Garden Route Restaurants

Nestled within the scenic Garden Route lies Admirals Buffet Restaurant, a culinary delight aimed to please the most discerning palates. Offering tranquil views onto a golf estate dressed in lush carpets and comfortable seating, patrons can relax in the quaint and private nooks and crannies while feasting on delicious starters, stews, bakes and old time classics. Enjoy hearty roasts, grills and stir-fry selections brimming with steaming vegetables before conquering the delectable desert section oozing indulgent peppermint tarty chocolate mouse, moist malva puddings or trifle drenched with red maple syrup. Admirals Buffet Restaurant embraces innovative buffet dining with comfort and style flattered by the scenic Garden route and rolling green hills.

Located in Greenways five start boutique hotel, Ashtons restaurant offers innovative dining in beautiful cosy wood panelled dining room or al-fresco on the veranda overlooking elegantly manicured gardens. Serving only the freshest South African ingredients from the stylish and internationally standard kitchen, Ashtons revitalises the fine dining experience with affordable prices, while retaining the elegant allure of five star boutique dining.

Bahia Dos Vaqueiros beacons recognition as Mossel Bay’s premier restaurant lit by the sparkling lights of Mossel Bay and cradled by the shores of Outenqua Mountains. Offering locally grown fresh produce cooked with opulence beneath The Fantasy of the Discovery of the World ceiling known as the largest fresco ceiling in the Southern Cape, dining at Bahia Dos Vaquerious captures the imagination with pure sophistication. Delight in iconic wines housed in the walk in cellar or international brandies, whiskies and beers alongside fusion choices of first class meals at the Bahia Dos Vaquerious in the Diaz Strand Hotel.

Balducci’s Ristorante is nestled in Cape Town’s V & A Waterfront. Famous for its sublime food, attentive service, understated formality and fabulous view of Cape Town's working harbour and Table Mountain, Balducci’s prides itself with its fine food and extensive international award winning wine list. The ethos at Balducc’s is to provide outstanding food that is simple, clean and delicious, using traditional Italian recipes that have been modernised. Dishes are prepared using only the best ingredients, with passion and contemporary creative flair. Heavily influenced by Italian cuisine, there is also an Africa twist with dishes such as ostrich lasagne and carpaccio of venison. There is something for everyone, from gourmet pizzas to traditional Osso Buco, from biltong salad to freshly shucked oysters, as well as a Sushi Bar, where only the finest, freshest fish is served to a discerning clientele. Diners looking for something a little lighter flock to Balducci’s for the award winning 180g Karan beef rump and sirloin burger, served on a freshly toasted roll with thick cut chips. This is the ultimate in gourmet burgers! Crisp linen, an award winning wine list and outstanding food with a sophisticated ambience makes Balducci's an absolute must for fabulous eating experience.

The Bascule Bar is Cape Town’s whisky bar supreme. With over 400 whiskeys on the menu and a huge variety of some of the best wines South Africa has to offer patrons are spoilt for choice. The food menu is simple, elegant and delicious, with the menu’s emphasis on a gastro pub theme. Situated on the edge of the marina in Cape Town’s Waterfront where the international yachts are moored, the Bascule Bar is where trendy whisky and wine lovers gather. Vibrant and bustling, it is the ideal place for a light lunch – patrons can sit out on the water’s edge and take in the sunshine. By night the Bascule bar becomes a hub of sophisticated elegance where wine and whisky flow, and all the beautiful people of Cape Town come out to play. The gastro pub menu consists of snacks and tapas, with specialities that include goat’s cheese peppadew poppers with saffron aioli and salt and pepper squid with sweet chilli mayonnaise. Main meals are traditional pub fare with a modern twist – Cape Grace fish and chips, seared tuna burger with avocado salsa and sweet potato wedges and beef burger with sweet pepper relish, emmenthal cheese, crispy onions and French fries. Bascule Bar patrons enjoy the finer things, but appreciate the simple style of this unique spot in Cape Town's harbour.

