Great Brak River Restaurants

Get your fix of abundant seafood and enjoy it the best way - right on the beach with sand under your toes and the smell of the ocean tickling your nostril.Guzzle, munch and slurp through nine gut-busting courses of mussels, West Coast Snoek with ultra sweet potato, seafood potjie with 4 types of fish, calamari, mussels and prawn tails, ostrich potjie, catch of the day, West Coast kreef (if you order), calamari steak, pot bread, salads, veggie dish, sweet melon, coffee and koeksisters. You may eat as much as you like but this is not as easy as it sounds! De Vette Mossel (The Fat Mussel) offers much more than perfectly prepared seafood – this is an experiencein unusual and informal surroundings with traditional Cape fishing culture in true West Coast Style.Behind which dune? De Vette Mossel is situated literally on the beach at Souwesia, between Klein- and Groot Brak River, near Mossel Bay on the Garden Route. Between courses, the young ones and the young of mind go for a swim or play on the beach.De Vette Mossel not only exists of creators Niël and Laurika but the dozen or so chefs, cleaners and kitchen staff who all have wonderful stories in their own right. Only jobless people were employed, trained and today they form an integral part of De Vette Mossel. Without them, De Vette Mossel is not possible – they therefore also share in the fruits of success. Need to know? Booking is essential. Open every year from 4 December. Please phone or SMS 079 339 0170. (No credit card facilities – they are on the beach!)

Serving mouth-watering freshly made meals and delicious home bakes, patrons soak up the pleasant surrounds and relax alongside the Koi Dam with occasional concerts in the garden. Children can play in the safe play area while parents relax with a cup of coffee and freshly baked muffin catching up on the days events or enjoy a Sunday lunch buffet with family and friends. Leani Garden Restaurant makes a pleasant day out immersed in fresh aromas and bird song.

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.

For those diners who want something a little different, Vaaljapie Station Restaurant entices the palate with traditional Afrikaans cuisine where patrons can linger away time on the balmy platform setting. Sporting an Afrikaans tongue in cheek formality warmed by pure Afrikaans cuisine, the dishes on offer entice hearty breakfasts, lunches, cosy dinners and satisfying snacks including teatime treats. With vegetarian options available including meaty mix and match choices, patrons can enjoy a finger licking experience that caters for hearty palates. Dine al fresco on the platform or cosy up to the sweltering black stove, Vaaljapie Station Restaurant is a little piece of “Boere Kitch” perfect for satisfying a culinary itch.

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.

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.

For fabulous seafood, The Kingfisher Seafood Restaurant is a must-try. This popular restaurant has a well-earned reputation for offering the finest and freshest seafood dishes and now, fantastic sushi thanks to the new addition of a talented sushi chef. With a dedicated children’s menu, The Kingfisher Seafood Restaurant is a great venue for all the family. Spread out over two levels and with flexible seating arrangements and bright, spacious dining areas, the versatile layout can accommodate a variety of dining requirements. For patrons wishing to dine al fresco, there is a large open deck overlooking the stunning Outeniqua Mountains. For superb seafood and impeccable service, take some time out at The Kingfisher Seafood Restaurant.

Enjoy sublime views over the ocean and Mossel Bay Harbour while you indulge in a colourful cocktail or tuck into prawns, oysters and other yummy seafood dishes.In season this is an awesome place to watch the whales in the bay.Mingle with the locals at this funky, vibey restaurant and bar situated right next to the harbour wall where anything closer to the waves is still swimming. Maybe you just want to munch a toasted sandwich washed down with a beer or glass of wine while admiring the gorgeous view? The staff at the Sea Gypsy Café are friendly and caring and kids are welcome - they even have their own menu. The atmosphere is very chilled and welcoming. Don't miss this great spot if you're visiting the area.

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.

Patricks Pub and Restaurant rests in the heart of Mossel Bay and is the ideal place for quick snack or lingering evening meal. Serving everything from Toasted Sandwiches to Eisbeins and a refreshing glass of Ale, patrons can enjoy a relaxing meal or spill out onto the large entertainment area hosting a cosy fire on cool days and aromatic braai. Patricks Pub and Restaurant is the perfect venue for an easygoing, comfortable meal surrounded by local faces and warm smiles.

