Garden Route Restaurants

Casual and laidback, Knysna's bustling food emporium claims that it's "not exactly a restaurant, not exactly a bar, definitely not a deli... well, not exactly a deli... it’s an eating place, a drinking place and definitely a meeting place". Well, it's a good place to be if you enjoy fresh seafood and fancy a bit of shopping. 34 South is also "a gift shop, a clothing emporium, a food store, a fish monger and a bakery, too. And the finest wine shop this side of the grape curtain!" Start with a platter of freshly shucked wild coastal oysters still tasting of salt and sea. Tuck into calamari (tubes, heads and steaks) and mussels (in and out the shell) 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 linefish brought in through the Knysna heads, east-coast sole, linefish espetada, Portuguese sardines, jambalaya and seafood paella.

The well-stocked wine cellar generously compliments the dining experience, as does the lingering aroma of freshly baked bread and spreading reputation of pickled fish. Albertinia Hotel offers delicious traditional food served plentiful for a soothing experience of true comfort food. Enjoy lazy pub lunches or refreshing light meals in the shady tea garden, however you choose to dine, Albertinia Hotel will comfort the palate with nostalgic African cuisine and welcoming smiles.

Enjoy tasty food with a difference or light lunches and breakfasts. Alte Feste Restaurant sweeps the palate away with decadent deserts for a little slice of heaven. From great choice salads to vegetarian meals, Alte Feste caters for the easygoing palate in relaxed informal setting perfect to soothing the day away.

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.

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.

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.

Perched along the shimmering shores of Lake Pleasant Living, enjoying far-reaching views and cooling breezes, Bistro on the Lake slows down the palate and conversation with delectable cuisine and breathtaking views for a lingering awe inspiring dining experience. Offering an array of seafood and contemporary dishes overlooking the lake, patrons can indulge in superb food complimented by unobtrusive service and good wine with the occasional silence broken by fish eagle. Whether enjoying a hearty breakfast, lingering lunch or romantic dinner, Bistro on the Lake seduces the senses with mouth-watering cuisine, languid dining and friendly service immersed in a tranquil setting that captures the essence of relaxation.

Positioned perfectly with unrivalled views of Table Mountain and Table Bay, Blowfish Restaurant, one of Cape Town’s finest seafood and sushi restaurants is an all-round sensory experience. With windows spanning the length of the restaurant guests can enjoy the magnificent views, fresh sea breeze and sound of the nearby Atlantic Ocean. Distinguished by impeccable service and stylish, contemporary decor, Blowfish Restaurant serves a variety of mouth-watering seafood, sushi and some of the Cape’s finest wines. Our unique fresh fish counter serviced by skilled fishmongers allows you to choose your fish by weight and have it prepared to your individual preference. This unique atmosphere, service excellence and superb cuisine combine to make Blowfish the ideal setting for any meal; from intimate business lunches, romantic dinners and special occasions as well as large scale events for up to 180 people.

Enjoy pure, unpretentious coastal cuisine using real food as close to their natural state drenched with olive oil and natural goodness. Blue Olive Restaurant embraces family traditions and fresh produce sourced straight from local farmers where family and friends can share and get together to enjoy the simple things in life. Tantalise the taste buds next to a cracking fireplace during winter or linger around in the afternoon sun on the wooden deck shaded by ancient Milk woods. From classic eggs Benedict drenched in hollandaise sauce to healthy fruity muesli dressed in yogurt, honey and fruit salad for breakfast. For tempting starters try either Springbok Carpaccio served on a bed of rocket, parmesan and balsamic reduction or Feta, olive, cocktail tomatoes & garlic drizzled with pesto olive oil to mention a few. Move on to a succulent 500g T-bone steak grilled to perfection served with potato wedges and veggies followed by sinful chocolate nemesis a deep-fried chocolate bar wrapped in a phyllo pastry. The Blue Olive Restaurant caters and satisfies the most exotic palates with smooth, easy-going cuisine touched by African hospitality and Mediterranean flair.

