A visit to Die Plaaskombuis (The Farm Kitchen) in the Hemel & Aarde Valley
We had to visit Hermanus in connection with the renovation of our new home in Greyton. On route back to Greyton, we stopped at Die Plaaskombuis for lunch. The entrance to the restaurant is via the Farm Stall, where you could easily spend a couple of hours. There are fresh vegetables and eggs, frozen home cooked food, preserves, cups and … Continue reading →
Wine tasting in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
On the way from Greyton towards Hermanus is the picturesque Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. According to a visiting Moravian missionary in 1899, it got its name because “so high are the hills which closely embrace the valley all round, that they seem to touch the sky and you cannot see anything but heaven and earth”. I was stunned to see this beautiful … Continue reading →
Abbey Rose Restaurant, Greyton
Abbey Rose is a family-run restaurant in Main Street, Greyton. It is also a wedding venue. When Deon and I were waiting in the guest house to move into our house, we ordered food from this restaurant. They assisted with cutlery as well and their friendliness overwhelmed us. Deon’s favourite was Oxtail, and I loved their Green Chicken Curry. Since … Continue reading →
Jean Restaurant at Klein Roosboom Boutique Wine Farm
Today we had the privilege of visiting Jéan Restaurant at Klein Roosboom Boutique Wine Farm which reopened after being closed due to renovations for more than a year. It is situated in the Durbanville Wine Valley and owned by winemaker Karin de Villiers. It is situated in the same spot as the previous Klein Roosboom Restaurant, but has been totally … Continue reading →
Urban Wines and Bistro, Cape Town
If we had an unsatisfactory experience in a restaurant, we would not use this space to write a negative critique about it. We would sometimes decide to give it a second chance and if it is still unacceptable, to steer clear! The French have a saying that goes more or less like this: Des goûts et des couleurs ne se discutent pas. (Flavours and colours are not discussed). If we were not happy with the service and/or the quality of what was presented, maybe others would be of a different opinion. But to share positive stories and experiences is part of our search for a good life! So here we share with you our enjoyable experiences in restaurants.
After a busy year, Deon and I at last have some time to explore new restaurants again. We discovered a little bistro close to home in Durbanville recently. It is called Urban Wines and Bistro, situated at the corner of New Street and Koeberg Road. Lisa, the owner, comments: “Urban Wines is a dream I have had for many years. … Continue reading →
Arugula Bistro and Bread
We recently discovered a new restaurant in Welgemoed, Cape Town. It is called after the rocket plant, Arugula. We were hesitant to try this restaurant, as it is situated in a shopping complex, but it turned out to be a little gem. As we entered the restaurant, we were immediately attended to by friendly staff. We were seated at a … Continue reading →
Slipway Waterfront Restaurant, Saldanha
We have visited SlipWay Waterfront Restaurant in the main harbour of Saldanha many times and every time we visit, we love it. The restaurant is not all that visible from the road, but there are sign boards to guide you to this beautiful little venue, situated on the lagoon. When our friend from France visited us for a couple of … Continue reading →
Spek & Bone (Bacon & Beans) Restaurant, Stellenbosch
There are certain streets in Cape Town that are very inspiring to foodies – Breë Street in the Cape Town CBD area and Dorp Street, Stellenbosch, are two of these fascinating streets. Spek & Bone on Dorp Street is owned by South African chef and TV personality, Bertus Basson. In Afrikaans we have a well-known saying – “jy werk vir … Continue reading →
Barrique Restaurant at Vredenheim Winery and Wildlife
If you like traditional food, Barrique Restaurant is where you should go. It opened in 1998 and is situated in the Stellenbosch winelands, a beautiful setting surrounded by the Helderberg Mountains. As you enter the Vredenheim estate, you are met by a variety of game such as gems buck, ostriches and zebra. There is also a Big Cats Park with … Continue reading →
De Grendel Restaurant
Deon and I decided on Friday to visit De Grendel Restaurant in Plattekloof. Before we left, I googled the wine farm and read that it has been in the Graaff family since 1891. Today the farm is owned by Sir De Villiers Graaff and is known for its award-winning wines. The chefs are Ian Bergh and Garth Davids who serve … Continue reading →
Fyndraai Restaurant at Solms-Delta, Franschhoek
As we are at last entering winter in the Western Cape, Deon and I are getting more housebound (read lazy) and prefer to stay at home on Fridays. But last Friday I felt like exploring and Deon suggested that we find a restaurant around Franschhoek. It was a lovely sunny day and we enjoyed the scenic drive to Solms-Delta where … Continue reading →
