilings capture a story of a bygone era; tables spill out onto patios, immersed in a tapestry of scenic vistas. A set menu pampers the mood with a theatrical performance of taste and colour, blended with the distinctive finish of fine paired wines. Les Hauts de Montagu inspires culinary connoisseurs into an oasis of beauty and tranquillity set in the heart of Olive and Lavender groves along the rising slopes of the Langeberg Mountains.

Housed inside an elegant Edwardian double story house, Mimosa transforms fine dining with wine and dine cuisine. The 4-course gourmet menu bewitches with boutique handmade wines. Conceived from homegrown vegetables and herbs using local specialities such as Lamb, Springbok and Ostrich, Mimosa Lodge seduces the palate with Continental cuisine in a fresh, elegant and mood capturing setting. The menu highlights daily delights paired with boutique wines, seasonal and inspirational dependent. Diners peruse the likes of West Coast Crayfish, steamed, partnered with an avocado, salsa and a truffle sour cream perfected by a glass of Beverly Dawn Chenin Blanc, 2008 for starters. For the mains, Gingembre De Canard, roast Duck breast accompanied by seasonal vegetables and an orange ginger jus or beef fillet pan fried accompanied by seasonal vegetables and a green peppercorn jus flattered by a glass of Bredells Shiraz, 2003. The Grand finale, Blueberry Parfait, homemade and garnished with a chocolate twirl and fresh blueberries perfectly paired with a glass of Danie de Wet Cape Muscat. Mimosa Lodge pays homage to highly acclaimed culinary circles, showcasing award winning cuisine and boutique handmade wines perfect for connoisseurs who enjoy gourmet masterpieces.

Located on the Umzimvubu Retreat overlooking subtropical gardens, Moonshadow Restaurant offers wholesome traditional homemade cuisine infused with Thai and French dishes. The exciting comprehensive menu compliments a good selection of wines perfectly paired with a meal or pre-dinner drinks. Moonshadow Restaurant provides a tranquil retreat boasting fabulous cuisine in the heart of Umzimvuba Retreat.

Located along the Sunshine Coast, about an hour from East London, Morgan Bay Hotel takes pride in mastering culinary skills and delivering innovate menus. The seasons inspire a dynamic menu that caters with flexibility to those with special dietary needs. Catering for guests of the hotel and visitors alike, Morgan Bay Hotel recommends booking for non-hotel guest essential if you want to experience the tastes and creations from this well versed hotel.

Housed inside the elegant Nduna Lodge, Nduna Restaurant captures the heart of Africa perched on a hilltop seduced by panoramic views and lush fertile valleys. Located 50km from Port Alfred, this restaurant embrace natural elegance in a unspoilt bushveld setting. The menu boasts a festive affair brimming with South African cuisine touched by modern flair. Meals compliment a fine selection of South African wines and African ambiance, all adding to a unique and unforgettable dining experience.

Pielow’s restaurant is a gem of fine dining located in the quaint town of Tulbagh. This intimate and elegant eatery promises guests fine food in a stunning setting. The restaurant forms part of the Oude Herberg guest house. Its tiny dining room exudes ambience with its quiet sophistication. In the summer the courtyard offers the best seating for a late evening of food and drink with friends, or an afternoon bite while watching the town’s rugby team in action. The contemporary menu incorporates the best local produce that can be sourced. Popular dishes include the roast pork with caramelised apples and the rack of lamb with home-made mint sauce. The list is vast with a great selection of local wines. Guests can also enjoy the fact that the restaurant has its very own patch of vineyard and bottles its own home groen shiraz and sauvignon blanc under the Pielow’s label.

Pomegranate is a cosy, 24 seater, a la carte restaurant situated within Boulders Lodge and Spa, Oudtshoorn. The view from the pool alongside the restaurant stretches to the Swartberg mountain range, and the gardens create the feeling of an oasis amongst the semi desert vegetation surrounding the lodge while the sound of running water stimulates the sences.Chef Garth makes use of local products when developing his menu which truly provide the patrons with the flavours of the Klein Karoo. Restaurant manager, Joey Bradfield, takes great care in compiling her wine list to compliment the menu. The wines are carefully selected from different wine regions in South Africa reflecting the exceptional quality of the wines available locally.This husband and wife team will provide you with a gastronomic experience worth remembering.

