Thornybush Game Reserve Restaurants

Nestled in the heart of Kapama Private Game Reserve with sweeping views across tranquil lakes, Kapama Lodge invites warm African hospitality complimented by local and international fare. Chefs see to every whim and need for a personalised dining experience. Dine in the dimly lit Kapama Lodge main dining room or for a more traditional experience - the circular outdoor boma enclosed in dimly lit lanterns and the starlit sky. For a more intimate experience, dine in comfortable seclusion in the bushveld under a blanket of stars and moonlit African sky. Kapama Lodge serves fine cuisine from an À la carte menu with specialities like tender rack of lamb, gentle curries and flavourful seasonal vegetables concluded by delicious Kapama Lodge banoffee pie. Awaken the spirit of Africa at Kapama Lodge.

The lodge extends itself with three dining experiences each unique in their setting, each complimented by decadent cuisine and South Africa’s finest vineyard cellar. Rhino Boma invites buffet dining beneath an open sided thatch and crackling boma fire serving a variety of delicious food and impeccable service. Riverbed invites moonlit skies warmed by roaring bomas and open tables scattered over a dry riverbed lit by lanterns. Dishes are prepared with seasonal local produce and fresh herbs grown at the lodge. Ethnic dishes and accompaniments like mealie pap (African-style polenta) and chakalaka (a hot and spicy relish) grace the palate for an authentic taste of Africa. Specialist dishes like warthog stew and kudu casserole, impala sausages and mild oxtail curries create an exotic dining experience. Fish eaters and vegetarians are well catered for with fresh African vegetables such as sweet potatoes baked in their skin, wild spinach and feta cheese, spiced Zulu cabbage and steamed gem squash. The Simatle Lounge offers a perfect setting for large groups and formal functions dominated by Leadwood trunks, glass concertina doors that invite the bushveld in and roaring fireplaces that extend to an open beam thatched roof for a true African feel. Kapama River Lodge intoxicates the senses with pampered flair and pays homage to true African bushveld dining.

With mesmerizing views beaconing tranquillity, Wildebeest Lapa captures the majestic Northern Drakensberg range dining alfresco watching the blushing sun slip away. A traditional bush pub, this establishment invites family get-togethers enrobed in traditional African fare and hospitality for a cosy dining experience inspired by the spirit of Africa.

Ambri Africa dominates carnivorous palates with hearty African delights in a comfortable and casual setting. Beguile the taste buds with eisbein, ribs, steaks, oxtails and even offal with a great kudu potjie that will satisfy the hungriest appetite. Hearty food filled with taste; choose from chicken and prawn curry or 500g sole. For something lighter, try the hamburgers, chicken and herb salad, smoked trout salad and lasagnes. Ambri Africa is a hidden rustic gem tucked away in Hoedspruit, a worthwhile visit for hearty carnivorous diners.

The GKNP College is a hospitality training centre, located right outside the Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate. The college is run by its students. The college has an a la carte restaurant, a South African cuisine restaurant, a fast food restaurant, a delicatessen, a street café, a coffee shop, a ladies bar, a beer hall and a bush bar. It also has a night club over the weekends, as well as a wedding chapel and several conference venues. The meals are fairly basic and affordable. Support South Africa's students and make a turn when you are in the area.

This beautifully renovated restaurant housed in the old station building portrays an old world charm lingering with antique pots, copper ornaments and laid-back atmosphere. A charming venue that invites relaxation, a good selection of South African cuisine and complimenting wine list. For starters, try grilled haloumi on sweet potato slices with marula jelly or a crispy salad of Cajun chicken strips, spiced with marinated gooseberries, feta, cucumber, sweet pepper and onions. Hearty mains like the ostrich kebab skewers - marinated ostrich steak with peppers, onion and mushrooms served with sweet potato chips make an excellent choice dining alfresco or indoors enchanted by the reminiscent interior. The menu offers general fare such as tasty pizzas and steaks grilled to perfection with crispy chips. Sleepers Restaurant is the perfect place to chill out and enjoy the authentic station setting.

Gossips Restaurant is located within the artsy surrounds of Hoedspruit Kamogelo Centre brimming with curios, jewellery shops, internet and generous portions of hearty cuisine. Try the tender beef schnitzel crumbed, golden fried with pepper and mushroom sauce and topped with a sprinkling of cheese. On the other hand, try the eisbein with chips and vegetables or the 600g rump steak with chips to satisfy a hearty appetite. For lighter options, try the famous Gossips salad, chicken, cheese, biltong, tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers. Gossips Restaurant invites an enjoyable dining experiencing and relaxing ambiance with speciality cocktails and wines to compliment each meal.

Located in the Kamogelo Tourism Centre in Hoedspruit, Ngena Deli is a good spot for breakfast or lunch if you are looking for a laid-back setting. Serving fusion food and a variety of imported cheeses, cold meats in the open-air restaurant, Ngena Deli offers deli service and coffee bar complimented by a speciality bakery. Pop into Ngena Deli for a lazy breakfast or lunch followed by some culinary therapy from the deli bakery.

Cradled by lush African conservation, Matumi Game Lodge invites relaxation and authentic African hospitality. Dine on the exclusive a la carte menu in the heart of the African bush restaurant or succumb to the spirit of Africa, boma dining under a moonlit sky delighting in fine African cuisine. Matumi Game Lodge invites you to escape and rejuvenate to the beat of Africa for an unforgettable bush dining experience.

