Graze By The River

On the scenic banks of the Kowie River in the small town of Port Alfred sits a charming establishment called Graze by the River. This unique spot combines a cozy coffee bar and restaurant, housed within one of the authentic 1820 British settlers' cottages. Here, history meets modern gastronomy, creating a special atmosphere of hospitality on the East Coast of South Africa.

Graze By The River. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The foundation of the restaurant's philosophy is healthy and ethical eating. The menu features dishes made from local ingredients: fresh seafood, organic vegetables, and meats from their own smokehouse. In the coffee bar, fresh green beans are roasted daily, and only free-range eggs are used in cooking, highlighting the owners' commitment to sustainability.

Guests can enjoy a cozy private garden, hidden from the noise of the main street, where they can enjoy the tranquility by the water. The restaurant is consistently ranked among the best in the region, holding a Travelers’ Choice award, and offers a wide selection of dishes for vegetarians, vegans, and those following a gluten-free diet.

To plan your visit to Graze by the River or book a table for a special evening, you can use the following contact information. The restaurant is conveniently located in the historical part of town near the waterfront.

A visit to Graze by the River is, above all, a gastronomic experience. Exquisite breakfasts are served from 9:00 to 11:30 AM, with lunch starting at noon. Guests are invited to try signature mussels in a white wine and cream sauce, homemade smoked pâté, or the famous Grazing salad with avocado and organic beetroot. The menu is constantly updated with daily specials, including fresh fish or aged meat steaks.

Relaxing in the garden overlooking the river is a particular pleasure, where you can enjoy a cup of their own locally roasted coffee or try a local craft beer. For those seeking something stronger, there is an extensive wine list. The cozy and intimate setting makes this place ideal for a romantic dinner; however, don't forget to book a table in advance, as it is often fully booked in the evenings.

Finding Graze by the River is quite simple — the restaurant is located at 38 Van Der Riet Street, in the historic city center. The most convenient way to get there is by car; the establishment is on a street running parallel to the Kowie River. On-site parking is available for guests, and there is also the option to park on the street.

If you are staying in the town center, the restaurant is an easy walk away, allowing you to enjoy the waterfront views. For travelers using public transport, intercity buses and taxis are available to bring you to the center of Port Alfred, from where the restaurant is just a few minutes away.

The story of Graze by the River began in 2012 when chef Nick Howard, a native of the island of Jersey, decided to open his own business in Port Alfred. Bringing a wealth of international work and travel experience, Nick introduced a passion for healthy eating and innovative culinary ideas to the region.

The building itself is of particular historical value, as it is one of the original 1820 Settler cottages. These structures were built by the first British colonists who settled by the Kowie River. The combination of old-world architecture and modern cuisine creates a unique historical charm here.

Since its opening, the establishment has gained widespread recognition, earning a Travelers’ Choice award. It has evolved into one of the most beloved spots for both locals and tourists, thanks to its focus on sustainability and the use of high-quality local produce.

To fully enjoy the meal and the atmosphere at Graze by the River, visitors are recommended to set aside about 1.5–2.5 hours for breakfast or lunch. This is plenty of time to leisurely appreciate the chefs' skill and relax in the garden.

If you plan to visit for dinner, it is better to allow 2–3 hours. The evening atmosphere invites a longer stay over a glass of wine, especially considering the high level of service and the cozy setting of the historic house.

The operating hours at Graze by the River vary throughout the week. On Mondays and Tuesdays, the establishment is open from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, while Wednesday is closed. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, the restaurant operates in two shifts: morning/afternoon (until 2:30 or 3:00 PM) and evening (from 6:00 to 8:30 or 9:00 PM). On Sundays, guests are welcome for lunch only, from 12:00 to 2:30 PM.

Please note that breakfast is served until 11:30 AM, and dinner is strictly by prior reservation. It is recommended to check the official website for current opening hours before your visit.

Its location in the historic center makes a visit to Graze by the River a great excuse for a stroll around the neighborhood. Exploring the nearby streets and the waterfront will help you soak in the coastal town atmosphere and find a few more interesting spots to relax.

Below are the locations situated in the immediate vicinity of the restaurant: