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.

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.

Situated in the town of Alicedale, Bushman Sands Hotel and Golf Course invites warm hospitality and personal service. Peruse the a la carte menu in elegant country style with influences of Xhosa, English, Afrikaans and Cape Malay cuisine. Alongside a la carte lunches, evening dinners and hearty breakfasts, Bushman Sands Hotel and Golf Course offers elegant country style dining.

Housed inside the famous Tahitian style resort; the Wild Coast Sun, Chico’s serves up gourmet buffet dining fit for a king. Open daily for breakfast and dinner, Chico’s offers a selection of carveries, curries, casseroles for heartier meals and for something lighter, fresh grilled line fish and crunchy salads. Conclude meals with a variety of delectable deserts and coffees. Enjoy gourmet buffet dining along the shores of the untamed Wild Coast at Chico’s Restaurant.

Dine indoors immersed in the deep blue or on the wooden deck with refreshing views of the harbour. Chokka Block serves sustainably sourced seafood and organically farmed meats and vegetables. Try the tender and tasty calamari sipping a refreshing wine marvelling at the magnificent views.

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.

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 inside the Assegaibosch Country Lodge in Kareedouw, Dezeppi’s Pizzeria invites welcoming hospitality in a warm rustic setting. Feast on tantalizing varieties of pizza and pasta or seductive hotpot dishes overlooking the pool and deck. This pizzeria exudes tranquil country living flanked by sweeping views and warm hospitality. Available on booking only basis.

Die Bosvarkie embraces rustic charm inviting the outdoor into a tranquil dining experience feasting on traditional Karoo cuisine. Boasting a British pub feel set upon scenic vistas, diners wine and dine on the famous port wine capital of the Karoo. This welcoming retreat embraces dining with warm Karoo hospitality in the scenic playground of Calitzdorp off the famous Route 62.

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 under the vine-covered porch wrapped in Bougainvillea boxes perusing the extensive menu over a glass of crisp wine. Die Stal soothes the palate with delectable food and daily board specials, exquisitely presented in generous portions. Choose from extensive and exciting spreads, freshly squeezed fruit juices and an array of light meals and decadent moist cakes complimented by expansive views and tranquil surrounds. Die Stal escapes the senses to country surrounds brimming with hearty fare and scenic vistas.

The décor speaks of voortrekker days, enamel crockery, quaint bucket lights, food prepared over open fires and old gas cookers. Die Walskipper catches the freshest assortment of seafood prepared succulently and served in the sheltered open-air restaurant. For starters, beguile quail eggs, springbok biltong and droëwors, or oysters on ice. Main courses include old faithfuls as well as adventurous crocodile or ostrich steaks. Get the taste buds tingling with calamari steak, perlemoen, sole, catch of the day and voluptuous seafood platters. Round off the meal with homemade koeksisters, malva pudding cheesecakes, or ice cream with strawberries. Die Walskipper is the perfect spot for a bit of relaxation near the beach, buzzing with culinary activity.

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.

Positioned on the banks of the Umzimvuba River, The Fish Eagle Restaurant invites rustic quietness in tranquil surrounds. Explore local cuisine dining under the thatched lapa or on the deck overlooking the river. Fish Eagle Restaurant transports the senses to a quiet sanctuary filled with delicious delights.

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.

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.

Exuding a cosy, bustling ambiance, Gino’s Italian Restaurant invites hearty meals brimming with traditional Italian cuisine and fantastic value for money. Enjoy a pre-dinner drink at the ladies bar before settling down in the simply rustic setting dressed in wooden panels and low lighting. This popular haunt offers a traditional menu alongside daily specials and bambino selections with delightful pizza, pasta and steak choices. Pop into Gino’s in New Street for a slice of Italy and contented chatter at this lively establishment in Grahamstown.

With an ethos like “Veld to Fork” Gordon’s Restaurant, set in the charming Karoo town of Graaff Reinet, promises the best quality local produce plated up for its patrons. The restaurant is located on the picturesque Andries Stockenström guest farm, which is an accommodation venue as well as home to fine restaurant. Here guests can expect food that is created from ingredients that is sourced regionally if not exclusively grown or hunted on the estate itself. Gordon’s is well known for its dinners that feature the best of Karoo venison and lamb. The menu is tailored to a four course set menu which changes daily to include the freshest seasonal produce available. The restaurant also has a great selection of South African wines to accompany the meal. If a relaxed, unhurried Karoo “kuier” with the best meat dishes is what one craves, then Gordon’s is a must visit eatery.

Entice the senses with mouth-watering creations and dense bushveld delighting in light meals, salads and decadent meals from the a la carte menu. From succulent venison, red meat and poultry options to tender Lamb curry, surf & turf and hot pot, The Hapoor Restaurant is the perfect setting for any occasion.

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.

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.

Situated in one of the oldest seaside suburbs, Imbizo welcomes traditional cuisine and magnificent sea views. Set adjacent to the picturesque harbour, diners soak up the maritime ambiance in pleasant surrounds at Imbizo Restaurant.

Dressed in offbeat mosaics and old jam can chandeliers, Jam Tarts Restaurant serves all day breakfasts, delicious wood fired pizzas and frothy milkshakes to mention a few. Spoil the palate with real home food, local seasonal dishes and fabulous jams spread over crunchy bread complimented by a local wine list or corkage. From crunchy salads, succulent steaks to naughty jams, Jam Tarts Restaurant offers a quirky alternative to country dining.

