Winter – The season of hot chocolate, delicious oysters, romantic candle-lit dinners, snuggling by the fireplace and enjoying a hearty meal that warms you up. Hello Garden Route has combined the best of Winter into one delightful experience by putting together a list of highly-rated restaurants with fireplaces that are guaranteed to keep you fed, warm and happy this season.
PLETTENBERG BAY
This stunning coastal village has long been a hotspot for tourists of the local and international variety thanks to its one of a kind attractions. These include Cruise the Crags home to the Elephant Sanctuary, Birds of Eden / Monkeyland / Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary, not forgetting the famous Robberg Nature Reserve and Bloukrans Bridge Bungy for the more thrill-seekers. Even in the middle of Winter, there are opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of Plettenberg Bay, starting with the stunning views from the one and only Zinzi Restaurant.
Winner of the Travellers Choice Best of the Best 2020 award, Zinzi boasts some of the best forest views for miles with a seasonally fresh menu to match. You can enjoy their unique a la carte menu of international flavours designed to ensure that you receive the very best of the local seasonal produce. Why not end your day by indulging in a decadent chocolate cheesecake and enjoying the music of a crackling fire with a glass of wine in hand.
If you’d like to try out more beautiful restaurants with fireplaces in the area, then head on over to Bramon Restaurant, Ristorante Enrico or Nguni Restaurant for a delicious meal with a side of unforgettable ambience.
KNYSNA
Consistently voted as one of the most beautiful coastal towns worldwide, Knysna is known to deliver an unforgettable experience on every front. Whether it comes to scenic beauty, fun attractions or mouth-watering meals, Knysna never disappoints. Chatters Bistro is a local gem best known for its wood-fired pizzas and delicious pasta that include various tasty vegan options to satisfy any palette. Enjoy a taste of Italy by the fireside or the views from the deck while toasty heaters beat back the chill.
If pizza or pasta is not to your taste (gasp!), Knysna offers a variety of eateries ready to take you on a culinary adventure. Indulge your inner foodie and try the diverse menus of the much-loved île de païn, O Pescador Restaurant or The Drydock Foodstuff. Nobody leaves Knysna hungry!
SEDGEFIELD
This coastal community is the Garden Route’s sleepy gem. With its beautiful rustic village aesthetic and calming atmosphere, not forgetting the famous Wild Oats Market and Scarab Market, Sedgefield is the home of relaxed comfort, and nothing says comfort more than good food. Head on over to Pili Pili Beach Restaurant and Bar for a menu of tried and tested crowd favourites while enjoying the stunning beachfront views.
Guests can enjoy the outdoor seating near the fire pit while the little ones enjoy themselves in the play area – Pili Pili caters to all.
Other great restaurants in Sedgefield include Upstairs at Rosie’s, Mr Kaai’s Fish and Chips, Trattoria da Vinci and Montecello.
WILDERNESS
A short distance from bustling George lies the tranquil beauty of Wilderness. With an abundance of lakes, rivers, beaches, indigenous forests and a reputation for hospitality, it is no wonder this seaside village boasts one of the top-rated restaurants in the Garden Route – Zucchini Restaurant.
Situated in the Timberlake Organic Village, Zucchini Restaurant is a beacon of natural beauty, simplistic comfort and great food with an international menu complete with a selection of vegetarian options and even 32 different types of local beer.
Guests who love Zucchini Restaurant can also try the Blue Olive Restaurant, The Girls on the Square, Pomodoros and Ilali for a varied menu of international flavours and a night of live music. Wilderness is also home to the world renown and acclaimed fine dining restaurant, Serendipity.
GEORGE
Situated midway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, George is a small city with much to offer. Enjoy a day taking in South Africa’s only indigenous botanical garden or kick back on The Diaz Express and Fragrance Route Tour and enjoy the scenic views from George to Mossel Bay. While the attractions are great, food is where this city shines and 101 Meade Street tops the list as a local must-try.
As one of the top 3 restaurants in George, 101 Meade Street specialises in a mouth-watering menu of African and international cuisine that caters for breakfast, lunch or dinner. With a stunning interior that maintains the perfect balance of elegant – yet relaxed – comfort, it’s no wonder that travellers flock to this trendy eatery all year round.
If you’d like to continue your food journey in George, go ahead and try Kafe Serefe, Henry White’s or Mujo Bar and Restaurant for a delightful and tasty fireside meal.
HEROLD’S BAY
When it comes to the undeniable beauty of the Garden Route, Herold’s Bay does not disappoint. Considered a rather secluded coastal village, this quiet town is home to the Waterside Grill and Bar at the luxurious Oubaai Hotel Golf and Spa.
With its stunning interior of wood, natural tones and floor-to-ceiling windows all around, the Waterside Grill and Bar is the epitome of understated luxury that is only further complemented by its menu. Only open for dinner, this restaurant is the perfect place to end off a busy day with a glass of wine and unbeatable views.
MOSSEL BAY
With an estimated 300 days of sunshine and mild climate year-round, Mossel Bay is the go-to destination in the Garden Route for some winter sunshine. When not enjoying whale watching or even skydiving, guests and locals of this beautiful seaside town can enjoy the rare winter days at Cafe Gannet and warm up by the fireside.
Although it specialises in seafood with a daily delivery of coastal oysters and black mussels, Cafe Gannet provides an eclectic menu of rainbow cuisine guaranteed to delight any palette. Guests of this eatery can take a seat at the stylish yet cosy interior or enjoy the outside seating with views of the Indian Ocean.
When the frost is nipping at your nose, make sure you head on over and experience the enticing food and cosy fireside atmosphere of any of these outstanding restaurants – you may be in for a busy and delicious winter.
For all your holiday accommodation needs, contact Hello Garden Route – Your Friendly Experts in Garden Route Getaways!
