If you’re planning on visiting balmy KwaZulu-Natal this holiday season, make a road trip of it and do some exploring. From a wine farm to prawn shack, these restaurants make the perfect pitstop for those long trips.

Abingdon Wine Estate (Lion’s River)

With Chef Constantijn Hahndiek at the helm of the kitchen, you can expect nothing but beautiful food at this KZN wine farm. The restaurant is a real hidden gem and is a must-visit for anyone making their way through the Midlands. Sip on estate wines at the bar and enjoy a harvest board or settle in for a lazy lunch with small plates and tapas-style dishes like salmon and caviar, beef short rib pithivier, Tijn’s pumpkin pie, and yoghurt panna cotta with berries and lavendar. Chef Tijn’s menu is always changing, so you’re always in for a surprise.

The setting next to the vineyard at Abingdon Wine Estate. Photo supplied.

Bierfassl (Nottingham Road)

If you’ve spend time in the Midlands and not frequented the ever-popular Bierfassl, you are missing out! The quaint Austrian-themed pub has become a well-loved stop on Nottingham Road since the late nineties. Try their signture crispy eisbein paired with a Notties craft beer or one of their imported beers. Other dishes include juicy chicken or pork schnitzel, or a sausage board with sauerkraut. Veggies and seafood fiends are also looked after.

The Gorge Restaurant (Oribi Gorge)

Built on breathtaking sandstone cliffs, The Gorge Restaurant offers guests the most glorious views of the famous Oribi Gorge. Whether you’re staying here as a guest or simply passing through for lunch, the views will make this a meal to remember, paired with a refined South African-infused menu from Chef Alicia Giliomee. Expect dishes like lamb arancini, honey and rooibos-glazed pork belly, Kalahari kreef with samp and thyme risotto, and rosemary syrup-soaked vanilla sponge.

Flavours Restaurant (Ramsgate)

If you’re heading to the South Coast, Flavours has become a favourite for locals and tourists alike. The courtyard setting with the warm KZN breeze makes this a perfect holiday spot. Tuck into some wholesome and comforting dishes with South African flare. Think deep-fried camembert with fig preserve and melba toast, oxtail pastie with bone marrow and mushroom jus, grilled kingklip with a creamy prawn and herb veloute, or a classic beef fillet complete with caramelised onions and crispy potatoes.

Prawn Shak (Eshowe)

Now also known as the Shuga Shak since having to move from Amatikulu to Eshowe after 15 years, the Prawn Shak still remains a popular destination restaurant and is still a perfect pitstop for a lazy lunch. Book for their legendary five-course lunch where you’ll tuck into dishes like prawn bisque, grilled prawn tails, enchiladas, Zulu-style sushi and baked camembert. It’s BYO booze, but the venue does offer a limited selection should you run short. Pro tip: The Prawn Shak (or Shuga Shak) is now located at Sugarhill Manor Guest House, making it the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

Stone House Kitchen (Himeville)

If you’re making your way to the Berg this season, Stonehouse Kitchen located in Himeville in the Underberg is a serious hidden gem and definitely worth a visit. The cosy country kitchen packs a real punch when it comes to the food. Specials change weekly and the ingredients are locally sourced and seasonal where possible. Think whole lamb shank with creamy mash, sizzling curries, homemade pies, harvest boards, vibrant salads and so much more. Make sure you get your hands on some of their cheesecake for dessert – it’s sensational!