Authentic and exotic, Bhandaris wraps your palate in warming spices with complex layers of colours and taste. Dishes are thoughtfully presented then served in traditional porcelain pots touched with flavourful textures, colours and spices. Distinctly Indian, yet elegant and true to the unique exotic flavours and spices only found in India. The owners import key ingredients straight from India ensuring your taste buds experience authentic Indian cuisine. Once immersed your taste buds are transported to the lively streets and cultural potpourri of India. Visitors are encouraged to become one with the experience by eating small portions with their hands and to share the taste and abundance of flavours with company. Bhandaris offers a relaxed and social atmosphere frequented by celebrities and locals alike where you can wet your appetite with an aromatic starter of mussels topped in an onion, tomato and masala sauce followed by a fragrant tender lamb simmered in a blend of Indian spices, yoghurt, tomato and onion with a choice of basmati rice and naan bread. The delicate aromas and taste are well complemented by a soothing Pistachio ice cream rounded off by a incredible kahwa tea made with secret Indian herbs. Bhandaris is a treasure trove steeped in ancient North Indian cuisine inspired by the tranquil beauty and flavour of their mysterious culture.

With spectacular mountain views across Steenberg vineyards, Constantia Valley and False Bay, Bistro 1682 boasts an interactive dining experience in a setting that flows from open spaces to indigenous gardens surrounded by reflective water features and floating glass bridges. Enjoy a complete multi-sensory experience that entices you to stay and relax savouring every delicious mouthful while refreshing the palate with delectable wines straight from the state-of-the-art Steenberg wine cellar. This 70 seater bistro offers a unique raw bar and counter seating experience alongside their menu with temptingly delicious morsels of raw cuisine such as sashimi, gravadlax, ceviche and oysters to mention a few. With so much variety and flavour at hand Bistro 1682 captivates the palate with a feast of senses while remaining interesting, healthy and true to the concept of raw food dining. Bistro 1682’s warm and welcoming ambience makes it the perfect place to linger and relax. Enjoy the awe inspiring scenery coupled with modern sophistication and delectable food, your visit to Bistro 1682 will see returning again and again and again.

Bravo lounge is situated in the Garden Route Casino and is a trendy and stylish bar-lounge serving both food and drinks. This upmarket dining option caters for groups of up to 200 people and often hosts local entertainers like Elvis Blue, Heinz Winkler and Charlize Berg, just to name a few. The Bravo lounge is also a great venue to enjoy a light lunch, whilst surfing the internet utilizing their free Wi-Fi facilities.

Acclaimed for ingeniously prepared local seafood specialties, the Café Gannet Restaurant is Mossel Bay's seafood house. Coastal oysters, black mussels and Mossel Bay Sole are delivered daily from the harbour to make a delectable and varied a la carte menu, which includes pizza, salads, meat dishes, light lunches and Rainbow Cuisine.Enjoy a relaxing afternoon followed by cocktails overlooking the Indian Ocean. The Cafe Gannet is a great treat, bound to please the most discerning palate. It’s also very trendy, so bookings are recommended. Open 7 days a week from 7am to 11pm.

Rated as one of the top 10 restaurants in the Garden Route, Cinnamon Boutique Restaurant offers the best of culinary delights, freshly prepared in a spacious and intimate setting exclusively designed. Relax while enjoying the tropical surroundings and elegant setting before setting off on a culinary journey freshly prepared from the Ala Carte menu partnered with a complimenting wine from the extensive wine lists chosen exclusively to compliment your choice of food. Begin your meal with Smoked Salmon with Potato Rosti and black pepper Crème Fraiche followed by fresh Line Fish of the day with sesame seed tiger prawns or a Springbok Babootie with Saffron Basmati rice and roasted vegetables. Wrapped in a sumptuous setting dressed in warming paprika red walls and heightened by high back chairs, contrasting silver cutlery, fine crystal glasses and the tranquil surrounds of the gardens, diners can peruse in a choice of delectable food and extensive wine list. Relax and enjoy the serene ambience sipping a soothing cognac or coffee on the patio or in one of the exclusive lounge areas before heading home from a magical dining experience at Cinnamon Boutique Restaurant.

