A list of CHILD FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS in and around the Helderberg and Stellenbosch area

We know the strain of trying to find a spot that accommodates you and the kids. Let us simplify your search for everything child friendly!

1. The Grille Shack – Gordon`s Bay

The newly-opened venue, The PitStop Lodge, is within stone’s throw of Steenbras River Bridge. It takes you back to the 50’s with road trip icons like: hub caps, headlights, licence plates, grill plates and old petrol pumps. With a gentle, vibrant garden that is child friendly and nurtured with loving care, it is perfect for children. There is also an indoor play area for the children, so even on a cold, rainy day the children will be entertained at The Grille Shack. It is pet-friendly and offers enough parking.

• Entertainment: An indoor and outdoor area dedicated to the kids. Accommodates ages 12 months – 12 years old.
• Food: Their ‘Young-Uns’ Menu offers dishes perfectly for a child’s appetite
• Address: Clarence Drive Off R44, Gordons Bay, 7151
• Trading hours: Tue-Thur: 10:00-17:00, Fri: 10:00-19:00; Sat: 8:00-21:00; Sun: 8:00-18:00
• Phone: 087 150 7972

2. Millhouse Kitchen – Somerset West

Sit at the back garden, or at the restaurant, which opens up onto a walled garden with several jungle gyms and beautiful grass area for the kids to enjoy.

• Entertainment: 3 wooden jungle gyms. 1 jungle gym caters only for children 12 months – 3 years of age and the other 2 are for kids 3 years and up until 12 years old.
• Food: Chef Bjorn Guido made a menu specially for children
• Address: At Lourensford Wine Estate, Helderberg Rural, Somerset West, 7135
• Trading hours: Tue-Fri: 11:30-21:30; Sat: 8:30-21:30; Sun: 8:30-16:00
• Phone: 079 717 3799

3. WaterWorld – Strand

Waterworld, Family Water Park in Strand. In addition to water slides and fun activities, they also offer solar-heated pools, life guards and protection against the wind and sun. For mom and dad there are also a food court and picnic areas.

• Entertainment: Water activities include: 5 different slides to accommodate every child`s desire (Supertube, Speed Slide, Midi Slide, Kiddies Double Speed Slide & Mini Slide) ending in one of the solar heated pools – with lifeguards on duty. It is also toddler-friendly with a double kiddies pool and a sandpit. Non-water-related activities include: climbing wall, adventure area, zip line, action sport, etc.
• Food: There is a food court with a variety of snacks, meals and refreshments
• Address: 196 Beach Rd, Strand, 7139
• Trading hours: Tue-Fri: 13:00-18:00; Sat-Sun: 9:00-18:00
• Phone: 021 854 4702

Waterworld is only open from SEPTEMBER-APRIL!

4. Bossa Social Cafe- Somerset West

Bossa is the perfect venue to unwind from a hard day at the office, celebrate a birthday in style, enjoy a sumptuous meal or sip an expertly-made cocktail as the sun disappears on a warm summer’s evening. And during cold winter’s days and nights, enjoy a glass of wine or your favourite Bossa speciality coffee next to a lovely warm fireplace. Also the perfect place to come and relax while the kids play.

• Entertainment: Jungle Gyms, Trampolines, swings and a giant chess board on the playground.
• Food: Our menu caters for kids 12 years of age or under. A great variety and we also offer awesome Birthday combo’s. Kids eat free on Sundays.
• Address: 178 Main Road, Somerset West, 7130
• Trading hours: Mon- Sunday: 10:00 – 22:00
• Phone: 021 852 3839

5. Vredenheim – Stellenbosch

Vredenheim Animal Farm offers a range of activities that will entertain the whole family. They have a variety of farm animals ranging from chickens and rabbits to cows and goats. They also get to meet the different farm animals. Grab something to eat with the family at the Hudson`s Restaurant.

• Entertainment: A park which includes: a bike track, jungle gym and sandpit.
• Food: The Hudson’s Restaurant offers a children`s menu for under 12 years old (Mon-Sun: 9:00-17:00)
• Address: At Vredenheim, R310, Stellenbosch, 7600
• Trading hours: Mon-Fri: Exclusively for school visits and parties; Sat-Sun: 10:00-16:00
• Phone: 060 387 5593

Animal Farm hours: Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 am – 16:00pm

(Closed on 24, 25 & 31 December & Good Friday)

6. The Thirsty Scarecrow – Stellenbosch

The Thirsty Scarecrow restaurant at Mooiberge strawberry farm looks out towards the magnificent Stellenbosch Mountains. Very popular with a young vibey crowd and their families. Parents can enjoy a drink or bite while the kids play around on the variety of jungle gyms and slides.

• Entertainment: A spacious playground with 2 swings, a jungle gym with a slide and a trampoline.
• Food: The restaurant offers a variety of meals and refreshments, but unfortunately nothing kids specific
• Address: At Mooiberge Farm, R44 & Annandale Road, Stellenbosch, 7600
• Trading hours: Mon-Tue: 15:00-23:00; Wed-Sun: 11:00-23:00
• Phone: 021 881 3444

Strawberry Picking is only OPEN from OCTOBER TO DECEMBER!

