8 Best Restaurants in The Garden Route and the Little Karoo, South Africa

Almost every South African you meet along the Garden Route will tell you to visit Ile de Pain. Its stellar reputation is well deserved, because owners Liezie Mulder and Markus Farbinger have an uncompromising attitude toward quality that shows in their superb wood-fired breads and mouth-watering pastries. Local and organic suppliers are used wherever possible, the perfectly executed menu changes seasonally, and everything is made on the premises. For something different, try a red cappuccino made from traditional rooibos plant. It's very, very busy in season but you can watch the activity on Thesen Harbour as you wait.

This popular spot is all about free-range, organic, locally sourced, and seasonal ingredients, and chances are the garnishes on your plate will have been freshly picked from the organic herb garden outside. The vegetarian-friendly menu changes regularly and features a range of dishes served either roasted or raw. Meat eaters, you have not been neglected. Venison frikkadells (meatballs) are served with a buttery potato mash and beetroot chutney, hearty steaks come with potato wedges, and slow-cooked springbok shanks are dished up with roasted vegetables. You can also sample four craft beers, locally made cloudy cider, or freshly pressed juices. The setting is a wooden cottage where guests are encouraged to linger over their meal. Zucchini is part of Timberlake Farm Stall, which has a number of shops.

Right on the water's edge in what appears to be a former warehouse, bustling 34° South manages to combine elements of a fishmonger, a bar, a bistro, a deli, a coffee shop, and a seafood restaurant. Choose from the huge array of fresh fish (including sushi), opt for a rustic pizza, or just fill a basket with tasty breads, pickles, cheeses, meats, and other delights. Whatever your choice, enjoy your feast while sitting on the jetty looking out at the boats. 

The blue and white tiles on the facade of this popular, casual Italian eatery—a favorite with locals that's usually pretty full—give the place a beach-house feel. Try the pastas or the thin-crust wood-fired pizzas; the potato pizza is so much tastier than it sounds. Salads, seafood, and steaks round out the menu. In summer, get here early to get a seat on the veranda.

With tables on the lawn right next to the beach, Delfino's has a fantastic view of the bay and the Cape St. Blaize lighthouse. It's great place to spend a sunny afternoon or lazy evening. You can't beat the thin-crust artisanal pizzas with unusual toppings like fried chicken liver or smoked mussels.

Fishing boat crews, ski boat skippers, and other folks who are in the know frequent this casual eatery located right on the beach. Expect a bit of a wait, but it's worth it if you're looking for a great deal. Everything is fresh and well-prepared, but not too fancy. There's also the usual burgers and toasted sandwiches. Many locals can reliably be tracked down to the popular bar on weekday afternoons, especially if there is a rugby or cricket match on TV.

Painted kingfisher blue, this popular seafood restaurant overlooking the beach and the St. Blaise lighthouse is where the locals hang out. Head to the deck shaded by umbrellas and enjoy some of the area's best fresh seafood. You may be lucky and spot whales or dolphins as you dine. This popular spot is often very busy, particularly on weekends and in high season, but it's worth the wait. There's also a good selection of local wines. 

At the turnoff to the Cango Caves, Wilgewandel serves well-cooked simple fare like hamburgers, sandwiches, and ostrich steaks. Shady outdoor tables overlook a big lawn and duck-filled pond. This is a great place for kids, who can jump on a trampoline, go for a camel ride, or hurtle down water slides.