Easter is one of the high points on the South African culinary calendar; a time when friends and family gather around a table decked with a smorgasbord of traditional roast and fish dishes, seasonal vegetables and colourful, chocolatey desserts.

If you’re doing it yourself, it can be quite a slog. So, if you’d rather not toil away in the kitchen, and fret about a roast gone wrong, why not enjoy your Easter lunch at a restaurant, and let someone else do the work? (That also means no washing up afterwards – and more time to run around hunting for Easter eggs!)

From a decadent Sunday lunch to a scrummy Easter tea, and some good old chocolatey fun with the kids, here are some egg-cellent (and fuss-free) ways to spend Easter 2019.

High tea or Sunday lunch at the Twelve Apostles

The ocean-hugging location of this five-star boutique hotel, neatly nestled at the foot of the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range, is what makes it stand out from the rest. Beautifully manicured gardens surrounded by a wild mountain landscape and stunning sea views make for a memorable Easter celebration on either Saturday or Sunday.
Easter offering Diners can look forward to a seasonal spread at Azure restaurant created by executive chef Christo Pretorius that includes starters, a hot and cold buffet with a carvery selection, and some mouth-watering desserts. There’ll also be a jumping castle and an Easter-egg hunt for the little ones.
For a more laidback but equally sumptuous affair, guests can enjoy an Easter-themed high tea on Saturday and Sunday at either the Conservatory or the Leopard Bar.
When Easter lunch: Sunday, 21 April, from 1pm
Easter high tea: Saturday, 20 April – Sunday, 21 April, 10am; 12.30pm and 3pm
Cost Easter lunch: R595 (adults); R297.50 (children under 12)
Easter high tea: R325 (high tea); R375 (vegan high tea)
Contact 021 437 9000, restaurants@12apostles.co.za
Location Victoria Road, Camps Bay

An autumn lunch at The Kraal at Joostenberg Wine Estate

Situated in a stone-walled courtyard, which was once Joostenberg Wine Estate’s original cattle enclosure, The Kraal’s rustic chairs and tables – dotted among wild olive groves and fruit trees – is the perfect spot to enjoy deliciously wholesome, farm-fresh food with friends or family this Easter.
Easter offering Guests can sit among the trees or, if it’s chilly out, in the cosy barn-style tasting room next to a roaring fire where the autumn feast is served. Expect fig bread with rosemary and fynbos honey; Cape-style pickled fish with hot-cross-bun toast; lamb shanks braised with quinces; and a delicious pear-and-chocolate tart to end off a wonderful Easter lunch.
When Sunday, 21 April, 12pm – 2.30pm
Cost R360 (adults); R180 (children 5 – 12 years of age)
Book through DinePlan
Contact 079 641 1320, kraalrestaurant@joostenberg.co.za
Location Joostenberg Wine Estate, Hoopenberg Road, Muldersvlei, Western Cape

An egg hunt + egg-decorating workshop in the sculpture garden at Norval Foundation

Located in the serene Steenberg wetlands, with sweeping views of the vineyards and Table Mountain National Park beyond, Norval Foundation is home not only to world-class, purpose-built galleries, but also an outdoor amphitheatre, research library, restaurant and bar, children’s playground and a sculpture garden. This Easter, children are invited to join an awesome Easter-egg hunt (and egg-decorating workshop) among the fynbos and sculptures of the picturesque sculpture garden.
Easter offering Younger members of the family are invited to Norval’s first-ever egg hunt and egg-decorating workshop in the striking sculpture garden. Children between the ages of four and six can take part on Saturday, 20 April while children between seven and 10 years of age can take part on Sunday, 21 April.
The Skotnes Restaurant is also hosting a colouring-in competition throughout the Easter weekend, with the winner being announced on Monday, 22 April. The grand prize? A free kids’ museum tour!
When Saturday, 20 & Sunday, 21 April, 11am – 12pm
Cost R80 per child
Book Now
Contact kids@norvalfoundation.org
Location 4 Steenberg Road (Opposite US Embassy), Tokai, Cape Town

