Nestled within the serene Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve, Kraal Restaurant at Thaba Eco Hotel is more than just a dining destination—it’s an experience. Imagine indulging in authentic South African flavors while surrounded by untamed veld, rolling koppies, and the soft hum of nature.
As someone who’s explored Johannesburg‘s culinary scene extensively, I can confidently say that Kraal Restaurant stands out—not just for its food, but for its unparalleled setting, family-friendly vibe, and commitment to local flavors.
“Dining at Kraal feels like a retreat—a place where time slows down, and every bite tells a story of South Africa‘s rich culinary heritage.”
Whether you’re here for the legendary weekend buffet, a romantic dinner under the stars, or a laid-back lunch with the family, Kraal Restaurant delivers.
Why Kraal Restaurant is a Must-Visit in Johannesburg
✅ Stunning Location—Set inside a nature reserve, offering panoramic views.
✅ Family-Friendly – A relaxed atmosphere perfect for kids.
✅ Diverse Menu – From gourmet platters to hearty breakfast buffets.
✅ Authentic South African Cuisine—Local ingredients, bold flavors.
✅ Great Value—Reasonable prices for a high-quality experience.
The Ultimate Dining Experience at Kraal Restaurant
1. The Setting: Where Nature Meets Fine Dining
Kraal Restaurant blends indoor elegance with outdoor tranquility.
- Indoor Seating: Warm, earthy décor with large windows framing the reserve.
- Outdoor Terrace: A shaded deck overlooking indigenous gardens—ideal for birdwatching.
- Sunset Views: The golden hour here is magical, painting the koppies in amber hues.
“I’ll never forget my first dinner here—the distant call of a jackal, the flicker of lanterns, and a plate of perfectly grilled ostrich steak.”
2. The Menu: A Celebration of South African Flavors
Executive chefs have been crafting locally inspired dishes since 2002, blending traditional recipes with modern flair.
Must-Try Dishes
| Category | Signature Picks | Price (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Starters | Peri-Peri Chicken Livers, Boerewors Spring Rolls | R95 – R120 |
| Mains | Ostrich Fillet, Cape Malay Curry, Braised Lamb Shank | R220 – R350 |
| Seafood | Grilled Line Fish, Calamari & Prawn Platter | R280 – R320 |
| Pizzas/Burgers | Karoo Lamb Burger, Wild Mushroom Pizza | R150 – R180 |
| Desserts | Malva Pudding, Koeksister Ice Cream | R85 – R110 |
Kid-Friendly Options
- Mini beef burgers
- Chicken strips & fries
- Pasta with creamy cheese sauce
“My niece still talks about the ‘best chicken nuggets ever’—high praise from a picky 7-year-old!”
The Famous Weekend Buffet: A Feast for the Senses
When: Every Saturday, Sunday & Public Holiday (7:30 AM – 11 AM)
Cost:
- Adults: R295
- Kids (6-12): R145
- Under 6: Free
What’s on the buffet?
🍳 Cold Breakfast: Fresh fruit, yogurt, cereals, artisanal cheeses, cold meats.
🍞 Bakery Corner: Croissants, muffins, and freshly baked bread.
🔥 Hot Station: Eggs Benedict, shakshuka, bacon, sausages, stir-fried noodles.
🍹 Drinks Included: Coffee, tea, and mimosas (because breakfast should be celebratory).
“The DIY pancake station was my downfall—stacking flapjacks with caramelized bananas and whipped cream is a dangerous skill.”
E|Bar: Rooftop Cocktails with a View
Adjacent to Kraal Restaurant, E|Bar is Johannesburg’s best-kept secret for sundowners.
📌 Highlights:
- Signature Cocktails: Try the Klipriviersberg Sunset (gin, elderflower, passionfruit).
- Live Music: Monthly performances under the stars.
- Small Bites: Charcuterie boards, gourmet sliders.
⚠️ Weather Dependent—Open only on clear days.
Practical Information: Planning Your Visit
Location & Contact Details
📍 Address: Thaba Eco Hotel, Impala Road, Kibler Park, Johannesburg South
🗺️ Google Maps: View Location
📞 Phone: 011 959 0777
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: thabahotel.co.za
📱 Social Media:
Operating Hours
| Day | Kraal Restaurant | E|Bar (Weather Permitting) |
|————–|———————|—————————|
| Mon-Thu | 7 AM – 10 PM | Closed |
| Fri-Sat | 7 AM – 11 PM | 4 PM – 11 PM |
| Sun | 7 AM – 10 PM | 10 AM – 6 PM |
People Also Ask Questions
1. Is Kraal Restaurant child-friendly?
Absolutely! With a dedicated kids’ menu and spacious outdoor seating, families love it.
2. Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially for the weekend buffet—it’s wildly popular.
3. Is there a dress code?
Smart-casual. Think sundresses, linen shirts, and comfortable elegance.
4. Can vegans/vegetarians dine here?
Yes! Options include mushroom risotto, roasted vegetable platters, and vegan desserts.
5. Is the nature reserve accessible for a post-meal walk?
Definitely! Ask staff for guided walk recommendations.
Kraal Restaurant Worth It?
👍 Pros
✔ Unbeatable natural setting
✔ Outstanding buffet variety
✔ Warm, attentive service
✔ Great for special occasions
👎 Cons
✖ E|Bar is weather-dependent
✖ Limited vegan options
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
“If you want a taste of South Africa—both on your plate and in your soul—Kraal Restaurant delivers.”
Final Tips for Visitors
- Sunset bookings are prime time.
- Try the ostrich fillet—it’s a game-changer.
- Bring a camera—the views are Insta-worthy.
Disclaimer
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors, such as price, cost, time, and location. For the most accurate details, please refer to the official website or contact Kraal Restaurant directly.
Ready to Book Your Table?
📞 Call 011 959 0777 or visit thabahotel.co.za today!
Have you dined at Kraal? Share your experience in the comments! 🍽️🌿