Durbanville Hills Wine Estate
Deon and I recently re-visited Durbanville Hills Wine Estate, one of our favourite wine estates in the Durbanville Wine Valley. It has magnificent views, great food and excellent wines. Their Chef’s Platter was launched to celebrate the 2016 summer season. We were a bit late for this experience upon our almost autumn 2017 visit, but the chef informed us that … Continue reading →
Café Felix, Riebeeck Kasteel
On Friday, 17 March, we decided to celebrate my birthday a day early, as we would both be working on Saturday. I wanted to have lunch in one of Cape Town’s oldest towns, Riebeeck Kasteel, named after Commandor Jan van Riebeeck, the Dutch founder of Cape Town. The town of Riebeeck Kasteel was laid out around the Dutch Reformed church … Continue reading →
Cucina di Giovanni at Eikendal
The restaurant Giovanni is situated on the Eikendal Wine Estate close to Somerset West in the Western Cape. On a rather windy Friday afternoon, we were seated at a table close to the dam with its impressive fountain. The scenic view of the Helderberg mountains encouraged us to forget about the slightly uncomfortable breeze. The restaurant seemed to be very … Continue reading →
Terrace Restaurant at the Lanzerac Hotel
Deon fondly remembers the lunches he and fellow student friends enjoyed under the trees at the Lanzerac Hotel when studying at Stellenbosch University. Those lunches took place many moons ago. Today, as it was Friday again, after a hectic week at work for both of us, we were off to the Postcard Café at Stark-Condé wines in Jonkershoek, Stellenbosch. Deon … Continue reading →
Greek Style on a Friday
We love Greek food and the ambience of a Greek restaurant. And yes, we love Greece with its relaxed atmosphere, the magnificent islands and blue water and last, but not least, its moussaka and meze! During Johan and Paula’s visit last year in October, we attempted having lunch at Spiro’s, a Greek restaurant in Hout Bay, but on our way … Continue reading →
Vrede & Lust
On a very hot Friday afternoon during the December holidays, we were off to Vrede & Lust Wine Estate, situated on the Simondium-Klapmuts Road, close to Franschhoek. On a previous trip to Franschhoek, we noticed this wine estate and it has been on our restaurants-to-visit list for quite a while. The trip to Vrede & Lust was not so peaceful … Continue reading →
Lemon Butta, Willowbridge
We read a few very negative comments regarding Lemon Butta restaurant, situated at the Willowbridge Life Style Centre, Bellville. We decided to try the restaurant last Friday as we were at the centre for some Christmas shopping. The ambience is not too bad, but should you choose to sit outside on the patio, your view would be of the cars … Continue reading →
The Bakery, Jordan Wine Estate
After our visit to Jardine Restaurant in September 2016, next on the list of restaurants headed by acclaimed chef George Jardine, had to be The Bakery at Jordan Wine Estate, Stellenbosch. It is a scenic trip along beautiful vineyards and blue mountains on the way to the restaurant via Stellenbosch Kloof Road. The restaurant itself is situated in a picturesque … Continue reading →
Diemersdal – Third Time Around
Why do we always return to Diemersdal? It must be the beautiful scenery, or the cosiness of the restored stable in which the restaurant is situated – or it could be the always changing menu which draws us back to this graceful wine estate. Whatever the reason, it is always a happy event when we visit the eatery, especially on … Continue reading →
Bistro on Beach
Today was the second time in a short while that we visited Bistro on Beach, a small restaurant situated at the Melkboschstrand beachfront. We were on our way to the popular Orca restaurant on both occasions, but on the first attempt the restaurant was closed and on the second it was full and we had to wait for more than … Continue reading →
The Greek Fisherman, V & A Waterfront
We haven’t been to the V & A Waterfront in a while and decided that it was time for a visit. Lunch would be at an old favourite, The Greek Fisherman. The restaurant opened its doors in 1992 as an informal and hearty Greek restaurant. Their Meze was fabulous and therefore the restaurant was always on our to-do list during … Continue reading →
The Local Grill, Val du Charron
Described on their website as simply nirvana for carnivores, is not really what I have in mind when I visit a restaurant for lunch, but the beautiful setting of the restaurant, situated 7 km from Wellington, makes up for the statement on their menu. The Local Grill is the restaurant at the Val du Charron Wine and Olive Estate. The … Continue reading →
Luigi’s Restaurant, Paarl
Waking up on Friday to a glorious sunny day, we decided to take a slow drive to Paarl and enjoy the scenic view while the good weather lasted. Luigi’s Mediterranean Inspired Restaurant was on our lunch menu. It was not long before we reached Paarl and started searching for the restaurant, situated on 311 Main Road. It took us a … Continue reading →