Japanese haute cuisine set menu at Tjing Tjing Momiji

Tjing Tjing house on Longmarket Street is a three-in-one Japanese emporium of sorts, offering a variety of dining experiences. The first floor is home to the beautifully understated Momiji restaurant, where diners can expect a multi-course kaiseki menu that respects the season and its ingredients.
Easter offering The current menu lists only a handful of the courses and items in each dish, leaving a few surprises for diners to look forward to on the night. Some of the meticulously prepared and exquisitely presented dishes include a selection of sashimi, fish broth with kamaboko (cured surimi – a processed seafood product), milk bread, homemade tofu, a mottainai (no-waste) wagyu dish, and wagashi (traditional Japanese plant-based confections that are often served with tea), which are hard to come by in South Africa.
Guests can venture to Momiji Lounge before or after their dinner, or to Tjing Tjing Rooftop Bar for an array of cocktails, Japanese whisky, wines and other tipples.
Please note Even though this is a set menu, the kitchen will gladly cater for allergies given enough notice.
When Friday, 19 April – Saturday, 20 April, for dinner by reservation only
Cost R795 (set menu)
R395 (additional drinks pairing)
Book through DinePlan
Contact 021 422 4920, info@tjingtjing.co.za
Location 165 Longmarket Street, Cape Town

A generous buffet at the Cape Grace’s Signal Restaurant

Situated on a private quay uniquely poised between Cape Town’s vibrant V&A Waterfront and the tranquil yacht marina, Cape Grace is an elegant retreat where guests can enjoy magnificent vistas in warm and welcoming surrounds. This Easter, the five-star hotel is hosting a wonderful Sunday lunch at Signal Restaurant.
Easter offering The feast includes an array of cold dishes, hot and fragrant mains, as well as a bounty of sweet endings. Vegetarians are also well catered for – and, whatever your choice, don’t miss out on their famous, homemade hot-cross buns! See the full menu here.
When Sunday, 21 April, 12.30pm – 4.30pm
Cost R595 (adults)
R295 (children)
Contact 021 410 7100, functions@capegrace.com
Location West Quay Road, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town

Picnics, tea parties, brunch, and more at Hazendal

This heritage wine estate, owned by the Russian-born businessman Mark Voloshin, underwent an extensive restoration in 2018, creating the ultimate Winelands destination. Award-winning chef Michélle Theron (previously Pierneef à La Motte) has deftly created a menu that pays homage to South African and Russian cuisines at her new home, Avant-Garde Restaurant. With views of the Bottelary Hills and loads of activities for the little ones, Hazendal is the perfect place for a special sojourn in Stellenbosch.
Easter offering This Easter, Hazendal will be transformed into Alice’s Wonderland, presenting something for all tastes and fancies with an unusually delightful twist. Guests can enjoy a delightful (two- or three-course) deli brunch at the Babushka Deli where a petting zoo, a photo booth with Alice, and a special visit from the dashing hare, Christoffel Hazenwinkel, will keep the kids entertained. There’s also a Mad Hatters Tea Party; a Down the Rabbit Hole-themed crafts and play area for children (5 to 12 years); and a Russian Royal bejewelled-egg-decorating workshop for teens (13 to 18 years). Families can look forward to a Dacha Picnic with entertainment courtesy of the Bootlegger Blues band; a special Christoffel Hazenwinkel Easter-inspired canapé-and-wine pairing in the Wine Tasting Lounge; or a decadent three-course Easter family feast at Avant-Garde Restaurant.
Good to know German founder Christoffel Hazenwinkel, who named the estate ( Hazendal is Dutch for valley of the hares), has been commemorated through the estate’s whimsical Christoffel Hazendal wine range.
When Babushka Deli brunch: Sunday, 21 April, 9am – 12pm
Mad Hatters Tea Party: Sunday, 21 April, 10am – 12pm
Down the Rabbit Hole: Sunday, 21 April, 11.30am – 3pm
Easter Dacha Picnic: Sunday, 21 April, 12pm – 4pm
Russian Royal bejewelled-eggs workshop: Sunday, 21 April, 10am – 5pm
Canapé-and-wine pairing: Sunday, 21 April, 9am – 4.30pm
Avant-Garde Restaurant: Sunday, 21 April, 11.30am – 5pm (last order at 3.30pm)
Cost Babushka Deli brunch: R160 (two-courses); R210 (three-courses)
Book through DinePlan
Mad Hatters Tea Party: R195
Book through DinePlan
Down the Rabbit Hole: R150
Easter Dacha Picnic: R250 (adults), R125 (children)
Canapé-and-wine pairing: R110
Avant-Garde lunch: R450
Book through DinePlan
Contact 021 205 5620, bookings@hazendal.co.za
Location Hazendal Wine Estate, Bottelary Road, Stellenbosch

