Polka Cafe
Graaff-Reinet is the best choice of a place to stay over when doing a road trip from Gordons Bay to Port Shepstone. And I would guess that Polka Cafe is one of the best places to eat in this town. They embody everything I would expect from Karoo cooking.
Our meal
Being in the Karoo, where lamb is farmed, we all went for lamb dishes. Eric, Derick and Shaun chose the lamb chops (R125) which were served with potato wedges and veggies of the day. Dave had the lamb shank (R139) which is marinated and slow cooked with a red wine reduction, herbs and assorted veg for flavour. I opted for the lamb neck (R139) which is also marinated and slow cooked but with the addition of balsamic and herbs. This was scrumptious and the perfect meal to end a 7 hour road trip.
Dessert and Drinks
Eric went for the malva pudding (R39) served with homemade custard. I chose the crème brulèe (R39) which had the perfect crack and a good custard base. They offer a sugar-free range of drinks, dairy free smoothies and craft beer at R45 per bottle. The wine list is good, with pricing to match. Shaun and Derick opted for craft beer while Dave, Eric and I had sparkling mineral water. Dave ended his meal with an espresso which is made using their own house blend.
Service and more
Shenon was our waiter for the evening and he made sure that we were well looked after. The total bill came to R990 including gratuity. Contact them on: +27 87 550 1363. I would recommend that you make a booking.
Inspiration published on Lavender and Lime September 20:
- 2013 – Kiwi And Lemongrass Jam
- 2012 – Vegetable Terrine
- 2011 – Tapas Tomatoes
- 2010 – Oh So Sweet Sticky Toffee Pudding
What a wonderful meal.
Have a happy day.
🙂 Mandy xo
Thank you Mandy and you as well 🙂
I love theme and the pictures of food 😀 I could definitely eat each one of these dishes.
Thank you Marta 🙂
Tandy that looks gorgeous and I have such lovely memories of Graaff-Reinet. Bon chance for your road trip. X
Thank you, we are back safe and sound already 🙂
Nice to learn about this restaurant, Tandy. My husband is very fond of lamb.
me too!
That lamb shank! Slow cooked meat is the best. Looks like a great place Tandy.
Lamb shank is one of my favourite slow cooked meals.
Would love to visit South Africa again – so many fantastic places, the food looks delicious! Have a great weekend, Tandy!
You had a super trip here from all I could see 🙂
Sounds like you were pleased all around with this meal Tandy! 😀
We were 🙂
This cafe sounds like a lovely place. And that malva pudding looks so delish, Tandy.
It was a good one 🙂
What a wonderful hearty meal, nothing like eating local farm fresh foods so great choice with the lamb.
I love chosing local ingredients 🙂