Restaurant Jardine, Stellenbosch
It was Friday and Deon’s birthday, 9 September 2016. Both reasons to find a new restaurant for lunch. Since moving to Cape Town at the end of 2010, we visited quite a number of restaurants. Many of these restaurants were great, others not so great, but after today, we have two that are competing for the first position on our … Continue reading →
Beleza Restaurant
We had visitors (my brother Johan and his wife Paula) for a couple of days and on the Friday of their visit, we decided to have lunch at a Greek tavern in Hout Bay, called Spiros. However, on our way to Hout Bay, while waiting at a robot in Tamboerskloof, Deon spotted a Portuguese Restaurant in Kloof Street, Beleza (“beautiful” … Continue reading →
Five Guys
Since discovering our local Tyger Waterfront, we cannot stay away. On Friday we were contemplating staying home, but then decided to go for a quick lunch at a restaurant we spotted at the Waterfront a while ago. It was a chilly day, but we preferred to sit outside where we had a view of the water. We were seated on … Continue reading →
Oude Wellington Restaurant
My mom from Port Elizabeth came to visit us for a week and naturally we had to find interesting restaurants to make her visit as pleasant as possible. Early Friday morning Deon googled to find a restaurant with a fireplace. The name, Oude Wellington Restaurant, came up with good reviews. So, off we went to experience a new adventure. As … Continue reading →
George’s Greek Restaurant
Going Greek again, after the previous Friday lunch at a Greek restaurant, we were in the mood for everything Greek. We even watched our favourite film, Shirley Valentine, again! Situated between Somerset West and Stellenbosch on Helderberg Road, we found the unpretentious white building George’s Greek Restaurant is situated in. A donkey with a wide grin welcomed us on the … Continue reading →
Opa Greek Tavern
Our love for Greek food was ignited in Port Elizabeth when we first visited Zorba’s Taverna in Central. When visiting Cape Town, we could never resist The Greek Fisherman, a Greek restaurant at the V&A Waterfront. We spent a couple of weeks in Greece in 2010 and what a feast it was to live on a diet of Greek food. … Continue reading →
Avontuur Estate Restaurant
It was Friday again and time for adventure. We were heading to Avontuur Estate Restaurant, which was a very suitable name. The Afrikaans word Avontuur, translated into English, indeed means Adventure. Avontuur Estate is situated against the Helderberg, between Stellenbosch and Somerset-West in the Western Cape. When you drive up to the building in which the restaurant is situated, a … Continue reading →
Curry in Cape Town
What do the three restaurants, Indian Chapter; Moksh and Annapurna have in common? The answer is easy – curry. Whether you like tandoori, madras or vindaloo, or a cashewy korma if you prefer your food less spicy, these three Cape Town restaurants are well-known for delicious curries. The first Indian restaurant we visited in Cape Town after relocating from Port … Continue reading →
Gastao’s Restaurant
Gastao’s Restaurant I love the unexpected – well, if it is positively unexpected. It was Friday again, but we decided not to have lunch at a restaurant this time. Having lunch at home seemed like a very good idea. Around twelve in the afternoon Deon asked if I wanted to accompany him to Edward Street in Bellville as he needed … Continue reading →
Flavours Restaurant, Devon Valley Hotel
We visited this restaurant last year with a guest from Port Elizabeth and when Deon asked if I could suggest a restaurant for lunch last Friday, I remembered the awesome view at Flavours Restaurant, which is situated outside Stellenbosch. Flavours is part of the Devon Valley Hotel. We ordered tapas upon our first visit, which was very good. As it … Continue reading →
Café des Arts
Café des Arts Franschhoek is one of the destinations that we love to visit on a regular basis. Maybe it is because of the scenery, the excellent restaurants or perhaps Deon and I have the tendency to form habits easily. Whatever the reason, today we decided to have lunch at Franschhoek once again. As we were driving towards Franschhoek, we … Continue reading →
Reuben’s
Franschhoek in our beautiful Western Cape has always been a favourite and on my birthday this year Deon treated me to lunch at Reuben’s – celebrity chef Reuben Riffel’s restaurant on the main road. The restaurant itself is beautiful, with high ceiling and beams, elegantly decorated and the bar area features a wing of an old DC 10 aeroplane as … Continue reading →
Tokara Wine Farm
When we moved to Cape Town, one of the first restaurants we visited was the delicatessen at Tokara, situated outside Stellenbosch on the R310 in the Helshoogte Pass. I always wanted to return to Tokara and we decided to revisit this beautiful wine farm today, 11 March 2016. Tokara was purchased by GT Ferreira and soon became known for producing … Continue reading →
