We’ve been in Riebeek Kasteel for a few hours now, for a wedding.
The plan was to come up early, check the place out and get some “couple time” before the whole herd comes through. Like any person in a strange small town they’ve never heard of, we took to Tripadvisor to see where the nicest places to eat were.
It is dinner time and we’re not impressed with the service at the place were staying, Kasteelberg Bisto & Inn. every restaurant in this town has good and bad reviews with an exception of 2; Kasteelberg only has bad reviews, while The Royal Hotel only has good reviews- over 80 of them. Obviously we have to try what everyone is raving in about.
Especially the 5-course meal they keep praising. I phone to make reservations, and we are on for 18h30 for a 5-course meal at R148.00 per person. I know, too cheap, there has to be a catch right? So I go prepared …
For the first time since we’ve been in this small town, we are welcomed with a smile.
As I walk into reception, I immediately turn to my husband to tell him, this is where we should be staying! It’s classy, elegant but simple, with clean decor and arrangements. My kind of place…Royal, pun intended. 
The food; the five course meal was incredibly spot on. It was starter portions, but more than enough.
Every course was cleverly put together, from the flavour combinations, execution and delivery on beautifully crafted plates. Good craftsmanship!
Every bite was mouthwateringly, delicately, speechlessly delicious. It felt like my favourite game was playing in my mouth with me winning!
Just 2 disappointments, 1: dessert, quince tart, wasn’t to my taste buds, not necessarily their fault. 2: there’s no kiddies menu so my son was given an option of either chicken nuggets or fish nuggets and he wanted neither.
The drinks: I had a Riebeek Kasteel sparkling wine for the first time, it came highly recommended by the waiter and I was pleasantly surprised. But they didn’t have coke zero for my husband.
Service was excellent, clinical, prompt, always seen, and available without being overbearing.
Overall experience: 9,5/10
Food: 9,5/10
Drinks: 8/10
Service: 10/10
Value for money: 5 course meal very cheap, but rest of the menu not so much. But worth every penny.
Ambience: 10/10
Decor: 10/10
Will I go back, hell YES! I went back 2 days later with the whole family and everyone enjoyed their food, again!
My husband and I are even planning a bike trip to Riebeek Kasteel for lunch, just to go to the Royal Hotel.
Very highly recommended.
