South Africa’s beautiful Swartland Region, which begins just north of Cape Town and works its way inland, is one of the more undiscovered, yet no less amazing Western Cape gems.
With famous small towns such as Malmesbury, Darling, Riebeek West and Riebeek Kasteel to name a few, rich farmlands, wedding valleys and of course, gorgeous Cape Winelands and outdoor activities – the Swartland Region is one that everyone exploring the Western Cape should add to their travel list.
In this post, we look at the top ten restaurants – and eateries – in the scenic Swartland Region:
#1 Cherry Lane Bistro and Gift Shop
This cosy, quaint bistro and gift shop is one of the more popular eateries and pit-stops for visitors to the Swartland Region.
Situated in Malmesbury, Cherry Lane offers guests everything from wholesome, mouthwatering cuisine to local deli delights, second-hand books and a lovely gift shop.
Many consider Cherry Lane a consistent winner, while others hail it as a hidden gem. Whatever the case – this lovely bistro and gift shop is a must-visit in the Swartland.
Contact: +27 (022) 487 2472/2877, info@cherrylaneontop.co.za
Website: www.cherrylaneontop.co.za
Address: Cherry Lane Bistro and Gift Shop, 67 Huguenote Street, Malmesbury, Swartland Region, Western Cape, South Africa.
#2 Granny Jeans
Another marvellous Malmesbury gem is Granny Jeans. Despite its unorthodox name, this delightful spot is one of the most popular eateries around.
With a lovely setting, which includes a wistful tea garden, and excellent food, this cafe delights visitors and locals time and time again.
Guests rave about their Friday night wood-fire pizza but everything from their breakfasts to coffee also draws in positive reviews.
Visit this charming cafe for a taste of Swartland country atmosphere, good food and warm hospitality!
Contact: +27 (022) 482 3729
Website: N/A
Address: Granny Jeans, 16 Dirkie Uys Street, Malmesbury, Swartland Region, Western Cape, South Africa.
#3 Mariella’s Restaurant at Capaia
Another popular Swartland eatery is Mariella’s Restaurant. Situated on the lovely Capaia Wine Estate, just outside Philadelphia, this family-friendly restaurant is fronted by the well-travelled Head Chef Brendan du Preez.
Here at Mariella’s, they serve a variety of delicious meals, with unique flavours that draw from French, South African and Asian culinary roots.
Overlooking the rolling farm hills and equipped with a lovely lawn and play area for children to enjoy, this eatery ensures a perfect Swartland dining experience for all ages. Best of all, during the summer months, they even offer picnics baskets for guests to enjoy!
Note: Reservations are required.
Contact: +27 (0)21 9721103, mariellas@capaia.co.za
Website: www.capaia.eu
Address: Mariella’s Restaurant, Capaia Wine Estate, Botterberg Road, Philadelphia, Swartland Region, Western Cape, South Africa.
#4 Beans About Coffee
With Beans About Coffee branches spread across South Africa and two roasteries – one in Dullstroom and one in Riebeek Kasteel – this brand is something of a household name.
In 2011, they opened their second roastery-meets-cofee-shop in picturesque Riebeek Kasteel – and ever since, locals and tourists alike have adored this Cape offering!
With a relaxed, lovely setting that pours out onto the quiet street, quality food and yes, you guessed it, even better coffee – this Swartland gem is one you definitely need to add to your must-visit list.
Contact: +27 (022) 448 1653, riebeek@beansaboutcoffee.co.za
Website: www.beansaboutcoffee.co.za
Address: Beans About Coffee, 15 Fontein Street, Swartland Region, Western Cape, South Africa.
#5 The Red Tin Roof Taverna
Another ever-popular Riebeek Kasteel eatery is the rather iconic Red Tin Roof. Situated at one of the oldest manor houses in the Riebeek Valley, this food-and-accommodation beauty is well-worth a visit, if only for a quick bite to eat.
At The Red Tin Roof, the menu is Portuguese-inspired, in honour of the owners’ love for both Mozambique and Portugal. This means that meals here are full of spicy, big flavours, paprika, garlic, white wine and more.
