Found in the diverse and beautiful Limpopo province, Bela-Bela (formerly known as Warmbaths) is a fascinating town to explore.
Roughly two hours’ drive from Johannesburg and an hour or so from Pretoria, Bela-Bela offers plenty to see and do.
There are not a huge number of eateries in the area but thankfully, there are a select few that are unique winners on all fronts.
In this post, we look at the top ten restaurants, farm stalls and bars in Bela-Bela:
#1 Toeka se dae
This farmstall-and-restaurant-in-one remains an unmissable attraction near Bela-Bela. Situated on the R516 (1km from the N1 direction of Bela-Bela), you can find this charming farm stall and convenience.
At the farmstall side of things, visitors can browse and purchase everything from freshly baked goods to curios, ice cold beer and much more.
Their one-of-a-kind, in-house restaurant, meanwhile, has a nice selection of South African favourites, such as vetkoeke, pizzas, bunny chows and more. It offers a fun, vintage-style setting and is great for the whole family. The restaurant can also be hired for functions and private events.
The owners and staff are friendly, making for a pleasant atmosphere and the food is a favourite among all those who stop by.
Contact: +27 (082) 445 5019, info@toekasedae.co.za
Website: www.toekasedae.co.za
Address: Toeka se dae, Roodekuil Padstal, R516, Bela-Bela, Limpopo, South Africa.
#2 Chip Inn
This is more a takeaway eatery than restaurant but it’s one that is loved by locals and visitors alike. In fact, it is even touted by some as the ‘king of takeaway’ in the region.
Here, you can can enjoy ordering tasty pizzas, delicious burgers, hot dogs and sublime fish and chips.
The owners are also the chefs and aside from their quality food, offer friendly service to boot too. They provide a level of personal attention and customer care that garners rave reviews.
So, if you are looking for real food by real people and some of the best takeaway in Limpopo, be sure to pop by Chip Inn!
Contact: +27 (014) 736 2441
Website: N/A
Address: Chip Inn, Potgieter Road, Bela-Bela, Limpopo, South Africa.
#3 Syringa at Zebula Golf Estate and Spa
Situated at the beautiful Zebula Golf Estate and Spa, Syrina is Zebula’s main dinner restaurant.
With romantic, fire-side dining options and a lovely, a la carte-style menu, guests can enjoy a memorable meal at this local spot.
Dinner runs from 18:30 pm to 22:00 pm, allowing for an early meal – or late night dinner after a fun day of adventuring in Bela-Bela.
+27 (014) 734 7700, reservations@zebula.co.za
Website: zebula.co.za
Address: Syringa, Zebula Golf Estate and Spa, Farm No 534, KQ, D1000, Mabula District, Bela-Bela, Limpopo, South Africa.
#4 Bush BBQ at Ingilozi Park
For those craving a unique food experience in the bushveld, look no further than the delightful Bush BBQ at Ingilozi Park.
Loved for their great food, family-friendly atmosphere and friendly service, Bush BBQ is popular among travellers and locals alike.
They also have nice play facilities for kids and a Junior Menu so the whole family gets to enjoy good food and family fun in a relaxing setting.
Some consider theirs to be the best BBQ around, highlighting the delicious pork ribs, beef brisket, chips and more that you can feast on at this Texas-style barbeque offering.
Contact: +27 (060) 554 5950, info@ingilozipark.co.za
Website: ingilozipark.co.za
Address: Bush BBQ, Ingilozi Park, R516 Rooiberg/Thabazimbi Road, Bela-Bela, Limpopo, South Africa.
#5 Jakkalsgat Pub & Grill
At this pub and grill, guests can enjoy a laidback pub offering that ensures a friendly ambience, good pizza and all-round pleasant country experience.
With live animals milling in and around the bar, a limited selection of food offerings and a soothingly laid-back atmosphere, this pub makes no promises of luxury – but what they offer, they do well.
Visit them for an authentic local experience and meal.
Contact: +27 (076) 656 1526
Website: N/A
Address: Jakkalsgat Pub & Grill, Thabazimbi Road, Bela-Bela, Limpopo, South Africa.