Do not be misled by the rustic ring to De Volkskombuis’ name. There is nothing even remotely unpolished about this establishment. The restaurant has been around since 1977 and has earned its reputation as a place of fine dining. The Cape Dutch house - that is the restaurant - is a perfect puzzle piece in historic Stellenbosch with its white washed walls and front garden. The restaurant also has its Voorkamer which serves as a private dining room for special occasions, conferences and private parties. Guests will be thrilled to find that although the menu boasts a fresh interpretation of traditional South African cuisine, none of the authenticity of the old favourites like Boland Bobotie, Braised Oxtail and Malva Pudding is lost. Furthermore, the menu has wine suggestions with each dish – a treat for wine and food pairing enthusiasts. Not only does De Volkskombuis promise a gastronomic experience of note, but also an impressive, if not, wildly indulgent, wine and beverage selection that could hold one’s attention for hours. Choose from the best locally and internationally sourced wines of every blend, including sparkling wines and Champagne. A selection of cigars rounds off the restaurant’s offerings. De Volkskombuis is open daily for lunch and dinner.

This hidden gem welcomes you with flickering candlelights and polished marble floors dressed in earthy African art. Pure understated elegance in a romantic venue that oozes class and passion for upscale country cuisine. Tranquil surroundings provide the perfect setting for alfresco dining on the terrace. The exciting and sumptuous Ala-Carte menu serves exquisite country cuisine and extensive wine list. Menu change daily according to availability of locally sourced ingredients. Dine at Andros Hotel for gourmet breakfasts, lunches and delicious dinners and experience warm ambience with upscale surroundings for truly exquisite country cuisine.

Beguile the taste buds with classic French cuisine combined with modern culinary art that will tantalise and tickle the most adventurous palate. Using only the freshest locally sourced ingredients Foam Restaurant entices and displays pure sophistication with wine pairing suited to compliment every meal. Start the meal with dullstroom Trout and Tuna chessboard, preserved lemon and Asian greens dressed in a rocket emulsion. Next, tantalise the palate with aged beef fillet, spring onion and potato croquettes, root vegetables, béarnaise ice cream and tarragon jus with enough room for the most exotic deserts imaginable. Foam Restaurant pampers the palate with sophisticated elegance for a truly melt-in-the-mouth pleasure experience.

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 stylish restaurant serves unpretentious dining wrapped around a shady Brazilian pepper tree for relaxed and sophisticated dining. With flavourful global cuisine on the menu, Jakes on Summerly enjoys festive dining indoors or in the covered courtyard for refreshing al-fresco dining. Cheerful and friendly Jakes serves breakfasts, lunches and dinners with culinary temptations such as black mushroom and parma-ham sandwich for lunch or salt and pepper calamari tossed in course salt and szechwan pepper for starter. A well-known institution in Cape Town, reputation has it as the place where friends and family meet and share good food around good company. What ever you decide to delight in, you can be sure of a festive dining experience at Jakes in Summerly with efficient service and good hearty food.

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.

Oozing authentic Italian cuisine and warm Mediterranean atmosphere, La Cantina boasts a luxurious dining experience in the heart of the Garden Route. Set amidst the splendour of an historic manor house, diners soak up luxury and traditional fare from well-rehearsed buffet and special Sunday lunches. Experience luxury dining enrobed in old-world charm for a taste of traditional Italy at La Cantina in George.

OYO Restaurant and Cocktail Bar is one of the most stylish, trendy places to be in Cape Town’s V & A Waterfront. Specialising in local seafood, including West Coast crayfish, Saldanha mussels, Paternoster oysters, calamari and fresh line fish from the Cape Coast, OYO is a diner’s delight. Visitors can sit back and take in the awe inspiring view of Table Mountain and soak up the busy atmosphere of the harbour while sipping on a cocktail or a glass of bubbly. Part of the Victoria and Alfred Hotel, one of the original parts of the Waterfront development, OYO is steeped in style, class and quality.

