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.

Casual and laidback, 34 Degrees South has latitude. Start with a platter of freshly shucked wild coastal oysters still tasting of salt and sea. Tuck into calamari and mussels done in many ways – in vinaigrette, masala, with peri-peri or with wine and garlic. The herring comes six ways, the fish pates four and the mezze too many ways to mention. Traditional Greek, Spanish and Portuguese themes run through an eclectic menu that highlights Mediterranean flavours – with chicken, ostrich and vegetarian options for diners averse to seafood. With tastebuds still tingling from oysters and bubbly, the mains are sure to tantalise. Signature dishes tempt with fresh line fish brought in through the Knysna Heads, east-coast sole, linefish espetada, Portuguese sardines, jambalaya and seafood paella.

This family restaurant caters fun and fabulous cuisine with an ambiance second to none. Dine in tropical surrounds sampling delicious sliced biltong served with cheese, gherkins potato skins and dip for starters. For mains, entice the palate with Amazons Chicken Cordon - a 300gr chicken fillet filled with cheese and peppadews, wrapped in bacon and covered with a peppadew sauce. For red meat lovers bag yourself a Carpet Bagger - a 200g rump stuffed with cheese, smoked mussels and prawns topped with bacon and smoked mussel sauce. Conclude the Amazon experience with a desert waffle drenched in maple syrup and refreshing ice- cream. Transport the palate through tropical paradise at Amazons Restaurant in Middelburg.

Situated on the banks of the Kwelera tidal river, Areena Quays is the ideal setting for languid lunches and tranquil surrounds. Dine alfresco beneath a majestic wild Fig Tree soaking up tranquil surrounds and picturesque setting sampling buffet and a la carte menu. The sundeck secures unsurpassed views and fiery sunsets perfect for sundowners and alfresco dining. Open from Wed – Sun Areena Quays Restaurant escapes the senses to a la carte in the wilderness.

Soak up the relaxed atmosphere and scenic vistas relaxing on the balcony or deck perusing the extensive menu. From legendary Eisbein surrounded with crispy crackling, served with chips to the usual creations such as peri peri chicken livers, Barney’s Tavern provides good food and good fun. Enjoy light snacks, seafood and grills in a warm family setting serving good South African cuisine at Barney’s Tavern in Summerstand.

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.

Tucked away in Robertson Wine Valley, capturing an engaging and captivating atmosphere, Bistro at Weltevrede Wine Estate secures views of the vineyards and mountains. Serving breakfast, main meals, light meals and snacks, the cuisine is simple yet tasty, enjoyed with a glass of homegrown wine and welcoming atmosphere. Dine at Bistro at Weltevrede Wine Estate under the vine covered terrace enjoying delicious food, fine wine and sweeping views located along the R317 between Robertson and Bonnievale.

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.

Enjoy a great selection of meals suited for the most discerning palate and hungry belly. Bushman’s Bar and Grill favours good food and good company, dining alfresco on the deck overlooking the river. Enjoy top class meals ranging from finger licking baskets, hearty burgers, tasty ribs, fillets, t-bones and succulent seafood platters. Bushman’s Bar and Grill invites fun loving, finger licking cuisine for an enjoyable lunch and dinner experience.

Enjoy pub fare on the open wooden deck overlooking the river or more formal surroundings dining on sophisticated fare. The blackboard menu boasts traditional pub grub and adventurous dishes such as Cape salmon with banana and bacon complimented by an enticing wine list and lively atmosphere. Satisfy the palate with South African cuisine in comfortable surroundings and great river views at Butler’s Riverside Restaurant in Port Alfred.

