Top ‘Hidden Gem’ Places to Eat While Travelling in South Africa.
South Africa is a treasure trove for travellers. It is through food that you experience a culture and what makes places unique. Travel has long been a tremendous passion of mine and I have found brilliant places to eat over the years roaming in our magnificent country, South Africa.
Even with a lifetime’s worth of travel, it will be problematic to see all South Africa offers. Many institutions in smaller communities don’t have a web page or posts on trip adviser. If you are seeking for unique experiences, you need to travel the path less taken.
My idea of fine dining is a good burger or a raw steak and chips (fries). So, don’t expect 5-star restaurants listed here. The places I will list below are not lavish or ostentatious but reasonable and cosy; some are just fun and quirky. This is not a complete list, but I will add to it as I find places worth mentioning.
Britstown – The Old Mill.
This small town, nestled in the heart of the Karoo, is not a big hot spot for tourists. Other than a magnificent old church, the town doesn’t offer much. If you wind up here, you most likely took the wrong turnoff. But it is here, in the midst of nowhere, you can find this beautiful gem. Hidden away from the main road, but if you follow the signs, you will find it.
The food is straightforward, and the staff is friendly. They serve their breakfast all day with freshly baked bran bread and superb coffee. But what stood out to me was the gourmet Rooibos Caramel milkshake. It is a taste I will certainly go back to enjoy.
https://the-old-mill-coffee-shop.business.site/
Graaff-Reinet – The Village.
One street over from the busy gas stations with their fast-food outlets is this extraordinary place. From the front it looks unassuming, you may even miss it if you don’t know what to look for. The car guard, that stands around back, bears a warm smile and watches over your vehicle while you revel in a delectable meal. The décor is exceptional and surprising; staff is friendly, their English is broken, as people here speak mainly Afrikaans. Old cars, old bicycles and an authentic sweet shop are all part of the experience. I had their recommended burger and loaded chips, both occasions we stopped over, and it was amazing. Their cheese sauce is out of this world.
Other than fantastic food and amazing décor; they have brilliantly clean bathrooms that makes this a splendid place to stopover on your next road trip.
https://web.facebook.com/TheVillageGraaffReinet/?_rdc=1&_rdr
Grootbrak river – The Pot.
One-part bar, one-part café and one-part restaurant in the Eden district. Eden, as the name might propose, is a utopia of fynbos and forests. It is likewise a haven for the more adventuristic travellers. It is a place I know well, and yet I only came across this restaurant recently. On a back road, a scant distance out of town, you can come across The Pot. It is surrounded by farmland and feels a world away than the charming coastal town just down the road. The cuisine is outstanding and wholesome.
It is the ideal place to leave your phone in the car and talk to the locals. Or play a game of cards as we did. If you are a biker, this is a must; and with an assortment of farm animals, the kids are sure to love it too.
https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Pot/@-34.0331169,22.2697198,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0x1da806011e13b4c9!8m2!3d-34.0331169!4d22.2697198
Hartenbos, Mossel Bay–Baruch’s Coffee Roastery
This little coffee shop is exceedingly popular with locals. Quirky décor and the smell of roasting coffee greats you as you enter the modest café. Order the cheesecake, if they haven’t sold out yet, and experience some of the finest coffee around. Israeli cuisine makes up their simple menu. A treasure in an ocean of treasures that form up the Eden district.
Fair warning! Baruch’s has added a 2go stand in the Langeberg Mall. The coffee just as wonderful, but it lacks the charm and authentic feel of the café.
https://www.baruchscoffee.co.za/
Stilbaai – Put Stop.
This garage (fuel station), outside of Stilbaai, is a new place and brilliant stopping place to fill up on gas and have an unbelievable time. It nestles the small café and charming little shop towards the rear of the property. It is one of the most inspired cafes, finished with brilliant artistry. Biltong roosterkoek was my choice, and it was delicious, and my mother raved about their carrot cake for days! If you stop and have questions or problems, ask for the manager. This family-owned business always has someone there eager to help.
This place takes kid-friendly to the next level. The whale jungle gym is a must-see! And experience. I climbed it myself just to establish it is as fun as it looks. Heaven for any child, and most adults too!
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Putstop/@-34.265963,21.389091,15z/data=!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x1f489375f8e9287f!2sPutstop!8m2!3d-34.265963!4d21.389091!3m4!1s0x0:0x1f489375f8e9287f!8m2!3d-34.265963!4d21.389091
Sedgefield – Wild Oats Market
This brilliant farmer’s market is a must for all eco-lovers! No matter what your preference is, you will be catered to at this lovely little place. In the offseason, it is still open every day, although not all the stalls will be open. Fresh and organic is the main theme here. Bring the dogs along. A real farmers’ market with the bonus of being located across from another outdoor market, where you can find brilliant art amongst other things. The Eden regions best.
http://www.wildoatsmarket.co.za/
Sun-city/Pilanesberg – Kwa-Maritane Sunday lunch.
Pilanesberg’s Kwa-Maritane gate is right next to the entrance to Sun-city; and while this place may not be off the beaten path, I feel it deserves to mention. The chefs prepare a buffet of the best food with lots of variety and some excellent venison. I must have eaten my weights worth the last time I was there. While you sit and watch the animals at a nearby watering hole, a piano player sets the mood. This is also an excellent opportunity to drive around in Pilanesberg National Park. Or book a safari if you prefer to not drive yourself. The park is fabulous and the view from the mountains on a clear day will take your breath away.
So, there it is, my list of the best-kept secrets, food-wise, in South Africa. But there is still a lot of discovering to do. I will add to my list as I find places that impress me. Let me know if you found some places I can incorporate in my next trip. I am always eager to see new places. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any thoughts or questions you wish to share with me, or if you just want to say hi, I would love to hear from you.
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