Garden Route Restaurants

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.

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.

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.

Renowned for the freshest seafood presented in contemporary dishes, this favourite amongst locals and tourists alike is a must-try!A lively but laid-back spot, Cruise Cafe boasts spectacular views of the Knysna Lagoon from the deck or through impressive large glass doors when the weather is less inviting.The decor is elegant with blond wood, earthy tones, alcoves and nautical photos. It’s the perfect setting to relax and enjoy whatever you fancy, be it a speciality coffee, a hearty lunch or a sundowner.

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.

La Playa is one of the more trendy eateries in Cape Town's V & A Watefront. This Greek owned cafe/restaurant offers diners the best in upbeat, vibrant cafe lifestyle, with spectacular views and delicious food. La Playa offers diners a selection of Greek influenced dishes that include Rosemary infused lamb and Greek milk tart, as well as a wide selection of breakfast dishes. It the prime spot for those looking for somewhere to sit back, take in the atmosphere of the Waterfront and marvel at the fabulous views. Trendy and modern but relaxed, La Playa is reminiscent of European cafe style cuisine and ambience. Frequented by locals as well as visitors to the city, it gives a glimpse of typical Cape Town life. This funky fun cafe is the place to see and be seen. With a lively atmosphere and great food La Playa is relaxed, trendy and offers patrons European style and service in a very Capetonian setting. With views out over the mighty Atlantic Ocean, there is no end of beauty to indulge in while sipping on a cool cocktail and nibbling on something sublime from the menu.

Easily accessible by any account, yet a drive out to Haskell Vineyards’ Long Table Restaurant may feel slightly off the beaten track. In this case, though, it’s more like following the red brick road to a secluded spot where subtle sophistication meets wine estate ambiance. The shaded terrace is the perfect place to soak up the picturesque view of Stellenbosch on a summer’s day, while the indoor fireplace and the Long Table (seats 12) will keep the party quite content in moodier weather. The breakfast menu has an exciting individualist flare and caters for all preferences. Expect to be tantalized by offerings of Breakfast Trifle, Tunisian Adja and French Toast Pockets amongst the traditional. The lunch menu is varied, complete with starters, light meals, mains and dessert. Choices range from simple to sophisticated with Duck and Quail for those who crave something a little different. The wine list is a treat for wine lovers and comprises the farm’s own Dombeya Wines and Haskell Vineyards offerings including the Samara (Double Gold Winner Michelangelo Awards 2008) and the Boulder Road Shiraz (Gold Medal Best in Class Winner - 2008 International Wine and Spirits Awards). Meal portions are generous, offering good value for money. A bonus for those who would like to make lunch more of an outing is the opportunity for wine tasting in the restaurant’s foyer.

This small intimate café exudes opulence softened by chic chandeliers and warm woods. Funky white designer chairs grace an 80-year-old Persian wrapped around a luxurious built in sofa oozing comfort and abundance. Small quaint tables compliment the double volume veranda and terrace for a pleasant alfresco dining experience flattered by 180-degree views of the breathtaking waterside. Illuminated by a cosy log fireplace, stars and Chinese style lanterns, Lunar Café infuses a modern slick décor with 5 star service and first class cuisine. Discover the magical ambience with unsurpassed views at Lunar Café for a trendy relaxed setting.

Red Cherry Café is situated within the Garden Route Casino directly adjacent to the world renowned Pinnacle Point Hotel and Golf Resort. Embracing a warm and welcoming ambience heighted by a delicious Ala Carte menu, Red Cherry Café is a welcoming retreat from the glitz and glamour of The Garden Route Casino. Serving a wide variety of meals ranging from hearty and healthy breakfasts, traditional and gourmet burgers, toasted sandwiches, crispy dippy wedges, steaks, seafood specialities and classics, palates are well catered for and tempted with moist cakes, muffins and crumbly scones. A well-hosted drinks menu compliments each meal alongside a delightful kiddies menu ensuring all patrons, young and old are well catered for.

This little gem in Harfield stimulates the senses and warms the palate with its bold cuisine and finger licking morsals of delicious seafood, tapas and platters. With a few tables elegantly scattered around contrasted by dark woods and bold colours, Ruby Tuesday oozes chic opulence and good value for money. Enjoy gourmet burgers dinging al-fresco or gather inside sampling the revitalising colours and décor while eating mouthfuls of delightful creations from the menu.

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.

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.

Located in the secure and upscale King George Hotel, The Fairway Terrace is just a stones throw away from pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches. Explore a superb blend of classical contemporary cuisine with a gastronomic twist for a unique experience that will tantalize the palate. Offering the only the best of what the Garden Route has to offer, The Fairway Terrace invites relaxation and tranquillity. Serving exquisite Cape and International cuisine with a range of delectable light meals and well paired South African wines, patrons will have to explore off the beaten track to experience this unique eatery.

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.

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.

With flavour bursting foods taking the spotlight, the interior remains simple and elegant heightened by interesting wall textures and large modern prints. Fast becoming known as the ‘local spot’ in Hout Bay – a place where you can enjoy slow food Sundays with large gatherings of family and friends and reconnect, share and enjoy the company of delicious food and wine. Start off your meal with steamed saldhana mussels, white wine, tomato & chorizo followed by braised shoulder of lamb, red wine, tomato, rosemary & semolina gnocchi and if you can manage to squeeze in souffle beignet, ice cream & hot chocolate sauce it will be well worth it. Wild Woods sources only the freshest seasonal local ingredients with special emphasis on sustainable dining for the eco conscious diner. With plenty of cosy corners and breathing space Wild Woods provides a light and cheerful environment complimented by breathtaking scenery, sumptuous food and unpretentious ambience.