Bomo Terrace embraces alfresco dining at its best, cradled by the lapping ocean, mysterious backdrop of the Outeniqua Mountain and positioned on the extensive terrace for alfresco sophistication at its best. Begin the day with silky Eggs Benedict or crispy croissants layered in fresh butter and preserves or a delicious Boma terrace brunch complimented by the warming sun and enigmatic beauty of the bay. Bomo Terrace inspires reconnection and welcoming faces guided by the protective spirits seen everywhere over the doorposts in Bali.

Known as one of Knysna’s top restaurants blended with old world charm and housed in a quaint 1848 year old manor house, Boogies Restaurant charms the palate and senses with original and unique dishes much suited to the characteristics of this old manor house. Charming and unique, patrons can dine on daily specials or experience cuisine from the menu taking in the fresh breeze on the veranda under the shady oak tree. If intimate dining suits the taste - cosy up to the crackling fireplace warmed by original yellowwood and Oregon pine floors for a wintery warm experience.

Experience Pacific - Rim Cuisine at it's best. Our Australian chef Sean Kiely brings together the fusion of international cuisine using fresh local produce. From humble beginnings, and after a period of being one of Simon's Town's best kept secrets, Boulders Beach Restaurant has grown to be recognised as one of the top restaurants in the area. Our menu features Pacific Rim Cuisine, by Australian Head Chef Sean Kiely, which he studied during his extensive travels through Asia and across the globe. Complementing the menu are various specials that change on a daily basis, an extensive wine selection chosen by a sophisticated palate and an earthly comfort that won't be ingored.

This Authentic Italian Café gastronomically infuses the palate with traditional Italian cuisine on the patio overlooking the water. Considered by many as the most popular restaurant in town, Café Mario serves intimate meals and hearty breakfasts complimented by reasonable Italian wines. A wonderful place to linger the day away, people watching and indulging in flavour infused Italian faire.

Caffe San Marco’s relaxed atmosphere, great views and Italian influence, as well its sidewalk location in the V & A Waterfront means patrons can sit back, sip on a gourmet cup of coffee and people watch. A truly Italian experience, Caffe San Marco offers patrons an authentic slice of that la vita e bella, or the beautiful life. Nestled in the bustling Waterfront, looking out over the harbour where the seals frolic and water traffic goes to and fro, Caffe San Marco’s menu is made up of a selection of delicious fare to satisfy and delight. Whether its breakfast, lunch, dinner, a light snack or a cup of the best coffee, Caffe San Marco has something to offer. Real Italian food, made the traditional way, each meal is freshly prepared and made to order. The beef carpaccio is one of the house specialities cut from the finest fillet, garnished with the finest salina capers. There are a range of pastas and salads made with authentic Italian ingredients. There is an extensive breakfast menu, served until 12pm, as well as a selection of gourmet sandwiches. Breakfast, lunch or dinner, Caffe San Marco offers an the best views, the finest coffees and fabulous food, while being the perfect place to watch the world go by.

The Chartfield Guest House Restaurant is located a few roads above the main road, in Kalk Bay. Owing to its elevated position above the harbour town, views from this restaurant will keep you coming back for more. Pale, clean interiors and fresh décor create an atmosphere of serenity and relaxation. The restaurant specialises in a buffet style breakfast, with a mountain of delicious and beautifully presented food laid out daily on a groaning buffet table. The views can also be appreciated from the pretty outdoor seating area, with the raw stone and natural rock still preserved in the restaurant's exterior lending a rustic feel to the terrace. The restaurant only caters for bookings of over 10 people for lunch and dinner, so be sure to book beforehand.

Easily located within the scenic Garden Route and famously known by locals as the place to enjoy made to order, thin crispy pizzas straight from the traditional wood-fired oven with wheat free bases available. Dine on outdoor terrace or within the large garden on balmy summer days choosing from an array of delicious pastas, potatoe bakes, salads and voluptuously filled pita breads. Leave enough space for decadent deserts and smouldering coffees for a pleasant, well-rounded day out.