An autumn country fair with some Easter twists at Joostenberg Bistro

Michael Olivier

Located on Klein Joostenberg in Stellenbosch, the bistro delights diners with country-style dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re seated on the stoep under the shade of the vines or inside, or next to the cosy fireplace on cooler days, you’re guaranteed a generous portion of comfort food with a dash of French flair.
Easter offering Head chef Garth Bedford has created an Easter breakfast basket of toasted hot-cross buns, fresh baguette, fig jam, local cheese and charcuterie. There’s also a lunch featuring traditional Cape-style pickled fish; a salad of Dalewood Huguenot cheese, poached pear, baby leaves and toasted walnuts; slow-cooked lamb shoulder cooked with garlic, thyme and rosemary; and a decadent limited-edition Easter hot chocolate with homemade marshmallows and a dash of cinnamon.
When Friday, 19 April – Monday, 22 April, 8am – 5pm
Please note To avoid disappointment, booking is recommended.
Book through DinePlan
Contact 021 884 4208, bistro@joostenberg.co.za
Location Klein Joostenberg Farm, R304, Muldersvlei, Stellenbosch

Picnic-style platters and Easter-themed treats on the lawn at Stellies Taproom

The lush lawn in front of the casual taproom and picnic-style eatery invites guests to take a seat at one of the wooden tables under the trees. The tranquil setting, which includes a jungle gym, plenty of shade, and a pond inhabited by geese, is the perfect setting for an idyllic Easter the whole family will remember.
Easter offering The Boland Platter includes a selection of local cheeses, Joostenberg charcuterie, homemade preserves, home-baked breads, croutons and herb butter, and is perfect for sharing with a bottle of Joostenberg organic wine or a pint of Stellies craft beer brewed on site. The smaller family members are sure to delight in delicious Easter-themed treats such as hot-cross buns, dark and white chocolate brownies, chocolate bread and cupcakes available throughout Easter weekend.
When Friday, 19 April – Sunday, 21 April, 10am – 5pm
Please note Stellies Taproom is open on school holidays and public holidays, except for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
Cost Boland Platter: R195
Contact 021 884 4014, taproom@stelliesbeer.com
Location Klein Joostenberg, R304 Muldersvlei, Stellenbosch

Sunday Easter-egg hunt lunch (or picnic) at Cape Point Vineyards

This Easter let your little ones run around the lush lawns of Cape Point Vineyards as they hunt for Easter eggs with a larger-than-life Easter bunny! And for the larger members of the family, there are two wonderful options: an elegant Easter lunch at the restaurant, or a relaxed Easter-themed picnic outdoors against a backdrop of ocean and vineyard views.
Easter offering The restaurant at Cape Point Vineyards is serving an elegant three-course lunch, featuring smoked Franschhoek trout served with pea purée, garden peas, beans, lemon crème fraîche and fennel-seed crackers for starters; roast lamb cutlets and braised shoulder of lamb served with summer vegetables, feta, a pine nut and mint crumble, and a red wine jus for mains; and a surprise creation of chocolate, berries and pistachio for dessert.
The Easter picnic hampers are packed full of festive favourites including pickled fish, sweet potato and corn salad, potted chicken liver and bacon pâté, and a few Easter eggs. Vegetarian and children’s baskets are available on request.
When Easter lunch: Sunday, 21 April, 12pm – 2.30pm
Easter-egg hunt: Sunday, 21 April, 2pm
Easter picnic: Sunday, 21 April, 12pm – 4pm
Cost Easter lunch: R500 (adults), R250 (children under 12, includes Easter egg hunt)
Book through DinePlan
Easter picnic: R450 per basket
Book through DinePlan
Contact 021 789 0900, bookings@cape-point.com
Location Silvermine Road, Noordhoek (via M3), Western Cape

