Nestled in the Western Cape province of South Africa, Overstrand Hermanus is a coastal treasure located about 100 km from Cape Town. This picturesque town, home to just over 100,000 residents, is renowned for its whale-watching opportunities and stunning landscapes.

Beyond its natural allure, Overstrand Hermanus has carved out a reputation in the culinary sphere. The area boasts a flourishing wine industry, particularly in the Hemel en Aarde Valley, acclaimed for its exceptional Pinot Noir. The town's dedication to food culture has earned it the distinction of being South Africa's first UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

• Overstrand Hermanus holds the title of South Africa's first UNESCO City of Gastronomy
• The region is celebrated for its outstanding seafood, wines, and locally sourced ingredients
• Visitors can indulge in a variety of dining experiences, from upscale restaurants to laid-back eateries

What's on the menu in Overstrand Hermanus

Overstrand Hermanus is a culinary hotspot. The local food scene beautifully merges traditional South African flavors with innovative cooking techniques. Thanks to its prime coastal location, fresh seafood takes center stage on many menus.

A local specialty worth trying is Abalone, a type of sea snail considered a delicacy. You'll encounter it prepared in various ways, from simple grilled versions to more elaborate dishes that showcase the chef's inventiveness.

For those who prefer meat, the region's Karoo lamb is a standout. This free-range lamb is praised for its unique flavor profile, influenced by the native herbs the animals graze on.

Best spots to eat

Hermanus offers an array of dining options to cater to every taste and budget. Here are some top recommendations:

1. Fisherman's Cottage: Set in a 19th-century building, this restaurant serves some of the town's finest seafood. Their seafood platters are particularly popular.
2. Creation Wines: Recognized as one of the Top 50 Wine Estates globally, Creation offers outstanding food and wine pairings.
3. Pear Tree Bistro: A trendy, imaginative bistro featuring a diverse menu with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
4. Rossi's Italian Restaurant: A local favorite known for its crispy thin-crust pizzas and welcoming atmosphere.
5. Theo's Taverna: For a taste of Greece in Hermanus, visit this charming Taverna with its blue-and-white decor and authentic Greek cuisine.

Taste the local wines

The Hermanus Wine Route, especially the Hemel en Aarde Valley, is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. While the area is famous for its Pinot Noir, you'll also find excellent Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and other varieties.

Some wineries to visit:

• Creation Wines
• Hamilton Russell Vineyards
• Bouchard Finlayson
• Newton Johnson Vineyards

Many of these establishments offer tasting experiences paired with local cheeses and charcuterie, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Market scene

To truly experience local life and produce, check out the area's lively markets:

1. Hermanus Country Market: This Saturday morning market showcases local produce, artisanal foods, and crafts.
2. Stanford Market: A quaint country market in nearby Stanford, ideal for a weekend trip.
3. Elgin Railway Market: Though not in Hermanus itself, this unique market in an old Apple warehouse is worth the short drive.

These markets are excellent places to sample local specialties like biltong (dried, cured meat), koeksisters (syrup-coated doughnuts), and melktert (milk tart).

Unique food experiences

Overstrand Hermanus offers some distinctive culinary experiences beyond traditional restaurant dining:

1. The Stoep Experience: This program invites visitors to wander between different historic venues, enjoying traditional light dishes while a local historian shares stories about the area.
2. Foraging Tours: Join a guided excursion to learn about and gather edible wild plants from the area's rich fynbos vegetation.
3. Abalone Farm Tours: Visit a local abalone farm to learn about the cultivation of this prized seafood and taste fresh abalone.
4. Wine and Food Festival: If you're visiting in August, don't miss this yearly event showcasing the best of local wines and cuisine.

Wallet-friendly options

Traveling on a budget? No problem! Hermanus has plenty of affordable options that don't compromise on flavor:

1. Burgundy Restaurant: Offers great value seafood dishes and burgers with ocean views.
2. Betty Blue Bistro: A charming café with affordable breakfast and lunch options.
3. Char'd Grill: For those craving a good steak without overspending.
4. Biga Café: A local bakery and café offering fresh pastries and light meals at reasonable prices.

Eco-friendly dining

Overstrand Hermanus takes its commitment to sustainability seriously. Many restaurants in the area prioritize using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and sustainable seafood.

The Food Bank Project is an excellent initiative that addresses food security issues while promoting local ingredients and culinary education.

When dining out, look for restaurants that participate in the SASSI (Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative) program, which helps consumers make environmentally responsible seafood choices.

Cook like a local

Want to bring some Hermanus flavors back home? Here's a simple recipe for a South African favorite, Bobotie:

Ingredients:

- 1 kg ground beef
- 2 slices of bread, soaked in milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1/2 cup raisins
- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Fry onion and ground beef until browned.
3. Add curry powder, raisins, and soaked bread. Mix well.
4. Place the mixture in a baking dish.
5. Beat eggs with a little milk, and pour over the meat.
6. Bake for 45 minutes until golden brown.

Closing thoughts

Overstrand Hermanus is much more than a scenic coastal town. It's a food lover's paradise, offering an ideal mix of fresh seafood, world-class wines, and unique local flavors. From high-end dining experiences to quick bites at local markets, you're sure to find something to please your palate in this UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

Pack your appetite and head to Overstrand Hermanus. A fantastic food adventure awaits!

FAQs

What foods is Overstrand Hermanus known for?

Overstrand Hermanus is famous for its fresh seafood, especially abalone, as well as its excellent wines from the Hemel en Aarde Valley. The area is also known for its use of local, seasonal ingredients and traditional South African dishes with modern twists.

When should food enthusiasts plan their visit?

While Overstrand Hermanus is a year-round food destination, August is particularly exciting with the annual Wine and Food Festival. The whale-watching season (June to December) also coincides with some of the best seafood catches.

Can vegetarians and vegans find good options?

Yes, many restaurants in Overstrand Hermanus cater to vegetarian and vegan diets. The area's focus on fresh, local produce means that plant-based eaters can find many tasty options. Restaurants like Pear Tree Bistro and Creation Wines are known for their vegetarian-friendly menus.