Boschendal Farmshop & Deli
My brother and sister-in-law from Rheebok visited us on the last weekend of February 2016. We had to find a new venue for lunch. This time, after a Google search, we decided to visit Boschendal in Franschhoek, one of the oldest farms in South Africa. The first owner of the farm was Jean le Long, a French Huguenot. He was … Continue reading →
Harvest at Laborie Wine Estate, Paarl
Exploring the Paarl valley – that was our mission for February 2016. On the third Friday of February we had our usual Friday lunch, this time at Harvest Restaurant, Laborie wine farm in the Paarl valley. Named after the district of La Bri in France, the farm became the property of Isaac Taillefert in1691. The architecture of the beautiful buildings … Continue reading →
Valentine’s Day at Glen Carlou Restaurant, Paarl
As it was Friday again, we decided to head towards Paarl for an early 2016 Valentine’s lunch. We reserved a table at Glen Carlou Restaurant, but as we had some time to kill before lunch, we popped in at Koöperasie Stories between Paarl and Franschhoek. It is an amazing French style shop which sells furniture, crockery, linen and everything else. … Continue reading →
The Red Table, Nederburg
Last Friday, the first Friday of our hottest month February, we decided to have lunch at Nederburg, Paarl. The Red Table restaurant serves bistro-style food inside the beautiful Manor House or outside on the terrace if you prefer the stunning views of the Nederburg vineyards with the backdrop of the Drakenstein mountains. In winter it would be lovely to dine … Continue reading →
Delheim Wine Estate
Delheim, located in the area of Stellenbosch, is the perfect venue for an outside lunch in summer or a cosy dinner in winter inside next to the huge fireplace. The original farm was called Driesprongh and purchased in 1938 by Mr Hans Hoheisen who planted the first vines. My mom was visiting us early January 2016 and we decided to … Continue reading →
Revisiting Diemersdal Farm Eatery
We have been at Diemersdal Farm Eatery before, in fact, a couple of times, but when we heard that our friends Kobus and Erna from Port Elizabeth would pay us a visit in December 2015, we decided to introduce them to Diemersdal Farm Eatery. During the December holidays it is quite difficult to find a table at a restaurant like … Continue reading →
Durbanville Hills Restaurant
It is usually a problem to book a table for lunch this time of the year, as many restaurants are closed for the festive season and others are fully booked. When I phoned Durbanville Hills Restaurant in our Durbanville Wine Valley to book a table for four on 28 December 2015, I was happy to hear that they had a … Continue reading →
Il Leone Mastrantonio
An impressive name for an impressive restaurant – situated on Coburn Street in Central Cape Town, this Italian restaurant is not to be missed. Reviews describe the restaurant as “impressive; consistent; simple but tasty food; visited by famous faces; elegant…” These are all descriptive words that we certainly agree with. The interior is modern with beautiful wooden floors, white linen … Continue reading →
Al Dente Pasta Deli
If you manage to find this restaurant, you are in for a real Italian treat! Al Dente Pasta Deli is a cosy little Italian restaurant and pasta deli situated in Pickwick Road, Salt River. It is in the foyer of the Upper Eastwood Apartment Block. But once you are there, you will quickly forget how difficult it was to find … Continue reading →
Pesce Azzurro
Previously a fishing hamlet, Woodstock has always been an area with a mixed community. It was a grey area which fell outside the implementation of the Group Areas Act, according to Andrew Fleming in Making a Place for the Rich? Urban Poor Evictions and Gentrification in Woodstock, 2011. Woodstock was not part of the racially-motivated removals that took place during … Continue reading →
Caffe Verdi, Wynberg
On the last Friday of October it was time to reload our internal batteries again with a visit to somewhere out there where we would find an awesome restaurant for lunch. We both thought of going to a pub in Wynberg which we had previously visited. This pub, called Caffe Verdi, is situated in the quaint village of Chelsea in … Continue reading →
Under Oaks Pizzeria
Under Oaks in the Paarl Winelands has a beautiful history. Ansela van Bengale arrived in the Cape as a slave between 1652 and 1657. She worked as a domestic worker for Jan van Riebeeck and was well-known for her beauty and kindness. Ansela was one of the first slaves to be set free and her daughter Anna married Oloff Bergh, … Continue reading →
Ke-Monate Winebar and Bistro
On Friday we decided on the spur of the moment to do what we love on a Friday afternoon, which is to find a new venue for lunch. Although we have previously visited Diemersdal, we decided to visit them again, but when we arrived at the restaurant, we were informed that they were fully booked. Not surprising at all, as … Continue reading →