A French-inspired Easter affair at The Vine Bistro at Glenelly

Fronted by chef Christophe Dehosse (whose small menu changes regularly), this hidden gem is situated within a state-of-art building at Glenelly Estate and could just be equipped to rival even the biggest competitors in the area. It offers a French-inspired dining experience, no doubt reflected in the warm, yet elegant decor, which includes a mix of 19th-century chairs and classic Parisian tables.
On chilly days, it’s rather nice to cosy up to the fireplace, or gather in the elegant wine-tasting area above the restaurant; but if the sun is out, sit at one of the long wooden tables on the outside deck under the pergola, and enjoy beautiful views of the vineyards and surrounding hills while enjoying your Easter meal.
Easter offering The Easter menu offers a choice of starters: Cape Malay seafood salad with sago crisps or duck and pistachio galantine served with baby leaf salad, pear and walnut chutney, and toasted brioche. Mains is a choice between Cape linefish bonne femme served with julienne vegetables and parsley potatoes; and braised Karoo lamb with pan fried lion, garlic confit, grilled aubergine, potato galette, anchovy butter and thyme sauce. End your meal on either a sweet (warm melting chocolate biscuit and yoghurt chantilly) or savoury (a selection of artisanal local cheeses) note.
When Dinner: Friday, 19 April – Saturday, 20 April, 6.30pm – 8.30pm
Lunch: Friday, 19 April – Sunday, 21 April, 12pm – 2.30pm
Cost R375 (adults)
R170 (children 0 –12 years)
Book through DinePlan
Contact 021 809 6444, bistro@glenelly.co.za
Location Glenelly Estate, Ida’s Valley, Lelie Street, Stellenbosch

Three-course Sunday lunch or dinner at The 41

The 41 is one of the heaving hotspots on the ever-popular Camps Bay strip, serving a range of perennial dishes from pizza and salads to burgers and seafood. Add swanky cocktails, a terrace with panoramic views of the beach, and live entertainment at night – and you have an Easter Sunday with a festive edge. Also featuring on the day is Sellah, a cool new RnB artist from the USA.
Easter offering The 41 three-course set menu includes starters of Cape Malay-style pickled fish dish with devilled eggs and hot-cross buns. For mains, guests can enjoy either a roast rack of lamb served with crushed new potatoes, butternut and pomegranate salsa with mint tzatziki or sauteed kingklip served with baba ganoush, confit tomato, patatas bravas and puff pastry. Dessert is a choice between a chocolate fondant and vanilla-pod ice cream or a traditional Russian hazelnut cake with butter crème patissière.
When Friday, 21 April, 12pm – 11pm
Cost R345 (excludes service and beverages)
Please note Booking is essential
Contact 021 437 0558, info@the41.co.za
Location 41 Victoria Road, Camps Bay

A la carte lunch at Nederburg

Nederburg’s lunches and picnics are designed for festive family get-togethers. The à la carte lunch is served in the Red Table restaurant, housed in the Cape Dutch manor house. If you feel like something more laidback, enjoy a wonderfully relaxed afternoon with a picnic basket in the winery’s beautiful gardens under the shade of old oaks.
Easter offering Chef Lisa Cilliers has designed an à la carte menu of Easter favourites, including smoked smoorsnoek served with cauliflower rice, lightly curried sambals, green chutney and sweet-potato crisps; fresh fish of the day served with chips and tartar sauce; and a few blackboard specials that are sure to surprise.
Good to know At the Visitors’ Centre, guests can also enjoy a wine-tasting (R65); various wine pairings (cheese and wine, ice cream and wine, sweets and sweet wine, kids’ pairings); cheese platters and snack boxes. Cellar tours (R65) are available on the day and include the wine cellar, manor house and the Old Cellar Museum, as well as a wine tasting.
Please note The Visitors’ Centre, The Red Table restaurant and Old Cellar Museum are closed on Friday, 19 April 2019.
When The Red Table restaurant and picnics: Friday, 19 April – Saturday, 20 April, 11am – 4pm & Sunday, 21 April, 12pm – 4pm
Wine tastings and pairings: Friday, 19 April, 9am – 5.30pm & Saturday, 20 April – Sunday, 21 April, 10am – 3.30pm
Cellar tours: Friday, 19 April, 10.30am, 3pm & Saturday, 20 April – Sunday, 21 April, 11am
Cost Picnics: R225 per person sharing
Wine-tastings: R65
Cellar tours: R65
Book through DinePlan
Contact Visitors’ Centre: 021 862 3104, nedwines@distell.co.za
The Red Table restaurant: 021 877 5155, theredtable@nederburg.co.za
Location Sonstraal Road, Dal Josafat, Paarl, Western Cape

Compiled by Alicia Chamaillé

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