Madre Stanford

Country Cooking at its Finest

Housed in a charming heritage cottage at 11 Queen Victoria Street, Madre Stanford delivers exceptional farm-to-table cuisine that draws food enthusiasts from across the region. The restaurant embodies authentic Overberg hospitality with its beautiful stoep (veranda) overlooking a productive vegetable garden where many ingredients are sourced.

The small, ever-changing blackboard menu focuses on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. Everything is prepared fresh, with nothing from tins. Local fish is filleted daily in the kitchen, and most vegetables and herbs come directly from their own garden. The cooking philosophy emphasizes supporting local producers, particularly from the Hermanus Hemel and Aarde Valley and surrounding Stanford farms.

Experience & Atmosphere

The intimate setting creates a relaxed, homely atmosphere - perfect for long, leisurely meals. Guests can choose between indoor seating or tables on the stoep overlooking the garden. The mulberry trees surrounding the property add to the countryside charm.

For the best experience, request a table on the stoep where you can enjoy views of the vegetable garden and feel like you're dining in a French village setting. After your meal, take time to stroll through the flourishing garden where you'll spot everything from herbs to artichokes.

Menu Highlights & Tips

• Signature dishes include their renowned pork belly (widely praised as exceptional), lamb wrapped in vine leaves, and butternut gnocchi
• Desserts are all gluten-free, with the chocolate fondant with peppermint ice cream being particularly noteworthy
• Wine list features exclusively local options from nearby wine regions

The restaurant operates Wednesday to Sunday for breakfast and lunch only (8:00-17:00). Advance booking is essential as tables fill quickly - best to call or WhatsApp rather than book online. For groups of more than five people, a R1000 deposit is required.

Beyond Dining

Madre also offers cooking classes for those wanting to learn the secrets behind their country-style cuisine. These range from half-day sessions to two-day immersive experiences that include accommodation, activities, and personalized instruction. Classes are held Wednesday to Friday only and can accommodate groups of 6-12 people.

For a complete Stanford experience, combine your visit with a Lady Stanford River Cruise along the Klein River, where you can spot fish eagles, flamingos, and blue cranes in this birders' paradise.