Hello lovelies! I know it’s been a while since my last post. It may seem that I’m in hibernation now that winter has well and truly arrived, but I’m still here, just feeling the cold weather BIG time!

You may recall that I wrote a post about our stunning stay at On The Bay Retreat in Gordon’s Bay last year. Have a read here if you need a refresher or haven’t read it yet. During the June/July school holidays, we once again stayed at what has easily become one of our favourite family getaways close to Cape Town.

Whenever I revisit a place, I like to find out what’s new and happening since my last stay, especially when it comes to food. And boy! Were we in luck when Mackenzie from On The Bay raved about her recent visit to a fairly new foodie hot spot and how much she enjoyed it. So naturally, we had to check it out for ourselves to see what the fuss was all about.

A scenic drive along world-renowned Clarence Drive is always a great idea, but now you have another great reason to take that Sunday drive from Cape Town; or any day of the week for that matter! About ten minutes from Gordon’s Bay, you’ll find the funky, retro Grille Shack at PitStop Lodge, a fun and exciting addition to the food scene in the area.

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While the restaurant may not face the ocean, there is plenty that catches your eye as you pull in to the parking area. The cleverly depicted Pitstop Lodge sign greets you first, followed by a bright yellow and red Grille Shack logo against the black brick wall. The garden leading to the restaurant entrance is filled with aloes in bloom, succulents and a quirky, rusty bicycle with flat tyres and a basket filled with spekboom.

Old-school red petrol pumps stand on either side of the doorway and once you’re inside, motor memorabilia adorn the walls and shelves. The indoor dining area is filled with long tables and benches, as well as cosier tables for two or four diners.

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You’ll find a fully stocked bar with a great selection of local beers, wines and stronger libations such as gin, tequila and rum. They had the fire going which kept some of the winter chill at bay. Well, that and the wine helped to keep me warm 😉

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I was pleased to see that the concise wine list had an interesting and somewhat unusual selection. The Drakenzicht Cabernet Sauvignon Rose 2016 was one that I’d never heard of. Made in the Banhoek Valley in Stellenbosch, the label is quirky with a dragon on the front (the name kind of gives it away) and a happily ever after fairytale about a prince and princess on the back.

NOT YOUR USUAL MENU

You are in for a lip-smacking good time with their Southern Texas-style BBQ menu. The menu is creative with a fantastic selection of delectable dishes to choose from – this is seriously good food that is NEXT LEVEL on the deliciousness scale! It’s good to note that they also cater for vegetarians. Whether you want an all-day breakfast, a salad, a mighty burger or steak, seafood or chicken lollipops, you’ll find it on the menu. At the time we were there, they were in the process of finalizing their new menu.

When a restaurant offers an all-day breakfast, our son is bound to order breakfast for lunch. His Grille Shack Breakfast with two rashers of bacon, two fried eggs, pork sausage, slow roasted tomato with toast and fries went down a treat. I’m not really a fan of fries, but these were seriously yum. They had me questioning my choice of sides!

Hubby and I shared a Mussel starter cooked in beer with garlic, jalapeño and tomato with served with toasty bread. We had it minus the jalapeño (we don’t do spicy) and although there was still a hint of chilli, it gave the sauce some heat without being too overpowering. I’m partial to a white wine, cream and garlic sauce, but this made an interesting change to the usual.

I had a quick look at the pass and saw the Cajun Fried Blooming Onion with garlic aioli making it’s way to a lucky diner. Again, this mouthwatering dish had me questioning my order. You’ll find this happens a lot here.

Choosing our mains proved to be quite a challenge as there were a few dishes that took our fancy. The Pulled Pork from the Hickory Shack in Elgin was a serious contender, but once I saw Patagonian Calamari on the menu, my decision was made straight away. Sides on offer are home fries (a winner!), mac ‘n cheese and gem squash. I went the healthy route and had the gem squash. Mine are usually quite squishy when I make them at home, but these gems was lightly grilled with butter and so moreish.

Hubby loved his perfectly cooked Rump Steak with home fries, onion rings (I had them as he DOESN’T.EAT.ONION!) and quite possibly the tastiest BBQ sauce I have ever had. We asked if they were bottling and selling this magic stuff as it’s THAT good. Served in a little tin coffee mug, I could’ve happily gobbled it all up!

The lightly fried Patagonian Calamari with chipotle mayo was utterly divine. The portions are generous, so I suggest that you arrive hungry. I can’t remember when last, if ever, I’ve seen the sublime Bartinney Cabernet Sauvignon served by the glass. You’ll find it on the Grille Shack’s wine list.

The outdoor area is perfect for leisurely lunches with family and friends while kids can run around and play on the lawns. The bright, well-equipped indoor play area with a dedicated carer is the place to be on cold, wintry days.

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We had the pleasure of being hosted by Sanet, the General Manager, who knows more then a thing or two about great hospitality and customer service. Anderson provided us with friendly and efficient service which ensured we enjoyed a fun family lunch. As for the food? I think my review speaks for itself. But just in case … YOU HAVE TO GET HERE AND TRY IT YOURSELF!

Winnie, the owner, is on to a winning formula with the Grille Shack. A relaxed ambiance with a fun, quirky side to your dining experience and homemade food that is so yum! They tick all the right boxes and we will be back for sure. No doubt it’s already a popular local spot. Keep an eye out on their Facebook page for exciting new developments that will include retail stores and glamping with a sustainable angle.

Thank you Sanet and Anderson for your warm hospitality, and BIG compliments to the Chef. We will see you again!

Yours in Travel, Food & Wine
xoxo

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Disclaimer: A special thank you to Winnie for inviting my family and I to enjoy lunch at the Grille Shack. All views and images are my own unless stated otherwise. #hosted