2 Best Restaurants in Gqeberha, The Eastern Cape

Former hotel chefs, Allan and Simone Bezuidenhout have brought a touch of true class to Gqeberha's traditionally mediocre dining scene with this intimate, handsome, dark-hued restaurant adorned with leather seats and Allan's own artwork. The menu focuses on imaginative versions of classic dishes like a traditional lamb rump with dry ice infused with fynbos to bring the scent of the Karoo (where the lamb comes from) onto the plate, as well as beautiful pizzas, aromatic curries, light meals, and pastas. The imaginative menu changes a couple of times a year so the chef can work with seasonal ingredients, but one constant is the caramel fondant with ganache and popcorn which is worth a taste. 

This is Gqeberha's most well-established fine-dining option, a stylish stalwart along the bustling beachfront, located in the Beach Hotel opposite Shark Rock Pier and boasting sea views. Glass doors open onto a sunny terrace, or you can sit inside at tables placed around the bar to enjoy an expansive array of contemporary dishes with local flair. The seafood options here are hard to beat, but there's also a large selection of steaks and game meats. For dessert try the trio of spice-flavored ice creams (ginger, cinnamon, and citrus cardamom). The wine list is excellent, and the service crisp and efficient.