Seelan Restaurant and Bar
Situated at the V & A Waterfront opposite the harbour, this is the perfect restaurant for a lazy Friday lunch. One of our favourite restaurants, Quay Four, lost out today, as we decided to give Seelan a try. Elegantly decorated and with crisp white tablecloths and serviettes, friendly staff and an inviting menu, this restaurant is a must to visit. … Continue reading →
Ya-Ya Café, Stellenbosch
Last Friday we had an errand to run in Stellenbosch, and we just had to have lunch. I googled and found a Greek restaurant, called Dimi’s, situated on Dorp Street. We arrived at 8 Dorp Street, but there was no Dimi’s. Instead, it was Ya-Ya’s Café situated in a beautiful building where Dimi was supposed to be. Later one of … Continue reading →
Moksh Indian Restaurant
As usual on a Friday, we were debating early morning on where to have lunch. A friend mentioned a new Indian restaurant in Aurora and as we love Indian cuisine, we decided to have lunch at Moksh, meaning “highest level of satisfaction”, as well as “freedom”. In retrospect, we will recommend anyone who loves spicy food, to visit this rather … Continue reading →
Phizante Kraal Wine Farm and Restaurant – our second visit
As our first visit to Phizante Kraal Restaurant on the Durbanville Wine Valley was a great experience, we decided to pay them a second visit when Deon’s brother invited us for lunch. We were early and waited for them on the lawn while admiring the beautiful view of the mountains. It was a perfect winter’s afternoon. We were again very … Continue reading →
Col’ Cacchio Pizzeria
Another Friday afternoon without the delightful thought of lunch at a new venue somewhere in Cape Town, how disheartening. Deon was at a workshop in Stellenbosch and I was busy doing assessments at my education centre. But, there is always light at the end of the tunnel, when I returned from work after 16:00, Deon, whose workshop finished at 15:00, … Continue reading →
Fork – Tapas on Long Street
I have always liked food in smaller portions – a huge steak with every bite that tastes the same is not for me. That is why Tapas is my kind of food – small portions, but a variety of flavours – that is what I like. We found a perfect restaurant that serves excellent tapas in the Cape Town city … Continue reading →
Beulah’s Farm Deli, Yzerfontein
On a recent visit to the Cape West Coast, we had lunch at Beulah’s Farm Deli, a farm stall which is also known for its charcuterie, run by Gil Ferreira. The Deli is just before the Yzerfontein/Darling crossing towards Langebaan, on the R27. It is definitely worthwhile a visit, especially for the charcuterie, but also to enjoy the wonderful meals … Continue reading →
Castella Amare
Castella Amara – a beautiful name, which means castle at the sea, if my translation is correct. Deon and I hesitated slightly to visit the Portuguese restaurant situated at 47-5th Avenue, Melkbosstrand (Formerly Die Kliphuis). We read some negative reviews, and when Deon started getting cold feet and tried to convince me to rather visit another restaurant, I decided that … Continue reading →
Alberto’s Restaurant and Pub Durbanville
Wow, after being hugely disappointed with the closing of our favourite pub in Oxford Street, we discovered a new pub in Durbanville – Alberto’s Restaurant and Pub in King Street. What a surprise to find this excellent pub/restaurant so close to us. It has been in Durbanville for 15 years (how did we not see it in the almost five … Continue reading →
Goloso Italian Restaurant in Sea Point
Two weeks ago Deon bought a groupon voucher for lunch at Goloso Restaurant in Sea Point, Cape Town. We had some reservations (pun intended) about the restaurant, but it was unnecessary, for it is a marvelous little gem in the heart of Sea Point and also very popular. The interior decorating needs a hand, but there was nothing negative we … Continue reading →
Revisiting Annapurna
On Monday 15 June it was a school holiday, as the next day was Youth Day, a public holiday. It was a much needed long weekend for us. When we woke up, it was one of those cold and rainy days in Cape Town. We had to go to Tyger Valley, a shopping centre close to us. Walking past the … Continue reading →
Hemelhuijs
At last it was Friday again, that means, to us, having lunch at an unknown venue. It was not difficult to choose a restaurant this week, as we followed our own “Kuberkok”, Nina Timm’s advice. So off we went to Hemelhuijs at Waterkant Street, next to the popular Fan Walk. Hemelhuijs is a little gem with an excellent chef hiding … Continue reading →
España Restaurant
On Friday 5 June 2015, we had to go to Stellenbosch. As we were expecting guests later that afternoon, we decided to go for a quick lunch. We did not plan on having lunch, therefore we did not have our cameras with us, so our only option was a cell phone camera. While driving on the R44, Deon spotted a … Continue reading →