#6 L’abri Farm Shop and Brewery
While it is not strictly a restaurant, L’abri Farm Shop and Brewery is nevertheless a great hidden gem.
At this tranquil local spot, guests can purchase everything from fresh produce and food – including some delectable pizzas – to great beer.
So whether you need to stock up on road trip essentials, grab a quick bite to eat or simply enjoy a cold one, this rustic local place is perfect for you.
Contact: +27 (084) 426 7196, +27 (082) 605 1492
Website: N/A
Address: L’abri Farm Shop and Brewery, Bela-Bela, Limpopo, South Africa.
#7 Le Fera Restaurant and Bar
Found within the incredible Mabalingwe Nature Reserve – itself a worthy local attraction for the whole family – guests can enjoy a variety of great dining options at Le Fera.
Le Fera Restaurant and Bar offers gorgeous views, a relaxing, yet elegant restaurant-meets-bar setting and some great, affordable food and drinks to boot.
They have a nice varied menu, with everything from spaghetti dishes to rump steak, burgers and tasty pizzas on offer. You can also join them for a special sundowner, as it’s the perfect lookout point.
Please note: Le Fera’s restaurant operating hours are limited. Please contact them for their specific business hours.
Contact: +27 (014) 001 7011
Website: www.mabalingwe.co.za
Address: Le Fera Restaurant and Bar, Mabalingwe Nature Reserve, R516 Rooiberg, Thabazimbi Road, Bela-Bela, Limpopo, South Africa.
#8 Kalahari Oasis Bush Pub
Another gem at Mabalingwe Nature Reserve is the laid-back, yet vibey Kalahari Oasis Bush Pub.
Once the former location for the iconic Castrol Oil ads, Kalahari Oasis is now a special, uniquely South African venue.
They are the perfect place to grab a relaxing drink after a day’s exploration or some basic, yet tasty bites to eat – like their peri-peri chicken leg, chips and bread roll special.
Contact: +27 (014) 001 7011
Website: www.mabalingwe.co.za
Address: Kalahari Oasis Bush Pub, Mabalingwe Nature Reserve, R516 Rooiberg, Thabazimbi Road, Bela-Bela, Limpopo, South Africa.
#9 Boeretroos Coffee Shop
Also found within Mabalingwe Nature Reserve, this cosy, little coffee shop is the ideal place to enjoy a dreamy deck-side coffee and slice of cake while soaking up the warm air and peaceful natural atmosphere.
Boeretroos Coffee Shop is located on the deck, near the Le Fera Farm Shop and overlooks the main entertainment area.
Their menu offers a good selection of coffee shop staples, such as varied toasties, nice hot beverage options (everything from cappuccino to iced coffee and hot chocolate), decadent milkshakes, light meals (like jaffles or tramezzini and chips) and much more.
They even have some mouthwatering Belgian waffle options, with both sweet and savoury waffles to choose from, and soft-serve ice-cream.
Contact: +27 (014) 001 7011
Website: www.mabalingwe.co.za
Address: Boeretroos Coffee Shop, Mabalingwe Nature Reserve, R516 Rooiberg, Thabazimbi Road, Bela-Bela, Limpopo, South Africa.
#10 Vulture View’s Bar
Finally, our last Mabalingwe Nature Reserve find is the scenic Vulture’s View Bar. Although this is admittedly more a bar than eatery, it is still worth a mention and visit if you are in the area.
While they may have limited food shops, this is an unmissable spot for a wide array of thirst-quenching drinks and divine cocktails. Order a toasted sandwich to enjoy with your drinks, as you bond with friends and family at this lovely spot.
You can sit out on the expansive, shaded deck or poolside – and either way, you are sure to enjoy stunning views over the Mabalingwe biome.
Contact: +27 (014) 001 7011
Website: www.mabalingwe.co.za
Address: Vulture’s View Bar, Mabalingwe Nature Reserve, R516 Rooiberg, Thabazimbi Road, Bela-Bela, Limpopo, South Africa.
These are just ten of the top eateries, farmstalls and bars you can enjoy in Bela-Bela!