With every exquisite dish, there is an exquisite wine to compliment the meal. Enjoy Continental cuisine at its best with evocative oysters, duck breast, kudu, ostrich and a variety of line fish freshly caught. This restaurant exudes a romantic, old-fashioned feel with an interesting menu and complimenting wines straight from the Windmill Valley in Paarl. Dine within the cosy interior or al fresco on the wooden deck with far reaching views over the ocean.

With delightfully creative menus, designed with passion and flare, Sage at Hunters Country House is a must try spot in beautiful Plettenberg Bay.A chef with true culinary passion and an acclaimed background makes for deliciously creative and unique dishes that diners won’t soon forget. Using sustainable, local ingredients as much as possible, the menu alters according to what is available.A wonderful setting, there is a safari deck complete with tented cover, comfortable sofas and open fires, for diners to enjoy a semi-al fresco environment as they enjoy the sumptuous food on offer. Inside, the colonial feel to restaurant is endearing and welcoming, with soft fabrics and candle light.A strictly South African wine list showcases the best the country has to offer care of the 2000 bottle wine cellar.For a truly memorable dining experience at a stunning venue in Plettenberg Bay, take some time out at Sage.

Superb cuisine, wonderful wines, friendly and professional service in a setting that is elegant is the credo for fine dining at Serendipity. The five course South African inspired table d’hôte menu, experienced leisurely in a refined atmosphere that increases the pleasure of your dining experience is the benchmark of Serendipity.

Sevruga has become one of Cape Town’s most renowned restaurants. Famous for its sophistication and elegance, the ethos behind Sevrugs is to offer patrons the best possible raw ingredients combined with awesome professional and creative suppliers, as well as craftsmen, to create a truly amazing experience. With over 200 of the finest South African wines to choose from and a sophisticated menu, patrons are spoilt for choice. On offer is the finest caviar and oysters, as well as the freshest fare from the sea; all meals are expertly prepared by some of Cape Town’s finest chefs, and the sushi bar is overseen by Alan Huang, considered to be the best in his field. Diners can choose from elaborately prepared meals to sushi, from meat dishes to seafood, as well as being able to opt for lighter meals, salads and a range of freshly prepared sushi. The chef’s specialities include Kingklip and Langoustine with tarragon butter, pomme neuf and a lemon beurre blanc sauce and the Wharf Fillet, which consists of fillet and a crayfish tail with a garlic and lemon velouté. The flavours are strong, but the ingredients are simple and perfectly matched. Sevruga is fast becoming the word in fine dining at the V & A Waterfront.

Enjoy a wide range of sumptuous dishes from all over the globe at Sinn’s. Offering everything from curries to tapas, this popular restaurant is at the forefront of contemporary, international cuisine. A wine list proffering local, French and Italian bottles makes for a great choice of accompaniment. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to help diners decide on the right dish for them and the well-planned lay-out of the venue means a dining experience to remember.

Located along the waters edge of trendy Thesen Harbour Town, Sirocco Restaurant boasts a vibey sophisticated attitude with relaxed sophistication. Embodied by cutting-edge design, clever lighting and plush seating, dining at Sirocco Restaurant by night transforms the evening into a romantic ambience. Begin the meal with voluptuous mussels tossed in a classic white wine and garlic sauce finished with a garlic crouton before indulging in a mature beef fillet seasoned and grilled on the open flame. Served with crispy fries, garlic & paprika roast potatoes or savoury rice. Round off the tantalizing meal with a decadent chocolate coffee, berry, frangelico and nut mousse served with wafer biscuits. Serving long lazy lunches and relaxing dinners from the dramatic waters edge location, dining at Sirocco Restaurant warms the palate sophisticated cool.

