Featured Restaurants Garden Route

 

These hidden gems offer unique dining experiences that are well worth exploring!

 

Slops

Situated in the heart of Plettenberg Bay on bustling Main Street, Slops Restaurant and Bar is a lively, laid-back dining destination that captures the town’s relaxed coastal spirit. A favorite stop for both locals and visitors, Slops blends casual comfort with a vibrant social atmosphere, making it a natural gathering point throughout the day and into the evening.

Slops is known for its approachable, crowd-pleasing menu, offering everything from wood-fired pizzas and hearty burgers to fresh seafood and classic pub-style favorites. The food is unpretentious, generous, and designed to be enjoyed socially — whether over a relaxed lunch, an easygoing family dinner, or drinks with friends.

The space itself reflects Plett’s easy rhythm, with an open, welcoming layout and a playful aesthetic that invites people to linger. The bar is a focal point, adding to the restaurant’s energetic feel and making it a popular choice for casual evenings and weekend gatherings.

With its central location, warm atmosphere, and consistently welcoming vibe, Slops has established itself as a reliable cornerstone of Plettenberg Bay’s food scene — a place where good food, good company, and coastal charm naturally come together.

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Barringtons

Located in the heart of the beautiful Piesang River Valley, Barrington’s is a multifaceted gem that offers a unique blend of dining, brewing, and hospitality. This establishment is home to Plettenberg Bay’s first craft brewery, a magnificent kitchen garden, a restaurant, a bar, a small hotel, and a bakery & grocer. 

The restaurant at Barrington’s is a true delight, offering a menu that features a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The kitchen garden plays a central role in the culinary offerings, providing organic produce that enhances the flavors of each dish. From long, lazy breakfasts on the sunny terrace to romantic fireside dinners, the dining experience at Barrington’s is both warm and sophisticated.

Barrington’s craft brewery is a highlight, offering superbly crafted beers that can be enjoyed while taking in the malt-laden aromas of the brewing process. Beer tastings and brewery tours are available, providing a front-row seat to the art of brewing.

The ambiance at Barrington’s is inviting and versatile, with outdoor deli terraces shaded by majestic coral trees and cozy indoor spaces with brass, leather, and wood finishes. The bar area is particularly charming, offering a relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying signature cocktails or a glass of wine from the boutique wine shop.

 

 

Nguni

Nguni Restaurant, set in the vibrant heart of Plettenberg Bay, delivers a bold and elevated take on South African dining that feels both grounded and strikingly modern. The space is a visual expression of Africa reimagined — rich textures, earthy tones, and sculptural design elements come together to create an atmosphere that is effortlessly stylish yet deeply connected to its roots.

The menu is a confident celebration of local flavour, built around premium cuts, fresh coastal ingredients, and seasonal produce. From perfectly grilled steaks to refined seafood dishes and inventive sides, every plate is crafted with precision and intent. There’s a quiet sophistication in the way traditional influences are reworked — familiar flavours, but sharper, cleaner, and undeniably more refined.

Dining at Nguni carries a distinct energy. It’s relaxed, but never casual in execution. Whether you’re settling in for a long, indulgent dinner or a vibrant social meal, the experience feels considered from start to finish. The interplay of atmosphere, plating, and pace creates something more than just a meal — it feels curated.

The drinks offering complements this effortlessly, with a focused selection of South African wines and pairings that enhance without overpowering. Backed by attentive, well-paced service, Nguni stands as a confident expression of contemporary local dining — polished, intentional, and built to leave a lasting impression.

Meet Me at The Palms

Meet me at The Palms in Plettenberg Bay, where culinary creations meet coastal charm! This trendy eatery is a feast for the senses, boasting a vibrant atmosphere that perfectly complements its stunning seaside location. The Palms offers a diverse menu that takes diners on a culinary journey of fabulous flavours.

From breakfast to dinner, each dish is thoughtfully curated to provide a unique twist on classic favorites. Highlights include the coffee-infused French toast, potato and parmesan omelette, and the smoked trout and cream cheese toast for breakfast. For lunch and dinner, the menu features a variety of options, including fresh seafood, gourmet burgers, and delectable salads.

The ambiance at The Palms is both lively and relaxing, with a sophisticated bar offering a carefully chosen array of wines, spirits, and champagnes.  Sip on dazzling cocktails crafted with glitter & flair by mixologists who are practically liquid Picasso’s.

The rooftop area is a particular highlight, providing an elevated oasis where guests can enjoy stunning views of the ocean while sipping on signature cocktails or enjoying a cheese board.

The Palms also prides itself on its exceptional service, with friendly and attentive staff ensuring that every visit is a memorable one. 

