Burgundy Restaurant

Historic Seaside Dining with Whale-Watching Views

Perched on the edge of Walker Bay and just metres from Hermanus's historic old harbour, Burgundy Restaurant offers panoramic ocean views from one of the town's oldest buildings. Dating back to 1875, the restaurant occupies what were originally two stone and clay fisherman's cottages, later converted to the "Cypress Tea Garden" in 1928 before becoming Burgundy Restaurant in 1987.

The restaurant's prime seafront location makes it an exceptional spot for whale watching while dining - lucky patrons often spot whales and dolphins directly from their tables. During windy days, the thoughtful staff offer blankets to keep guests comfortable while enjoying the views.

Menu Highlights

Burgundy specializes in fresh seafood sourced daily from local suppliers. The chef personally selects fresh catch from Whale Coast Fisheries, while produce comes from Valley Farmstall in the Hemel en Aarde Valley.

• Seafood standouts: The calamari receives consistent praise, as does the seafood pasta loaded with fresh ingredients
• Local specialties: Try the abalone (a South African delicacy), ostrich steak, or traditional bobotie with pumpkin fritters
• For meat lovers: The filled steak and lamb "soutribbetjies" (South African-style ribs) are popular choices
• Sweet endings: Don't miss the chocolate mousse tart or lemon meringue

Atmosphere & Experience

The restaurant offers varied seating options - dine under the trees on the terrace for the full seaside experience, or inside the historic building with its "sassy interior" on cooler days. The outdoor area provides excellent people-watching along the coastal walkway.

Burgundy welcomes families with highchairs available, and well-behaved dogs are permitted in the outdoor area - perfect for combining a coastal walk with breakfast or lunch. You might even spot the resident "dassies" (rock hyrax) who have developed a fondness for sugar sachets!

Practical Information

• Operating hours: Open daily from 8:00 to 21:00 (kitchen closes at 21:00)
• Closed: 25 December and 1 January
• Best times: Afternoons for whale watching (in season) or early evenings for sunset views
• Parking: Several public parking options within walking distance
• Accessibility: The restaurant is wheelchair-friendly

For the full Burgundy experience, order a local wine from the Hemel en Aarde Valley or try the Burgundy amber ale while taking in those magnificent views over Walker Bay.