Gino’s Restaurant, Stellenbosch
On Friday, 29 May, we headed off to Stellenbosch (yes, again!) for lunch. Unfortunately, the restaurant where we have booked, failed to deliver. We took one bite and decided to go elsewhere. As it is difficult to find a parking space in Stellenbosch and we were parked in central town, we decided to take a stroll down the avenues in … Continue reading →
The Hollow Tree on Oxford
When we were really tired after working very hard, we would head off to our local Oxford Arms Pub for a meal and a glass of wine. It has always been a cosy, comforting space – almost like the pubs in London which we visited a few years ago. On a cold winter’s evening, we enjoyed the fire burning while … Continue reading →
Basic Bistro, Stellenbosch
Menu At last it was Friday again and we had an errand to run in Stellenbosch, so it was a good idea to have lunch while we were there. After a Tripadvisor search for a good restaurant, we decided on Basic Bistro on Church Street (23rd out of 182 restaurants in Stellenbosch). We had high expectations! We booked a table, … Continue reading →
Café Manhattan, De Waterkant
My sister and her husband from Port Elizabeth visited Cape Town last week and invited us to end off their visit together in the fabulous city. So, after a long day of hard work, we met them at their hotel in W&A Waterfront on Thursday evening. As it was the beginning of another long weekend, Cape Town was abuzz with … Continue reading →
Yoco Eatery Durbanville
As it was Friday again, we had to find a new restaurant in Cape Town to explore (what a task!). We decided to find a new restaurant in our own village, Durbanville. Deon did a search on the Internet and yes, he found it. Part of the Rust en Vrede Gallery, Yoco Eatery is a combination of the talents of … Continue reading →
Mariella’s Restaurant
Today we discovered Mariella’s Restaurant on the Capaia Wine Estate in the Swartland. It is located about 30 km from Cape Town just outside the quaint town of Philadelphia. Capaia farm belongs to Ingrid Baroness von Essen and was formerly a wheat farm which stole her heart. The family transformed the farm into Capaia Wine Estate. They also restored the … Continue reading →
Helena’s Restaurant
Looking for an excellent restaurant in Stellenbosch? Try Helena’s Restaurant, part of the Coopmanhuijs Boutique Hotel and Spa at 33 Church Street. Executive Chef Nadia Roux is definitely an asset, as her food is beautifully presented as well as excellently prepared. Yes, it was Friday again and after working during the morning, we drove to Lentegeur Psychiatric Hospital where Deon … Continue reading →
Backsberg Restaurant
On 6 April, Family Day, after a weekend of admin and more admin, Deon and I decided to hit the road. A drive through the beautiful Western Cape country side is always refreshing and if you could include a lunch at a new restaurant, and it is a lovely reward after all the hard work. We decided to have … Continue reading →
The Company’s Garden Restaurant
“It all started on a fateful stormy night in 1647, when the Dutch Vessel, The Nieuwe Haarlem, ran ashore on the rocks of Table Bay. Little did anyone know that what transpired would change the course of our history forever.” (Quoted from the menu) The Company’s Garden Restaurant in Victoria Street, Cape Town, is the new gem in town thanks … Continue reading →
Bakesh Food & Wine
On Friday we decided to have lunch locally, so we chose Bakesh Food & Wine in the centre of Durbanville. The name Bakesh means seeking peace in Hebrew. Situated in a heritage building, the restaurant is charmingly decorated in an old world style. The food is a mix of the traditional and contemporary and it is served with hand selected … Continue reading →
Phizante Kraal Restaurant
It was my birthday on 18 March and Deon and I went for lunch at Phizante Kraal Restaurant in the Durbanville Wine Valley. The farm is situated not more than 1 km from Durbanville. The first owner of the farm Groot Phesantekraal was Captain Oloff Berg. The farm was granted to him in 1698 by Governor Simon van der Stel. … Continue reading →
The Spice Route, Paarl
I love a Friday as it is our day for exploring Cape Town restaurants! There are so many restaurants in and around Cape Town that it would take years of exploring – and then there will be even more after that. On Friday we were off to Paarl, which is about a 40 minute drive from Durbanville. Our Friday choice … Continue reading →
De Malle Meul
We have been here before, but as I had to go to Philadelphia today, we decided to have our Friday lunch at De Malle Meul, previously the home of the famous artist, Pieter van der Westhuizen, famous for his etchings and works in pastel. The De Malle Meul today is a gallery which is dedicated to his work and hosts … Continue reading →