Zinzi Restaurant at Tsala Treetop Lodge

Nestled within the serene Hunter’s Estate, Zinzi Restaurant offers a dining experience that is both vibrant and relaxing. The restaurant’s architecture and interior design are masterpieces, creating an inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements the stunning forest setting.  Zinzi’s menu is a celebration of international flavours with a distinctive African twist. The chefs, led by an exceptional head chef, are passionate about using the freshest local ingredients to craft innovative and flavourful dishes. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring that diners always enjoy the best produce available.  The restaurant’s wine cellar showcases a carefully curated selection of South African wines, from crisp coastal Sauvignon Blancs to rich Shiraz from Stellenbosch. This dedication to quality extends to every aspect of the dining experience, from the beautifully presented dishes to the attentive yet unobtrusive service.  Whether you’re enjoying sun-downers on the deck, a long lazy lunch, or a special evening out, Zinzi Restaurant promises an unforgettable culinary journey. Consistently rated as one of the top dining spots in Plettenberg Bay, Zinzi is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Garden Route.

Enricos

Located in the charming village of Keurboomstrand, Ristorante Enrico offers an authentic Italian dining experience with breathtaking ocean views.  The menu at Enrico features a delightful array of Italian classics, from freshly made pasta and wood-fired pizzas to succulent seafood dishes. One of the standout items is the “Bomba,” a unique bread stuffed with cheese and ham that is a must-try for any visitor. The seafood, particularly the grilled prawns with garlic butter, is always fresh and perfectly cooked. The seafood, particularly the grilled prawns with garlic butter, is always fresh and perfectly cooked.  The ambiance at Enrico is relaxed and inviting, with rustic wooden tables and large windows that offer stunning views of the ocean. The outdoor seating area is particularly popular, allowing diners to enjoy their meals while taking in the fresh sea air and listening to live music.  Enrico’s wine list is impressive, featuring a selection of local and international wines that pair beautifully with the menu. The friendly and attentive staff ensure that every visit is a memorable one, making you feel like part of the family.

Ouland Royale

Nestled on a family farm opposite the Plettenberg Bay Airport entrance, Ouland Royale is one of the Garden Route’s most distinctive dining destinations. More than just a restaurant, it is an enchanting combination of a baroque-style barn, bakery, deli, boutique, and event venue that offers visitors a memorable countryside experience.  Known as the “Magical Barn Restaurant and Cakes,” Ouland Royale has built a reputation for its warm hospitality, unique décor, and homemade cuisine. The venue’s striking interior features vintage furnishings, ornate decorations, handmade lighting, and cosy fireplaces that create an atmosphere reminiscent of a European country estate. Visitors often describe the experience as being transported to another world, far removed from the bustle of everyday life. In addition to its restaurant offering, Ouland Royale serves as a popular venue for weddings, private celebrations, conferences, and special events. The venue can accommodate large gatherings and provides bespoke catering, specialty cakes, and a fully licensed bar, making it a sought-after location for memorable occasions in Plettenberg Bay.  Whether visitors come for a decadent slice of cake, a hearty farm-style meal, or simply to admire the magical surroundings, Ouland Royale delivers a unique blend of charm, creativity, and culinary excellence. It remains one of Plettenberg Bay’s hidden gems and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Garden Route.

The Fat Fish

  Located just a short stroll from Central Beach in the heart of Plettenberg Bay, The Fat Fish has earned a reputation as one of the Garden Route’s premier seafood restaurants. Combining fresh, sustainably sourced seafood, innovative cuisine, stylish surroundings, and exceptional service, it has become a favourite among both locals and visitors seeking a memorable dining experience.  Its diverse menu features an impressive selection of fresh fish, sushi, tapas, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, all prepared with a focus on quality ingredients and creative presentation. Diners can enjoy everything from expertly crafted sushi and seafood platters to grilled fish, gourmet salads, and innovative signature dishes that showcase the flavours of the South African coast.  The restaurant has received widespread recognition for both its food and hospitality, consistently ranking among Plettenberg Bay’s top dining establishments. Visitors frequently praise the attentive service, vibrant atmosphere, beautifully presented dishes, and exceptional seafood. Its reputation as a leading culinary destination has made it a must-visit stop for travellers exploring the Garden Route.

 

 

Tsala Treetop Logde Restaurant

Nestled within an ancient indigenous forest just outside Plettenberg Bay, Tsala Treetop Lodge Restaurant offers one of the most exclusive and enchanting dining experiences on South Africa’s Garden Route. Set within the world-renowned Tsala Treetop Lodge, the restaurant combines exceptional cuisine, impeccable service, and breathtaking natural surroundings to create an unforgettable culinary destination.
The restaurant’s most striking feature is its spectacular setting. Guests dine in a sophisticated glass-walled dining room suspended above the forest canopy, where floor-to-ceiling views immerse diners in the beauty of the surrounding indigenous woodland. Outdoor dining decks elevated among the treetops provide a truly unique experience, allowing visitors to enjoy meals while surrounded by nature and birdsong.  Dining at Tsala is about far more than the food. The atmosphere is one of romance, tranquillity, and understated luxury. As evening falls, candlelit tables, ambient lighting, and panoramic forest views create a magical setting that is ideal for special celebrations, romantic dinners, and memorable occasions. The restaurant has earned a reputation for exceptional hospitality, with attentive service that consistently receives high praise from both local and international guests.

