The friendly folks of Stanford sure know how to delight and entice culinary senses. Whether you’re popping in for a quick lunch or taking out the whole family for a full course dinner, the eateries of this village will not disappoint. The local chefs have found the perfect recipe to combine well-loved dishes with a dash of creativity.
With an array of different settings, influences and menus it might be difficult to choose which eatery to visit first. This is why we’ve compiled a quick list of our 5 favourite eateries in Stanford:
1. 1892 Spookhuis Country Café
Located on the Mosaic Private Sanctuary next to the Hermanus Lagoon, the historic Spookhuis restaurant offers the perfect setting for any meal. The full spread picnics, which they are famous for, can be enjoyed under the shade of the beautiful Milkwood trees on summer days or next to the warm glow of a roaring fire on colder winter days. The delicious picnics include cured meats, freshly baked breads, cheese platters, home-made preserves and infused oils to make up an exceptional dining experience. The 1892 Spookhuis is also home to their Country Café, wedding venue, library and conference centre.
2. Madre’s Kitchen
Described as a deli-style restaurant, Madre’s Kitchen is situated on the Sir Robert Stanford Wine Estate which provides stunning views over the endless rows of vineyards and Klein River Mountains. The farm setting lends itself perfectly to the delicious country-style cooking whipped up by the husband and wife team of owners. The family friendly restaurant also offers a selection of fresh breakfast, lunch options and beautifully put-together picnics. The picnics consist of a delectable selection of cheeses, meats, pâtés, farm baked breads and seasonal fruits or salads.
3. Evergrine Farm Stall
This all in one restaurant, farm stall and wine shop is quickly becoming one of the favourite pit stops of the Overberg. Serving a variety of freshly baked treats, light lunches and all-day breakfasts, Evergrine is great for that lazy Saturday lunch and that much needed rest on your long journey. In true farm stall style, Evergrine offers a full range of biltong, droë wors, dried fruits, nuts and fresh farm produce. They also have flowers, curios and gifts and local wines on sale if you’re looking for something special. This is definitely your one-stop farm stall and eatery.
4. Graze Slow Food Café
This comfortable, yet casual eatery prides itself in the love and care that goes into every dish. The ingredients are naturally grown, freshly harvested and locally sourced. The meat and eggs are all free-range and meals are made with love. Run by another husband and wife power team, Graze Slow Café provides the home away from home dining experience. The lovely eatery also has a fresh produce market every Wednesday morning where you can get home-grown veggies, jams, cakes and honey. Conveniently located in town, Graze Slow Café should be only a short walk away from your lodgings .
5. Mariana’s
Set in a beautiful Victorian cottage and serving up delicious country cooking, there is Mariana’s. Also located in town, this little eatery has a trick or two up its sleeve. With French and Italian influences and all ingredients fresh from the herb and veggie gardens, Mariana’s is ideal for that lazy weekend lunch. Winner of Eat-Out’s Best Country Kitchen award and various top ratings in the Rossouw food guide this little eatery remains “unpretentious with a personal touch”. This classic eatery serves up delicious meals that you will barely believe are made from scratch. So, what are you doing for lunch?
No matter the occasion and no matter your tastes, these five eateries in Stanford will take your taste buds on the journey of a lifetime. Each with its own unique setting, menu and character you won’t go wrong with this list. However, there is a reason why these eateries are on the list so be sure to phone ahead and make a booking.