ChefAlma@Groenvlei Restaurant is situated in beautiful Lake Pleasant Resort just outside Sedgefield in the heart of the Garden Route, South Africa. The restaurant serves laid-back rustic food with a clean modern twist, and beautifully presented with care. The menu changes periodically and will always include local seasonal produce, own homegrown herbs, vegetables and sprouts. Try some of the decadent desserts and cakes. The resort is in a natural bird sanctuary on the shores of tranquil Groenvlei, the only freshwater lake on the Garden Route. The lake beachfront, with its sandy beach and lawns, is particularly safe for young children. On the eastern boundary of the resort is the 2000 hectare Goukamma Nature Reserve. Currently we are serving breakfast from 8:00 to 12:00, lunch from 12:00 to 17:00, and dinner from 17:00 to 21:00. We are closed on Sunday evenings and Mondays.

Chef’s @ Nauticus Place Restaurant, Brenton-on-Sea, Knysna, was bought over on the 15th November 2009. The Restaurant has been going from strength to strength. We at Chef’s @ Nauticus Place Restaurant pride ourselves on serving excellent food and drink. The beautiful, unique surroundings of Brenton-on-Sea guarantees a great time for everyone, young and old. We are open throughout the year for tour groups. Set menus can be arranged ahead of time according to the budget of the client / company. We cater groups, kid’s parties, weddings, team building, birthdays, anniversaries and anything else you could think of.

Renowned for their unusual combinations, this light airy restaurant revives the palate with the likes of fluffy omelettes with Chinese-style chicken dressed in tangy Hoison Sauce for an interesting twist on the traditional omelette. With an extensive Ala Carte menu serving breakfasts and lunches, Conservatory at Meade House delights the senses with succulent steaks and grilled fish or delectable teas and coffees complimented with moist cakes and freshly baked muffins. Whether delighting in a light lunch or simply relaxing with a cup of tea, Conservatory at Meade House will soothe away the day in an idyllic setting oozing with character and grace in one of the oldest homes in George.

Located at one of Knysnas most impressive landmarks this premier restaurant in The Garden Route is the place where patrons can indulge and gather, sharing pizzas, sundowners and tasty antipastos. Offering seductive Italian cuisine and classic cocktails, Cornuti Knysna oozes Rivera chic in a chilled out atmosphere catering fine wines and fresh produce for their signature mouth-watering dishes.

Offering contagious entertainment for young and old where some dine and dance the night away to fathom hunger buster meals, this lively venue has it all in one place for a great night out with family and friends. Serving a variety of seafood dishes, pizzas, pasta and delicious snacks, patrons soak up the atmosphere and delightful menu before setting off home smiling after a fun-filled evening with family and friends. De Dekke Restaurant is located in the De Dekke Shopping Complex in Great Brak River close to the towns of George and Mossel Bay in South Africa's scenic Garden Route.

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.

Situated right on the beach front in Mossel Bay and surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of The Garden Route, Delfinos Restaurant serves African food with a view. The extensive menu boasts a large variety of food from seafood to pizzas all beguiled in South African flavours. With complimenting coffees warming the palate, Delfinos (as the name suggests coffee) entices with lighter meals such as pitas or tramazzinies, hearty portions of pizzas or pastas and scrumptious fried breakfasts with options for healthier alternatives such as cereals and yogurts. Flattered by unsurpassed views dining indoor or alfresco, Delfinos makes for a pleasant day out enjoying the refreshing breeze and South Africa tastes.

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.

Doubleshot puts Plettenberg Bay on the South African coffee map. Doubleshot installed the first Kees van der Westen Mirage espresso machine in Africa, and it now buy its beans from Origin Roastery in Cape Town. Two former Lufthansa flight attendants, Karin and Karin, spent their working years checking out the best coffee shops around the world before opening up their own at The Square shopping center in Plettenberg Bay. To eat, the café offers cakes, sandwiches piled high with local meats and cheeses, and muesli worth skipping your hotel breakfast for. For coffee made with passion do to Doubleshot Coffeebar in Plettenberg Bay.