 

Amelias

Perched atop a dramatic rocky headland overlooking the Indian Ocean, Amelia’s at The Plettenberg is one of Plettenberg Bay’s most elegant dining destinations. Located within the renowned five-star Plettenberg Hotel, the restaurant combines exceptional cuisine, refined coastal style, and some of the most breathtaking sea views on the Garden Route.  Amelia’s offers a dining experience that captures the essence of coastal living. With sweeping vistas of the bay, pristine beaches, and endless ocean horizons, guests can enjoy meals either in the stylish interior dining room or al fresco on the spacious terrace. The restaurant’s contemporary design reflects its seaside setting, featuring calming ocean-inspired hues that create a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.  The menu showcases a creative blend of local ingredients and international culinary influences, with a particular emphasis on the fresh seafood for which Plettenberg Bay is famous. Signature dishes include rich bouillabaisse, steamed black mussels infused with ginger, lemongrass and coconut, grilled catch of the day with lemon butter sauce, and flavourful seafood curries. Guests can also enjoy premium beef fillet, gourmet burgers, and a variety of vegetarian and vegan options designed to cater to diverse tastes.  Complementing the cuisine is an extensive wine list featuring some of South Africa’s finest wines, alongside expertly crafted cocktails and beverages. The combination of outstanding food, attentive service, and spectacular views makes Amelia’s a popular choice for romantic dinners, special celebrations, business lunches, and relaxed holiday dining

Featured Restaurants – Plettenberg Bay Dining

Emily Moon

Situated within the enchanting Emily Moon River Lodge on the banks of the Bitou River, Emily’s Restaurant is one of Plettenberg Bay’s most iconic dining destinations. Renowned for its unique blend of African-inspired décor, exceptional cuisine, and breathtaking river views, the restaurant offers a dining experience that is as memorable as the food itself.
Emily’s Restaurant captures the essence and spirit of Africa through its eclectic collection of art, antiques, sculptures, textiles, and handcrafted furnishings sourced from across the continent and beyond. Every corner of the restaurant tells a story, creating an atmosphere that is warm, romantic, and visually captivating. Whether dining by candlelight, relaxing beside a crackling log fire in winter, or enjoying sundowners on the expansive deck overlooking the river, guests are immersed in a setting unlike any other in the Garden Route.
One of the restaurant’s greatest attractions is its spectacular setting. Elevated above the Bitou River and surrounding wetlands, Emily’s offers panoramic views that are particularly magical at sunset. The large wooden deck provides the perfect location for cocktails and wine while watching the changing colours of the sky reflect across the river. This combination of exceptional cuisine and natural beauty has made Emily’s a favourite venue for romantic dinners, family celebrations, weddings, and special occasions.

 

Restaurant 1777 at The Old Rectory

Located within the beautifully restored Old Rectory Hotel, one of South Africa’s oldest surviving heritage buildings, Restaurant 1777offers a unique dining experience where history, elegance, and contemporary cuisine come together. Named after the year the original building was constructed as a Dutch East India Company military barracks, the restaurant celebrates both the rich heritage of Plettenberg Bay and the exceptional produce of the Garden Route.  Stepping into Restaurant 1777 is like stepping back in time. The dining room occupies the oldest section of the historic building, where centuries-old stone walls, tasteful décor, and a warm, intimate atmosphere create an elegant yet welcoming setting. The restaurant’s heritage architecture provides a distinctive backdrop for memorable breakfasts, leisurely lunches, and sophisticated evening dining experiences.  Restaurant 1777 has developed a reputation for offering refined cuisine without losing its sense of comfort and authenticity. Signature menu items often include local seafood, beef fillet, kudu carpaccio, fish cakes, gourmet burgers, and seasonal specialties that showcase the region’s finest ingredients. The carefully curated wine selection complements the menu, featuring distinguished South African wines that enhance the overall dining experience.