Joubert-Tradauw Alfresco Deli overlooks the majestic Langeberge and vineyards on the famous Route 62 in Klein Karoo. Located in the picturesque village of Barrydale exuding a Mediterranean style kitchen and rustic décor, Joubert-Tradauw inspires dreamy cuisine with traditional Karoo tapas platters. The platters comprise of fruit from the farms such as fresh figs, nectarines, Kakamas peaches, plums and pears, served with cranberries, nuts, sunflower seeds and mint. Side portions of rosemary and lemon chicken; a small bobotie with onion relish, stewed fruit and almonds; "patat" with honey; beetroot with feta and herbs; tzatsiki with pumpkin seeds, home-baked breads stuffed with olives and nutty seed loaves browned with molasses garnish the platter. Homemade delights entice with tapenade, onion relish, balsamic reduction, fig pâté, pesto, fragrant apricot jam and tomato chilli jam with homemade plum, fig, peach, quince and pear preserves. Make sure to leave space for the decadent chocolate cake served with a juicy green fig or delicate lemon meringue cheesecake. Dine alfresco under the vine-covered veranda or inside next to the crackling winter fire delighting in decadent fare and breathtaking vistas at Joubert-Tradauw Alfresco Deli.

This charming coffee shop seduces with country fare and indulgent retail therapy whilst exploring tranquil surrounds. Dine alfresco under windmill umbrellas sampling delicious and generous light meals such as homemade burgers and chips and deli deserts such as baked rusks and organic honey. Karoo Farm Crafts and Coffee Shop is a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of life, perfect for lazy summer lunches.

Karoosmiles charms the palate with decadent country cuisine in a beautiful garden setting. An ideal place to relax, Karoosmiles soaks up the scenic surrounds over a light lunch, languid breakfast or sinful sweet treat. The menu boasts a generous selection of a la carte meals with an added bit of retail therapy browsing local gifts, homemade preserves, paintings and antiques. Karoosmiles is the ideal family setting in a popular landmark in the heart of Aberdeen off the historic Route 62.

Start the morning with an authentic farmhouse breakfast laden with freshly baked bread, butter, jam and cheese flanked by flapjacks layered with bacon, egg and steaming pot of coffee or tea. Dine on the rustic stoep overlooking generous views or on the lawn scattered with rustic picnic tables. When the cold winter sets in, Koffie Huis wraps up with head to toe blankets and a steamy cup of coffee. Koffie Huis inspires traditional hospitality, ambiance and décor reminiscent of true farm living welcomed by quirky enamel coffee mugs strung together setting the mood for something unique and unexpected.

Kolgans is the Afrikaans name for Egyptian Goose; an elegant rustic cruise that entices the appetite with authentic Afrikaans fare and chilled out river ambiance. The slow cruise departs the riverbank, taking with it scrumptious breakfasts and languid lunches with special evening cruises arranged by order. Boasting authentic home cuisine, wonderful scenery and option to fish, swim or just chill, Kolgans River Restaurant makes for an exciting alternative to dining on land.

Enjoy a wide selection of delicious meals spilling off the a la carte menu and traditional hospitality against a backdrop of mountains and trees. Start the day with a full continental spread or English breakfast lingering the morning away exploring the charm and history of Lady Eliza’s in Botha Street.

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.

The blue and white exterior dressed in Geranium window boxes invites a fusion of Mediterranean cuisine touched with Karoo hospitality. A tapestry of vibrant colors and Moroccan décor sets the mood against a backdrop of murals, authentic artwork, whimsical chandeliers, Persian rugs and hand sown batikked scatter cushions. This unpretentious restaurant welcomes with spicy aromas and exotic cuisine. Exuding a friendly, personal atmosphere and authentic culture, Mez wets the appetite with decadent fusion cuisine. Enjoy colorful tapas brimming with freshly baked bread, garlicky humus, smoky harissa, feta and olives. Blackboard specials such as braised, citrus leg of lamb intoxicate the senses with the likes of Spanish chicken, chorizo cooked in sherry, smoked paprika and chilli, or a delicately spiced veggie platter running for second place. Enjoy a complimenting glass of wine displayed on the small blackboard followed by a few scoops of the signature rosewater ice cream sprinkled with sweet Moroccan-spiced nuts for desert. Mez Restaurant transports the palate through the spice-laden markets of Morocco in the heart of Barrydale off the famous Route 62.

Take a break from a long journey or settle down for a relaxing pub lunch. Whatever your calling for Midway Inn may be, the delicious pub grub and a la carte menu will satisfy the craving. Browse the curio shop before or after a relaxing lunch or dinner, Midway Inn is the ideal stopover.

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.

Enjoy the heavenly aroma of freshly baked cakes and pies before wetting the appetite with a delicious range of cakes, tarts, pies, local homemade preserves and jams. Stock up on imported German products such as Pumpernickel bread and Bismark Herrings in tomato sauce and a selection of cold meats or decadent local cheeses such as Goat's cheese with grappa, nuts and chocolate or olives and dried apricots. Enjoy warm home baked breads topped with delicious cheeses, cold cuts, jams and preserves. M’s Restaurant boasts a signature dish known as Rose Pie, made with exquisite pastry in the shape of a rose. Visit on M’s Restaurant in the picturesque village of Barrydale, located off the scenic Route 62.