Tempt the palate with traditional and Continental a la carte dishes complimented by friendly and excellent service. Preston’s Restaurant serves lunch and dinner in the comfort of the indoor dining room warmed by a roaring winter fire or alfresco on the sheltered garden patio. Enjoy the ambiance and comfort of Preston’s Restaurant and international South African pub in the heart of Montagu off Route 62.

Nestled in 6500 hectares of African bushveld, overlooking Lake Kariega, Pumba Game Reserve Restaurant entices with breathtaking views and traditional cuisine served in a variety of locations. Dine within the thatched restaurant with magnificent views of the African wilderness or in luxurious central dining room, on deck or by boma with special candlelight dinners available on request. Discover wildest Africa in all her colours, tastes and tradition at the Pumba Game Reserve in the highlands of Port Elizabeth.

Readers Restaurant is located in Tulbagh’s historic Church Street. Here patrons are delighted by the fine food on offer. The Curious Cats gift shop, that is housed with the eatery, gives Readers a quirky edge that is enough reason to return. The lime washed Cape Dutch Style stead sets the scene for the genuine Cape hospitality that is synonymous with Readers. In keeping with the Cape Dutch feel, the restaurant boasts wooden floors and crisp white table cloths on solid wooden furniture, all the elements for fine dining. Chef Carol Collins presents an exciting menu which offers traditional fare with a fresh interpretation. Signature dishes include the Springbok fillet with a Gooseberry and Amarula sauce and the Lamb Strudel. The Trio of ice-cream dessert is ever popular with exciting (if not a crazy) flavours such as curry and balsamic. The wine list supports the best of the Tulbagh region. Cat lovers will spend plenty of time post pudding inspecting the feline paraphernalia in the gift shop section of the restaurant.

This signature restaurant is set against tranquil picturesque scenery dressed in fresh, clean cut décor exuding a just conceived look and feel with a twist of elegance. The menu brims with energy, textures and exploding flavours weaved into an ever-changing eclectic combination of tastes. Accompanied by an extensive wine list and state of the art wine cellar, Reuben’s caters for easy going to sophisticated palates. Reuben’s at The Robertson delights fine dining palates with eclectic combinations housed in The Robertson Small Hotel, on Van Reenen Street in Robertson.

Warmed by caramel rich floors and ornate chandeliers, Ripple Hill Hotel nestles on the brim of Baviaanskloof Reserve. Built in 1946, this hotel is reminiscent of a bygone era complimented by warm ambiance and good friendly service. The extensive menu boasts best AAA grade matured beef, pizzas and salads to burgers, toasted sandwiches, fish and chicken dishes, with an occasional treat of fresh fish caught off the coast. For starters, try the crab sticks, crumbed and deep-fried served with tartar sauce and for light meals the fish special, 150g hake fillet, topped with creamy mushroom sauce and cheddar cheese, wood oven baked served with chips. Mains tempts the palate with chicken cordon bleu, stuffed with ham, cheese and mushrooms, coated in breadcrumbs, deep-fried and smothered in a creamy sauce served with vegetables and chips. Steeped in history and delicious cuisine, Ripple Hotel provides a cosy setting indoors or on the stoep perfect for languid dining.

Set against a stunning backdrop of the Langeberg Mountains is Rosendal Restaurant.Diners can enjoy scenic views over a tranquil pond as they feast on the wonderful creations from the a la carte menu. French dishes with African influences make for delectable dishes, accompanied perfectly by the finest selection of wines that the Breede River Valley has to offer.The decor harnesses the style of colonial times and stays true to the design of the established winery.Relax and experience superb views with delicious fine country food at Rosendal Restaurant.

Enjoy succulent steaks, fresh seafood and decadent deserts dining alfresco with lush views of subtropical gardens. Stanley’s boasts splendid views of Kariega River along the Garden Route. Noted as the best restaurant in Kenton, Stanley’s invites sumptuous cuisine and complimenting wine list perfect for alfresco or cosy indoor meals.