The Lookout Deck

Offering uninterrupted panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, the Keurbooms estuary, and Plettenberg Bay’s famous coastline, The Lookout Deck is perfectly positioned to showcase some of the most breathtaking scenery in the region. Whether guests are enjoying a leisurely breakfast, a casual lunch, sunset cocktails, or a relaxed dinner, the restaurant provides a front-row seat to one of South Africa’s most beautiful coastal settings.  The menu focuses on fresh, uncomplicated coastal cuisine designed to be shared and enjoyed in a laid-back environment. Seafood is the star of the show, with favourites including the famous Pint of Prawns, mussel pots, fresh calamari, seafood platters, and locally inspired fish dishes. The menu also caters to a variety of tastes with burgers, pizzas, grills, vegetarian options, and lighter meals, making it an ideal choice for families and groups.  The atmosphere at The Lookout Deck captures the essence of beachside living. Casual, vibrant, and welcoming, the venue attracts everyone from families and surfers to holidaymakers and locals enjoying sundowners. The spacious outdoor deck allows diners to soak up the sea breeze, while live music, sporting events, and seasonal celebrations contribute to the restaurant’s lively and social ambiance.  Complementing the food is an extensive drinks menu featuring cocktails, local wines, craft beers, fresh juices, and specialty beverages. Signature cocktails such as mojitos and margaritas are particularly popular when enjoyed against the backdrop of Plett’s famous sunsets, creating the perfect setting for a memorable coastal experience.

 

Nineteen 89

Located in the heart of Plettenberg Bay’s vibrant town centre at The Upperdeck, Nineteen89 Plett has established itself as one of the area’s most popular contemporary dining destinations. This family-owned and family-friendly restaurant is celebrated for its creative cuisine, relaxed atmosphere, and commitment to exceptional hospitality, earning recognition among Plettenberg Bay’s top-rated restaurants.  Nineteen89 offers a modern dining experience that blends contemporary South African flavours with international influences. The restaurant’s menu showcases a diverse selection of dishes ranging from fresh seafood and premium steaks to innovative vegetarian options and flavourful fusion creations. Signature dishes include their acclaimed seafood platters, fillet steak with wild mushroom sauce, tuna dishes, salmon, king prawns, and creative twists on classic favourites.  Nineteen89 is particularly well known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients and beautifully presented dishes. The menu caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Alongside its food offering, the restaurant features an excellent selection of South African wines, craft beers, cocktails, and specialty beverages, providing the perfect accompaniment to any meal.

Ice Dream Land

Ice Dream Land, located on Robberg Road in Plettenberg Bay, is a delightful Italian restaurant that offers an authentic and memorable dining experience. This charming eatery is the fulfillment of a dream, where food is not just cooked and served, but celebrated as a lifestyle.  The menu at Ice Dream Land features a variety of Italian classics, including traditional wood-fired pizzas, hand-rolled on demand, and a selection of homemade gelato that is simply irresistible. The pizza Margherita, mozzarella, and burrata are particularly popular, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity.  The gelato, made fresh every morning, is a highlight, with flavors like pistachio and chocolate that transport you straight to Italy.  The ambiance at Ice Dream Land is both cozy and vibrant, with a new Forest Bar where guests can enjoy cappuccinos and croissants in the morning or aperitivos all day long.  The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying the beautiful Plettenberg Bay weather while savoring delicious food and drinks.  Live music in the evenings adds to the enjoyable atmosphere, making Ice Dream Land a great spot for a relaxed meal with family and friends.  Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty Italian meal or just want to indulge in some of the best gelato in town, Ice Dream Land is the place to be. With its combination of delicious food, welcoming atmosphere, and excellent service, it’s no wonder this restaurant is highly rated.

Featured Restaurants – Plettenberg Bay Dining

Down to Earth

Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Bitou River, just a few kilometres from central Plettenberg Bay, Down to Earth Restaurant is a hidden gem that offers a relaxed countryside dining experience surrounded by natural beauty. Known for its peaceful riverside setting, wholesome cuisine, and warm hospitality, the restaurant provides a welcome escape from the bustle of town and is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. The menu focuses on fresh, flavourful dishes prepared with quality ingredients and a home-style approach. Popular menu items include fresh hake, calamari, seafood curries, fish cakes, langoustines, hearty salads, breakfast favourites, and seasonal specials. Diners frequently praise the generous portions, excellent value, and beautifully prepared seafood dishes that showcase the flavours of the Garden Route.  In addition to its regular menu, the restaurant has built a loyal following through its themed dining events and seasonal specials. Its popular Italian evenings, featuring freshly prepared pasta, pizza, and authentic Italian-inspired dishes, have become a highlight for many local diners. The venue also hosts special family occasions and seasonal celebrations throughout the year.

Guests consistently commend Down to Earth for its friendly service, welcoming atmosphere, and picturesque setting. The combination of riverside views, relaxed dining, and quality home-style food creates an experience that feels both authentic and memorable. The restaurant has earned strong reviews and a reputation as one of Plettenberg Bay’s best-kept culinary secrets.

 

Hours of Operation

MON – FRI
8:00am – 1:00pm
2:00pm – 4:30pm

SAT
8:00am – 10:30am

SUN
We are closed

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