The first thing that would spring to mind when thinking about the Elgin Valley is its abundance of apple and pear orchards and smattering of wine farms. So it was during a recent weekend away that I was thrilled to discover that it also boasts one of the best plant-based eateries in the Western Cape. So good in fact, that we went back the next day!
ADDRESS: Rosenhof Organic Farm, Highlands Rd, Elgin Valley
HOURS: closed Mon-Thu, 11:30am-2:30pm Fri, 9am-3pm Sat-Sun
Her Harvest at Rosenhof Farm is a fairly recent addition to the area. It’s also one of those hidden gems that you’re unlikely to just stumble across whilst driving, but trust me when I say that your effort to visit will be rewarded!
Produce from their organic vegetable garden is at the heart of all of their dishes so it truly is a farm-to-table experience.
On our first visit, we sat outside in the sunshine to eat and watch the chickens peck around the garden, just as they should be.
Granola, a smoothie bowl and buckwheat pancakes cater for the breakfast vibe along with various “Open-Faced Toasts” which we both went for
The taste and quality of both dishes were stunning and the Cashew Brie was the best I’ve ever tasted; creamy, soft and full of flavour. Both came on the homemade sourdough millet and sorghum bread, the quality of ingredients bursting through.
Even though it was breakfast there wasn’t a chance that we were walking out of there without trying a Chocolate Brownie with beetroot and cinnamon ice cream (R65).
Best decision ever!
The following day couldn’t come fast enough. Sunshine had made way for cloud, so we sat inside the newly renovated barn with the extra bonus of a log burner.
We both opted for the Mushroom and Walnut Burger which was a bun-less stack with beetroot and onion marmalade, tomato, grilled aubergine, lettuce, avocado, sprouts and a herby tahini sauce (R110).
The attitude of staff can tell you a lot about a place and both days we received a warm, friendly welcome from everyone.
This is a very special place with simple, delicious food that is prepared with care and attention by people that want to make a difference.
There is also a shop attached to Her Harvest where you can buy some of their delicious produce which is open every day except Tuesdays and the restaurant currently operates from 9am-3pm, Friday to Sunday although they are considering opening on other days during the summer months.
Well worth a road trip!
Peace Xx
