I unapologetically love my hometown. And, I really love good food. Here are 6 exceptional places to eat in East London.
More often than not, conversations with people I meet go along these lines: ‘Where are you from?‘ I enthusiastically say, ‘East London, but not in England…in the Eastern Cape.‘ The response I always get is ‘Oh, in Port Elizabeth?‘ I always respond, ‘No, it isn’t the same place.’
Now, there’s the new addition of coffee shops and restaurants to look forward to. If you find yourself in East London, be sure to pop into the following restaurants for a cup of coffee or a meal. Once you’re ready to explore further, check out some of the top 5 things to do in the Eastern Cape.
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1. The Grill Room
New York-inspired decor. Picture from The Grill Room.
This upmarket steakhouse is at the Regent Hotel, right on the beachfront with enticing views of the Indian Ocean. The restaurant creates traditional meals that are locally produced and cooked with a delicious South African twist. The decor at The Grill Room has a New York-inspired look and feel, with wood and leather finishes. Also, look out for their interesting wine/whiskey food pairings.
Address: Premier Regent Hotel, Marine Complex, Esplanade
Contact: 0437095057
You should also see Cape Town restaurants that serve carrot cake.
2. Sea Spirit Fish Market
Sunset views from the foot of the Sea Spirit Market. Picture: Sea Spirit Market.
The menu at Sea Spirit Fish Market is simple – fish and chips. The venue is a boat shed at the edge of the waters in the harbour, with minimal decor, but this setting oozes plenty of character. The fish sold is from the Port of East London, supplied by the local fishing boats. You also have the option of purchasing the fresh hand line fish to cook at home or you can order the fried fish and chips, which will leave you wanting more.
Address: Old Power Boat Club, Buffalo River (East Bank)
Contact: 0437227146
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3. Murambi Rose Café
Sweet treats. Picture: Murambi Rose Cafe.
The Murambi Rose Cafe is set in a quaint and tranquil environment overlooking a farm dam – perfect for the entire family. Adults can enjoy some wine tasting while the children play board games on the lawn. On Sundays there are hearty and delicious three-course Sunday lunch buffets.
Address: Sunrise Drive, Sunrise-on-Sea
Contact: 0437374045
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4. Tea in the Trees
A pet-friendly outdoor cafe. Picture: Tea in the Trees.
Tea in the Trees is a cute outdoor cafe in nearby Chintsa (about an hour’s drive), that serves scrumptious breakfast and lunches. The meals range from burgers, salads, and quiches to homemade desserts and cakes. This eating spot is also pet-friendly, so your four-legged friends are welcome to explore the forests with you after a meal. Time your visit to Tea in the Trees to see the craft- and home-produce market on the first Sunday of each month.
Address: West Road, Chintsa West
Contact: 0726112367
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5. German Taste
The best of German cuisine. Picture: Ondela Mlandu.
East London and Germany share a historical bond dating back to 1850, to when the German Settlers first arrived at the East London Harbour. German Taste is a restaurant dedicated to the diverse tastes offered in Germany. The restaurant has rustic yet modern decor, but a very cosy ambience and the pastry dishes are handmade from scratch daily.
Address: 1 Aquarium Road, Quigney
Contact: 0437221591
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6. Emerald Vale Brewery
Choose the beer of your choice, whether you enjoy a Pale, Gold, Amber or Dark Ale. Picture: Emerald Vale Brewery.
The Emerald Vale Brewery is a boutique craft beer experience situated in Cintsa East, 40 kilometres from East London. The brewery is a family business with a play area for the children, some of the most magnificent views of the Eastern Cape’s green pastures and curio shops with cool merchandise. At the pub-style restaurant, you’ll find great beer, made from fresh rainwater. There’s also more than beer on offer and you can tackle the cycling, running and walking trails.
Address: Emerald Vale Farm, Chintsa East
Contact: 0437385397
What are your favourite restaurants in and around the Eastern Cape?
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