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Hours
Sun
7:00 - 22:00
Mon
7:00 - 22:00
Tue
7:00 - 22:00
Wed
7:00 - 22:00
Thu
7:00 - 22:00
Fri
7:00 - 22:00
Sat
7:00 - 22:00
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Ratings and reviews
4.5
Travellers' Choice 2024
RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Food and ambience
Local cuisine, African, International, Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options
Special Occasion Dining, Romantic, Groups, Bar Scene, Business meetings
Does this restaurant offer outdoor seating?
Details
About
The Olive Terrace Bistro at the Tulbagh Hotel is open 7 days a week for breakfast lunch and dinner. The a la carte menu is a celebration of South African flavours and locally sourced seasonal fruits and vegetables and we cater for vegetarian, vegan and gluten free diets. All our dishes are prepared in-house. The cosy Karee lounge bar features speciality teas and coffees, draught craft beers, local gins, wines and a tapas menu together with gourmet pizzas from our wood fired oven and freshly baked scones and cakes. The restaurant supports many community initiatives including local creches and Steinthal Childrens Home, sourcing produce from the Tulbagh Community Garden and sponsoring young people through the City and Guilds Catering course. South African hospitality at its best!
PRICE RANGE
R 53.00 – R 177.00
CUISINES
African, International
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Drinks
FEATURES
Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Street Parking, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Mastercard, Visa, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Live Music
Contribute
4.5
841 reviews
Excellent
530
Very good
231
Average
53
Poor
17
Terrible
10
Earl
2 contributions
Feb 2020 • none
My fiance ordered me a portion of pasta for taking away, upon collection the staff was friendly as usual, we often make use of this place. When opening and tasting this pasta, I experienced the tasteless pasta that I ever received from them. It tasted like it was prepared the previous day already and that the sauce was pre-heated in a microwave.
I am very disappointed because this never happened before so I will definitely reconsider revisiting this place again.
Written 12 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alasdair61
Hi Earl subsequent to your review we met with you to discuss your comments regarding the pasta dish, which was made freshly by our head chef when you ordered it. As we explained the pomodoro pasta dish is a vegetarian tomato based dish, which consequently does not have a strong taste. It is quite different from arrabbiata pasta dish which we have featured on our menu previously. Thanks for meeting with us and we look forward to welcoming you back soon Alasdair
Written 17 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
mfranks911
Edgware1050 contributions
Dec 2019 • none
We had a really excellent dinner on a quiet night in Tulbagh. The shame was there were hardly any patrons in the large restaurant area inside which led to a lack of atmosphere but this was more than made up for by the highly inventive menu. Modern African food, tasty and wholesome.
Starters of Buddha bowl and Springbok carpaccio were lovely and mains of a vegan burger and tuna nicoise extremely filling. We had no room for dessert. All washed down by an amazing bottle of Montpellier Sparkling wine too.
Very friendly staff in particular the manager Louise who was really interested in talking to people that love food and wine.
Written 27 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alasdair61
Dear Mfranks many thanks for your visit and review. Many people choose to dine al fresco at this time of year, but the air conditioned restaurant and wine bar are there for those who are seeking some respite from the summer sun. Look forward to welcoming you back soon Alasdair
Written 30 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
patnpete2017
Northallerton24 contributions
Feb 2020 • none
Whilst staying in Tulbagh for 12 nights we dined each evening at the Olive Terrace Bistro Restaurant and each meal was very well presented and the quality was always superb using locally resourced produce.
The staff were very efficient, polite and have a very good knowledge of the menu, special diets and allergies are also catered for. There is also a very comprehensive wine menu all again locally sourced which we really enjoyed. Our favourite meals were the Kudu steaks and the Pad Thai but all the meals were of a very high standard, the menu is also changed on a regular basis to ensure that patrons don't get bored with the same menu.
We booked a table each evening as local residents often eat here, which in its self is always a good recommendation, it can get very busy. If the weather changes then the large indoor restaurant and Karroo tapas bar are nice places to eat and the draft craft beers are well worth a try.
The breakfast menu has a big choice of items,my favourite was the eggs Benedict it is so tasty, lunches are also available, but after a big breakfast we only had room for a light bite but the menu is varied with good choices.In our opinion the Olive Terrace Bistro Restaurant is the best place to eat in the Tulbagh area.