Flattered by scenic views of Olifants River and bushveld, Three Bridges Restaurant and Pub relives an era of tall stories and adventure. The menu leans towards interesting selections such as their renowned Indian chicken curry to more casual pizzas and pastas. For heartier feasts, try the trio of lamb chops with mint sauce and veggies - perfectly cooked topped by good value for money. With an average wine list and chilled beers cooled by the modern interior, dining at Three Bridges Restaurant and Pub immerses the palate in a bygone era infused with modern influences.

The Toro Yaka Bush Lodge conceived by a dream means “My Dream” in Northern Sotho. Nestled in the heart of Balule Nature Reserve, Toro Yaka Bush Lodge offers a true African dining experience lit up by a starry African sky. Dine Boma style around an open fire, discussing the day’s events indulging in warm African hospitality. Toro Yaka Bush Lodge embraces the heart of Africa in lush bushveld surrounds for a memorable dining experience.

Distinctly African, Pondoro Game Lodge infuses traditional African cuisine with modern European trends. Set on the banks of the Olifant River in the lush wilderness of Balule Nature Reserve, Pondoro Game Lodge boasts gourmet cuisine and an extensive wine cellar complimenting each meal. A revitalising establishment that will enchant and delight the senses, Pondoro Game Lodge is situated near Hoedspruit in close proximity of Phalaborwa.

This family restaurant set amidst a serene garden revives travelling palates with traditional dishes such as burgers, vetkoek and local trout delights. Waffles and pancakes pamper a sweet tooth as do savoury pies filled with hearty choices at Pilgrim’s Pantry.

An idyllic place to relax and enjoy languid lunches and scrumptious breakfasts in the spectacular surrounds of Kamperus. Serving an array of delicious meals from light lunches, afternoon teas and hearty lunches, diners soak up tranquil surrounds complimented by good food and great coffee.

A unique tranquil setting with a comfortable ambiance, Mad Dogz Café hints chic African décor extended by a funky bar and patio overlooking tropical gardens and water features. Start the day with wholesome farm style breakfasts or lighter continental teas. This bistro style setting serves up African cuisine perfect for brunch or lunch dining. Try out wholesome favourites such as prego rolls, fish and chips, Cajun chicken, smoked trout fillet and chicken livers peri-peri style. For mains, try traditional bobotie, Moroccan lamb shank served with preserved lemon and voluptuous Cajun prawns. The chicken Creole recipe from the Caribbean is not to be missed, equally the fresh bream seychellois prepared with a garlic and ginger marinade accompanied with green mango and papaya salad, laced with chilli and coconut milk. Mad Dogz Café offers a dining oasis warmed by African / Creole cuisine and the soft murmuring of African music. Set adjacent to the trendy Monsoon gallery diners immerse in an added bit of retail therapy.

Rosenkavalier Restaurant can be found in the Flycatcher Castle; a grand and elegant setting perched on the edge of the Drakensberg escarpment. This 17th centaury dining experience enrobes the palate with speciality bohemian cooking and classical music for a feast that applauds and satisfies. Then menu offers soups such as velvety butternut, with a hint of Eastern spices and coconut milk. Starters selections include home made pork terrine, baked black mushrooms with feta and rosemary and a variety of trout specialities such as the fluffy, buttery trout quiche with a delicious accompaniment of fennel, peppers, apple and balsamic vinegar. Mains delight with Austrian beef roulades with a piquant filling of bacon, carrot and gherkin all served with clove-scented onion rice and fruity red cabbage. Lamb scallopini in a sauce of rosemary and red wine as well as grilled line fish on a bed of spinach and steamed potatoes. Dessert enrobes the palate with layers of aromatic almond biscuit soaked in custard and alternated with tropical fruit compote the ultimate, “to-die-for” Castle dessert and steaming rice pudding with lemon curd and sour cream. Discerning palates can enjoy breakfast and lunch in beautiful surroundings at the Flycatcher Castle in Graskop.

Specialising in Portuguese and South African cuisine, this family run establishment secures an intimate setting and the most succulent, tender peri-peri chickens. The extensive menu and Mozambican ambiance compliments aromatic Portuguese wines making for an excellent meal and all around service. Dine in the bright and colourful surrounds snuggling up to the cosy winter fireplace or alfresco on the fully covered and heated patio. Enjoy authentic cuisine, hospitality and Platinum Star Diners awards at Canimambo Restaurant

Serving breakfast, lunch and dinners, Sanboni Restaurant offers dining at a lingering pace, just enough to slow you down to appreciate good food and tranquil surrounds. From mouthwatering buffet breakfasts, lazy lunches and hearty dinners, to alfresco dining on the terrace overlooking the pool. Winter or summer, Sanboni Restaurant caters for easy palates in relaxed surrounds.

Located on Main Street in Hazyview, Le Pâtissier’s menu is predominantly café style, with delicious baked good and hearty continental breakfasts and lunches. The large open plan verandas shaded by cool flamboyant trees, an aromatic coffee and delicious breakfast makes a great start to the day. Breakfast choices include croissants with country ham and emmenthal, quiche Lorraine, salads and frites served with owner’s real Belgian mayonnaise. The wine list caters for all palates, perfect with a chilled lunch and the friendly helpful service makes dining easy at this bustling little café in Hazyview.

For delicious continental cuisine and impeccable hospitality, The Ant and Elephant is the place to be. A superb menu is on offer at this homely, country restaurant. Popular options include the surf ‘ n’ turf, the slow roasted lamb shank and the pork fillet. The wine list is modest but proffers some popular South African bottles. The decor encompasses the warm feel of a country establishment and the staff are friendly and welcoming to match. A great place for the whole family, The Ant and Elephant is well worth a visit