Travelling through the Overberg there are two things that you’ll notice right away – the diversity of landscapes and the collection of quaint little villages that come together to make this xplore-able region. Dotted along the many routes that snake across the region, you can explore a collection of bustling coastal villages to welcoming countryside hamlets. Bringing its own unique quirkiness to the table is the up-and-coming village of Barrydale.

Caught between the lush Overberg and the rustic Klein Karoo on the famous Route 62, Barrydale offers a list of curious attractions that will entertain and inspire any traveller. Defintely not the least of which is a list of cosy eateries that bring together the spirit of hearty home cooking and hospitality through their delicious culinary creations. Here are a few restaurants to stop by to get a traditional taste of Barrydale:

Mez Karoo Kitchen

Taste tradition out of this world. Recently reopened as Mez Karoo Kitchen, this cosy little eatery focuses on flavours from around the world, especially Mediterranean cuisine. Paired with wines from Route 62, this is one dining experience you didn’t think to find in this Klein Karoo town. Keep an eye on the blackboard on the outside as the menu changes weekly which mean dining here is always unique and delicious.

The Country Pumpkin Restaurant

This bright orange stopover will brighten your day. Pop in at the Country Pumpkin to refuel with a hearty farmer’s breakfast or a light meal served with a friendly smile and paired with a great view over the village. Open 7 days a week, the friendly restaurant serves up traditional boerekos like tomato bredie and Karoo lamb curry as well as Cape Malay Bobotie, Chicken Pot Pie and a variety of Venison dishes. If you’re in the area on a Sunday be sure to stop by for their famous lamb and pork roast with veggies on the side. There is also a farm shop to explore if you want to take a taste of the Klein Karoo with you.

Karoo Saloon

Experience something unique in the middle of nowhere. Located on the way to Barrydale, you can’t miss the splash of green and bright orange that is Karoo Saloon. The rustic establishment holds a vibey bar and restaurant as well as cosy Karoo accommodation. Pop inside to find a social flurry of locals and bikers on a morning run enjoying a cold one and a hearty home-cooked meal. The venue often has local artists setting the mood and is a popular venue for hosting functions, birthday parties and other social gatherings.

Clarke of the Karoo

Explore the Karoo and Mediterranean with their new budget menu. Take a seat in the sunny courtyard or cosy up to the roaring fire as you dig into delicious dishes of Cape Malay Bobotie, Karoo Lamb Curry served with papadums and sambals or bite into a juicy home-made burger. Meals are made with fresh, local produce and served with great local wines. Be sure to pop into the farmstore for a selection of home-made chutney, marmalade, olive oil, bottled fruits and more.

Rooi Kombuis

Traditional bites on the go. This cosy little deli on Route 62 will make you feel right at home with their delicious home-made boerewors (sausage), salami, smoked Russians, cold meats and a variety of freshly baked breads and cakes. Rooi Kombuis prides itself on real, honest food and everything can be made to order. Be sure to also keep an eye on their pop-up shop and book a seat for their delicious 3-course Sunday lunches.


Image courtesy of Rooi Kombuis Facebook page

Have you enjoyed a meal at one of the above restaurants in Barrydale? We’d love to hear about your experiences at info@xplorio.com