Written 15 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alasdair61
Dear Pat and Pete we were delighted to welcome you from the UK for your fifth visit in 5 years. There is no greater accolade for us, and we are delighted that you enjoy your 2 week annual visit. As you mention our menu changes regularly and the Kudu fillet is also one of my favourites on the new menu. Take care and we look forward to welcoming you back in January 2021. Best wishes Alasdair
Written 16 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nicolas David
Cape Town2 contributions
Dec 2019 • couples
On the 26th Of December I visited the restaurant at the Tulbagh Hotel. I phoned to place an order as I usually do if we are in the mood for takeaways, or we will sit down and have drinks etc.
If I could say so myself, we quite regularly go to the Hotel for drinks and a pizza.
To my surprise, I had a brief encounter with the "manager on duty" if I may call her that.
While I was waiting for my order , after I had paid I was told to wait inside the glass doors by one of the other waiters who assisted me with my order.
To my surprise the "manager" appears out of nowhere and then questions me in afrikaans "En vir wat staan jy hier?" Without any greeting and asking politely like how a manager should. I was absolutely disgusted with Louise's attitude and behaviour. Every other time I was at the Hotel I had a pleasant experience.
On another occasion where this "manager" was on duty, we were at the Tapas bar having drinks and something light to eat, I first hand witnessed it where Louise, this so called manager was actually sitting down with another couple while they were having dinner, ordering around her staff like she is a guest. I even asked one of the other waiters if that is allowed and then questioned her as if what would happen if the manager were to see something like that? That's when she had told me that is the manager.
I don't know how her behaviour can be acceptable as her attitude put me off on the evening of the 26th. I hope something will be done about it.
Written 6 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alasdair61
Dear Nicolas and we were all very concerned about your comments and experience. Louise is a very talented member of our management team, as one can see from other recent Tripadvisor reviews. We have now been in touch with you and apologised for your experience and given you a voucher for a complimentary dinner as a token of our concern. We have experienced a very busy festive season for which we are very grateful, and I guess there are times when staff members are feeling under pressure and don’t always demonstrate the high levels of customer service, which we aspire to. We sincerely appreciate your custom and support and trust you will enjoy your future visits. Best wishes Alasdair
Written 11 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mariska
3 contributions
Aug 2020 • family
The food, atmosphere and service were great! Just what we needed as a quick breakaway to the beautiful Tulbagh! All PPE in place and felt super clean and safe. We had the crumbed mexican chicken fillet, with home made fries and a lovely side salad- and I'm very picky when it comes to salad, every ingredient used were of the highest quality. The girls had the chicken strips and chips. The chicken used is pure fillet and were very tasty. All portions were a great size. Perfect place for a lockdown awekening! Will visit again very soon. Liana were a great host and even provided same much needed light with our stroll back to the guesthouse!
Written 1 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alasdair61
Dear Mariska many thanks for your comprehensive review. We use local seasonal produce as much as possible and have an exciting new seasonal menu, with vegan and vegetarian options as well. We are open all day, every day of the year. Look forward to welcoming you back to Tulbagh soon. Alasdair
Written 5 August 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tiandre
Cape Town Central3 contributions
Mar 2021 • couples
A true gem in the busy main street of Tulbagh. The cosy front setting under a big olive tree with blue lights is inviting and makes for a good evening. Cheslyn Crowster assisted us at the entrance, seated us and was our waiter. He was on point and made sure we knew what was going on even though the restaurant was busy and hustling with patrons. The Saronsberg blend was great, the biltong pate and springbok carpaccio opened the evening to higher expectations. For mains we had the tuna and kudu. The tuna could have been fried a bit more crispy (with medium rare inside), but it was still great with the capers that were crunchy and delightful on the tongue. The kudu was amazingly tasty and as opposed to the usual sides I opted for green beans that was blanched and crunchy. We ended off the night with delectable adult milkshakes ... milkshake with a shot of something something ... also very tasty. Thank you to Cheslyn and the team for a wonderful evening.
