Most food-focused road trips in South Africa come with a side of sauvignon blanc, but what if you’re not a wine drinker? If you would prefer your meals with a cup of perfectly roasted coffee, a glass of cider, or a house-fermented ginger beer, there’s a whole world of flavour waiting—no corkscrew required.
These destinations offer immersive, flavour-forward experiences for the wine-free wanderer.
Hogsback – Eastern Cape
Picture/SA Venues
Tucked into the Amathole Mountains, Hogsback is a misty, mushroom-loving town perfect for forest feasts and fireside food. While most accommodation here is self-catering—like those at Away with the Fairies—you can still find warming meals at places like The Edge Mountain Retreat, where hearty vegetarian-friendly fare is served with sweeping views of the valley. In season, join a guided foraging walk to learn about local mushrooms and wild herbs. And instead of a wine flight, try house-made ginger beer, elderflower cordial, or wild-foraged herbal teas from village cafés and eco-markets.
Stellenbosch (Beyond the wine route)
Picture/Visit Stellenbosch/Kevin Crause
While Stellenbosch is renowned for its vineyards, the town also boasts a vibrant culinary scene that caters to those seeking alternatives to wine-centric experiences.
Start your day at Schoon, an artisanal bakery and café known for its freshly baked goods and hearty meals made from locally sourced ingredients. Their commitment to quality and community makes it a favourite among locals and visitors alike. For a taste of South African heritage cuisine, visit De Volkskombuis. Set in a beautifully restored Cape Dutch building, this restaurant offers traditional dishes with a modern twist, emphasising local flavours and seasonal produce.
If you’re in the mood for a unique dining experience, The Fat Butcher specialises in premium cuts of meat, expertly prepared and served in a cosy, rustic setting. Their menu also includes a variety of non-alcoholic beverages to complement your meal.
For coffee enthusiasts, Meraki offers a delightful selection of speciality coffees, teas, and light meals in a chic, minimalist space. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the town’s vibrant atmosphere.
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Magaliesburg – Gauteng
Picture/What The Fig
Located just 2 km north of Magaliesburg village on the R24, What the Fig combines a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, art gallery, and creative studio. The menu features Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes made from scratch with fresh local ingredients. As an off-grid venue, they serve coffee via plungers and offer a selection of herbal teas and non-alcoholic beverages. The relaxed, bohemian atmosphere, complemented by rotating art exhibitions, provides a unique dining experience.
KwaZulu-Natal Midlands
Picture/Giants View Estate
The Midlands Meander is a self-driving treasure trove of cheesemakers, chocolatiers, and country restaurants. Stop at Swissland Cheese to taste farm-crafted goats’ milk cheeses, or visit The Nottingham Road Brewing Co. for a pint of Midlands-brewed lager. If you’d rather sip than swig, stop in at Terbodore Coffee Roasters in Howick for barista-led tastings of their bold African blends. This region is a celebration of craft, whether in food, drink, or scenery
Port Edward – KZN South Coast
Picture/Tripadvisor
Who needs a wine estate when you can visit a coffee farm? Beaver Creek Coffee Estate is South Africa’s only coffee estate open to the public, offering a full bean-to-brew tasting experience. Learn about the growing and roasting process, sip several roast profiles, and then enjoy breakfast overlooking the fields. They also make their cold brew and flavoured syrups if you’re keen on a sweet twist. The coastal setting pairs perfectly with a rich espresso and warm banana bread.
Paternoster – Western Cape
Picture/Happy Campers
This West Coast fishing village is a destination for those who crave ocean-to-plate freshness. Book ahead at the acclaimed Wolfgat, where Chef Kobus van der Merwe prepares a seven-course tasting menu featuring local seaweed, dune herbs, and sustainable seafood. For a more casual bite, visit the fish market for snoekkoekies or try The Noisy Oyster for eclectic dishes like seafood curry and miso-glazed fish. Instead of wine, order a local G&T infused with fynbos or a buchu soda at nearby cafés.
Ceres Valley – Western Cape
Picture/Route 62
In the heart of South Africa’s fruit bowl, the Ceres Valley is ideal for seasonal, hands-on food experiences. From November to April, you can pick your cherries, apples, and pears at farms like Klondyke Cherry Farm. Many of these farms also sell homemade jams, pies, and juices. Stop by Loxtonia Cider for a guided cider tasting made from 100% Ceres apples—non-alcoholic versions are available too.
Inner-city food experiences
Picture/ASA Magazine/Leila-Saffarian
If you’re city-bound but still want a wine-free culinary experience, check out Maker’s Landing at Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront. This incubator hub features local chefs and vendors serving everything from Zulu street food to Cape Malay-inspired bakes. In Joburg, visit Victoria Yards on market days for fermentation workshops, indigenous teas, and gourmet food trucks.
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