7. The Barn Playpark- Sir Lowry’s Pass

Here at The Barn Playpark, we are all about having lots and lots of FUN where kids will play for ages! We host a variety of events for your little one’s special day. The indoor adventure zone is where playtime meets a superb location for gatherings and events on the Goedeverwachting Estate.

• Entertainment: With a multi-colored soft play area suitable for toddlers 1-3 years; tunnels, jungle gyms plus slides, net climbers, a hayloft, and more for the older kids 4-11 There are also animal feeding & petting and forest adventure trails.
• Food: Here you can bring your own picnic baskets, but we also have a small menu available for kiddies and adults.
• Address: Goedeverwachting Estate, Old Sir Lowrys Pass Rd, Sir Lowrys Pass, Somerset West.
• Trading hours: Mondays are closed. Tues- Thurs: 10:00-15:00; Fri- 10:00-16:00; Sat- 10:00-17:00; Sun- 10:00-16:00
• Phone: 072 511 4365

8. Middelvlei Boerebraai – Stellenbosch

The Momberg family of Middelvlei Wine Estate invites you to join them from Monday to Sunday lunch to be part of a very special, authentic South African outdoor barbecue experience. While mom and dad relax with a bottle of Middelvlei wine, the kids can have a good time too.

• Entertainment: The little ones can play in the sandpit, feed the farm animals, enjoy the open space on the kick bikes or even braai their own marshmallows…
• Food: Kiddie Snack Box (Boerewors, chips, 100% fruit juice, sweets) and Kiddie Burger & Chips (Beef burger, chips)
• Address: Middelvlei Wine Estate, Flamingo St, Stellenbosch, 7600
• Trading hours: Mon-Sun: 10:00-16:30; opens in evening for groups bigger than 30
• Phone: 021 883 2565

9. Spier Wine Farm – Stellenbosch

Spier’s Vadas Smokehouse & Bakery offers dishes that embrace and showcase the quality of ethically and locally sourced ingredients

• Entertainment: Two indoor play rooms, two bathrooms/toilets, two undercover outdoor porches and an outdoor play area.
• Food: Offers a kiddies specific menu, with a variety of options
• Address: R310 Baden Powell Drive, Stellenbosch, 7603
• Trading hours: Mon-Sat: 7:00-11:00, 12:00-15:00, 18:00-23:00; Sun: 7:00-11:00, 12:00-15:00
• Phone: 021 809 1137

10. The Giraffe House- Stellenbosch

At the Giraffe House Wildlife Awareness Centre we provide easy access to some of Africa’s wonderful wildlife and bird species. Focusing on African wildlife, Giraffe House aims to provide a place for people to enjoy the outdoors, whilst experiencing and learning about animals and why they are so special. The Giraffe House is a perfect place to take your kids for fun!

• Entertainment: The Giraffe House has a big paly area for kids and a Native wildlife education centre with interactive encounters
• Food: There is a refreshment kiosk that caters for kiddies as well.
• Address: c/o R304 & R101, Muldersvlei, Cape Town, 7600
• Trading Hours: Mon- Sun: 9am – 7:00
• Phone: 021 884 4506

11. San Francisco Spur – Strand

US-style diner with a family-friendly vibe, dishing up steaks, burgers, ribs and wings, while enjoying a beautiful view of the ocean. They offer safe, child friendly fun especially created for their Spur kids! There’s a special menu packed with great food and with entertainment they’ve got something for every little one. There is also always people to make sure of the kids’ safety, so the parents can enjoy a peaceful night out.

• Entertainment: An indoor play area, a kids’ club and a variety of video games
• Food: They have a tailored menu for their very special younger customers
• Address: Co-Op Building, Beach Rd, Van Ryneveld, Strand, 7139
• Trading hours: Sun-Thu: 8:00-22:00; Fri-Sat: 8:00-23:00
• Phone: 021 853 6535

12. Wimpy – Gordon’s Bay

Simple dining room of a long-standing chain with a menu of burgers, mixed grills or fish ‘n’ chips, offering breakfast all day round.

• Entertainment: A play area with a variety of slides and tubes.
• Food: A kiddies menu an offers a combo (which includes meal, a side, a drink and a toy)
• Address: 4 Iris St, Gordon’s Bay, 7151
• Trading hours: Mon-Fri: 8:00-18:00; Sat: 8:00-16:30; Sun: 8:00-16:00
• Phone: 021 856 3056

13. Stables Vergelegen – Somerset West

For a more laid back Winelands dining experience, book a table at Stables at Vergelegen. It offers breakfast and lunch and serves estates wines with contemporary food.