Oh and did we mention that the food looks – and tastes – absolutely incredible?
Guests can dine inside the manor house, near the fireside in winter or out in the pool courtyard during fair weather.
Contact: +27 (082) 535 6050, theredtinroof@gmail.com
Website: riebeekkasteel.co.za
Address: The Red Tin Roof, 23 Hermon Road, Riebeek Kasteel, Swartland Region, Western Cape, South Africa.
#6 Café Felix
Café Felix is another tried-and-tested Riebeek Kasteel favourite. Named after the owner’s cheeky black cat, Felix – this delightful eatery offers a relaxed, yet memorable dining experience.
Today, their food is best described as delicious French-Italian-inspired country cuisine. Housed within an old, restored tobacco barn, Café Felix is a proud town landmark in Kerk Street – and a food favourite to boot.
The café has both indoor and outdoor seating and in addition to its normal restaurant offerings, it can also play host to small functions and other special events.
Contact: +27 (022) 448 1170, info@cafefelix.co.za
Website: cafefelix.co.za
Address: Cafe Felix, 7 Kerk Street, Riebeek Kasteel, Swartland Region, Western Cape, South Africa.
#7 The Barn
Our next Riebeek Kasteel-based eatery is The Barn. With incredible vistas and views of Riebeek Kasteel and the Riebeek Valley beyond, this is arguably one of the most panoramic places to enjoy a Swartland meal.
This family-owned establishment offers bistro-style fare and a Swartland-inspired wine list.
With lovely indoor and outdoor setting in a truly dreamy location, The Barn is a perfect way to experience the beauty of the Swartland Region first hand.
For the little ones, the family-style eatery offers a fun splash fountain and lawn, meaning both young and old can enjoy visiting this lovely restaurant for a delicious meal and outing in Riebeek Kasteel.
Contact: +27 (071) 844 2726
Website: thebarnriebeek.business.site
Address: The Barn, 34 Church Street, Riebeek Kasteel, Swartland Region, Western Cape, South Africa.
#8 La Parrilla
Found in Riebeek Kasteel, La Parilla is another local restaurant that impresses. The food style here is Latin-American grill – and the goal is delicious plates that are sure to create lasting food memories..
This family restaurant has a beautiful town setting and consistently pleases with its warm atmosphere and tasty food.
For a unique culinary experience in the Swartland, be sure to visit La Parrilla.
Contact: +27 (022) 448 1088, laparrilla.riebeek@gmail.com
Website: laparrillariebeeck.business.site
Address: La Parrilla, 1 Royal Street, Riebeek Kasteel, Swartland Region, Western Cape, South Africa.
#9 The Old Dalby
Moving over to Riebeek West, we have The Old Dalby. This family-style restaurant offers excellent food, attentive staff and a beautiful Riebeek West experience and setting.
The food is generous and the decor is tasteful, yet quaint, all of which makes this converted former family home a wonderful Swartland restaurant to visit.
Contact: +27 (022) 461 2012, info@olddalbyrestaurant.co.za
Website: N/A
Address: The Old Dalby, 24 Voortrekker Road, Riebeek West, Swartland Region, Western Cape, South Africa.
#10 Bay Leaf & Thyme
The last Riebeek Kasteel eatery on our list is Bay Leaf & Thyme. Situated in the scenic heart of the Riebeek Valley, in the centre of town, this relaxed, yet lovely restaurant offers a wonderful culinary experience.
Based around classic dishes from around the globe, their a la carte menu serves up unpretentious, yet tasty food that is sure to go down well. As an added bonus, the emphasis here is strictly on quality, friendly service, further ensuring a delightful meal experience.
In addition to its restaurant offerings, Bay Leaf & Thyme can also host functions. Please contact them for more information.
Contact: +27 (022) 448 1137, reservations@bayleafandthyme.co.za
Website: bayleafandthyme.co.za
Address: Bay Leaf & Thyme, 1 Plein Street, Riebeek Kasteel, Swartland Region, Western Cape, South Africa.
These are just ten of the best Swartland eateries. Which will you dine at first?