Odds Bistro, Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a beautiful little village close to Durbanville. It has a few shops and restaurants, a school and a beautiful Dutch Reformed church. De Malle Meul opposite the church is a restaurant, art gallery and popular wedding venue. It was the studio of the late artist, Pieter van der Westhuizen. Lunch today was at Odds Bistro in Philadelphia. What … Continue reading →
Oppiedorp (meaning “in town”)
We had to go to Stellenbosch for business on Friday. Of course we had to have lunch as it was Friday, our day for exploring Cape Town. Stellenbosch, for me, will always be a very special town to visit. The sounds, the smell of bread baking, bicycles (yes, I was almost hit by one on Friday), students, beautiful old buildings, … Continue reading →
Pane e Vino
Today, at last, after two weeks of working on a Friday afternoon, we had the chance to explore again. Once again we headed to the heart of the Cape wine lands, beautiful and charming Stellenbosch! We reserved a table at a restaurant situated in a more or less industrial area of Stellenbosch. The address is 7B Distillery Road, Bosman’s Crossing, … Continue reading →
Asta Italian Restaurant
As it was Friday again, we hit the road. This time we went to the beautiful Stellenbosch. When we drove into Stellenbosch, the thermometer immediately zoomed up to 44 ⁰C. It was hot! We planned on visiting the Italian restaurant, La Masseria, which has closed its doors more than a year ago in Eversdal. But sadly, the restaurant was not … Continue reading →
Quay Four, V & A Waterfront
We are regular visitors to Quay Four and we have never had a bad experience visiting them. They were closed for a few months in 2014 due to renovations and re-opened again early December 2014. We decided not to go there during the December holidays, as we knew that it would be overcrowded. Two weeks into January 2015, we decided … Continue reading →
Live Bait, Kalk Bay
We love to visit Kalk Bay, a fishing village on the coast of False Bay and also home to the Kalk Bay Reef surf spot. If you like shopping, there are lots of quaint little shops. You could visit the Kalk Bay Trading Post if you like antiques, visit one of the many clothing stores (our favourite is Papagayo) or … Continue reading →
The Slipway Waterfront Restaurant, Saldanha
My brother Johan and Paula from Tergniet in the Western Cape and my mom from Port Elizabeth are visiting for the festive season. After a wonderful Christmas together, we today decided to visit the Slipway Waterfront Restaurant nestled in the main harbour of Saldanha Bay. This restaurant is a treasure where you relax at a table next to the lagoon … Continue reading →
Chefs Warehouse & Canteen
THE BEST EVER. Yes, undoubtedly the best restaurant we have ever visited. Chefs Warehouse, 92 Bree Street, Cape Town, that’s the place to be. What a treat! As usual, on a Friday, it was time again for that very boring task – to find a new restaurant for lunch. Well, that is not really difficult when living in Cape Town. … Continue reading →
Oyo Restaurant and Cocktail Bar
While the sun was still shining, we decided to go to the V & A Waterfront for lunch today. We planned on having lunch at Quay 4, but as it was not yet open due to renovations, we strolled further and decided on Oyo restaurant and cocktail bar, Victoria and Albert Hotel. We were seated next to the water with … Continue reading →
Café Ruby
As usual on a Friday afternoon, we ventured out today to find a new restaurant for lunch. We decided to visit Café Ruby, situated on the Klein Roosboom Farm in the Durbanville Wine Valley. The farmer’s wife, Natasha de Villiers, runs the café. The wine maker is Karen de Villiers. The restaurant is surrounded by vineyards and has a safe … Continue reading →
Himalayan Asian Restaurant
Deon and I love Indian food. In Port Elizabeth our favourite restaurant is Royal Delhi, an Indian Restaurant. Since we relocated to Cape Town, we have been searching for an Indian restaurant. Annapurna at Tygervalley is good, but we needed to explore other Indian restaurants as well. Then, not long ago, someone mentioned the Himalayan Asian restaurant in our own … Continue reading →
Casa du Sol Grill House
Many years ago in Central, Port Elizabeth, we stumbled upon a restaurant called Zorba. Inside the almost shabby building, the vibe was exuberating. We did not book and the restaurant was full, but the owners welcomed us and we had our first encounter with Bonny’s food. I ordered my first Moussaka prepared by Bonny and it was the best meal … Continue reading →
The Greek Fisherman
A favourite restaurant, even before we settled in Cape Town almost four years ago, has always been The Greek Fisherman, the oldest restaurant in the V & A Waterfront. It is still owned by the same people as when the restaurant opened in 1992. Before their dramatic makeover a year or two ago, we ordered a fabulous meze platter for … Continue reading →
The Lighthouse Café Restaurant, Simon’s Town
