Whenever we go off on our random and impulsive road trips and pass 'Thyme at Rosemary's' in Gansbaai we cannot help but stop off for a tasty meal and great wine from the area. Some of the starters we have enjoyed have been the deliciously tasty smoorsnoek fishcakes, mussels in creamy garlic sauce with accompanying ciabatta slices and believe it or not crocodile carpaccio served with dried fruit, an interesting element. A few of the winter meals that have instantly transported us to heaven are fall off the bone oxtail, waterblommetjie bredie, bobotie (the best Ive had). The seafood is also great. Rosemary's has a cosy fireplace perfect for cold evenings, as well as a beautiful conservatory where one can look out at the beautiful 'veggie restaurant garden'. Always nice to know that one's salad or vegetables haven't been sprayed!!! Service is remarkably brilliant and friendly without being obtrusive. If you do have room for dessert (and make sure you do) indulge in the decadent chocolate lava pudding or a slice of heavenly cheesecake. Ooh not forgetting the sago pudding or brandy pudding and cream. Dreaming of being back again! : )

Recently enjoyed a great dinner at Thyme at Rosemary. The food is traditionally South African as well as seafood and grills. I started with the seafood saffron soup which was incredible and my partner loved the bruschetta with roast lamb and mint jelly. For mains we chose the best oxtail I have ever tasted as well as the duck breast. We were popping but couldn't resist ordering dessert, so shared melt in the mouth baked cheesecake. Other desserts which looked yummy were the Cape brandy pudding and chocolate lava. The restaurant is wallpapered in original 1916 newsprint and it is like you have stepped back in time. Such an interesting place to visit and make sure to return for tea to enjoy in the magical garden at the back with giant fig trees. Do not forget your camera!

I recommended friends to Thyme at Rosemary recently. They were ecstatic with the ambience, service, food and personal attendance of Rosemary herself. Thanks so much Rosemary.