🍽 Restaurants in Hermanus

The crown jewel of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Creation's food-and-wine pairing experience matches seasonal dishes to their estate wines with surgical precision — the Pinot Noir paired with springbok carpaccio is the standout. The terrace overlooks the vineyards with mountain views. Book well ahead, especially on weekends and during whale season.

An institution in Hermanus since the 1990s, set in a whitewashed cottage overlooking the Old Harbour. The seafood platter for two is legendary — line-caught yellowtail, grilled crayfish, Saldanha mussels, and calamari. The wine list leans heavily on Hemel-en-Aarde producers. The outdoor terrace is prime whale-watching real estate during season.

Built into a natural sea cave beneath the cliff path, this is one of the most dramatically located restaurants in South Africa. The seafood braai platter is cooked over open coals, and during whale season (Jul–Nov), Southern right whales breach just metres from your table. Access is via steep stairs from Marine Drive — not great for mobility-impaired guests. Booking essential.

Perched right on the New Harbour with fishing boats bobbing below, this is where locals go for honest, no-frills seafood. The fish and chips are legendary — hake in crispy beer batter with hand-cut chips. Also does excellent grilled yellowtail and snoek when in season. The takeaway window is popular for cliff path picnics. More affordable than the village centre restaurants.