Set on beautiful gardens and private acre estate, St James Restaurant promises lingering lunches on balmy summer days and cosy winters huddled in front of crackling log fires. Boasting a superb dining room, generously stocked wine cellar and mouthfuls of delicious country style breakfasts, light lunches, teas and snacks, dining at St James delights the palate with contemporary fusion. With spectacular panoramic views of Knysna lagoon and options of dining on various patios and terraces, St James is the perfect meeting place for a warm friendly experience touched by contemporary elegance.

Recently voted SA’s top 100 restaurants and rated as one of the best services on the Garden Route, Stonehill Restaurant exudes dining with a twist complimented by a deconstructed menu boasting fresh seasonal cuisine. Dishes evoke perfection and first class service complimented by organically grown vegetables and wine list; patrons can relax in a lovely rural setting feasting the palate on food from out of this world. Enjoy a romantic rustic experience at Stonehill Restaurant for a delicately smooth dining experience wrapped in the idyllic country surrounds of Little Brak River.

One of Sun International's top hotels, The Table Bay in Cape Town's V & A Waterfront, is the home of The Conservatory. Patronised by locals and foreigners, this restaurant offers guests an eating experience that is simple, yet sophisticated. With the emphasis on Tapas and light meals, as well as a sublime sushi bar, there really is something for every palate. The Tapas menu is contemporary, taking its influences from a range of cuisines from around the world, including South Africa, Spain, Portugal and Asia. Ideal for sharing diners can feast on delicacies such as fresh Namibian oysters, steamed fresh black mussels, grilled Portuguese sardines, Katafi wrapped prawns with pimento coulis and duck rillette with prunes, Armagnac, pickles served with crusty bread. For those looking for something a little more filling there is an a la carte menu that includes Cape Malay curries, items from the grill and fresh fish. Light pours in to the restaurant, and the experience is one of simple style and understated elegance in a very relaxed setting. The service is excellent, and to add to this dining experience guests with reservations can take advantage of the hotel’s valet parking service at no extra charge.

The Grand Cafe and Beach is one of the trendiest places to be seen in Cape Town. Beach cafe style meets Parisian chic with vast crystal chandeliers, Persian rugs, rich fabrics and antique furniture. This eclectic mix of style and panache is set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain, with views that are out of this world. The menu is melange of old meets new, with fabulous east meets west fusion, as well as tried and tested classics and modern contemporary dishes. Pushing the envelope with its unique style, the Grand Cafe and Beach offers patrons a unique dining experience. Open for lunch and dinner, the menu is exciting and varied, and is filled with strong flavours, fresh ingredients and fabulously innovative combinations. The Grand favourites include tempura prawns, classic Caesar salad, bouillabaisse, fillet béarnaise and an out of this world crayfish sandwich. The Grand Cafe and Beach also offers diners fabulous thin crusted gourmet pizzas, served on long wooden platters. With a sun deck and sea sand beach that is gently lapped by the ocean, fabulously opulent decor and delicious food, the Grand Cafe and Beach offers all the ingredients for a perfect meal.

A warm, relaxing home away from home the Library offers hotel guests a the Cape Grace hotel , and outside patrons alike, an area to sit back and unwind, while enjoying the delicious treats on offer. There is a special menu for the library, as well as a Sugar Buffet and Sugar and Spice Buffet for guests to indulge in. The Sugar Buffet consists of a variety of sweet treats, from candy apples to cupcakes it is a wonderful indulgence, and a great place to have tea with friends. There is also a Sugar and Spice Buffet: as well as all the delicious cakes and pastries on offer, guests can delight in a wonderful array of traditional Cape Malay fare. Visitors to the Library can also choose from the a la carte menu – a variety of light meals, seafood and fabulous desserts. With house specialities such as Chalmar beef fillet, seared tuna, shellfish and a rooibos smoked chicken salad there is a wonderful selection of fabulous food to choose from. Filled with hundreds of books, old and new, as well as over 200 pieces of art, the Library offers patrons an elegant place to sink into the richly upholstered chairs and let go of the day’s stresses and strains.