Soak up the passion and flair exuded by this unique eatery sharing excellent food and conversation amidst popular art and craft creations. Popular dishes applaud the palate infused with French and Mediterranean flair and make for excellent choices with alternatives such as Moroccan beef or chicken sandwiches, Tandoori Chicken wraps and Gypsy Kings. The popular Greens menu welcomes vegetarians with a delicious take on veggies. Try the veggie tandoori wrap layered with potato, green and white beans, carrots, onion cooked with a spicy coconut milk and enrobed in a tortilla wrap or the potato bake deep-fried with mushrooms, onion, cream, cheese, peas and chives. For a lighter meal, try the asparagus au gratin layered with asparagus, peas, cheese, spring onion, and parmesan grilled to perfection. Café Ruwach Art and Craft Gallery transforms an ordinary lunch into a world brimming with creativity and flair complimented by an ever-changing menu and creative artwork displays.

Café Fresh is a unique addition to the eateries in the picturesque town of Montagu. Run by two South Africans who recently returned from a few years in the UK, they bring style and culinary delights from far and wide to this delightful restaurant. With a relaxed atmosphere and great menu it is ideal for everyone and families with kids are very welcome. Decent play areas and other distractions will keep them entertained. Movies are screened on certain evenings at 8pm and depending on the movie run time it should end at 10pm with dessert and coffee. The cost for these viewings is R90 per person, this includes a drink on arrival, meal movie dessert and coffee, cash bar. Sweet! Need to know? Bookings are essential on movie evenings as Café Fresh can only accommodate 18 people.

Perched along the sundrenched Dolphin Beach boasting surfing vistas, diners chill soaking up the refreshing views and a wide variety of delicious delights. Choose from an array of succulent fresh fish, calamari, steaks, pasta dishes, creative salads, tramezzinis and wraps. For social snacks and finger food, choose from the menu of ’Finger Fusion’ brimming with tasty snacks in a basket for one. Breakfast tempts with popular 3 egg omelette stuffed with a choice of 12 fillings and sundowners ease the palate onto an extensive cocktail menu as colourful as the trailing sun. Café Kima secures a trendy ambiance complimented by tasty food and tranquil surrounds overlooking the sweeping Dolphin’s Bay for a memorable day of dining whether it be breakfast, lunch or dinner.

This delightful and breathtakingly beautiful setting is Bin Courage Wine Estate, where diners peruse the local cuisine paired with decadent wines and aromatic coffees. Enjoy a delicious lunch indoors warmed by a roaring winter fire or alfresco under an old African Pepper Tree sampling fresh salads and creative sandwiches. Café Maude awaits discerning palates just off the scenic Route 62 on Bon Courage Estate Winery in Robertson.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

Die Kliphuis offers more than just guest house accommodation, its restaurant has become ever popular as a favourite eatery to locals and visitors of the Karoo town of Graaff Reinet. The restaurant is housed in a building that has been named a national monument that dates back to the mid 1800’s. With more than one dining area as well as a garden for feasting al fresco style in the summer months, guests are spoiled for choice when it comes to seating. In winter the antique fireplaces and candle lit tables spell romance in a very cosy atmosphere. Here guests gather with friends and family anytime of the day. The Chocolate Bliss cake served with coffee as a day time treat has patrons driving from near by towns for their chocolate fix. The dinner menu is traditional South African cuisine with Karoo Lamb with a strawberry mint sauce as a feature along with other favourites such as Bobotie and Potjie Kos. For dessert the Cape Brandy pudding is a must. The restaurant is fully licensed.

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.

Perched on First Beach Umzimvubu River mouth with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, Gecko Moon Restaurant specialises in voluptuous seafood, crispy pizzas and succulent grills. Voted top eating spot in Port St Johns, Gecko Moon Restaurant transports the palate on a culinary retreat in a tropical paradise.

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.

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.

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.

Set above a secluded semi tropical bay, this cosy restaurant specializes in seafood fresh off the a la carte menu. The extensive menu hosts seafood extravaganza nights every Wednesday and Saturday evening, where seafood is the order of the day palates come out to play. Enjoy the picturesque seclusion of Hole in the Wall Hotel and plump seafood delights along the shores of the Eastern Cape.

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.

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.

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.

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.