South Africa
This diverse history has shaped a truly distinct food culture. The Garden Route's fertile land also contributes many fresh items, supporting a farm-to-table approach in many eateries.
The region’s history of trade and settlement means you can taste influences from across continents in local dishes.
Given its coastal position, fresh seafood takes center stage. Expect to find local fish like hake, kingklip, kabeljou (cob), and yellowtail. Prawns, calamari, mussels, and especially local oysters are widely found. Freshness is a attraction.
Beyond seafood, meat is a large part of South African cooking. Beef, lamb, and chicken are common. Game meats like springbok or kudu may appear on menus. Dishes often feature mild to medium spices; Cape Malay influence brings aromatic curries with a hint of sweetness.
The Garden Route's climate allows for abundant fresh fruits and vegetables, used in many dishes. "Braai" (BBQ) is a quintessential South African social gathering, cooking various meats over an open wood or charcoal fire, symbolizing community and celebration.
Plett is known for its local oysters and seafood. Try grilled line fish (hake or kabeljou), tender calamari, or a platter of fresh prawns.
Find at: The Fat Fish or Moby Dick's.
A "braai" is a required part of a South African trip. Taste various cuts of meat cooked over wood coals. Boerewors is a traditional South African sausage, excellent grilled or in a "boerie roll."
Find at: Butcheries, supermarkets, casual eateries, some restaurants.
Biltong is a cured, dried meat snack, similar to jerky but often softer and thicker. Peri-Peri Chicken is chicken marinated and grilled with a spicy chili sauce, showing Portuguese influence.
Find at: Butcheries, supermarkets (Biltong); Portuguese-influenced restaurants (Peri-Peri Chicken).
A sweet, sticky, apricot-flavored sponge pudding, often served warm with a creamy sauce, custard, or ice cream. A popular dessert at many restaurants.
Two main types: Afrikaner (braided, syrup-dipped doughnut, crispy outside, syrupy inside) and Cape Malay (spicier, cake-like doughnut rolled in coconut).
These establishments present upscale dining experiences with focus on refined cuisine and atmosphere.
These balance quality food with reasonable pricing, for a satisfying meal.
For travelers watching their spending, various economical food sources are found.
Plettenberg Bay’s dining scene has various international cuisine options. You will find Italian restaurants (often with pizza and pasta), Portuguese-influenced eateries, and some Asian options (sushi, Chinese takeaways).
These are mainly in the central town area.
From classic seafood to wood-fired pizzas, Plett's restaurants present a broad choice for every palate. The town's eateries reflect a mix of local tastes and global inspirations.
Many are centrally located, while others have scenic views.
Has charming cafes and eateries with light meals.
A popular farmers' market nearby, Saturdays.
Find fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and baked goods.
Various food stalls present breakfast and lunch options.
Plettenberg Bay’s restaurants show growing awareness of gluten-free and other food allergies. Many places accommodate requests if informed in advance.
Always state your needs clearly to your server, especially for severe allergies.
It helps to have a written card detailing your specific allergies in local languages (English, Afrikaans, isiXhosa) if you are concerned about understanding.
For serious allergies, contact restaurants directly before your visit.
Utilize apps like HappyCow to locate vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants. For strict or severe requirements, contacting restaurants directly before your visit is a good step.
Plett's dining scene is becoming more accommodating. Advance communication and using self-catering options can ease planning for specific diets.
Formal cooking classes focusing on South African cuisine are limited directly in Plettenberg Bay. Some guesthouses or local chefs might have informal, personal experiences.
Food tours often concentrate on the broader Garden Route region, which might involve tasting experiences at various farms or local producers.
Formal community-based tourism initiatives are less developed.
Beyond dining, Plettenberg Bay has many outdoor and nature activities to complement your food adventures.
Combine culinary tastes with scenic hikes or beach time.
Seek out smaller, family-run establishments or local markets for a more authentic connection with the community and its food traditions.
These settings often reveal the true local spirit.
The region prides itself on fresh seafood, local produce, and the quintessential South African braai culture, a true taste of the area.
Events like the Plett Oyster Festival highlight seasonal specialties, making specific times of year especially appealing for food enthusiasts.
The Plett Wine Route pairs gastronomic exploration with scenic vineyard settings, adding a distinct layer to the culinary journey.
Always check opening hours, especially during off-peak seasons, as some establishments may have reduced hours.