Housed in an old stone house, just off Main Street, Jazzbury’s Restaurant soothes the senses with hearty cuisine and light jazz drifting in the background. Famous for Ostrich, diners choose from extensive starters and mains. Starters boast fried Ostrich Liver, dressed in butter and brandy and served with grilled vegetables. Main course entices with Ostrich wings - marinated in oyster sauce, ginger, honey and chilli. For heartier appetites choose the mixed Ostrich grill served with traditional South African mielie-meal, sweet potato and sweet corn. The menu boasts popular meals such as bobotie and Karoo Lamb shank and large fresh soles, purchased daily from the harbour. Delight the senses with heaven on a trolley. Pick from delectable choices such as Cape Brandy pudding and cheesecake to mention a few. Jazzbury’s warms the spirit with African delights and a wine selection straight from the heart of the Karoo.

Big Blu, formerly Tidals restaurant, has reincarnated itself with a little help from mother nature. In a word the view is simply spectacular and the ambience is casual and eclectic. This self-service Tapas restaurant offers traditional Tapas dishes as well as other dishes. Along with super friendly staff, there are regular weekend events. Enjoy tasty tapas dishes and a view not available anywhere else in the Garden Route!

Enjoy traditional South African food relaxing along the peninsula with the aroma of freshly baked breads, potjiekos and spitbraai’s filling the air. Kaai4 Restaurant entices with a dish for every palate at an incredible seaside venue. Sample traditional fare such as Kaai 4 braai pie and salad, freshly baked potbrood and biltong or chicken potjie with bread and salad alongside a Sunday buffet boasting extensive choices. Kaai4 Restaurant is a relaxing seaside retreat along the harbour shores of Mosselbay.

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.

Stylish, comfortable and intimate, Whispering Waves oozes warmth and elegance with a trendy approach to eco dining. The menu boasts tantalizing appetizers like Peppadew and Feta Poppers, Malay Samoesas with Banana Jam and Balsamic infused Brown mushroom served with Sweet Chilli Sauce. For main courses savour the exotic Chicken Curry Roti with Sambals, Pan fried Leg of Lamb and uncomplicated Sole with a Marie-Rose dressing flattered by the Dolphin Bay Vin Doux Sparkling Wine and Driemersdal Pinotage. Whispering Waves Restaurant whisks the palate on an enchanting journey of tantalising discovery and flavour.

Savour in delightfully tasty food and warm genuine hospitality at Stars Restaurant and Sports Bar. With impressive music, sports and viewing facilities, families and sports enthusiasts can dine with the favourite sports stars while sampling the extensive menu. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee and quick breakfast before work or a leisurely lunch alfresco on the deck surrounded by impressive views or simply dine inside surrounded by the memories and triumphs of stars. The extensive menu caters for breakfasts, brunch, light snacks, lunches and dinners including a well-catered kiddies menu all in the comfort and triumphs of Stars Restaurant and Sports Bar.

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.

Along the beautifully scenic Garden Route is The 5th Season. This warm and welcoming restaurant proffers superb international cuisine in a contemporary and stylish setting. Fusing flavours from all over the African Continent with European influences to create an eclectic and vast menu, patrons can choose from a variety of options such as duck, Kudu, Springbok, beef as well as fresh fish. With a patio overlooking a play area in the garden to keep children happy, The 5th Season Restaurant is a wonderful dining experience for the whole family.

Enjoy famous dishes or a relaxing drink marvelling at the beauty of the handcrafted natural tree bar or unwind in front of the crackling fireplace sipping heart-warming sherry. Rekindle the summer spirit with cooling cocktails savouring the sun and lapping waters around the Lapa with family and friends or just enjoy simple dining warmed by caramel woods and cooling wrought iron tables and chairs heightened by nautical stripes. Tantalise the palate with Tiger Prawns sautéed in chilli and garlic oil with onion and peppers, 600gm flame grilled Spare Ribs, medium spiced Chicken Curry, Chicken Tagliatelle with mushroom, tomato and garlic sauce topped with parmesan. Beach Tree Restaurant flirts casual dining surrounded by a soothing ambience fit for those who just want to kick back, relax and enjoy what the day has to offer.

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.