Pamper the pallet with prawns, mussels, Mossel Bay oysters and freshly caught line fish straight off the coast infused with Asian aromas or delight in the delicious buffet breakfasts sipping frothy cappuccinos. The Lighthouse Restaurant is situated within the pulse of a bustling holiday resort, proudly flanked by the rocky shores and a natural rock pool overlooking the Indian Ocean. Tuck into mouth-watering cuisine or simply sit back and enjoy a leisurely drink watching the Humpback and Southern Right Whales frolic along the shores followed by a cooling sundowner or dip in the rocky pool.

With stretching views spilling over onto the most beautiful lagoon and golf course and a dining experience that will delight the most discerning palate, The Orchid Room boasts the freshest, very finest local and imported ingredients on their Ala Carte menu. Enjoy a satisfying Sunday buffet lunch or authentic sushi from skilfully crafted Japanese Sushi Chefs around the wrap around counter display. Compliment your meal with distinctive selections of award winning wines, chosen and suited to heighten each meal. The Orchid Room oozes opulent sophistication for a distinctive dining experience that will please the most discerning patrons.

Inspired by soul and hearty culinary dishes from around the world, The Rose on York Restaurant tempts the palate with home-style fusions of gastronomic delights. Soak up the relaxed and languid ambience warmed by tasteful antiques, laughter and happiness while savouring good dining and the sounds of soulful soothing music. Nestled in “Die Oorskotjie Gebou” in York Street, The Rose on York Restaurant is one of George’s best-kept secrets. With hearty culinary dishes from around the world, sourced locally, patrons can be sure of the freshest selections served with delicious vegetables and exotic herb salads. The sumptuous rich interior provides the perfect place to curl up and relax in front of the fireplace for a game of chess while waiting on the delectable cuisine to be prepared. With wine selections from the seductive “in the mood” menu and delicious fusions of home-style delights, The Rose on York Restaurant offer fine dining and what the imagination desires.

The menu at Time-Out Cafe has been designed with the intention of serving business people who are on the go, as well as the more leisurely shoppers and tourists who frequent Cape Town’s V & A Waterfront. The restaurant is in the Breakwater Lodge, part of the Protea Hotel group. With stunning views of Table Mountain and the harbour, it is very convenient, and even offers patrons free and easy parking right outside – a rarity in the area! For the busy businessmen the chef has designed a section of the menu where “salads-in-a-second” and “meals-in-a-minute” are prepared using the freshest and finest ingredients, and with speed as the essence. For those patrons with a little more time on their hands, the a la carte menu has a distinctly South African flavour. The Time-Out Cafe is elegantly relaxed. The decor is funky, without being pretentious, and the restaurant is patronised by a distinctly diverse crowd, ranging from businessmen and women to tourists, from professional shoppers to those looking for somewhere to sit back and relax while feasting on a delicious meal and a thirst quenching cocktail.

Recently named of the top 10 deluxe eateries in South Africa by 2008 Dine Awards, Zachary’s oozes contemporary classic ambience in the culinary heart of award winning Pezula Resort, Hotel and Spa. With magnificent views stretching across the greens and four ways, patrons can indulge in fine dining in a luxury 5 star environment with breathtaking views complimenting the gourmet experience. Zachary’s embodies an honest approach to food maintaining integrity of ingredients, complimenting textures and flavours with focus on keeping produce local. Savour the delights in an intimate setting or dine al fresco on the terrace overlooking the pool area and idyllic views.

Drawn from the cradle of Africa, dressed in earthy tones and bare metals, Zinzi inspires a textured canvas painted in worn leather, soft suede’s, luscious velvets and hand painted fabrics touched by colourful lizard prints. Evoking relaxation and opulence with handcrafted oversized furniture, low tables and lazy ottomans scattered with cushions, Zinzi pampers the senses with elegance and beautifully crafted dishes complimented by unique designed cutlery and thoughtfully catered ambience. Indulge in an imaginative dining experience embraced by the spirit of Africa with honest cuisine and zesty ingredients spilling off the Ala Carte menu for a truly magical African forest dining experience.