Written 22 March 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alasdair61
Dear Tiandre many thanks for comprehensive review and comments. We are very fortunate to have considerable support from local residents and visitors to our beautiful valley. We work hard to ensure that we offer high levels of customer service, especially during the busy periods, and I was delighted to hear that we were meeting your expectations. Hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back soon. Alasdair
Written 22 March 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Robert L
Cape Town288 contributions
Sept 2020 • none
Our road trip to Tulbagh included a lunch at The Olive Terrace Bistro which is housed in the Tulbagh Hotel. The venue was suggested by a family member who had eaten there on a previous occasion and came as highly recommended. The recommendation was true to form as the food was absolutely out of this world and the service also outstanding. The restaurant is tastefully decorated and spotlessly clean. All I can add is that you will not be disappointed should you make this establishment your choice!
Written 29 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alasdair61
Dear Robert many thanks for your visit and much appreciated review. Very pleased to know we are maintaining our high standards. Our seasonal menu also has some weekly changes to ensure we always feature local fresh produce at its best. Hope to welcome you back soon Alasdair
Written 30 September 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ulrike Lamprecht
3 contributions
Feb 2020 • couples
We came for a romantic my birthday dinner for two and loved the experience from when we set foot on the stoep until we left after a three course meal.
The staff is incredibly well trained and friendly and so happy to wait on your hand and foot!
The food was outstanding (and I am quite a cook myself therefore it takes a lot to impress me) (we had the goats cheese crockettes, Kudu fillet and smoked salmon Caesar salad and chocolate brownies)
The ambiance and music were beautiful.
The restaurant has a fresh and clean feel and the rest rooms where super nice.
The whole hotel must have recently be decorated and painted and everything felt new and beautiful.
We will definitely be back! Next time with the whole family as the different terraces and seating options lend themselves to a dinner we had as well as family dinners without getting in the way of each other.
Written 9 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alasdair61
Dear Ulrike many thanks for choosing to celebrate your romantic birthday dinner with us. We have dining options for romantic couples, family groups and private functions, and our menus always feature local seasonal produce, with vegetarian and vegan options. Looking forward to seeing you soon Alasdair
Written 11 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Liezel McLennan
Gordon's Bay39 contributions
Nov 2020 • none
It was a little cold to sit on the terrace, but it reminded me so much of Italy with the fairy lights and the candles and the red and white checked table cloths.
Inside, is warm and cosy and the staff are very very friendly. A nice menu to choose from - was difficult to make a decision but after much help from our waitress I chose the Schnitzel - and it was just perfect. Others at our table ordered pizza and everyone loved their choices.
Great live music and just a relaxed, we are on holiday vibe.
Will drive from Cape Town just to come for lunch to sit on the terrace.
Keep up the great work
Written 15 November 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alasdair61
Dear Liezel many thanks for your much appreciated review. What an accolade for us, to hear that you will drive from Cape Town just to sit and have lunch on our terrace! We all work hard to try and ensure that what we offer our valued guests, is what we would aspire to receiving if we were the guest. Thanks again for your support and we look forward to welcoming you back soon. Alasdair
Written 19 November 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
NigelDCapeTown
Cape Town565 contributions
Aug 2021 • none
We were staying at the Tulbagh Boutique Hotel where the restaurant is located. We ate two breakfasts which were both excellent both the omelet and the eggs benedict were beautifully cooked. Service friendly and efficient. The two dinners were a different matter food underwhelming and in one case poor, it is hard to believe that the food came out of the same kitchen as the breakfasts we had enjoyed
Written 24 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alasdair61
Dear Nigel many thanks for taking the time to write your review. I was pleased to hear your enjoyed your breakfasts, but disappointed to hear that dinner was not to the same standard. We will try and contact you so we can understand better the issues. Please accept my apologies and we hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back in the future Alasdair
Written 30 August 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tour812904
Cape Town Central3 contributions
Oct 2021 • family
What a treat! We arrived in Tulbach after mist restaurants had closed and were welcomed warmly by the friendly and helpful staff. The food was fantastic. Fresh salads, great flavour combinations and I response to our request fir some mayonnaise for the potato fries, we got freshly made aioli!
Can’t wait to go back.