• Entertainment: The kids will have fun exploring the gardens, as well as playing on outdoor jungle gym and wooden animals.
• Food: Kids can choose from a decent menu that includes pizzas, burgers and spaghetti bologenese.
• Address: Vergelegen Wine Estate, Somerset West
• Trading Hours: Daily 09;00am – 17:00pm (Kitchen closes at 15:30pm) Reservations essential
• Phone: 021 847 2100

14. Mondeor Restuarant- Gordon’s Bay

We are a child friendly family style restaurant. We have ample outside seating on the lawns under the covers of trees, on our veranda and during the winter months we move inside where our fireplace will keep you warm and snug! We have a full liquor licence and have an extensive offering of wines, beers and spirits. Our menu offers dishes expertly prepared by a qualified chef.

• Entertainment: Jumping castle, shallow splash pool, jungle gyms and a slip and slide.
• Food: We offer a full-on kiddies menu ranging from pizza, burgers, toasted sarmies and much more.
• Address: 22 Mondeor Street, 7130 Somerset West
• Trading hours: Mon- Sun: 09:00 – 17:00
• Phone: 021 858 1608

15. Vredenhof organic estate- Firgrove

This small holding outside Somerset West is not a far cry from Old Macdonald’s fabled farm… Though, one telling difference could be that ol’ MacD probably wasn’t this health- and eco-conscious in his farming practices… In fact, Vredenhof Organic Estate is one of a few places in SA where you can buy and eat freshly harvested, organic produce… all while enjoying that quintessential, blissful farm experience! Though it’s rustic, a little scruffy and decidedly low-key, the restaurant serves a wide variety of delicious (and healthy) food – everything from quiches and pastas to wraps,  pizzas, burgers breakfasts and sugar-and-flour-free cakes and desserts, as well as smoothies and organic wines and craft beers.

• Entertainment: In the indoor play area, kids can explore a pirate ship, fairy caravan and castle, while the relaxed outdoor area has a large play pen and variety of adorable petting animals. The mini-golf course and large outdoor chess set are added attractions.
• Food: Vredenhof also hosts and caters for children’s parties. They prepare delicious, healthy meals, cakes and drinks for children and parents to enjoy.
• Address: Bredell Rd, Firgrove, 7130
• Trading hours: Mon- Closed; Tues-Sat: 08:00-16:00; Sun- Closed
• Phone: 021 855 0363

16. Root 44- R44, Stellenbosch

Good food, delicious drinks, lively tunes and brilliant company – we at ROOT44 know South Africans enjoy nothing more. That’s precisely why we’ve created the perfect all-weather setting where you, friends and family can come together rain or shine.

We’re a market with a difference: housed in sturdy, super cosy marquees (which means rain is never an issue), and surrounded by gorgeous vineyards and trees, we offer funky live entertainment, craft and homeware stalls perfect for leisurely browsing, and an awesome selection of edible and drinkable treats.

• Entertainment: An undercover mini golf course, Slip n Slide and Spray Park, a Mini Zip-Line and more.
• Food: There are lots of food stalls that sells yummy food- donuts, burgers, pizza, sandwiches and much more that the kiddies can indulge into as well.
• Address:R44, Root 44 market, Stellenbosch, 7600
• Trading Hours: Mon-Fri- Closed; Sat-Sun- 09:00- 16:00
• Phone: 021 300 3935

17. Joostenberg Bistro- Stellenbosch

KLein Joostenberg is a working farm with many activities & businesses.. Country style bistro with a French touch. Interesting & diverse deli, pork specialist butchery, a taproom with picnic style food and spacious & versatile events venue. Joostenberg is also completely kid friendly!

• Entertainment: Lots of grass area, Animals, horse rides and jungle gyms.
• Food: Not a specific Kiddies menu but lots of things on the menu that kids can enjoy.
• Address: Joostenberg Bistro, R304, Muldersvlei
• Trading hours: Mon-Sun: 08:00-17:00
• Phone: 021 884 4208

18. Tokara Delicatessen- Stellenbosch

Child-friendly bistro/deli situated on the picturesque Tokara Wine Estate at the foot of the Simonsberg Mountain outside Stellenbosch. Outstanding service. Stunning location. Delish food. And ofcourse… superb wine ;)

• Entertainment: Jungle Gyms
• Food: Delicious treats, Burgers, pizzas and much more for the kiddies. No specific Kiddies menu.
• Address: Tokara Wine Estate, off R310 Helshoogte Road, Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch, 7600
• Trading hours: Mon-Sun: 09:00-17:00
• Phone: 021 808 5950

19. Chapter 4 Eatery at Cape Garden Centre- R44, Stellenbosch

This is just the best place for kids to play and for adults to chat away. The food is phenomenal, service is excellent and the play area is wonderful! Fresh air outside, kids play right under your nose and we have been told that we have some of the best pizza in town.

• Entertainment: Jungle Gyms, Slides, JUmping Castle and Sand pits.
• Food: Full kiddies menu ranging from breakfast, lunch and yummy snacks and dessert.
• Address: Cape Garden Centre Cnr R44 and Winery Road,Stellenbosch (3.05 mi)
  Cape Town, Western Cape
• Trading Hours: Mon- Sun: 09:00 – 17:00
• Phone: 082 471 1944