This portside town will be on most visitor’s routes as the start or end of the famous Garden Route. Nelson Mandela Bay/ Port Elizabeth is in the Eastern Cape, the province in which Nelson Mandela was born. We round up some must-have dining experiences.
Wickerwoods
An innovative modern menu which include delicious pizzas, seafood and grills. This is still one of the most popular restaurants in Port Elizabeth. Locals recommend the lamb shank. Be sure to book in advance to guarantee your table. They are open Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm for dinner.
- Address: 50 Sixth Ave, Walmer, Port Elizabeth.
- Tel: +27 41 581 1107
Natti’s Thai
Locals rave about Mark and Natti’s Thai food. Situated in a colourful converted house, you’ll feel right at home. It gets festive with lots of patrons as the place is something of an institution, but the atmosphere is very relaxed. It’s not licensed so bring your own drinks. Open Monday to Saturday from 6.30pm to late.
- Address: 5 Park Lane, Central Port Elizabeth.
- Tel: +27 41 373 2763
Old Austria
This old established eatery is one of the best in PE but note; you need to book well in advance. It is situated in a beautifully restored building which was once a rectory. Find your way through a series of rooms, which have been carefully renovated to preserve the original Victorian character. A grand piano and a glamorous bar area add the finishing touches to the upmarket décor. Expect fresh fish dishes and traditional Austrian dishes.
- 24 Westbourne road, Port Elizabeth.
- Tel: +27 41 373 0299
The Oyster Catcher
Overlooking the harbour, this laid-back restaurant is a must-do even if it’s just for the view. Beside the 15 oyster dishes on offer, you’ll also find sushi on the menu. The Knysna oyster is regarded as “the” cultivated oyster all over the world, markedly influenced by the area where it is cultivated. There is also a choice of coastal wild oysters, handpicked off the rocks along the coast. Two fireplaces provide a cozy ambience on cold winter evenings. It opens daily from 11am to 10pm.
- Address: Port Elizabeth harbour
- Tel: +27 41 582 1867
Mangolds
Part of the Mangol’s Guest House B&B, this restaurant is just 3.7 kilometres from the stadium. Most dishes feature meat and seafood prepared with local ingredients in interesting flavour combinations. The bread is homemade and the wine is affordable, plus the collection of coloured glass provides an interesting backdrop to the meal – wcities
- Address: 28A Mangold Street, Newton Park, Port Elizabeth.
- +27 41 363 0002
Have we left anything out? If you’re a fan of this host city leave your recommendations in the comment box below. Don’t forget an address and website link, along with any other relevant information.