Written 3 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alasdair61
Dear Tour812904 many thanks for visiting with your group, it was our pleasure to have you join us for our popular Sunday lunch roast. We are open every day of the year from 7am to 10pm, for a specialty coffee or a glass of local award winning wine, to Ă la carte menus and fabulous wood fired pizzas. We hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back soon Alasdair
Written 5 October 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Charlotte
Cape Town Central1 contribution
May 2022 • none
We had the most unpleasant experience over the weekend after dining at The Olive Terrace/Tulbagh Hotel. Beggars lie in wait (sometimes in groups) on the pavement at the entrance or nearby to come and harass you as they follow you to your car. They are threatening and don’t respect personal space or social distancing. As women, we did not feel safe at all. While I understand that this issue may be beyond the jurisdiction of the hotel, I really urge the establishment to make improvements to the immediate vicinity. The walkway between the restaurant and the roadside parking is also dimly lit.
The food is delicious, the service excellent, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. I cannot commend Alistair and his staff enough for the fine dining experience offered to patrons. I am, however, hesitant to return and would much rather eat elsewhere in future, simply to avoid harassment upon leaving. Such a pity, because the restaurant is outstanding.
I hope that such issues can be resolved.
Kindest regards
Written 16 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alasdair61
Dear Charlotte many thanks for your support and review. Like many towns in South Africa, at times Tulbagh has issues with young street children. I and my management team have been very proactive over many years, to ensure the safety and security of our valued guests. We employ three full time security guards, have a private car park with controlled access and a garage for motor bikes and road bikes. We also host and attend police community meetings with our local police and the social welfare department. There is a program in place to deal with this issues and truancy from school. It would definitely be beneficial if more local residents were interested in playing an active role rather than just bemoaning the situation. That will help resolve some of the issues. Alasdair
Written 23 May 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
patnpete2017
Northallerton24 contributions
Mar 2022 • couples
Just had great holiday in Tulbagh and dined every night at this wonderful restaurant,it is so nice to enjoy very good food and wine whilst visiting this area.
The menu has a very good selection to choose from and the staff are so well trained to look after you whilst you enjoy the whole experience.
Look forward to our annual visit back next year.
Written 27 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alasdair61
Dear Pat and Pete many thanks for returning to your annual stay with us, after the last two years. We ensured that we had Kudu fillet on the menu for your visit, and it is reassuring to see an increasing number of overseas visitors returning to the Western Cape. Look forward to welcoming you back next year, best wishes Alasdair
Written 29 March 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
AlistairCoy
193 contributions
Feb 2022 • none
We have just returned from a two night stay at the Tulbagh Boutique Hotel and dined at the Olive Tree exclusively while we were in Tulbagh.
The food was faultless as was the service and all I can do is recommend it without hesitation if you want to eat in a nice place with great food and amazing happy service. The staff are a credit to this restaurant as are the Chefs and Kichen staff working tirelessly behind the scenes.
A real delight. Thank you
Alistair and Linda Coy
Written 13 February 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alasdair61
Dear Alistair and Linda many thanks for your return visit and much appreciated review. You are absolutely right, as we insist on preparing everything in house, from our breads, tapenade, marmalade, chutneys, ice cream, and by sourcing our ingredients from local suppliers, you are right, it involves a great deal of time and effort behind the scenes, but we all got a great deal of satisfaction when we present our meals to our valued customers. The team very much appreciated you kind review, recognising their hard work and customer service. Thank you both and we look forward to welcoming you back for another visit soon Alasdair
Written 17 February 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
JA G
Wellington211 contributions
Jun 2021 • none
We ate at the Olive Terrace on both evening we stayed in Tulbagh as well as both mornings. The dinner menu covers most requirements and the quality of the food was exceptional. We have no negative comments on the dinner service. The staff is attentive and helpful. Breakfast was very good and with decent variety of options. Well worth the visit.
Written 15 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alasdair61
Dear Johann many thanks for staying with us, and for taking the time to write your review. We are fortunate to have strong support from our local residents as well as visitors to Tulbagh. Therefore we always ensure our menus have something for everyone, ensuring that our vegetarian and vegan options are appealing and delicious. Look forward to welcoming you back soon Alasdair
Written 17 June 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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