Enhanced by the natural elements - walls made of clay and straw, high ceilings from wood and glass windows stained. This warm and earthy restaurant draws inspiration from nature with a delectable menu of starters, salads, mains and deserts. Dine al fresco on the wooden deck with mesmerising views over Herolds Bay watching whales and dolphins frolicking in the bay. Surrounded by the contrasting beauty of green landscapes and blue oceans, Down to Earth Restaurant graces the palate with evocative food and well-suited selection of South African wines. Discover the beauty of nature for a truly down to earth experience.

Nestled in the heart of the Rivera Hotel along the banks of the Hartenbos Lagoon is a sanctuary bursting with flavour inspired by Africa and the deep blue sea. Cradled by the Indian Ocean and outstretched beaches, lush vegetation and the rocky face of the Outeniqua Mountain, Driftwood inspires a décor fresh from the sea and roots of Africa. The calm and spacious nautical theme compliments the mouth-watering comfort food served in generous portions of fusion. Entice the palate with delicious morsels before watching the sun set from the open deck sipping a cooling cocktail or selection of local wines. Boasting mouth-watering food and a view to kill, Driftwood Restaurant is your nautical retreat to the sea for casual cool comfort.

The perfect setting to enjoy lazy breakfasts and alfresco lunches indoors or on the sheltered terrace marvelling at the awaking of the early morning or lingering sunset; East Head Café is where friends and family meet to reconnect for good food and casual conversation cooled by cocktails and wine. East Head Café boasts quality and service accentuated by flavour and freshness using the best local ingredients for sumptuous breakfasts and creamy cappuccinos. Indulge in a selection of the finest wines by glass or bottle complimented by fresh battered fish and chips or a delicious gourmet burger from the Café style menu. Kids are welcome and catered for ensuring parents get much needed time to relax and enjoy the well thought out setting and food. With a kiddies menu complimented by colouring boards, blackboards and toys, kids can be kids without the worry and stress associated with dining out. You can be forgiven spending a little more time here than expected, enjoying delicious food on a balmy summer days or curling up to the crackling fireplace.

This authentic African café embraces culture and warmth with delectable meals and traditional hospitality. Offering an array of delights alongside hearty traditional cuisine, Emqolweni Kamama Café tempts the palate with loveliness. Enjoy a relaxing traditional meal while kids have fun in the play park before setting off to experience the culture and hospitality of the traditional Songoma followed by a refreshing Mqomboti (traditional beer) before being swept away by the enigmatic soul of the traditional dancers. Emqolweni Kamama Café is cultural retreat filled with traditional surprises for a truly inspiring dining experience.

‘Excuse my French’ is a French Creperie in a rustic setting at the seaside in Kalk Bay. With a variety of fillings, from English breakfast through to sweet delights, such as Nutella and cream, dining at ‘Excuse my French’ is a wonderful experience. The creperie is located behind the well-known junk shop, The Railway House, in Kalk Bay. With fresh sea air coming off the waves that are crashing only a few metres away, the venue is every bit as delightful as the menu. Enjoy your crepe with a speciality coffee and watch the changing moods of the ocean from your rustic seat. If you’re fond of the table and chairs, you’re welcome to buy them, as everything has a price tag. If you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a light lunch with an unbeatable view and relaxed atmosphere, this French creperie with a difference is perfect for the whole family.

Boasting versatile cuisine influenced by European / Swiss dishes, Fat Susi’s Bistro offers something new to visitors looking for authentic Bistro food. With ever- changing specials and reasonable prices, this long-standing bistro has become a hot spot with locals and tourists alike. Discover home roasted coffee, delectable cakes and mouth-watering selections of freshly made food imported and local at Fat Susi’s Bistro on Main Street.