During our visit to Simon’s Town over the weekend, we decided to have dinner at The Lighthouse Café, situated almost opposite our hotel. It was fully booked when we phoned to reserve a table, but we eventually managed to be seated in this character-filled restaurant. When you enter, it is like walking into a restaurant in the South of France. … Continue reading →
Lunch at Camps Bay
Last Sunday morning we decided to have lunch in beautiful Camps Bay, set against the backdrop of the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range. It has the most beautiful beaches in Cape Town and is perfect for a holiday, lunch or late afternoon sundowners. It was perfect, almost spring weather, and first of all we drove along the coast where … Continue reading →
Cape to Cuba
Last Sunday morning we drove out to Kalk Bay for a leisurely stroll through the town. When it was lunch time, we decided on Cape to Cuba restaurant. We were very impressed with the interior, as it really looks a bit rustic on the outside. Inside there are a collection of chandeliers; vases; pictures and objects that takes you straight … Continue reading →
Soet
We like to relax on a Friday afternoon after a week of hard work and we then usually visit one of Cape Town’s wonderful restaurants for dinner. Today we decided on a local restaurant, called Soet (Sweet in English). It is situated in the centre of Durbanville and it is an interesting space where you can have coffee and cake; … Continue reading →
Durbanville Hills
One of our favourite restaurants in the Western Cape is Durbanville Hills. As we have said before, consistency is one of the best traits of an excellent restaurant. This is the reason why we love to go back to the restaurant. The service and food are always outstanding. The architecture of the cellar and restaurant is outstanding. It is light … Continue reading →
Lola’s on Long Street
We discovered a gem in Long Street, Cape Town’s city centre on Saturday. And what a delight little Lola is. We came across this restaurant on the corner of Long Street and Buiten Street by accident. We were on our way to our hair salon, Swordfern, in Harrington Road, when we decided to have a quick breakfast somewhere in Long … Continue reading →
Diemersdal Wine Estate
Today we visited the Diemersdal Wine Estate. Deon bought some wine from the cellar. Diemersdal wines are part of the Durbanville Wine Valley which is one of the oldest wine regions in the Western Cape. Diemersdal is famous with Capetonians for festivals. The estate itself is picture perfect with white Cape Dutch style buildings, green vineyards and Iceberg roses at … Continue reading →
The Goatshed
Deon,my mom and I recently visited the Fairview wine and cheese farm situated in the beautiful Paarl area. This was our third attempt to have a meal at their restaurant, The Goatshed, which is an informal Mediterranean-style restaurant. This time we booked a table in advance, as the restaurant is very popular, especially during holidays. Fairview offers wine, artisanal cheeses, … Continue reading →
Café Paradiso
Gentle Café Paradiso in Kloof Street is one of our favourite restaurants. It is part of the Madame Zingara group. On a cold day we like to sit inside close to the fireplace. In summer it is wonderful to sit outside in the beautiful tranquil garden where one has an excellent view of Table Mountain. We are always reminded of … Continue reading →
Harvest Table Bistro: A roaring fire, Cesária Évora, a glass of red wine and a wonderful lunch
With Sandra’s mother visiting, and it being the winter school holidays, we had the opportunity to take a drive out to the countryside of the beautiful Western Cape. I have been to Wolseley with a number of residents from a retirement centre in February and we had a very enjoyable lunch at the Harvest Table Bistro. I then decided to … Continue reading →
Maria’s on Dunkley Square, Gardens, Cape Town
Looking for a great Mediterranean experience when eating out? Try a quaint little restaurant on Dunkley Square in Gardens, Cape Town. On a hot day it is lovely to sit outside under the shady trees while enjoying a typical Greek meal, sipping cool wine from small glasses. In winter, on a really stormy day in Cape Town, it is warm … Continue reading →
Annapurna in The Food Court at Tyger Valley Shopping Centre
There comes a time when the Master of the House just needs a potent curry. Friday afternoon, on our marriage time outing, we decided to return to Annapurna. It was as if I could hear the Lamb Vindaloo calling my name! And again, I was not disappointed. We were still looking for a replacement for the wonderful Indian restaurant, Royal … Continue reading →
IN SEARCH OF THE PERFECT BURGER: The Eatery at the Durbanville Hills Wine Estate & the Red Leaf Restaurant at Beyerskloof
During the school holidays we decided to venture out in search of the perfect (or at least a very good) hamburger in and around Cape Town. The first one Deon tried, was at The Eatery at the Durbanville Hills Wine Estate just outside Durbanville. It is called the Gourmet Venison Burger and Chips and was made with ostrich meat. It … Continue reading →