Eat Out critic Charlotte Pregnolato reviews The Fat Fish in Plettenberg Bay, a popular spot for seafood on the Garden Route.

Fast facts

Best for: Casual meals for locals and holidaymakers alike in a contemporary space
Cost: Average main course is R145; a seafood platter for two is R390
Serves: Classic seafood and modern tapas
Star rating: Food 3, service 4, ambience 4

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Food

Take a break from the beach below and order something light from the tempting tapas menu like tempura prawns, halloumi and black forest ham or beautifully presented sushi. Or come for a full meal and be assured that The Fat Fish proudly follows the SASSI lists and features local, sustainable seafood only, prepared with know how. Look forward to the likes of fresh hake grilled or beer battered, parmesan-crumbed kingklip with smoked chilli butter, sesame calamari, and excellent seafood platters for one or two. 

 

 

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Some of the outstanding non-fish options include black mushroom linguine with wild rocket pesto, Chalmar beef with a choice of sauces, and butter chicken curry. The Guppies menu for the kids offers fish burgers, linguine with cheddar, and waffles with ice cream. To end, treat yourself to one of the Fat Delights, like hazelnut meringue filled with cream and topped with lashings of passion fruit coulis and fresh berries.

Drinks

The full bar whips up well-made cocktails and the award-winning wine list highlights a selection of local names from the ever-expanding Plettenberg wine route, plus carefully selected South African favorites.

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Service

The exceptional staff complement is well-informed, friendly and attentive. They take pleasure in serving you well from start to finish. 

Ambience

Sandy toes are allowed in this contemporary, light and airy space with an elevated view of Central Beach. The Fat Fish is informal but sophisticated, with live music in season when locals and holiday makers abound. The sea air keeps the restaurant refreshingly cool in summer; on hot nights the open patio is the place to be. 

 

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And…

Remember to make a booking well in advance in season as the consistently good food and great location make this a favorite with everyone.

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Eat Out critics dine anonymously and pay for their meals in full. Read our editorial policy here.