With its European style, fabulous coffees and delicious food, visitors to Fego Caffe at Cape Town’s V & A Waterfront would be forgiven for thinking they were in a coffee house in Italy. Recreating the continental style and Italian flare Fego Caffe also offers patrons the best of the Waterfront - unsurpassed views of the harbour and a wonderful opportunity to sit back and soak up the atmosphere of one of the city’s most visited spots while sipping on premium Italian roast coffee. The menu consists of delicious light meals and snacks, and is heavily influenced by the cuisine of Italy. Fluffy, light omelettes, paninis, sun dried tomato focaccias, toasted tramezzinos and wonderful wraps, as well as more substantial meals like burgers, pastas and caffe meals, there is no shortage of choice for the discerning coffee connoisseur. An indulgent range of cakes, muffins and croissants are also on the menu. Customers can browse through the selection of magazines at Exclusive Books while delighting in the Fego fare. This is a great place to sit back, relax and take in one’s surroundings.

With an array of savoury and sweet desires, Florentines bewitches the senses with playful décor and homemade delicacies. Serving mouth-watering freshly baked muffins, cakes and tarts alongside speciality coffee blends, you can relax on comfy couches while enjoying the beautiful gifts and quirky décor. Upon entering, you are welcomed by Florentines and seduced by delightful temptations of sweet and savoury. Enjoy light lunches, high teas and satisfying platters. Florentines is a sweet retreat with melt-in-the-mouth pleasures for a truly sinful experience.

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.

Situated in the bustling centre of Plettenberg Bay is Ghillies Grill. A superb location with stunning views of the ocean and of lively Main Street. This popular venue proffers hearty food in generous proportions. Must-try dishes include the garlicky mussels, the tender streaks and the sumptuous seafood platter. A spacious deck for alfresco dining allows for spectacular views and people-watching as diners enjoy the sumptuous dishes on offer.

With delightful mountain views and sun facing aspect, Greens offers substantial breakfasts, lunches and dinners in an open, spacious setting warmed by natural earthy tones and textures. Enjoy a selection of substantial breakfasts from traditional English to delectable Eggs Benedict and for healthier options Muesli with yogurt and fresh fruit platter. Bustling lunchtime favourites range from open sandwiches and deluxe burgers to crispy thin wood-fired pizzas. With options of dining inside or alfresco under the sun-warmed terrace scattered with umbrellas, Greens entices and ordinary meal into a gourmet experience with breakfast a speciality and servings of fresh Kingklip, Fillet Steak and Pasta available for a heartier alternative. Greens is easily located within the bustling hub of the Southern Suburbs.

Tempt the taste buds with fine dining, Ala Carte menu or social tapas alongside an extensive wine list well suited to compliment the palate. Housed is an old Victorian house built in 1862, Harry B’s is the place to unwind and meet up with friends savouring the delights and wonderful ambience mixed with a traditional twist. Explore exciting taste sensations combined with history and modern pleasures for a warm and welcoming eclectic mix of tastes and presentations. For food that looks beautiful dressed in flavour and colour, visit Harry B’s restaurant in Knysna on Main Street.

With its prime location opposite the harbour at the beginning of Kalk Bay, the aptly named ‘The Home of Waffles and Pancakes’ on Main Road is a tribute to decadence in every flavour. From cinnamon pancakes to caramel and ice-cream topped warm toasted waffles, a visit here will satisfy all your sweet-tooth cravings. The decadent establishment also offers main meal options on the menu, including savoury pancakes with a selection of delicious fillings, but be sure to try their sweet dessert pancakes and waffles for dessert. The ambiance is casual and light, with views stretching over Main Road and onto the Harbour. Large floor to ceiling windows invite plenty of sunlight which patrons can enjoy from the window counter or at tables inside. Whether its sweet treats you’re after, or delicious comfort food on a rainy day, stop in at 'The Home of Waffles and Pancakes' for an experience of something different that may transport you back to a time when waffle and pancake houses were a dime a dozen.

This popular coffee shop is a well-known oasis serving up delights and tantalizing dishes in a peaceful and classic setting. House of Flavour evokes feelings of serenity and peace with every slice of heaven they serve. A well known eatery that embraces a classic and modern atmosphere serving a wide variety of breakfasts, light meals, prime cut beef and succulent prawns and sandwiches. Located in the gentle heart of George, House of Flavour bewitches the senses with a charismatic charm and warm embrace.